For Lauren and Steve Zambraski, family has always been at the center of every decision — including their move from New York to Florida in 2023. Originally, both from just outside New York City, Lauren grew up as the middle of three sisters, while Steve was raised an hour outside the city as the middle of three brothers. That shared experience — and shared values — helped shape the close-knit family they’ve built together.

The couple has been together since 2005 and married in 2013. They welcomed their son Preston in 2016 and daughter Juliet in 2018, celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary in 2023 with a special trip just before making the leap south.

Their Florida journey began in Clearwater Beach, where they settled while getting to know the area. After Hurricane Helene forced them out of their rental, they were fortunate to find what Lauren calls “the most perfect home” in Belleair Beach — a property that sustained no water damage and offered the fresh start they were hoping for. Since December 2024, they’ve transformed the home’s exterior into a true outdoor oasis, complete with a pool, hot tub, putting green, expansive turf lawn, and a large outdoor television — a space designed as much for entertaining as for everyday family life.

Lauren, a graduate of SUNY Purchase (Bachelor’s degree) and CUNY Lehman (Master’s in Teaching), is a mortgage loan officer with Elliman Capital, licensed in Florida, Texas, Colorado, and Connecticut. Though she began working in the mortgage industry at just 16 years old, she initially chose teaching to align with her goal of prioritizing motherhood. When the work-from-home shift during COVID opened new doors, she returned to her true professional passion. With experience spanning branch management, team leadership, processing, and closing, Lauren brings a comprehensive understanding to her clients. She describes balancing career and motherhood as “an Olympic sport” — one she wouldn’t trade for anything.

Steve works independently in sales and thrives in Florida’s coastal lifestyle. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him playing pickleball, riding his jet ski, or out on the water with the family.

Preston, 10, is a sports enthusiast who began with ice hockey in New York and now pours his energy into baseball with IRB Little League. A regular on the principal’s list and high honor roll, he spends his free time biking the neighborhood, fishing with friends, or organizing spontaneous street games — hockey, football, basketball — with neighborhood kids.

Seven-year-old Juliet is equally dynamic. She cheerleads at Top Dog in Largo, sings, dances, and even played baseball with the boys this past fall. Creative and deeply empathetic, she’s known for crafting imaginative creations from recycled materials and adores her collection of stuffed animals. Her favorite local destination? Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where she proudly knows the location of every animal.

The Zambraskis embrace being “the gathering house.” Weekends often mean barbecues, cornhole tournaments, putting green competitions, and watching sports outdoors with friends and family. They cherish sunset beach evenings and visits to local favorites like Crabby Bill’s, TJ’s, and VIP Mexican in IRB.

Steve volunteers as a Little League coach, while Lauren supports their children’s charter school through classroom events and field trips. Together, they’ve found their greatest joy in simple neighborhood moments — kids playing outside until dinner, neighbors strolling by, and afternoons kayaking or jet skiing to One Tree Island.

For the Zambraskis, Belleair Beach isn’t just where they live — it’s where community, family, and coastal tradition come together beautifully.