The Dee Strom Difference: A Commitment To Clients & Results! 

Realtor¼ Dee Strom, of Florida Executive Realty’s office in Tampa Palms, helps clients like Dr. Alex Lteif (below right) and the Moyer family (below left) find their dream homes. (All photos provided by Dee Strom) 

When Dee Strom transitioned from the hospitality industry many years ago (see below) into real estate, she never imagined how deeply she would fall in love with her new career. Encouraged by her husband Michael, she took the leap and quickly realized that being a RealtorÂź wasn’t just a job for her — it was her passion. 

Since joining Florida Executive Realty (FER), Dee has made a name for herself as one of the top-performing agents in the area. Now with more than a decade in the business, she consistently sells more than $20 million in real estate annually, placing her in the top 1% of Realtors nationwide. 

Her dedication and expertise have earned her multiple awards. She was named FER’s “Agent of the Year” company-wide (for 2023 & 2024) and for the New Tampa office (for 2019- 22). She has consistently ranked among the top producers at the company over the past several years and remains a top-three agent company-wide. She shares with gratitude that none of her success would be possible without the unwavering love and support of her husband and their two daughters, Sloane and Stella, who keep her grounded and motivated. 

“I am all about my clients,” Dee says, “and about this wonderful business that I love. The awards show my commitment to this industry but, more important, to the people I work with and represent.” 

For Dee, success in real estate is about more than just sales. 

“Building a solid relationship with your clients is key in the real estate business,” she explains. “Both buyers and sellers should collaborate with a Realtor they genuinely connect with, like and trust.” Dee understands that every client’s time is valuable, which is why she works strategically around their schedules to ensure a smooth and personalized experience. Real estate is not just her job, it’s her full-time commitment. 

Among the things that sets Dee apart are her deep-rooted relationships with builders. When it comes to new construction, Dee brings more than just market knowledge, she brings relationships. She often has established connections not only with the on-site sales agents but also with the builder’s management. 

Understanding their preferences, processes, and flexibility allows her to negotiate strategically and confidently for her clients. “My job is to advocate for you, and the best way to do that is by being informed, prepared and well-connected,” she says. 

Dee’s extensive marketing reach is another factor. As a member of “Leading Real Estate Companies of the World” (LeadingRE), she ensures that her listings are marketed both locally and globally. “There are people in other places looking to relocate, and they can see the listings through LeadingRE,” she says. “It is seen on over 700 websites throughout the country.” 

Dee also prides herself on her ability to truly listen to her clients. “For me, it’s about more than just real estate, it’s about people,” Dee shares. “I want to learn about my clients, their families, their lifestyles and what truly matters to them. The better I understand their stories, the better I can guide them and help them achieve their goals in a meaningful way.” 

For example, some families might not immediately think about community amenities that would benefit their children. Others, with hectic work schedules, may need a home where the landscaping is taken care of by the HOA. Dee emphasizes the importance of being well-versed in various neighborhoods, the available inventory within a community, as well as understanding what builders or sellers may be willing to negotiate. Equally important, she says, is knowing each of her clients’ specific needs and priorities to align the right opportunities with the right people. 

As a child, Dee says she was shy, and those who know her now find that shocking. Her time working from a young age to then working in the hospitality industry helped her break out of her shell. She was a hospitality manager for bars and clubs in South Tampa and was part of the opening team in 2008 for Aja in Channelside. Aja further expanded, opening another club that was located in the Shops at Wiregrass where Dee was part of the management team. When the Wiregrass location closed in 2012, Dee then worked for Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant, overseeing the company’s books and accounting for all of its locations. 

“That foundation in customer service has truly shaped the way I serve my clients,” Dee says. “It’s one of my greatest strengths as a Realtor. I believe customer service is a very important part of what I do, because real estate is a customer service industry. People sometimes forget that. We are here to satisfy the needs of those looking to sell or purchase a home.” 

