Coastal Realty Services Leadership

Ty Whaley

CEO

I’m Ty, the new CEO at Coastal Realty Services, a role that brings both pride and a good dose of humility. I got my start in real estate here, tackling tasks like assembling for-sale signs, mowing lawns, and covering the front desk—talk about learning the business from the ground up!

Before taking the helm, I worked in tech, finance, and healthcare, diving into everything from AI strategy to risk management at companies like 5/3 Bank and GE Aviation. Now, I’m thrilled to bring those skills back home to Coastal.

Carrying forward the legacy my grandparents started, which my uncle and mother built upon, is an honor. Their dedication to Coastal and our community sets the bar high, and I’m excited to keep us moving forward while keeping those values at our core.

Denise Bavarian

Owner

I first arrived on the Emerald Coast in 1968 with my military family and was instantly hooked—who wouldn’t be? I attended Oakland Heights Elementary, Bruner Middle, and Fort Walton Beach High before heading to Belmont University in Nashville, where I earned a Business degree. My early career took me to Music Row in Nashville, working in music publishing and artist management, before a move to St. Louis. I returned to Fort Walton Beach in 1993 to join the family real estate business, and I’ve been happily calling this place home ever since!

As a Real Estate Broker with CRS and CRB certifications, I’m an active member of the ECAR Board of Realtors MLS Tour as a Director, as well as the National Association of Realtors and Women’s Council of Realtors. I also serve as Manager for the Eglin AFB Ceremonial Band and perform with the Christian Symphonic Band. Whether in real estate or the arts, I’m dedicated to serving the Emerald Coast community!

Joe Capelotti

COO

Growing up in a military family, I experienced life around the globe before we eventually settled in Maryland. Following in my dad’s footsteps, I joined the Air Force as a Jet Engine Mechanic, a career that had me working on everything from planes to patience and took me on deployments across the world. Along the way, I met my wife, Lisa, and together we built a family, raising our son, Tyler, and adopting our daughter, Kara.

After 26 years of dedicated service, I found my next mission in real estate with Coastal Realty Services. Now, I lead a passionate property management team, focusing on providing exceptional service and fostering growth within our organization. I’m also committed to developing new agents, leading training initiatives like Workshop Wednesdays and the YESS course to ensure that our next generation of Realtors is well-prepared.

Serving as ECAR President in 2023 and being honored as the 2020 Realtor of the Year have been incredible milestones, each reinforcing my commitment to community and industry. For me, there’s no greater accomplishment than seeing our team and community thrive—truly a ‘mission accomplished’ in the best way!

Sean Guthrie

CFO

I’m a longtime Floridian with deep roots here on the Emerald Coast. After my time at the FSU College of Business and Stetson Law School, I found my passion in financial advising and have spent the last 15 years helping small businesses manage their finances and grow with confidence.

When I’m off the clock, you’ll probably find me cheering on the Seminoles or the Philadelphia Eagles. But my favorite sidekick of all is Nike, my chihuahua and corgi mix who, in my completely unbiased opinion, is the greatest dog in the world. Whether we’re out enjoying the Florida sunshine or just relaxing at home, life is always better with him around!

Tyler Capelotti

Director, Property Management/Sales Agent

I started in real estate back in 2010 as Coastal Realty Services’ Maintenance Director, got my Sales Associate license in 2012, and soon became a property manager. By 2016, I was named Director of Property Management. Having grown up as a military brat and lived here since 1994, I’ve got the Emerald Coast down to a science!

A proud UCF alum, I met my wife at 18, and now we’re the happy parents of three beautiful girls: Gianna Isabella, Mila Rose, and Lyla James. Outside work, I’m all about family time—whether we’re enjoying the water or cheering on our favorite teams. I’m also dedicated to the local community as a member of Beachside Community Church and recently wrapped up a term on the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors Board. Local expertise, family focus, and community roots—that’s my recipe for real estate success!

Bob Hudgens

My real estate journey started young, digging post holes and helping set up my parents’ office—nothing like learning the business from the ground up! With a Business Computer Science degree and an MBA from the University of Florida, I earned my real estate and broker licenses in 1985, and I’ve been all-in ever since.

Over the years, I’ve served in various leadership roles, including Past President of the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Secretary and Treasurer for the Florida Association of Realtors, and Director for both the Florida and National Associations of Realtors. As District 9 Vice President, I’m committed to advancing our profession and supporting my peers.

When I’m not closing deals, you might find me up in the skies as an aviation enthusiast, currently working on my Instrument rating. Whether on land or in the air, I’m here to make your real estate experience smooth and successful!

Katie Coleman

Marketing Manager

I’m originally from the small town of Huntingdon, Tennessee, but I traded the countryside for the coast—and I’ve been loving life here in the Panhandle ever since! I graduated from Murray State University in 2023 with a degree in Public Relations, and I’m genuinely passionate about all things marketing. Whether it’s building creative strategies, growing brand visibility, or finding new ways to connect with the community, I love bringing ideas to life and making an impact.

Along with my work in marketing, I have a background in Nonprofit Leadership, and supporting local organizations and causes is something that’s especially close to my heart.

Outside of work, you can usually find me soaking up the sunshine, checking out local events, or on the hunt for the best coffee spots in town!