Agent Stories | Career Best – Laurie Whelpley-Baker

After eight months on the market, Laurie Baker-Whelpey of Showcase Properties, representing the buyer, closed the purchase of a 133-acre undeveloped property for $3,125,000. It is one of the top sales of vacant land in 2025 based on sale price, according to Stellar MLS.

Sometimes, where some might look at a vacant property and just see grass or the trees, Laurie sees the forest. With her background as a horse farm owner and as an accomplished horsewoman herself, she immediately saw the potential of a first-class horse farm and training facility for the land, with its Live Oak trees, Spanish moss, and two natural ponds. 

“It’s just a gorgeous natural landscape that’s absolutely perfect for horses and horse people,” she says. “It’s right in the heart of Marion County, very close to HITS and the World Equestrian Center, so it makes it much easier for someone to train and compete at those venues.”

She’s excited to see what the new owners create. “I think it could become one of the finest horse farms in the region; it really is a beautiful place that’s absolutely perfect for working with horses and nurturing the land. I think the right people found the right place for themselves.” 

The sale was completed on January 31, 2025 in a deal with Dustin Hiers of Smith & Associates representing the seller. 

Laurie is often showing her off-the-track thoroughbred and delighting in the robust horse culture that is the heart of Central Florida. This passion gives her a deep and thorough understanding of and experience with the needs of clients, and a keen breadth of knowledge about the community.

“It’s not my opinion that matters,” she insists. “There’s a property out there for everybody, and it’s totally up to them what that is.”

Laurie’s profound understanding of the equestrian lifestyle, borne from her own experiences, allows her to truly connect with her clients and help them find properties they’ll cherish. Baker ranked in the top 30 agents in Farm Sales for Marion County in 2024, placing at #28 in total volume and #22 in total transactions. Her numerous achievements, including the Rising Star Award, Million Dollar Club, Outstanding Achievers Award, and Top Professional Award, are a testament to her dedication and success in the real estate industry.

Meet the People Behind the Properties

Behind every great real estate deal is a great agent. Our team isn’t just about buying and selling homes—they have unique stories, insights, and passions that make them stand out. Dive into our collection of Agent Stories to learn more about the people who make it all happen.