The residential real estate market is constantly changing, and Dee understands the importance of staying informed. She says she uses social media to network, but also actively networks with top agents in the area as well as builders and industry professionals to stay informed about market trends and opportunities. Equally important to Dee is staying sharp on market knowledge and current trends. She doesn’t just rely on outdated statistics or general assumptions, she actively tracks historical data and, more critically, the real-time shifts happening in today’s market. “I study the numbers that most agents have never even seen,” Dee explains. “It’s not just about what happened last year—it’s about what’s happening right now.” This depth of knowledge allows Dee to advise her clients with precision, confidence and relevance. Whether she’s pricing a home for sale or guiding a buyer through a competitive offer, her insight into up-to-the-minute market conditions sets her clients up for success — especially in a market as unique and fast-changing as the one we’re in now. 

Dee is passionate about earning her clients’ trust, and she believes that chemistry is vital. She has an impressive 5-star Zillow track record, 141 Realtor.com recommendations, and a 4.9-star overall rating on Google. The majority of the reviewers say they love Dee and how she went above and beyond to help them. But, she says that 4.9 overall rating comes from a single one-star review — from a seller on the other side of a transaction. “I was advocating so well for my client that the seller left me a one-star review,” she says. At first, she was devastated, but then she realized it was a testament to her commitment. 

“I can’t make everyone happy, and my priority is always my client,” she says. “In that case, the person I needed to make happy was my client, and I did my job.” 

Her most recent raving fan, the Meisters, say, “From the very beginning, [Dee’s] knowledge, friendly manner, patience and attention to detail was evident as she guided us through a difficult decision process to help us find the perfect home. Simply put, Dee Strom is as good as it gets in real estate, and we will happily recommend her to others looking to buy or sell property. We also will not hesitate to use her services again, when and if ever the need arises.” 

Dee takes pride in handling all aspects of a transaction for her clients, allowing them to focus on their move without stress. 

She adds that there are other Realtors out there, “without the proper contract and market knowledge and education to know how to professionally operate, which can be a detriment to the client. I have had sellers come to me to switch [to me], whether for better service and/or market knowledge to get their home sold.” Dee says one of the biggest problems in home pricing and value is that some Realtors, “simply look at homes they believe are comparable based on square footage or bedroom and bathroom count to determine a home’s value, but knowing the home’s history, builder, community and current market activity is critical, too.” 

Dee also says, “Experience is not how many years you have been doing the job but how many homes you have actually sold.” She firmly believes that experience plays a crucial role in doing the job right, but that the experience comes from transaction volume, constantly negotiating and the consistency in the business. “It’s about having faced all types of real estate challenges multiple times,” she says. 

Dee and her husband Michael, with daughters Sloane (left) and Stella.

When discussing the local market, Dee explains that some areas are currently built out but remain stable and there is no crash happening here. The Wesley Chapel area is still booming with new construction and “offers great affordability for buyers, whether you’re a first time home buyer, looking for more space, or downsizing and need maintenance-free living.” As an expert in the area, she helps clients navigate builder incentives and contract negotiations. 

“For my clients who are selling, new construction can create competition,” she says, “but with the right marketing strategy, I can position their listings to stand out and sell for top dollar.” 

Dee utilizes professional photography, video tours, social media and targeted outreach to attract the right buyers. “Every home has a story,” she says, “and I make sure that story is told in a way that captivates potential buyers.” 

To Dee Strom, real estate is about strategic marketing, dedicated advocacy and building lasting relationships. Her passion for her clients and her deep knowledge of the industry makes her a Realtor unlike any other. 

And that 
is “The Dee Difference.” 

Realtor¼ Dee Strom is based at Florida Executive Realty’s Tampa Palms office at 15802 Amberly Dr. For more information, visit DStrom.floridaexecutiverealty.com. You also can find her @DeeStromRealtor on Facebook and Instagram or by calling (813) 525-7851.

Dr. JosĂ© Matos’ BBD Dental Care — Bridging Cultures & Creating Happy Smiles 

Photos by Charmaine George

General dentist JosĂ© Matos, D.D.S., of BBD Dental Care, which is located at the corner of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. and E. Bearss Ave. (in the Oakmont Professional Park), is making a lasting impact, not just through his dental expertise, but with his ability to connect with a diverse and growing community. As one of the few Spanish-speaking dentists in the area, Dr. Matos offers more than just dental care, he provides comfort, understanding and a sense of belonging to patients who might otherwise feel overlooked. 

