Mine is a story of fresh starts and following what feels right in the heart—even when the path isn't clear.

 

When I bought my current home in 2019, it wasn't much more than a neglected structure on a beautiful lot near my elderly parents who needed my help. The previous owners were overwhelmed and uncertain what to do with it - they even considered walking away from it entirely.

 

I took a good look and saw potential.

"How much do you want for it?"

The owner looked at me, surprised. "10K?"

"Done"

 

I turned that nearly abandoned property into a beautiful, livable home. I designed and renovated it myself and loved every step of the process. But this wasn't a new adventure for me - it was just another example of doing what I've always done: seeing real estate opportunities and capitalizing on them.

 

My real estate journey began decades ago. In 1990, I bought my first home in Connecticut and totally renovated and landscaped it. That project lit a spark that never left me. I got my Real Estate license in Connecticut and later in Massachusetts. Even while I built a career in healthcare administration in hospitals in Connecticut and New York, I stayed interested in the world of real estate - designing, renovating and staying close to the work I loved.

 

Professionally, I spent over 11 years in healthcare administration and consulting in healthcare compliance.  I earned a Master's in Health Policy at Columbia University and managed several departments at teaching hospitals and later started a consulting business helping healthcare organizations with health information management and legal compliance. It was interesting and rewarding work and I learned a lot about management, attention to detail, and effective communication.

 

During that chapter, I also became a mom. Fortunately, my husband's career allowed me to focus on our three children - Brooke, Nick and Laney - for several years. I stayed busy organizing the playgroups for the Town of Shrewsbury and volunteering in the welcoming of new families moving to Shrewsbury.

 

After our divorce, I moved to Grafton, Massachusetts and bought a historic 1860's home that I fell in love with. I restored it to period - scouring the Brimfield Flea Market for authentic details and fixtures. That home was a turning point. It brought together my skills, creativity, and resilience in a way that reminded me of who I was and what I could build.

 

Eventually, I saw a new opportunity and I sold that home and purchased the one I live in today - another bold move rooted in my love for renovation. By that point, I had already been working full-time in real estate for years. What began decades ago became a thriving second career, and I haven't looked back.

 

What sets me apart is the ability to see value others might miss - whether in a charming starter home or a high-end luxury estate. I help clients envision what's possible, and I guide them with a sharp eye, strategic thinking, and personal investment in their goals. I take pride in helping buyers and sellers at all price points - from first-time homeowners to discerning luxury clients - navigate their real estate journeys with confidence.

 

Finding the right brokerage took time, but when I discovered Castinetti Realty Group, I knew I'd found the right fit. It's a team I'm proud to be a part of every day.

 

These days, the biggest joys in my life are my three children and my treasured dogs. Brooke is 30 and works in Finance in Boston and was recently married to Dan. Nick is 28, an Engineer, and married to his childhood friend Lauren and they  gave me my first grandchild, Lydia. Laney is 25 and works at a start up in Marketing and I'm very excited to see where that opportunity will take her. She shares my interest in design and Renovation and we are hoping to collaborate on a flip project in the near future.  I'm somewhat of a crazy dog lady, having had 5 dogs for many years. Through my brokerage, I support local animal shelters and the Central Mass Pet Pantry, providing pet food and supplies for local families in need.

 

Looking back, I'm proud of how far I've come. I've reinvented myself, leaned into risk and opportunity, and found deep purpose in helping others do the same through real estate. I've developed my business so that I'm able to provide for myself and my family by doing something I enjoy on my terms.

 

If there's one thing I've learned, it's this:

You can start fresh at any time - and sometimes the second chapter is the most powerful one yet.

 

My clients know they can count on me to be transparent, trustworthy, and fiercely protective of their interests. I keep things real and always look out for their future—making sure they don’t get stuck in a bad deal. I’ve seen enough in this industry to know what to watch for, and I don’t let mistakes happen.

 

With decades of hands-on experience—including early flips, historic restorations, and transforming overlooked properties—I bring a deep understanding of condition, market value, and design potential. I know what it takes to get a home market-ready and can spot red flags others might miss. I’m also meticulous with contracts and details, because the little things matter.

 

Whether helping a first-time buyer, advising on a renovation, or marketing a high-end luxury home, I bring the same high standards and personalized service to every transaction. Clients value my strategic mindset, strong negotiation skills, and calm, grounded guidance.

 

I think several steps ahead and anticipate problems before they arise—ensuring my clients stay informed, protected, and in control every step of the way.

 

Sincerely, 

 

 

Dawn Szczygiel

REALTOR® | LIC#9521945

Call/Text (508) 330-7344

Dawnsbestvalue@gmail.com

DawnSellsMA.com