15 minute read
Bringing You Home with TOPS Real Estate Pros
KYMBERLY CLEM MCCREARY
Valor Homes Team | eXp Realty
859.248.1142 valorhomesky.com
With a special focus on helping veterans and those relocating out of the state with their realty needs, Kymberly Clem McCreary of the Valor Homes team, brokered by eXp Realty, fi nds the greatest reward in changing peoples’ lives. “Being a real estate agent is so much more than just opening doors,” Kymberly said. “It’s understanding clients’ stories and needs and guiding them through a complex process so they can realize their dreams. That’s why I’ve developed a diverse team of real estate agents from all walks of life.”
Kymberly explained that real estate pros are a necessary part of the process as buying and selling homes simply takes too much time for buyers and sellers to handle alone. “Selling a home requires a signifi cant time commitment, and marketing your home doesn’t begin or end with a listing. There’s so much that goes into it,” she said. “Allowing us to take care of these responsibilities allows you to focus on other things, like keeping your home show ready and fi nding your new home.”
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
BETH BELL BROWN, NANCY BELL AND LAUREN BELL
The Bells Group at Rector Hayden REALTORS®
859.321.7753 MakingLexingtonKYhome.com
“The Bells Group At Rector Hayden Realtors serves its clients as a complementary team, relying on family connection and a shared passion for real estate to deliver unparalleled experiences to clients. “Our number one speciality is that there are three of us, which allows us to be more organized and productive for our clients,” said the Bells Group, which consists of Beth Bell Brown and Nancy and Lauren Bell. “Each of our clients has a main point of contact, but Nancy could be preparing the paperwork, while Lauren is creating the social media content for your listing, all while Beth is showing you new homes when your home goes under contract.”
But if it still isn’t clear just how nice it can be to have the Bells in your corner, the group offers an easy and risk-free way of fi nding out for yourself. “We provide buyer and seller consultations at no charge to everyone who is thinking about entering the market,” they explained. “This is a great opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the process.”
CATHY S. DAVIS
Kirkpatrick & Company Real Estate
859.806.9444 movetolex.com
Though she sells all types of real estate, Cathy S. Davis of Kirkpatrick & Co enjoys selling farms the most. Farms are her specialty! “I love farms and houses on acreage.” Covering all Central Kentucky, Cathy knows the areas, soils and the lay of the land. Cathy understands that every farm is different, whether it is horse, cattle, or crop. It is her extensive knowledge and expertise in the farming arena that play a major role in her success.
Cathy says, “I enjoy the people I work with. They know how much I love Kentucky and its rich history. I love to show off Kentucky’s beautiful bluegrass. Our gorgeous state has so much to offer, and it deserves to be showcased!”
“The market is so crazy right now, and it does not appear that it will slow down any time soon,” Cathy explains, adding that the growing competitiveness in this market makes it more important than ever for prospective buyers and sellers to be prepared and turn to a professional. “I have had several clients tell me horrid stories about ‘for sale by owner,’” she says. “As a buyer, you truly need a Realtor to represent you. A Realtor knows how to handle certain situations and how to solve problems that can arise during the buying and selling process.”
KASEY McCARTY
5.23 Real Estate
859.428.7960 523realestate.com
Attending Transylvania University and living in Central Kentucky for over a decade, I have gotten to see fi rsthand what the area has to offer,” said Kasey McCarty, a multi-state licensed broker with 5.23 Real Estate. “It’s not just about selling a home, it’s about achieving a lifestyle. Whether it’s a great brunch spot or when is the best time to tailgate at Keeneland, I love sharing my knowledge and life with clients who become friends.”
With Lexington and the surrounding areas seeing an infl ux of new residents, McCarty sees fi erce competition for homes and land alike, explaining that working with a real estate professional can help clients get an edge. “Hire a realtor you can be friends with,” she recommended. “An agent who is going to tell you the truth and is aware of the market challenges and strengths alike. An agent who is aware is an agent who can help you achieve your real estate dreams.”