Born and raised in Venezuela, Dr. Matos’ journey to becoming a respected dentist in the U.S. is a story of resilience and determination. The dental degree process in his native country is a bit different from the U.S. Dr. Matos attended the University of Carabobo College of Dentistry in Valencia, Venezuela, for five years and obtained his degree in 2004 as “Dentist” (which is equivalent to a D.D.S., or Doctor of Dental Surgery degree here). He then attended the same school for an additional two years to obtain his specialization in Endodontics in 2010. For four years after graduating, he dedicated his practice to doing root canals in Venezuela. 

Dr. Matos says that transitioning to dentistry in the U.S. wasn’t easy. “Florida requires internationally trained dentists to complete [at least] a rigorous two-year residency program to receive their D.D.S. degree,” says Dr. Matos. “It was a challenge that I embraced head-on.” 

He secured a spot at the Orange Blossom Health Center in Orlando, which is run by Larkin Community Hospital, a highly competitive program with its main office in Miami that trains dentists in comprehensive general dentistry. After years of specializing in endodontics, he described the experience as “like riding a bike” — the general dentist skills came back naturally. After completing his residency, Dr. Matos worked in Winter Haven for three years while living in Tampa, but says the long commute took a toll on his family. His wife Rebeca encouraged him to open his own practice closer to home. 

“Bruce B. Downs holds a very special place for us because it always seemed that wherever we lived or the kids went to school, it was always near Bruce B. Downs,” Dr. Matos shares. It was only fitting that Rebeca, a RealtorÂź, found a location right off this familiar road, inspiring the name BBD Dental Care. And, in Dec. 2024, the practice officially opened its doors. 

Great Tech & Greater Compassion 
Dr. Matos also uses dental microscopes to get an even closer look inside his patients’ mouths. (Photo provided by BBD Dental Care)

Dr. Matos takes pride in offering advanced technology to enhance patient care. BBD Dental Care features the DEXIS CBCT imaging machine, which provides high-resolution 3D images. This cutting-edge equipment offers both conventional X-rays and detailed scans, all with reduced radiation exposure. The high-resolution X-rays and scans are seamlessly transferred into a computer system, which Dr. Matos says helps him make accurate diagnoses. 

“I also use dental microscopes,” he says, “which I used in my specialty of endodontics in Venezuela.” In the past, these microscopes were reserved primarily for doing root canals to help endodontists enhance precision. Dr. Matos positions the microscope right above the patient’s mouth area (photo on next page). “This technology,” he explains, “allows me to see the smallest of things so I can perform minimally invasive treatments, reducing the need for exploratory procedures and ensuring a faster, more comfortable recovery for my patients.” 

Dr. Matos is a general practitioner but has years of experience doing root canals and can perform them if a patient needs it. In the state of Florida, a general dentist can only advertise as a general dentist but can perform other procedures if he/she is trained to do them. A dentist who is a “specialist” (endodontist, orthodontist, etc.) can only advertise that specialty and only perform that specialty. So, even though he is not an endodontist, Dr. Matos can perform root canals as a general dentist. 

While the technology he uses is impressive, what truly sets Dr. Matos apart is his ability to connect with his patients. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he ensures that language is never a barrier to quality care. 

“For many patients, it’s not just about comfort, it’s about trust,” Dr. Matos explains. “Being able to speak their language makes them feel more understood and cared for.” 

He says his Spanish-speaking patients often express relief and gratitude when they realize they can communicate openly about their dental health in their native tongue. 

“At many practices, you have ‘someone’ who speaks Spanish, who will translate,” he says. “But, I can speak directly to my (Latin) patients.” 

Happy Patients With Happy Smiles 

At BBD Dental Care, your entire family is welcome. Dr. Matos is happy to see children as well as adults. Although his practice has only been open since Dec. 2024, BBD Dental has an overall Google rating of 5 stars out of 5 on nearly 40 reviews. In her 5-star review, patient Maria Jose Espinosa wrote: “Amazing experience! The staff is super friendly, very professional and make you feel super comfortable. They also provide assistance in Spanish. Thank you.” 

