Ashley Humphries- Story

I’ve faced a tough journey, eventually breaking free from a long cycle of intergenerational trauma, to share my story with those who may need some encouragement and hope.

Today, I successfully run my real estate business published author, am a healthy parent, have sold a business, and even do public speaking events. But 20 years ago, my life looked very different.

Raised by parents struggling with drug addiction, my childhood was unstable. Amid the chaos, I found hope at a school fair when someone introduced me to entrepreneurship. The dream of owning a business stayed with me, even as I grew up in a traumatic environment.

By 15, I was pregnant with Caden; by 19, I had Kyla. My marriage with their father ended, and despite remaining friends, both my ex-husband and I spiraled into addiction—alcohol and heroin. I was following the same path as my family; for generations, my family has been lost to overdoses, struggled with addiction, and dealt with homelessness.

Surviving on the streets meant working to feed my addiction. I saw dark things no one should see—human trafficking and violence. I got pregnant again, with Brantley, and embarked on a 2nd marriage. While my life was dangerously fragile, a small voice inside kept telling me I was meant for more –– I just didn’t know what.

I started a cleaning business, found a place to live, and tried getting sober. However, the business wasn’t as profitable as I’d wished for. My marriage fell apart and I considered returning to the streets. The voice inside me, however, kept whispering: “You’re meant for something bigger.”

After countless times of trying and failing on my own to get sober, and be the mom and person I had always wanted to be, I reached my bottom. I missed my kids, I missed my family, and I wanted something different. So, I cried out to God and asked Him to save me. I am thankful for His grace and mercy that pulled me out of the pit I had been living. There was a long healing process ahead after he saved me.

I checked myself into a faith-based rehab center, where I stayed for a year. At 27, I finally got clean and broke a cycle of addiction that had plagued my family for generations. When I left rehab, I had no money, $45K in debt, and no clear career path, but I had a determination to rebuild my life.

I worked as a server while reopening my cleaning business. I got more involved in church and fought through legal paperwork to reunite with my children.

This time, my cleaning business flourished because my clients trusted me. They’d call asking where they had placed something, knowing I’d remember. One client, preparing to move, casually said, “Too bad you’re not a REALTOR®, otherwise, I’d hire you to help me sell my house.”

That comment sparked something in me. I had actually considered real es tate while I lived on the streets –– now was the time to do it. The purpose I’ve found in serving people through real estate is beyond words. I’ve helped people from rehabilitation centers—once homeless and addicts—become homeowners. Before a hurricane hit Florida, I pushed relentlessly to get my client into her new home ahead of schedule. After the storm destroyed her previous house, she called me and said, “Ashley, you saved our lives.”

Now, I live in my own home with my husband, Kyle, my children and my chickens. I visit the rehab center frequently to mentor women in recovery. I speak at church and at events about faith and neurotheology—the science behind spirituality. For fun, I enjoy taking my four-wheeler to camping sites with family.

God saved me so I could tell my story. I hope my testimony serves as proof that, if I could overcome a difficult situation and rebuild my life, others can too.

I take pride in helping people achieve homeownership, especially those who have been overlooked by other REALTORS®. Owning a home is life-changing, and I believe everyone deserves that opportunity. As a second-generation Lee County native, with a grandfather who helped build Cape Coral’s original sea walls, I have a deep appreciation and knowledge of this area.

Known for going the extra mile, I prioritize my clients’ needs and well-being. I also approach challenges with a “Why not?” mindset. I’m especially passionate about advocating for those struggling with bad credit, as I’ve been in that position myself with a 480 credit score. I continually educate myself on real estate, particularly mortgages, so I can offer expert guidance and the best representation. When working with me, clients will find a problem-solver who presents options, solutions, and possibilities instead of limitations. Beyond residential real estate, I also assist clients with agricultural properties. No matter the real estate need, my goal is to provide support, advocacy, and a pathway to homeownership for all.estate agent, I promise that I will strive to be the best agent with whom you have ever worked!

Sincerely,

Ashley Humphries
Broker-Owner | LIC# BK3545107
Call/Text 239.867.8337
Ashley@MyRefugeRealty.com
MyRefugeRealty.com