YPN REALTORS® to Watch Under 40

The RASM Young Professionals Network (YPN), in collaboration with the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM), is proud to introduce the Class of 2026 for the seventh annual “REALTORS® to Watch Under 40” program. This distinguished initiative highlights dynamic young professionals who are setting new standards in the real estate industry through outstanding leadership, deep community engagement, and a strong commitment to professional growth.

These exceptional individuals are not only excelling in their careers but are also making meaningful contributions to the communities they serve. RASM proudly honors and celebrates this impressive group of rising stars, whose ambition, drive, and passion continue to inspire. Their stories reflect the evolving landscape of real estate and the power of purpose-driven professionalism. We look forward to watching their continued impact as they shape the future of our industry.

Meet the Class of 2026

Molly Higdon, CLHMS

REALTOR®, KW Coastal Living III

Known for delivering concierge-level service and consistently exceeding expectations, Molly Higdon, REALTOR® with KW Coastal Living III, has built a reputation as one of the Gulf Coast's premier residential real estate professionals. Combining impressive production with a highly personalized approach, she has earned the trust of clients throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Licensed since 2019, Molly specializes in luxury homes, second homes, relocation, investment properties, and residential real estate. Since January 2025, she has closed 55 transactions totaling more than $50 million in sales volume, while consistently ranking as the top-producing agent on her team. She has also been recognized by SRQ Magazine as a Top REALTOR® for four consecutive years.

Before launching her real estate career, Molly graduated from the University of South Florida with degrees in Business Marketing and Management and worked in fashion merchandising and buying for Bealls Corporate. That experience in branding, presentation, and customer experience continues to influence every aspect of her business.

Working alongside her husband, Molly has built a husband-and-wife team dedicated to redefining what clients should expect from a REALTOR®. Rather than simply facilitating transactions, they focus on delivering a true white-glove experience. Supported by an experienced staff, they prioritize communication, creativity, and thoughtful touches that transform what can often be a stressful process into an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Whether it's anticipating clients' needs before they're expressed or finding meaningful ways to surprise and delight them throughout the process, every detail is designed around putting the client's goals first. That client-first philosophy has become the foundation of a business built on exceptional service, lasting relationships, and consistently exceeding expectations.

As her business continues to grow, Molly remains committed to delivering an unmatched level of service while expanding her reach to buyers and sellers throughout Southwest Florida. She believes success isn't measured solely by sales volume, but by the relationships that continue long after closing.

Outside of real estate, Molly and her husband are deeply invested in the community they call home. They support youth sports, contribute to local private schools, are members of Grace Community Church, and actively support local businesses whenever possible. Their philosophy is simple: strong communities are built when neighbors invest in one another.

“Every client deserves to feel as though they're our only client. We believe real estate is about creating an unforgettable experience built on trust, communication, and genuine care, and that's what we strive to deliver every day.”

Molly Whalen Horner

REALTOR® New Home Sales, Taylor Morrison

With an exceptional blend of customer service, sales excellence, and a genuine heart for serving others, Molly Whalen Horner, REALTOR® with Taylor Morrison, has become one of the area's most accomplished new-home professionals. Her passion for helping families achieve homeownership is matched only by her desire to make a lasting impact on the lives of those around her.

Licensed since 2011, Molly specializes in new construction and residential development with Taylor Morrison and investment properties. Since January 2025, she has generated 104 gross sales, 71 net sales, closed 86 homes, and exceeded $19 million in sales volume, an extraordinary level of production that reflects both consistency and client confidence.

Throughout her career, she has earned numerous company recognitions, including multiple ACE awards for top monthly sales performance, Employee of the Quarter for customer satisfaction, and one of Taylor Morrison's highest honors, the TM Living Award, recognizing employees who exemplify the company's values.

Although she began her college education studying psychology and youth ministry, Molly discovered her calling in real estate while continuing to serve in church ministry; a role she has maintained throughout much of her career. That servant's heart continues to shape every interaction she has with clients.

What truly distinguishes Molly is her belief that buying a home should be about far more than simply completing a transaction. Whether she's helping a first-time buyer, investor, or growing family, she strives to create an experience that leaves people feeling genuinely cared for. Her own experience as a real estate investor (she and her husband currently own 14 units), provides valuable perspective that allows her to guide clients with both professional expertise and firsthand knowledge. Her long-term goal is simple: to continue helping more families achieve their dreams while growing a business built on exceptional service and lasting relationships.

Her compassion extends well beyond real estate. One of Molly's proudest moments came through Taylor Morrison's Build Joy initiative, where she helped create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a young boy named Grayson, who is blind and gradually losing his sight. She organized a memorable Sarasota vacation for Grayson and his family, coordinated community fundraising efforts through a neighborhood lemonade stand, and helped make it possible for the family to return for another special visit. The experience perfectly reflects Molly's belief that success is measured not by sales, but by the lives you touch.

Maxwell Mann, GRI

Broker Associate, Team Leader, Michael Saunders & Company

Maxwell Mann is quickly establishing himself as one of Sarasota's rising real estate leaders, combining exceptional sales performance with an unwavering commitment to education, leadership, and client service. As a Broker Associate with Michael Saunders & Company and team leader, Max has demonstrated that success comes from continually investing in both his clients and himself.

