Downing-Frye Realty Inc. has hired Michael Maher as a sales associate in Naples.

The New Jersey native has been involved as a real estate sales professional in Florida for nearly three years.

Prior to joining Downing-Frye Realty, Maher was a sales agent with Naples Trust Realty Inc. where he specialized in residential sales and commercial business sales with a focus on restaurant business sales.

Before moving to Florida and working in real estate, Maher owned three restaurants in New Jersey.

He is a graduate of Montclair State University in Upper Montclair, N.J. with a degree in Fine Arts.