Meet Rafael Zenke

Rafael Zenke approaches real estate with an eye for what a property can become and a curiosity about the people who will call it home.

Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Rafael has called Central Florida home for eight years. As a Realtor and New Development Strategist with NOVA Real Estate, he works with buyers, sellers, and investors across Orlando, Winter Park, Clermont, and Winter Garden, focusing on new construction, luxury homes, and development opportunities. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, he helps local and international clients make informed decisions about their next home or investment.

His connection to homebuilding began long before his real estate career. After moving from Portugal to Brazil, his grandfather established a family tradition of building homes—one that continues to influence Rafael’s interest in architecture, construction, and the possibilities within a property.

Before entering real estate, Rafael spent a decade as an entrepreneur and restaurant owner in Brazil and the United States. That experience taught him to listen closely, anticipate needs, and evaluate opportunities through both a personal and business lens. He holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and completed an executive program in Construction Finance Management at Columbia University.

Whether helping a buyer compare new construction options, positioning a distinctive home for sale, or exploring a property’s development potential, Rafael begins with understanding the client’s goals. His approach brings together thoughtful research, an appreciation for design, and storytelling that reveals a home’s character and helps people imagine their lives within it.

He is also the creator of Sunday Development Insider, a newsletter exploring architecture, personal growth, and how we shape the way we live.

Outside of work, Rafael enjoys traveling with his wife, discovering local food and culture, staying active, and practicing sports. From a neighborhood café to a thoughtfully designed home, he finds inspiration in places that give everyday life a sense of belonging.