(L.-r.) Dental assistant Josemig Chavez, Dr. JosĂ© Matos and front desk attendant Zoila Gonzalez are the happy faces you’ll meet when you visit the aptly-named BBD Dental Care in the Oakmont Professional Park at the corner of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. & E. Bearss Ave. in Tampa.

Family is a cornerstone of Dr. Matos’ life. He and Rebeca have been married for nearly 20 years and have three children — Francisco, 

17, Diego, 15, and Julieta, 9, as well as the family’s beloved Goldendoodle, Coco. Weekends are often spent enjoying Florida’s natural beauty, whether boating near Tarpon Springs or camping at Hillsborough River State Park. 

Dr. Matos and Rebeca met at a gym in their hometown of Valencia when they were young. Rebeca’s family had already settled in Tampa, and she moved to the U.S. to finish her last year of high school while Dr. Matos was on his way to dental school, so they ended up breaking up. A year later, she decided to return to Venezuela, since she had been accepted to law school. They met up and rekindled their relationship, which led to them getting married. Frequent visits to Tampa to visit Rebeca’s family made it clear they wanted to build their future together here. 

Today, their family is deeply rooted in the New Tampa community. They are parishioners at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church and Rebeca and Dr. Matos actively participate as facilitators for matrimony preparation for Spanish-speaking couples, and also coordinate the Hispanic “Liturgy of the Word” Ministry. Their children attend local schools, and Diego has even expressed interest in becoming a dentist, like his father. 

For Dr. Matos, New Tampa isn’t just where he works, it’s his home. His wife’s family has lived in the area for more than 25 years, and his brother also resides nearby. Opening his practice on BBD, the main artery of the community, felt like a natural extension of his family’s life here. It’s more than just a convenient location; it’s a statement of commitment to the people and the place they love. 

As he looks to the future, Dr. Matos remains dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care. Although he is trained in many areas, he also collaborates with a network of dental specialists he can recommend if needed. 

“I believe in educating my patients,” he says. “Dental care should be a partnership, where patients feel informed and empowered to make decisions about their own oral health.” 

Speaking of education, in her 5-star review, patient Isabela Hernandez says: “Excellent. They educate you in everything, they are patient and Dr. Jose Matos is very good. 100% recommended.” 

Dr. Matos’ advice to aspiring dentists, especially those from international backgrounds, is rooted in his own journey: 

“Take it one day at a time,” he says. “There will be obstacles, and some doors may close. But, if you stay focused and consistent, new doors will open. The key is to never give up.” 

Dr. Matos knows first-hand how challenging the road to success can be. From navigating a new country and a new language to enduring the rigorous process of re-establishing his career. 

“I hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams,” he says, “no matter how daunting the path may seem.” 

You can follow Dr. Matos of BBD Dental Care on Instagram @bbddentalcare. To schedule an appointment, call the office at (813) 515-5995 or email info@bbddentalcare.com. BBD Dental is located at 3232 Cove Bend Dr., Tampa,. The office is open Mon.-Thur., 8 a.m.- 6 p.m., as well as two Saturdays each month.

Compass Claim Solutions Can Help You Receive The Insurance Claim You Deserve! 

Wesley Chapel resident Shawn Thompson (2nd from left) and his team at Compass Claim Solutions will work hard to make sure you receive the insurance settlement you deserve when your home or business suffers damage, whether from a storm, fire, flood or any other cause. (Photo provided by Shawn Thompson) 

When disaster strikes, dealing with an insurance company can be one of the most stressful and frustrating parts of your recovery. For many homeowners and business owners in Florida, navigating the complexities of insurance policies and securing a fair settlement can feel overwhelming. That’s where Compass Claim Solutions steps in — offering expertise, advocacy and a guiding hand through the often-confusing world of property insurance claims. 

Founded by Shawn Thompson in Wesley Chapel, Compass Claim Solutions is a public adjusting firm dedicated to representing policyholders during — and even after — the insurance claims process. With more than a decade of experience in the industry, Shawn has built a reputation for helping clients secure the compensation they deserve after damage from storms, fires, floods and other disasters. 

