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Our Team

Charles Marina, Owner

Broker, CCIM

Charles Marina founded First American Realty in 1988 and has dedicated his entire career to Commercial Real Estate. Over the years, he has represented major entities including the RTC, FDIC, Circle K, Tandy Corporation, Nextel, Denny’s, Cowboy Chicken and numerous banks and corporations.

A past President of the Greater McAllen Association of Realtors® (GMAR), Charles has also chaired key committees such as Professional Standards, Legislative, and Grievance, and was honored as GMAR’s “REALTOR® of the Year.” At the state level, he has served as Chairman of the Texas REALTORS® Commercial Alliance, Region 11 TREPAC Trustee, TAR Director, and on several influential committees including Legal Review and Governmental Affairs. Charles has also testified before the Texas Legislature on property rights and home equity lending reform.

Nationally, Charles served as Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) to U.S Congressman Ruben Hinojosa and held leadership roles with the National Association of REALTORS®, including NAR Director and a member of the Commercial Alliance Committee.

Charles was awarded the CoStar Powerbroker Award in 2019 and again in 2023. He also received the Crexi Platinum Award for 2025. In addition to his real estate leadership, Charles remains active in community service as an Advisory Board Director for Texas Regional Bank and as former President of the McAllen South Rotary Club as well as the Chairman of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, along with participation in numerous local initiatives.

Tony Marina

Broker/Associate

With a proven track record that spans over two decades, Tony Marina has been a trusted name in Texas real estate since the early 2000s. After earning his B.B.A. from the University of North Texas and his J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law, Tony entered the real estate industry with a strong foundation in both business and legal principles—an edge that continues to benefit his clients today.

Tony’s career has encompassed nearly every facet of real estate, from residential sales and luxury home acquisitions to complex commercial and multi-family investment transactions. His comprehensive understanding of contracts, negotiations, and market trends allows him to offer strategic guidance and advocacy for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.

Known for his integrity, professionalism, and client-first approach, Tony takes pride in delivering real results—whether it’s securing the best price for a seller or finding the perfect property for a growing business.

“When buying or selling real estate, Experience & Results matter. Please feel free to call me  for any of your real estate needs”. – Tony Marina

(956) 821-8782  

Debra Marina, Co-owner

Realtor

Debra has over 25 years of experience in selling real estate in McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley specializing in residential properties. Her expertise has been in working with the employees of major companies including General Motors, Norton, GE, Johnson Control and TRW as well as others in the relocation of their families.  Debra has been active in the real estate community. She has been an active member in the Women’s Council of Realtors holding various offices including President, Treasurer and serving on the Board of Directors. Debra has been awarded the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Designation by the Residential Sales Council of the Realtors National Marketing Institute, an affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. She completed the required courses offered by the Residential Sales Council and demonstrated specific expertise in applied residential real estate marketing. Less than three percent of all Realtors hold this designation.  Debra was awarded 1997 REALTOR® of the Year by The Greater McAllen Association of REALTORS®.

Alton Britton

Realtor

Winston Churchill once said “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

My Grandfather came to the Valley in 1917. He was Chief of the volunteer Fire Department when McAllen got large enough to need street names. My Grandmother helped with that process implementing the alphabetical method still in use today. I say all this just to emphasize that I am rooted here and committed to our community.

In my capacity as a REALTOR® working with the amazing team at First American Realty Co. I will serve the members of our community with integrity and hard work. Buying and selling real estate, whether it’s your home or a place to set up your business is a big deal. My job is to help guide you through the process as smoothly as possible.

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About Us

Join the First American Realty Team

We’re looking for driven, ambitious real estate professionals ready to take their careers to the next level. Whether you’re an experienced agent or just getting started, First American Realty offers the tools, training, and opportunities to help you thrive.

  • Career-building opportunities
  • Learn from seasoned brokers
  • Onboarding & Training
  • Competitive Pay Structure
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Call Us 

956-682-300

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