Realtor® Ruth Trettis: First Lady of Naples Real Estate

Affectionately known as “The First Lady of Naples Real Estate,” she was a trailblazer in the male-dominated real estate industry of the 1970s, building her business while witnessing a small fishing village lined with humble cottages evolve into a cosmopolitan destination.

Trettis had a career as a nurse before relocating from Kansas City to Naples in 1967. For years, she successfully juggled a medical career while raising five young children, but she yearned for something more.

She discovered her true passion was real estate while she was building her family’s home with her husband. The experience inspired her to make a career change, and she found great satisfaction in helping others achieve their lifestyle goals.

In 1978, she affiliated with Merrill Lynch. This experience led to opportunities with brokerages such as Prudential. While working with Prudential on 5th Avenue in Naples, she got an interesting job offer from prominent local developer Scott Lutgert, asking her to join a new brokerage firm dedicated to both luxury real estate and supporting the local community.

According to Trettis, “It was a mission so perfectly aligned with my values that I packed up my office in the middle of the night” to join what would become Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

“Working in Naples has always been a pleasure,” says Trettis. “I’ve met the most amazing people. My passion for real estate is a part of my existence, and I am happiest when helping friends.”

Described by her peers as having “a caring spirit of service,” Trettis today remains at the top of her game, staying up to date on the market, finalizing deals, and making lifelong friends along the way.