Steve Williams and Jan Farley may be new to the Westbrook Golf Villas community, but their journey to Savannah has been years in the making. Originally from San Diego, the couple relocated in March 2024, drawn by Savannah’s charm, lower cost of living, and a fresh start in a new market. Jan, a seasoned real estate broker, had been contemplating a move for years, and when her business partner, Bob, made the leap to Savannah in 2022, it set the wheels in motion. After visiting Jan’s brother in Savannah Quarters and falling in love with the area, they knew this was the right place to call home.

Jan and Steve’s love story spans more than two decades. They first met around 2000 while playing in their church band, forming an instant connection over their shared passion for music. At the time, Jan was married, but after her husband’s passing, fate brought her and Steve together again. Just a month later, they went on their first date, and the rest, as they say, is history. Their bond has been strengthened by their mutual love of music, which remains an important part of their lives today.

Both bring impressive professional backgrounds to their new community. Jan has been in real estate since 1984, working as both a broker and a mortgage professional. In San Diego, she successfully managed a growing brokerage, transforming a small rental property management company into an operation overseeing more than 550 doors. Now co-owner of Savannah Living Real Estate, she is excited about expanding her business in Savannah while continuing to manage her company in California. Steve, on the other hand, has spent years in academia. With a PhD from Alliant University in San Diego, he teaches industrial-organizational psychology and human resource management at National University and the University of Missouri. While he currently teaches online, he hopes to transition to in-person teaching in the Savannah area.

Their two beloved cats, Daphne and Reggie, are an essential part of their family. Daphne, a patchwork calico, made the long cross-country journey with them from San Diego. Protective of her space, she needed time to adjust to her new home, so they waited a month before adopting Reggie, a big, lovable orange tabby, from Pooler Paws. While it took time for the two to bond, they are now inseparable, bringing endless joy to the household.

Music continues to play a significant role in Steve and Jan’s lives. They regularly attend open jam nights at local spots like Flashback in Richmond Hill and The Warehouse Bar on River Street. These outings have not only allowed them to indulge in their passion but have also helped them connect with others in the community. The couple has found Savannah’s music scene to be welcoming and full of talented individuals eager to share their craft.

In addition to music, they enjoy exploring Savannah’s vibrant food scene. While finding Mexican cuisine that meets their high San Diego standards has been a challenge, they were thrilled to discover Taqueria San Luis on Hodgson Memorial, with a second location now open near Berwick. Other favorites include Sam Snead’s, where they enjoy socializing at the bar, and The Draft Room in Berwick, which offers live music on Fridays.

Since moving in, Jan has become involved in the community, recently being appointed to the first board of directors for the Westbrook Golf Villas. She has also continued her long-standing membership with the Women’s Council of Realtors and is actively participating in the local Professional Standards Committee. Steve is looking forward to joining the local chapter of SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management, as he integrates further into Savannah’s professional landscape.

With their first year in Savannah underway, the couple is adjusting to life away from family and celebrating holidays with their new friends and neighbors. While they miss their loved ones back home, they are grateful for the warm welcome they’ve received and are excited to create lasting memories here. One of their favorite aspects of their new home is the stunning view of the lagoon. In San Diego, a view like this would come with a multi-million-dollar price tag, so they cherish the beauty and tranquility of their surroundings every day.

Steve and Jan’s journey from San Diego to Savannah is a testament to their adventurous spirit and openness to new beginnings. As they continue settling into their new home, they look forward to forging deeper connections, contributing to the community, and making the most of everything the Lowcountry has to offer.