Team Biographies

CHRIS CLAUSSEN

Developer – Claussen Residential Communities, LLC

Chris Claussen, a seasoned real estate developer, has a remarkable track record of nearly 2,000 single-family, multi-family, and high-rise condominium residences. Over the past decade, he transitioned his focus to commercial properties, including hotels in Virginia, Massachusetts, and Vermont, and a master-planned community of single-family, condominiums, and apartments in Massachusetts. Chris started his professional career in the high-tech sector where he served as a technical analyst and sold mainframe computers for the Boston Public Sector branch of Sperry/Unysis. He later worked for VMark Software selling software across the Mid-Atlantic.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management / Computer Science from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and is a licensed real estate Broker in Florida. Chris resides in Naples, FL, with his wife of 31 years.  Their two sons are pursuing their college education.   Chris is an active and engaged member of his community, having previously coached high school football and both boys and girls lacrosse.

LEE WILSON

Sales and Marketing

Lee Wilson, a seasoned Broker Associate and Sales Manager in Naples, Florida, boasts over 30 years of experience and a remarkable sales record of 200+ custom homes. His specialized knowledge in custom home design and sales distinguishes him as an esteemed industry professional.

A dedicated member of the Naples Area Board of Realtors (Nabor) for three decades, Lee is deeply rooted in the community, having resided in the Naples and Fort Myers area since 1972. Alongside his professional success, Lee treasures his role as a family man, with three children and five grandchildren.

To learn more about Old Pelican Bay Estates, please contact Lee Wilson at 239-289-5831.

VINCE PEZZANO

Builder – Pezzano Construction & Development
CGC#1507385

Vincent R. Pezzano, the dedicated owner of Pezzano Contracting & Development, LLC, has over two decades of experience in the construction industry. Operating in Naples, Florida since 1989, he holds the title of Certified General Contractor, overseeing projects ranging from $1 million to $20 million in sales across Southwest Florida over the past 15 years.

Pezzano Contracting & Development, LLC is known for uncompromising quality, superior workmanship, and top-tier service, tackling projects of all sizes, including custom homes, multi-family residences, new constructions, and remodels. Vincent’s seasoned team covers every facet of construction, ensuring a seamless journey from project commencement to completion, with an in-house estimator contributing their 20 years of experience for excellence in every project.

KEVIN PAVER

CEO – KP Architecture

A Chicago Native, Kevin learned architectural drafting and AutoCAD as an elective in high school before pursuing an education as a nuclear engineer for the U.S. Navy. After completing his tour, Kevin re-located to Southwest Florida where he began working as an architectural drafter for prominent builders in the area.

Since that time Kevin has advanced to designing projects on his own for more than 10 years, during which time he studied under top architects in the business and was accepted into the American Institute of Building Design’s Certified Professional Building Designer program while working full time as a custom home designer.

With the blessing of his mentors, he branched off on his own in a freelance capacity at the start of the pandemic in 2020, and by the end of the year, formed KP Architecture in his own right. To date, Kevin has designed hundreds of high-end residences and developed numerous re-models for homeowners across southwest Florida.

CAROLINE FICQUETTE DEPONTO

Owner & Principal Interior Designer
NCIDQ Florida License No. ID6336

A proud, fifth-generation Floridian, Caroline DePonto received her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the dually accredited CIDA and NASAD Florida State University.

Near her hometown of Winter Garden, Caroline’s passion for heartfelt service excelled as the Guest Relations Supervisor at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.  Enjoying the challenge of the resort’s unique customer base, she orchestrated countless “WOW” moments and celebrations that cemented a strong philosophy of providing a caring an elevated client experience.

Upon moving to Southwest Florida in 2012, Caroline honed her artistic craft at an award-winning firm that specialized in high-end residential design and luxury construction. Quickly promoted to Lead Designer, Caroline had responsibility and oversight of a design team for nearly a decade and is proud of the multiple projects showcased in publications such as Home & Design and Gulfshore Life.

In 2021, Caroline’s simmering dream of launching her own design firm became a reality.  Creating beautiful spaces, as well as building lasting relationships with her clients, are the cornerstone of DePonto Designs.

LIZ GRINA

Principal Interior Designer

A native of Tampa, Liz Grina is drawn to the world of interior design and the indescribable feeling that a well-designed, harmonious space can have on a person.  Liz has spent nearly a decade working for luxury design firms and building a respected name in the local design community.  She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Florida State University.

Liz’s trademark design style marries tailored sophistication with a fresh twist and a focus on comfort and liveability.  Believing that refinement pairs best with a dash of the unexpected, Liz’s designs always incorporate an element of playfulness.  Along with delivering her client’s unique vision, Liz prides herself on creating the utmost client experience with impeccable attention to detail and enthusiasm.