From Retail To Advocacy 

Shawn’s journey to becoming a public adjuster is an inspiring story of career transformation. A Florida native, Shawn graduated from St. Leo University near Dade City in 2003 with a degree in Business Management. He spent 10 years climbing the corporate ladder in a “Fortune 5” retail company, honing his skills in management, negotiation and customer service. However, in 2012, a family connection introduced him to the world of public adjusting, which is when he says he found his true calling. 

“When I learned about public adjusting from my brother-in-law, I saw how much of a difference an advocate could make for homeowners,” Shawn says. “I knew I wanted to be part of that process — helping people when they need it most.” 

After completing a year-long apprenticeship, Shawn obtained his public adjuster’s license and has since helped thousands of clients navigate their insurance claims. Today, Compass Claim Solutions serves homeowners and businesses across Florida, often traveling to communities hit hardest by hurricanes and severe storms. 

What Does A Public Adjuster Do? 

Insurance policies can be complex documents, full of jargon and fine print that many policyholders struggle to understand. When property damage occurs, the insurance company sends out its own adjuster to assess the damage and estimate the payout — but that adjuster works for the insurance company, not the policyholder. 

A public adjuster like Shawn, however, works exclusively on behalf of the policyholder. His job is to thoroughly evaluate the damage, prepare detailed estimates and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that the client receives a fair settlement. 

“Our goal is to level the playing field,” Shawn explains. “Insurance companies have experts working for them — policyholders should have [an expert] on their side, too.” 

Compass Claim Solutions handles a wide range of claims, including those related to hurricanes, floods, lightning, wind, fire, mold, theft and plumbing issues. The company offers free consultations, guiding clients from the initial claim filing through the final settlement. 

The ‘Umpire Process’ 

One of the unique aspects of Compass Claim Solutions’ services is Shawn’s involvement in the insurance appraisal and what is known as the “umpire process” — a little-known but critical step when claims are disputed. 

If an insurance company and a policyholder cannot agree on the amount of damage or the cost of repairs, both parties may choose to enter into the appraisal process. Each side hires an independent appraiser to assess the damage. If the two appraisers cannot reach an agreement, they select a neutral third party — known as an “umpire” — who reviews the estimates and makes a final, binding decision. 

As a certified insurance umpire, Shawn is often called upon to serve as that neutral third party in these disputes, bringing his extensive knowledge and fair judgment to the process. 

“The umpire process helps ensure that both sides get a fair shake,” Shawn says. “It’s about finding common ground and making sure the policyholder gets what they’re owed. 

Going The Extra Mile 

Clients of Compass Claim Solutions consistently praise Shawn’s professionalism, dedication, and attention to detail. The company’s 4.9 stars out of 5 on Google (on 50+ reviews) attest to his prompt communication and proactive approach. 

“Shawn is amazing,” client Brian S. wrote in his 5-star review on Google. “He was prompt on returning calls, very thorough in his evaluation of the damage, and extremely proactive in dealing with the insurance company. He turned a stressful situation into a positive outcome.” 

Client Carol G.’s 5-star review says, “I was denied by my insurance company for not taking pictures after my front doors blew open during Hurricane Ian. Shawn worked wonders for me and got me enough money to fix the important issues in my home. He was very kind and easy to work with. I highly recommend using Compass Claim if you ever need a public adjuster. I’d give him 20 stars if I could.” 

It’s this commitment to going above and beyond that has earned Compass Claim Solutions a stellar reputation in the community. 

Beyond his work in public adjusting, Shawn is an active member of the Wesley Chapel business community. He serves on the Membership Committee of BNI Alliance, a local chapter of Business Networking International (BNI) of West Central Florida, where he collaborates with other professionals to foster business growth and networking opportunities. “I believe in giving back to the community that supports us,” Shawn says. “Whether it’s helping homeowners through the claims process or participating in local events, we want to make a positive impact.” 

Navigating an insurance claim can feel like an uphill battle, especially in the wake of a disaster. With Compass Claim Solutions, clients gain more than just an advocate — they gain a partner dedicated to serving their best interests. 

From the initial consultation to the final settlement, Shawn Thompson and his team provide the knowledge, persistence and compassion needed to help clients rebuild and move forward. With Compass Claim Solutions on your side, you don’t have to navigate the claims process alone — you have a trusted partner and guide every step of the way. 