BROOKE OTIS
Otis & Co. Real Estate Group
859.432.0820 otisandcompany.co
When asked why she thought clients should be sure to work with professionals in today’s real estate market, Brooke Otis of Otis & Co. at Keller Williams, Bluegrass shared a straightforward analogy. “You wouldn’t get on an airplane without a pilot,” she pointed out. But as a Central Kentucky native, Otis is not just motivated by the virtually lifesaving power she has to serve people in buying and selling properties. She is also motivated by the chance to help clients establish something that is long-lasting and meaningful. “During someone’s fi rst time making a real estate transaction, from buying, selling, or investing— I love to educate people on their options and help them to think long term and build generational wealth,” Otis said. “The last two years have been a challenge for obvious reasons, but this past year has been the most competitive I’ve seen in this industry. In a seller’s market, it’s crucial to have representation, on the buyer’s side when building a strong offer, and on the sellers when confronted with multiple showings, offers, and making sure they get the most profi t. My goal is to be a one-stop shop for my clients by providing trusted vendors and my own personal touch for staging and design.” My newest service will be Otis & Co. Home Market, opening in April, offering staging with decor and furniture that will also be available for purchase.
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
MARY ANN MORRIS
Bluegrass Properties Group
859.619.8888 bluegrasspropertiesgroup.com
With a speciality in residential real estate — particularly consulting sellers on best strategies for selling their current homes, as well as fi nding new ones even within the constraints of the ongoing inventory shortage — Mary Ann Morris of Bluegrass Properties Group has made a name for herself as a real estate pro in the Lexington region. “Being a realtor gives me the opportunity to meet new people and become a part of their life’s journey,” Morris said. “I get to help people through some of the most exciting times of their lives. My competitive nature thrives on winning the offer or getting the seller the best outcome possible.” In addition to her passion for changing lives and her innate competitive drive, Morris also brings invaluable industry experience to negotiations for clients. “An experienced realtor offers insight to the local market, stays on top of the very fl uid pricing strategies, understands the best techniques of negotiating on behalf of their client to get to the closing table, and acts as a buffer between the buyer and seller to alleviate stress for their client,” she explained.
KAREN ANGELUCCI
Team Pannell Real Estate
859.338.7857 karenangelucci.com
With a motto to “walk you home,” Karen Angelucci and her peers at Team Pannell Real Estate are focused on the things that make real estate in this region unique, charming and valuable.
“We have a beautiful state,” Angelucci said. “The best part of my job is driving all over the region, meeting folks and showing property.” Given her appreciation for this market in particular, Angelucci has seen that the work she does and the skills she brings to the table have always helped ease the realty process and come as a relief to clients.
“It’s hard enough to navigate this real estate market with experience,” she explained. “Without a realtor, I think you’re sure to leave money on the table and more anxiety is placed on the buyer and seller.” In particular, she enjoys helping clients fi nd homes that they love. “In this market if you want to buy a home, it’s probably out of necessity. But you really should try to fi nd a home that you love and not just jump on something because there’s low inventory,” she said. “If you’re looking to sell your home, call me”
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
MARY LAYTON
F.C. Tucker/Bluegrass
859.303.6500 talktotucker.com
As a lifelong resident of Central Kentucky, Mary Layton, the owner and principal broker of F.C. Tucker/ Bluegrass, draws upon a homegrown passion for this market to deliver successful outcomes for her clients, every time. “Working in this industry allows me to share my passion for our community and help people establish roots,” she said. “This is my home and my specialty.” Layton has also seen fi rsthand just how important it is for those in the residential real estate market to call upon seasoned professionals. “Real estate prices have soared as the number of homes on the market have dwindled,” Layton, who has a speciality in residential sales, explained. “Now, more than ever, you need someone working for you and thinking outside of the box to guide you. In the next year, interest rates will rise so buying power will be affected. Working with a seasoned, creative agent is crucial.” After all, in such critical spheres as home buying and selling, wouldn’t it be nice to have someone in your corner?
