Meet some of the people who give meaning to the work we do every day

The Joy of the Build: How JD Bols Turned Radical Change into His Best Professional Decision

For JD Bols, founder of JD Bols & Associates, success is not a destination to reach and retire from—it is a continuous adventure. His journey is defined by a willingness to embrace radical change and a foundational set of values instilled by his late mother.

Rooted in Integrity

Bols attributes the core of his character to his mother, who passed away in late 2025. Her influence remains the bedrock of his professional identity.

“I will always be grateful for the sense of honesty, decency, and hard work she instilled in me. I would not be the man I am today without her,” he said.

The Great Pivot: From California to Florida

Bols’ professional path began when he immigrated to California in 1988. Over three decades, he built a sizable real estate portfolio from the ground up. However, as the business landscape shifted under the weight of tenant-friendly laws and restrictive COVID regulations, Bols made a bold strategic move: he sold everything and relocated to Florida.

It was a gamble that paid off. Bols calls the migration to Florida the “best professional decision I ever made,” allowing his business to thrive in a more dynamic environment.

An Endless Adventure

While many in his position might eye the exit, Bols has no intention of slowing down. He draws inspiration from leaders like Larry Ellison and Steven Ross, men who continue to shape the world well into their eighties.

“I could have long since retired, but I am having too much fun! What many people miss is the fact that building and growing is a great joy,” he said.

Creative Partnerships

Navigating such significant transitions requires partners who can think outside the box. Bols credits Banesco USA with understanding that a bank must be a true partner. When rising insurance costs threatened the portfolio, Banesco USA devised creative solutions to reduce expenses while ensuring coverage remained robust.

It is this flexibility in handling “outside the box” situations that helps keep JD Bols & Associates moving forward.