Merissa Kihnke

Merissa Kihnke brings a distinctive blend of legal expertise, strategic business insight, and real estate knowledge to Sarasota’s luxury market. As a Florida-licensed attorney and Real Estate Sales Advisor, she offers a refined, detail-driven approach, skillfully navigating every real estate transaction with precision, discretion, and confidence—ensuring her clients are well informed and positioned to make sound decisions every step of the [...]

Merissa Kihnke brings a distinctive blend of legal expertise, strategic business insight, and real estate knowledge to Sarasota’s luxury market. As a Florida-licensed attorney and Real Estate Sales Advisor, she offers a refined, detail-driven approach, skillfully navigating every real estate transaction with precision, discretion, and confidence—ensuring her clients are well informed and positioned to make sound decisions every step of the way.

Before joining Michael Saunders & Company, Merissa served as in-house General Counsel for a rapidly growing national healthcare and franchise organization. In that role, she led high-level negotiations, managed complex commercial agreements, and advised executive leadership on strategic growth initiatives. This background equips her clients with expert guidance, risk awareness, and strong advocacy in every transaction.

In addition to her legal career, Merissa has extensive experience in residential development, with involvement across the entire life cycle of luxury boutique condominium projects located in downtown Sarasota—from site selection and design to pricing strategy and municipal approvals. This experience provides valuable insight to effectively advise buyers, sellers, and investors and gives her a deep understanding of Sarasota’s luxury real estate market.

As a mother of three and an active member of the Sarasota community, Merissa brings a personal and well-informed perspective to her clients. She is deeply involved in her children’s schools, dedicates time to pro bono legal work, and is engaged in Sarasota’s dynamic cultural and arts scene. Her strong connection to the community provides clients with meaningful insight into local neighborhoods, schools, and lifestyle.

Merissa’s passion for real estate began early, shaped by frequently moving throughout her childhood due to her parents’ careers. Through those experiences, she developed a deep appreciation for finding the right home and discovering new communities. Now living in downtown Sarasota, she is passionate about introducing and welcoming newcomers to the area, helping them feel confident and connected as they transition into this vibrant and exceptional city. Outside of real estate, she embraces Sarasota’s outdoor lifestyle, enjoying tennis, golf, and time with her three children.