Shawn Thompson’s Compass Claim Solutions offers free consultations. For more info, visit CompassClaimSolutions.com or call (352) 502-5928. 

Fields Insurance — The Independent Agency That’s Serious About Protecting You! 

Michael (holding Maxwell) and Nancy Fields (holding Charley) can provide a wide range of insurance products from a large number of different carriers to protect your home, vehicle, property and even your life at their Fields Insurance Agency on the north side of S.R. 56. (Photos by Charmaine George) 

Located in the Medallion Corporate Park on the north side of S.R. 56 (just east of I-75) in Wesley Chapel, the Fields Insurance Agency can help you with all of your insurance needs. 

Owners Michael and Nancy Fields have their roots deeply embedded in Tennessee but have added new roots in Florida since moving here in 2021. With agencies across multiple states — including Tennessee, Georgia and Florida — they are committed to broadening their reach by adding additional counties in Florida. The Wesley Chapel office of the Fields Insurance Agency now serves as Michael and Nancy’s home base and they say they are committed to serving the local community. 

The agency offers a broad spectrum of insurance services, including personal and commercial property and casualty insurance, which encompasses auto, home, renters, boat, and motorcycle insurance. Select life insurance policies also are available. 

The Fields Insurance Agency’s motto is: “Simple – Affordable – Comprehensive Insurance,” which encapsulates Michael and Nancy’s mission to provide each of their clients with the best possible coverage within their respective budgets. Numerous top-rated insurance carriers are represented by Fields Insurance, including Allstate, Citizens, Progressive and many more, some of which you may not even recognize. 

“There are too many to list,” Michael says, “and we are continually adding more companies so we can better serve our clients.” A comprehensive list of the insurance providers the firm is happy to offer is available at FieldsInsuranceAgency.com. “The goal is to give customers the best possible coverage they can afford,” he adds. 

The Journey 

Michael recalls when a friend who worked in insurance mentioned he should go work with him, and told Michael he thought it would be a good fit for him. 

“I was told I would probably like it and my answer to that was, ‘I doubt it’ but I decided to try it out,” he says, adding that his journey started with filing and office tasks, which he viewed as a temporary role. He learned about the business and, in no time at all, his friends were encouraging him to take the insurance exams — and an insurance agent was born. 

Michael eventually took over the agency, but before doing so, he had to participate in a three-year program called “Replacement Agency Executive,” which required that he meet certain goals and criteria before he could take over. He successfully completed this process in 2014. 

Nancy and Michael’s daughter Bethany, who went to school at the University of Mississippi in Oxford (aka “Ole Miss”), promptly secured a job in Tampa after graduating in 2019, and Michael and Nancy decided to follow their daughter. In 2021, Michael acquired a Brandon-based insurance agency. 

“I had a place in Pinellas Park and went back and forth between Florida and Tennessee until 2023,” he says, adding that he and Nancy decided to make Florida their permanent home after Nancy retired from a long career as a teacher. “As we started looking for our perfect home, everything that we wanted was here in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. We decided on a home in Grand Hampton, and we love it here.” 

Integrity stands at the forefront of the company’s business philosophy. Michael and Nancy prioritize their clients’ best interests, offering free quotes and the ability to provide estimates swiftly, a significant advantage over clients seeking quotes on their own. 

“I will make sure they are covered correctly,” Michael says, “so if a claim arises, we know their policy will cover them properly.” 

The agency is proud to have many 5-star Google reviews, with an overall Google rating of 4.8 on more than 70 reviews. Client Dawn Morris highlighted the agency’s commitment to excellent customer service when she wrote this in her 5-star Google review: “They call you back in a timely manner and help with your questions or changes in policy quickly. Not a lot of wait time.” 

“People are focused on price, and I understand it,” explains Michael. “But, this can sometimes lead to sacrificing essential coverage.” He emphasizes the importance of understanding what clients want covered and what they expect in the event of a claim. Based on this understanding, he provides coverage options that offer them peace of mind. For clients with budget constraints, especially younger individuals, Michael and Nancy take the time to educate them, explaining the best options within their means and outlining additional coverage to consider as their financial situation improves. 

