Root Realty, a local boutique real estate brokerage, was founded in 2016 by three women with a shared vision: to make real estate approachable and personalized and create a space where agents can truly be themselves. Today, Root is a vibrant team of mothers, teachers, nurses, bilingual speakers, pet lovers, magazine creatives, and staging experts – each bringing unique talents and a deep passion for serving the local community.
More than real estate professionals, they are educators who inspire, caregivers who offer compassion, and small business advocates who proudly support fellow local entrepreneurs. At Root Realty, turning customers into friends isn’t just a motto—it’s their way of life. They are committed to simplifying the real estate journey, offering steadfast support, and building lasting relationships. Beyond the business, Root loves hosting community events that foster connection and actively contribute to the spirit of Jacksonville.
Beyond selling homes, Root is dedicated to giving back to our local community. Since 2018, their annual event, The Run Home 5K, has been a cherished tradition, and it’s returning on April 5th. This year, the event will once again support two incredible local organizations: ReThreaded and Sulzbacher Center. Root carefully selected these charities because they fully believe in their vital missions. Sulzbacher Center works “to empower homeless and at-risk women, children, and men through health, housing, and income services, thereby restoring hope and self-sufficiency.” ReThreaded focuses on “providing a second chance at life through employment for survivors of human trafficking in Jacksonville, FL.”
Another way Root Realty gives back to the community is through their free publication, Root Mag. This magazine features inspiring interviews with changemakers in Jacksonville, home tips, local business spotlights, mural highlights, and much more! You can grab the latest edition at popular local spots like Brew, Hawthorn Salon, and Malachi’s Ice Cream Bar.
Q + A with Root Realty Broker, Emily Hall
Emily Hall is a former high school teacher who uses her background in education to help her customers understand and feel comfortable with each step of the home buying + selling process. Emily also uses this passion to train our Root agents and ensure seamless processes are in place for the team and our customers. She strives to provide the highest quality of service to each client to ensure they make the most informed decisions when purchasing or selling a home. Emily resides in historical Springfield with her husband and two children and is ready to share her passion for her city and career with you.
Riverside Avondale Preservation: Why did you choose to start or join Root Realty?
Emily Hall: Hi, I’m Emily, the managing broker at Root Realty! Before real estate, I spent six years as a high school English teacher. After having my son, I sought a more flexible career and connected with MaryAnne Rodriguez, the owner of Root Realty. Just three months into my new role as a realtor on a team with her, MaryAnne approached me about starting Root together. From the moment she asked, I knew this was something special – something I was meant to be part of. Nearly nine years later, with 15 incredible agents, I still feel the same excitement I did when we first began. Root is more than just a brokerage; it’s truly one of a kind.
RAP: What’s your favorite part of serving the local community?
EH: What I love most about serving the local community is building relationships that go beyond the home sale. Jacksonville is such a special place, and it’s the people who make it that way. Every time I help someone buy or sell a home, I’m reminded that it’s not just about the house—it’s about the people who fill it with life and make it a home.
Thank you, Emily! We’re so excited to have you and Root Realty as partners. Make sure to sign up for The Run Home 5K through First Place Sports, grab a copy of Root Mag around the neighborhood, or stop by their office on Herschel Street to say hi!