Licensed in 2021, Max has already built an impressive career. Since January 2025, he has closed 18 transactions totaling nearly $11 million in sales volume, while simultaneously stepping into a lead role and helping guide overall team performance. His dedication to professional development is equally impressive, having earned his Broker's License, Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation, and Certified Waterfront Specialist (CWS) certification while continuing to pursue additional credentials.

A graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Max brings a strong background in branding, negotiation, consumer behavior, and strategic communication to every client relationship. Before launching his real estate career, he excelled in the highly competitive staffing industry, where he developed the consultative sales and relationship-building skills that continue to distinguish his business today.

What truly sets Max apart is his deep connection to Sarasota and the legacy that inspires his vision. His grandfather, I.Z. Mann, developed Sarasota Harbour, the city's first condominium, in 1963, helping shape the Sarasota skyline. That history fuels Max's ambition to leave a lasting mark of his own. His long-term goal extends beyond personal production. He is focused on growing his team and building a respected real estate brand founded on education, integrity, and exceptional client service. He hopes to become one of the first names people think of when they think of Sarasota real estate, a reputation earned through trust, consistency, and market expertise. Every milestone he achieves reflects the same commitment to excellence, professionalism, and client service that continues to drive his long-term goals.

Max believes that the best REALTORS® never stop learning. His commitment to continual education, coupled with his Broker's License and professional designations, reflects his desire to be the most knowledgeable advisor possible for his clients. He attributes much of his success to treating every client as though they are his only client, continually investing in his own education, and recognizing that each transaction represents one of the most significant financial decisions in a person's life.

His commitment to Sarasota extends well beyond real estate. One cause that holds a special place in Max's heart is The Haven, an organization serving individuals with disabilities. The connection is personal. His cousin Bobby, who has cerebral palsy, has been a part of The Haven's community, and that relationship has given Max a deep appreciation for the incredible work the organization does for some of Sarasota's most cherished residents. He also actively supports local organizations and fundraising events, including Cooking for Wishes benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation, Sarasota Contemporary Dance, and Wonderball, believing that a REALTOR®'s success is inseparable from the health and vitality of the community they serve. As his business continues to grow, Max plans to expand his philanthropic involvement and carry forward his family's tradition of helping build a stronger Sarasota for future generations.

“This award is a humbling reminder of why I do what I do. I have always believed that the best agents never stop learning, never stop growing, and never stop showing up for their clients. Real estate in Sarasota is not just a career for me, it is personal. I went to school here, I grew up here, and my family helped shape this city. Being recognized in this community means a lot and I am grateful to every client who trusted me with one of the biggest decisions of their life. This is just the beginning.”

Troy Robbins

Broker & COO, Harry E. Robbins Associates, Inc.

For Troy Robbins, REALTOR® with Harry E. Robbins Associates, Inc., commercial real estate isn't simply a profession; it's a family legacy spanning generations. Today, as Broker and Chief Operating Officer of Harry E. Robbins Associates, he continues building upon more than five decades of family leadership while helping shape the future of commercial real estate throughout Southwest Florida.

Licensed since 2006, Troy has established himself as one of the region's leading commercial practitioners. Since January 2025, he has completed more than 300 commercial leasing and sales transactions totaling approximately $70 million in volume, earning multiple CREXi Platinum Broker recognitions, CoStar Power Broker honors, and ranking among the firm's top-producing brokers for more than a decade.

Real estate has always been part of Troy's life. Raised by two former RASM presidents, his father, Loyd Robbins, and grandfather, Harry Robbins, who earned his real estate license at just 19 years old before later obtaining his broker's license and becoming co-owner alongside his brothers. Today, his focus extends well beyond brokerage production. He is committed to expanding the firm's commercial presence throughout Southwest Florida while mentoring the next generation of commercial real estate professionals and creating a sustainable path for the company's future growth.

Clients know Troy for his responsiveness, consistency, and practical, data-driven advice. By remaining deeply engaged with property owners, investors, tenants, and business leaders, he has built a business centered on long-term relationships rather than one-time transactions. Alongside his own production, he oversees daily brokerage operations while helping guide the continued growth of one of Sarasota's most respected commercial real estate firms.

Outside the office, Troy devotes countless hours to faith, family, and youth mentorship. He serves through South Shore Community Church and City Commit, a faith-based leadership organization dedicated to developing stronger fathers, husbands, business owners, and community leaders. As the leader of a weekly City Commit group, he mentors between 15 and 25 men each week. His commitment to investing in others also extends to athletics. After spending 16 years coaching at Riverview High School, Troy now coaches youth football, basketball, and flag football nearly year-round, helping young athletes develop confidence, discipline, and character both on and off the field.

Whether leading a commercial brokerage, mentoring young professionals, or coaching children on the athletic field, Troy approaches every role with the same philosophy: invest in people first, and success will follow.

“Real estate has always been more than a career; it's part of my family's legacy. My goal is to continue growing our business while investing in people, mentoring future professionals, and giving back to the community that's given so much to our family.”