Judy Krenelka

Judy Santana: Bilingual Real Estate Advisor & First-Time Ownership Specialist

With over 23 years of experience, Judy Santana has built a career defined by trust, education, and generational service. As a premier Bilingual Buyer’s Specialist fluent in Spanish and English, Judy bridges the gap between the dream of homeownership and the complex reality of the mortgage process for families across Minnesota.

A Foundation of Design and Financial Expertise

Born in Colombia, Judy’s unique perspective on the home is rooted in her studies of Architecture and Interior Design at the University of Gran Colombia and Tadeo Lozano University. After moving to Minnesota in 1994, she transitioned her eye for detail into the real estate industry, starting her career in 2004 with Coldwell Banker Realty.

Unlike many agents, Judy’s professional journey began in loan processing. This deep background allows her to act as a "dual-threat" advisor. She doesn't just show houses; she ensures her clients are mortgage-ready and fully qualified, preventing the heartbreak of a denied application mid-escrow.

Dedicated to Community and Education

Since 1999, Judy has been a pillar of the Latino community, providing integrity, tools, and resources to aspiring homeowners. She is a recognized expert in first-time homebuyer programs and grants, collaborating with key organizations such as:

• CLUES (Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio)
• CAPI USA
• Scott County
• Minnesota Housing (Promoting down-payment assistance and first-time buyer initiatives)

Judy believes education is the foundation of a successful investment. She hosts seasonal real estate seminars (Spring and Summer) that regularly draw over 50 participants, empowering the next generation of buyers with the knowledge they need to succeed.

 Generational Service and Advocacy

Judy’s business is built on "generational selling." By removing language barriers, she provides a "soft pillow" of comfort for families who prefer to conduct their largest life transactions in their native tongue. She has become the trusted advisor for entire family lineages, ensuring every generation understands the fine print and protects their greatest asset.

Her commitment goes beyond commissions. Judy is a dedicated foreclosure counselor and volunteer, serving on committees to help homeowners navigate financial hardship and retain their properties.

When she isn't securing keys for her clients, Judy is likely advocating for her other passion: rescue dogs 🤍.

Specialties & Expertise:

• Bilingual Real Estate Services: Fluent in Spanish and English.
• First-Time Homebuyer Specialist: Expert in down-payment assistance and grant programs.
• Financial Guidance: Deep knowledge of mortgage readiness and loan processing.
• Community Advocacy: Foreclosure counseling and HUD-certified resource navigation.
• Design-Minded Consulting: Background in Architecture and Interior Design to help visualize a home’s potential.

She looks forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you. Please do not hesitate to contact Judy today!