Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenny Rutherford.
Hi Jenny, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My path to real estate started with creativity and community at the heart of it all. Originally from Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, I grew up surrounded by the industry—my dad was a developer and builder, and my mom was a real estate broker. Ironically, I swore I’d never follow in their footsteps. I got my real estate license right out of high school only as a “safety net,” never imagining it would become my lifelong career.
That same year, I moved away from everything I knew to start a new life in Savannah, where I attended SCAD and earned a degree in Advertising Design. That background gave me a sharp eye for marketing and design—skills I quickly realized were invaluable in the real estate world. At a young age, I purchased and managed my first property, and from that moment, I was hooked. Real estate combined everything I loved: helping people, creative problem-solving, and building long-term value through smart investments.
At a a young age, I purchased and managed my first property, and from that moment, I was hooked. Real estate combined everything I loved: helping people, creative problem-solving, and building long-term value through smart investments. What began as one property grew into a career spanning 19 years and ultimately, into the creation of Jenny Rutherford Real Estate, a boutique firm specializing in residential, luxury, commercial, and investment properties in Savannah and Tybee Island.
For over two decades, I’ve lived and invested here, fully immersed in the lifestyle I now help my clients discover like Tybee sunrises, oyster roasts, Forsyth Park picnics, and the creative pulse that runs through Savannah. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to share my expertise nationally, appearing on HGTV shows like Beachfront Bargain Hunt, Island Life, and House Hunters, and consulting for Property Virgins and other productions.
Today, I’m proud to serve clients across every facet of real estate, whether it’s a first-time homebuyer, a luxury seller, a relocating family, an investor building a rental or commerical portfolio. Backed by certifications including ABR, GRI, and SRS, and leadership roles such as Past President of Savannah’s Women’s Council of Realtors, I’ve built my business on the values of creativity, integrity, and deep community connection.
Looking back, the throughline has always been the same: a passion for helping people find not just a property, but the lifestyle and opportunities that come with it. That’s what brought me here, and it’s what continues to drive me every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Has it been a smooth road?
The short answer is no—but the challenges are a big part of why I’ve grown into the broker and business owner I am today.
Even though my parents were in the industry, I didn’t actually start my real estate career until after college. Moving to Savannah to attend SCAD meant starting fresh in a city where I didn’t have a built-in network. When I launched my career, I had to build everything from the ground up – my business, my client base, and my reputation.
On top of the natural challenges of learning the business and navigating a shifting market, I’ve also taken on an active role in my community. I’ve been very vocal in standing up for private property rights on Tybee Island and in Savannah, which has sometimes made me a target online with people who disagree with my views. And putting myself out there publicly on TV, social media, and in leadership roles has opened me up to criticism and even ridicule from others.
But through it all, I’ve come to see that the way forward is always through resilience, integrity, and purpose. The challenges have only deepened my commitment: to serve my clients, protect property rights, stand up for those who feel silenced out of fear of backlash, and show up authentically for my community.
As you know, we’re big fans of Jenny Rutherford Real Estate. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Jenny Rutherford Real Estate, we’re not a cookie-cutter brokerage. We’re a boutique firm built on creativity, advocacy, and results. Our team specializes in everything from residential homes and luxury waterfronts to commercial properties and vacation rentals, with a deep focus on Savannah and Tybee Island.
What sets us apart is our approach. We don’t just “list” properties; we craft strategies. With a design-driven marketing edge and boots-on-the-ground local expertise, we position every property to stand out, sell for top dollar, and connect with the right buyers. At the same time, we’re trusted advisors for buyers, investors, and families who want not only a home, but a lifestyle and long-term investment.
We’re known for being bold advocates for our clients and for property rights in the community. That advocacy, combined with the creativity of a boutique brand and the professionalism of an experienced brokerage, is what makes us different.
What we’re most proud of brand-wise is the authenticity behind everything we do. Our name is on the door, and our reputation is built on trust, referrals, and real results. Whether it’s a first-time buyer, a relocating family, or a seasoned investor, our mission is the same: deliver unmatched service, protect our clients’ interests, and help them thrive in the Lowcountry market.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains surrounded by nature, small-town community, and my parents’ world of building and real estate. Even as a kid, I was curious, creative, and independent. I loved art and design, spent hours imagining how spaces could be transformed, and had a natural drive to organize and lead (whether it was school projects, neighborhood events, or family activities).
I was also a “connector” even back then! I am the friend who brought people together, planned things, and stood up for what felt fair. That sense of advocacy and creativity has always been in me. Looking back, those same traits; curiosity, leadership, creativity, and a strong sense of fairness are what led me to study advertising at SCAD and later build a real estate business that blends design, marketing, and community advocacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jennyrutherford.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennyrutherfordrealestate
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennyrutherfordrealestate
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jennyrutherfordrealestate/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jennyrutherfordrealestate
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jennyruthrealestate