“I don’t want to ever get a call from a client saying, ‘Why did you not tell me I was not covered?,’” Michael says. “I never want to get that phone call, so we believe in educating our clients.” 

‘Ramsey Trusted Pros’ 

Being a “Ramsey Trusted Pro” is a recognition Michael and Nancy are very proud to have. Dave Ramsey, a renowned author and radio host based in Nashville, TN, offers financial advice and recommends companies that meet his stringent standards. 

“Earning a spot on this list,” Michael says, “is a testament to our hard work and ethical business practices.” 

Many satisfied clients attest to the efficiency and dedication of the Fields Insurance Agency. In her 5-star review on Google, client Anna Lollar shared, “Within the same day of using Dave Ramsey’s ELP (Endorsed Local Provider) program, I was contacted. After providing basic information, I was provided a quote that exceeded my expectations. I was very pleased with the communication and support.” 

Michael and Nancy are pleased to report that, despite the negativity recently in local and national news media, insurance prices have remained relatively stable, with only slight increases. They attribute this stability to their diligent efforts to find the right insurance solutions for every one of their clients. 

Client Janice Carson recently shared her positive experience in another 5-star Google review, saying, “Michael and Nancy provided both automobile and homeowners insurance quotes in a very timely manner and saved us over $1,500 annually! They were quick to respond with updates to any changes we made and the entire process of switching both policies went very smoothly! Thank you!” 

Michael and Nancy Fields exemplify an unusual dedication to their clients, community and the principles of integrity and education in the insurance industry. They are committed to ensuring that their clients always receive comprehensive coverage tailored to their individual needs. 

The Fields Insurance Agency is located at 2600 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Suite C1, in Wesley Chapel. For more information or for a quote on your home, auto, business or other property needs, call (813) 651-0094, or visit FieldsInsuranceAgency.com. 

Murtha & Flischel CPAs Helps Businesses & Individuals Be Ready For Tax Time 

(L.-r.) Kyle Flischel and Tom & Patrick Murtha are the partners who have helped make Murtha & Flischel CPAs in the Seven Oaks Professional Park one of the most respected Certified Public Accounting firms in the New Tampa/Wesley Chapel area. (Photo provided by Murtha & Flischel) 

For more than 14 years, Murtha & Flischel Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), have been a trusted name in the Wesley Chapel community. Known for dedication to personalized service and in-depth knowledge of accounting and tax laws, the firm has built a strong reputation as reliable partners for individuals and businesses alike. 

The story of Murtha & Flischel began back in 1997, when Thomas Murtha and Raymond Flischel founded the firm as Flischel, Murtha & Associates in Englewood, FL. Ray Flischel worked for more than 40 years before retiring. Tom Murtha is a seasoned CPA with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Management from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree in Accounting from St. John’s University in Queens, NY. Tom has nearly 40 years of experience in taxes, valuations, mergers and acquisitions, and has been a trusted advisor to many. He also taught accounting courses at Hillsborough Community College and for the American Institute of Banking for more than 15 years, helping shape the next generation of accountants. 

In 2009, Tom’s son Patrick helped Tom and Ray sell their Englewood firm and open a new office — Murtha & Murtha, LLC, in Tampa. In 2015, the firm moved to the Seven Oaks Professional Park (off Ancient Oaks Blvd., north of S.R. 56) in Wesley Chapel, where it continued to grow and thrive. Today, the firm has changed its name to Murtha & Flischel and has three partners, including Tom, Patrick and Ray’s son Kyle Flischel. 

Patrick and Kyle are both alumni of the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, where Patrick earned B.S. degrees in Finance and Accounting, in 2009 and 2015, respectively, while Kyle earned a B.S. degree in Accounting in 2011 and a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in  Accounting with a focus on taxes, in 2017. 

Murtha & Flischel offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of its clients. From preparing taxes to advising businesses on complex tax issues, the firm helps clients stay compliant and make the most of their financial opportunities. During tax season, Murtha & Flischel’s dedicated senior accountants — including Kaitlyn Kociba and Kaitlyn Little — work hard to assist clients. Both Kaitlyns started as interns and are now pursuing their CPA certifications. Junior accountants Jackie Moore and Tamara Daley also are valuable team members. 

