We’re proud of the team of agents we’ve assembled here at Nest Realty. We think they’re pretty awesome, and we think you will too. During our “Meet the Agent” series, we sit down with our agents to learn more about them, what makes them tick, and why they’re passionate about the real estate industry. In this installment, we chat with Kelly Cates, a Real Estate Broker at Nest Realty Asheville.
Nest Realty: Tell us a bit about yourself! Where are you from? What brought you to Asheville?
Kelly Cates: I moved here from Denver after having my son, I wanted to keep the natural feel of outdoor life in the mountains but bring in a close knit lifestyle for him to grow up in.
NR: How did you get into real estate?
KC: Born into it! My father was a contractor. I have been around hard work and building most of my life. With my time in Asheville renovating and closing loans—so many people pointed out that I had a lot of gifts I could give with this experience by becoming a Broker. Best decision I ever made, it’s very rewarding.
NR: What was your previous career? How has that prepared you for real estate?
KC: I owned a marketing firm in Denver, which is SO helpful in selling homes! Also I’ve been in the loan business since 2010 and understanding the different lending requirements has really helped my clients avoid pitfalls.
NR: What led you to Nest Realty, as opposed to another brokerage?
KC: I have worked at another brokerage and it just didn’t have the personalized authenticity that I really like to have in my interactions with clients. Nest is my complete service package—innovative, creative, and authentic.
NR: What is your favorite part of being an agent?
KC: Having all of my previous skills come together to help someone have a successful and happy real estate experience. I have always understood the importance of home being your “nest,” the safe place where you recharge from your time being out in the world, the place where you are reflected back to yourself by your surroundings.
NR: Do you have a specific area of expertise to offer clients?
KC: Yes, from my previous careers: building and home renovations, as well as understanding lending options.
NR: What makes you different from other agents? What sets you apart?
KC: I have unique experiences with renovation, building, and loans—it’s hard to get that whole package in an agent! I love to find a creative way to work around an issue—whether it’s a personality, a physical, or monetary one!
NR: What are five adjectives that describe you?
KC: Authentic, joyful, creative, intelligent, and courageous.
NR: If you had one piece of advice for a first-time home buyer, what would it be?
KC: Ask questions! Understand what type of loan you have, the parameters and limitations so you understand what you can shop for. Choose an agent with enough real world experience to guide you through the process and avoid pitfalls but not too busy that they don’t really have time to give the service that you deserve.
NR: What is your favorite season in Asheville?
KC: Fall! I love the changing of the leaves, the perfect temperature, the feel of change in the air!
Kelly Cates is a Real EstateBroker with Nest Realty Asheville. If you’re looking for an authentic agent with a broad knowledge base and a strong dedication to service, Kelly is the agent for you! To learn more about Kelly, visit her agent page.