About Me

Rene’ was extremely helpful in our search for a new home. The most important factor in our relationship with him, was that he listened to what we wanted in a new home and it didn’t take us too long to find our home. His kindness and generosity of his time meant so much to us. We will always be grateful for his help and feel privileged to have a new friend!

We could’ve not asked for a better experience working with Renee. He guided us through the process, even though we were buying a house several thousand miles away. He worked closely with the title company, Bank, and the community where we were buying our home. I’m certain if we ever decide to sell or buy another home in this market, we will contact him.

Omg Rene was the best! From the moment I met him he was all in. He knew I needed a place asap and worked hard to find me my forever home! He’s not pushy, he’s kind, considerate, knowledgeable and knows how to talk to people. He really cares. He was quick to get answers and moved on the house I wanted in a timely manner, keeping me up on everything! He returns my calls and always able to assist no matter the situation. I would recommend him with 100 stars!!!! He’s the best! Thank you Rene for being down to earth, professional, kind and honest! You truly are the BEST!

Excellent customer service-answered all my questions, really felt he was working for me —Walked me through it all, showed me various homes and helped me make the best choice thank you Rene

Rene Bartum assisted me with the initial document signing process of the property I purchased in December 2024.I began my home shopping by acquainting myself with a new property builder in the Summercrest community of Belleview, FL. I met with the builder without an agent to represent me. I liked the home but wanted the opinion of someone familiar with the community and could guide me with value and pricing. So I decided to view another home that was not a new build in the same community. I requested a showing via Zillow where I was automatically assigned to Rene Bartum. He came across as competent, knowledgeable and friendly. One thing he said was that when purchasing a property, he will negotiate for the client and not leave money on the table. That got my attention so I kept him.I emailed Rene a list of the criteria I wanted in a home. Asked if he would put that into an MLS search. He said that he does not do that. Any criteria I was interested in to just favorite it on Zillow and it will send me the matching listings. I found that interesting as I've worked with other agents in the past who happily did this for me. That probably should've given me a red flag but figured maybe that's how agents were doing things these days. Thinking back… Rene did not go the extra mile to help me find the right property.It would take Rene a couple of days, sometimes longer to reply to emails or texts. However, when he did reply he would enthusiastically be ready and willing to show me a listing so I would let it go.After viewing several properties with Rene, I decided the home I wanted was the original one prior to hiring Rene. Invited him to join me for the negotiations. Prior to the appointment, I discussed with Rene about builders being more price flexible at the end of the year. At the meeting, I had to open up the conversation with the builders selling agent. When I asked the selling agent that I may be interested but would like to see more price flexibility, Rene jumped in wanting to wait until the builders preferred lender got back to us about the monthly payments at the properties current price. Of course, the seller's agent was happily willing to wait. I held my guns and told the selling agent that I may be willing to entertain buying at a price point $6K lower. Rene is still wanting to wait for the lender regarding monthly payments at the home’s current price. However, I'm thinking that I'm more interested in lowering the total OTD price right now. Later we can focus on monthly payments. The seller’s agent then began to agree with Rene. Wanting to wait for the lender to get back to us about monthly payments at the home’s current price because $6K would only lower monthly payments by like $50. I didn’t care if it only lowered payment by $10, I still didn’t want to pay more. It felt as if Rene was negotiating for the builder instead of for me. I remained firm and told seller’s agent I may be willing to move forward today if they can lower price by $6K. She presented it to the sales office and it was accepted in moments with no counter. I wondered if I should’ve offered less.Days later at the document signing, the lead sales agent said the builder had been trying to quickly unload the remaining inventory prior to year ending and was being flexible with pricing. I knew then I could’ve gotten a better price if Rene had effectively negotiated. I was left with the impression that Rene exhibited poor negotiation skills or maybe he was unwilling for whatever reason.Rene did not communicate to me that he would not be available for the Closing Date. He did not show up nor was he available via phone.Rene made promises along my home search journey he didn’t keep. He told me he would buy a washer/dryer for me. Then took that back and said he’ll pay for my moving costs. At another point he said he's sending me a lawn mower. Weeks would pass and on occasion email or text saying he was planning on sending me a gift and/or cash, while apologizing due to the Christmas holiday, the Flu or one reason or another. Asked for my address, payment type which I provided. Closed on the property in December 2024 and as of this posting (4-20-2025), he’s not made good with anything. This lacks integrity and professionalism. I would absolutely NOT recommend Rene Bartum to anyone.At Next Generation Realty where Rene works, I interacted briefly with the finance officer over the telephone and via email, as well as with other members of the staff. They were professional, knowledgeable and helpful at their respective roles.

Mr. Bartum did a excellent job helping my husband & I to see a OTOW villa. We were looking to downsize & needed a smaller home that was more user friendly & easy upkeep. He was very professional & knowledgeable & helped us ensure the the bid.

Rene is extremely knowledgeable in all processes of a real estate transaction. His insights and experience were at the highest level to insure a quick and successful sale. His communication was timely and accurate for all parties involved in the process. Rene went above and beyond by availing himself 24/7 seven days a week. He was recommended by a local business who had known him for several years. Best recommendation we ever received since we moved to Florida. Thank you Rene for guiding us into a pleasant and smooth experience in the Ocala real estate market!

Rene was great and reliable through the whole process of us buying our first house. Totally recommend! He also has lots of contacts and a whole team behind him. For example he helped us with the house inspection.

Rene guided us in choosing a home. he gave us great advice and opinions. Very caring and we could tell he was watching out for our best interests as well. Easy to communicate with and was very prompt in answering emails and phone calls. would recommend him without hesitation. Great job!

We just closed on our new home, and I could not be more grateful for the outstanding support from Rene throughout the process. From our very first conversation, he demonstrated professionalism, deep market knowledge, and a genuine commitment to helping us find and buy our dream home. Communication was always clear and timely, whether it was answering questions, sending videos, or guiding us through the negotiation process.What impressed us most was his ability to anticipate challenges and provide solutions before they became issues. He secured valuable concessions, kept us informed at every step, and made the entire process feel smooth and stress-free. Thanks to his dedication, we are now happy and proud owners of our new home.Working with Rene has been a true advantage; his reliability and client focus set him apart. We will forever grateful for his help and guidance.