“We’re excited to expand our team,” Patrick says, “and we plan to add two more junior accountants soon.” 

Client satisfaction is at the heart of everything the professionals at Murtha & Flischel do. The team’s personalized approach has earned the firm glowing reviews from its clients, as Murtha & Flischel has an overall 4.9 star (out of 5) rating on Google, with more than 115 reviews. Client Christina Helm shared in her 5-star rating: “It’s time we ALL quit slogging through TurboTax and never look back. From initial contact to my phone appointment with Kaitlyn Little to signing our return was about a month, with quick, accurate and professional communication, via phone, [by] email and on their app!” 

In addition to tax preparation, the firm offers bookkeeping and accounting services that help businesses keep their financial records accurate and organized. This allows Murtha & Flischel’s clients to make informed decisions and plan for growth. The firm also specializes in business valuations, tax planning and helping buyers and sellers navigate the process of mergers and acquisitions. 

“We started with mergers and acquisitions before expanding to other services,” Patrick says. 

A High-Flying Firm 
(L.-r.) Senior accountants Kaitlyn Kociba and Kaitlyn Little, partners Kyle Flischel and Patrick Murtha, office manager Lourdes (“Lou”) Alers, front office manager Sam Yates and staff accountant Tamara Daley can all be found at Murtha & Flischel’s Wesley Chapel office. (Photo by Charmaine George) 

Patrick and Kyle have both recently earned their pilot’s licenses. In 2023, Patrick received his license and in December of last year, he completed instrument reading. 

“Although we did it as a hobby, it has quickly become an essential part of our business,” Patrick says. “We had a client on the other side of the state, and where it would have taken us a few hours to get there, we were able to arrive in just under an hour and fly back home the same day. Flying saves us so much time and it makes it easier to provide hands-on support for our clients.” 

Another standout offering is Murtha & Flischel’s CFO (Chief Financial Officer) Retainer Package. This service provides businesses with ongoing financial oversight, including monthly accounting, budgeting and tax planning. It also includes advice about health insurance and retirement plans. Acting as an outsourced CFO — at a fraction of the cost of an in-house CFO — the firm helps businesses stay financially secure while preparing for long-term success. 

On TampaTaxFirm.com, the firm shares helpful articles under the “News and Articles” section. “We try to post relevant information that clients might find useful,” Patrick explains. Recent topics include the changes to federal and state tax laws for 2025 and guidance on the on-again, off-again BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) and FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) compliance. While Murtha & Flischel doesn’t complete BOI filings for its clients, the firm does provide clear instructions on how to complete that filing yourself. 

“We want our clients to avoid fines and stay informed,” Patrick says, adding that although the requirement for businesses to file BOI was put on hold, it is possible it will become a requirement again at some point. 

“The process is quite simple,” Patrick adds. “It takes only a few minutes to file electronically.” He recommends business owners either go ahead and complete it just in case or make sure they keep an eye on updates through FinCEN.gov. 

This unwavering commitment to personalized service is what makes Murtha & Flischel stand out. “Our goal is to provide year-round support and timely responses to all client questions,” Patrick says. This dedication has earned the firm a loyal client base and a strong reputation in the local community. 

The firm also supports local initiatives and participates in community events. This dedication not only enhances the staff’s connection with clients but also underscores the role of a community-centric firm. 

Patrick and his wife Jennifer have three children — 10-year-old Thomas, Jack (age 9) and Audrey, 4. The family lives in Wesley Chapel and is very active in the local community, including the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel and the North Tampa Bay Chamber. Meanwhile, Kyle (who has been the president of a local Business Networking International chapter) and his wife Stephanie enjoy brewing beer as a hobby. 

The firm of Murtha & Flischel CPAs is located at 2236 Ashley Oaks Cir., Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel. The Zephyrhills office is located at 5315 8th St. 

For a free consultation or tips on tax filing, call (813) 991-1120, or visit TampaTaxFirm.com or any of Murtha & Flischel’s social media sites — Instagram.com/murthacpas, Facebook.com/TampaTaxFirm, or Linkedin.com/ company/murtha-and-flischel-certified-public-accountants.