“Working with an agent gives you an advocate and a guide interested in what’s best for you,” as Layton put it.
AMY BOONE AND MACY MICHAEL
Sweet Home KY Realty
859.494.7954 mysweethomeky.com
As a brokerage, Sweet Home Ky Realty’s number one strength is in overcoming challenges and getting things done,” explained the fi rm’s Amy Boone and Macy Michael. “We are known for our hands-on approach and willingness to fi nd solutions.” Serving a market that continues to raise its pace, with prices rising along too, Boone and Michael have seen that clients benefi t from contacting realtors in the initial stages of consideration, giving them the chance to offer suggestions for navigating the timeline and, ultimately, obtaining the most value.
“A realtor guides the transaction from initial consultation, to closing,” the team said. “We help resolve issues that arise during the process and ensure that our clients’ concerns are always addressed. This is important because at the end of the day, a home is much more than four walls — it’s establishing your place in the world. And we love helping people plant their roots.”
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
MAXINE REYBURN
The Reyburn Group
brokered by Lifstyl Real Estate
925.997.6557 reyburnrealestate.com
Doing it all from investment properties to residential home and condos — but with a speciality in horse farms and luxury real estate — Maxine Reyburn and her team at The Reyburn Group brokered by Lifstyl Real Estate offers unparalleled peace of mind to clients.
“When you work with The Reyburn Group, you don’t just get a salesperson,” Reyburn explained. “We are a team of highly-dedicated and trained real estate consultants, putting in the work for you so that you can sit back, relax and have a smooth and easy transaction.” Leaning on the core values of knowledge, excellence and integrity, the Reyburn Group maintains a staff and group of agents who all specialize in different areas of the real estate process, so that all bases are covered no matter what.
“I think it’s important to know your strengths and your weaknesses, and we have created a humble team to lean on, so there are never any gaps,” Reyburn explained. “Real estate is so much more than a job to us. We look at this career as a way to serve and truly provide an unforgettable experience for every client.”
TREY MCCALLIE
Realty One Group Bluegrass
859.312.7599 treymccallie.com
At Realty One Group Bluegrass, Trey McCallie and his team play a variety of roles for their clients, bringing a wealth of experience and deep industry knowledge as a partner through every step of the real estate experience. “We are your guide through the process,” McCallie explained. “That process has probably changed radically since you last went through it. We are therapists and counselors during what can be a very stressful portion of a person’s life. We live to create great outcomes for our clients — that is our reward.”
As the real estate inventory has dipped below even what were considered historically low numbers, the Realty One Group Bluegrass team relies on the joy of serving its neighbors and representing the region’s properties to continue driving successful transactions.
“I love selling our area, our culture, our people — all of the benefi ts of living here in the Bluegrass,” McCallie said. And when it comes to words of wisdom, he added a short and simple tip for prospective clients. “Have cash! Lots of cash!” he joked. “Be patient, take a breath, let a professional guide you through the process.”
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
2021 LBAR Good Neighbor of the Year Recipient
SUSIE BASHAM
The Agency, Real Estate Advisors
859.533.3776 theagencyky.com
“Starting with just thinking about a move, through closing on the property, to being a resource after you move in, a real estate agent is an expert at making the process a success every step of the way,” explained Susie Basham, who has helped innumerable clients in that very way through her work at The Agency, Real Estate Advisors. “My number one goal is helping folks fi nd the perfect home to fi t not just their needs, but also their dreams. I love the look I see when a new home buyer fi nds just the right house!”
There’s little doubt that Central Kentucky’s real estate market has become more competitive than ever. As a result, Basham’s work is even more important for ensuring the best outcomes for clients.
“It takes a professional real estate agent to guide buyers through multiple offers. Sellers are also getting many offers, and need an expert advisor to help compare them,” she explained. “Realtors have the resources to connect you to any other services you need, and they will guide you on how to get the best price for your home or to get ready to make the best offer possible on your dream home.”
KAREN MUNDY
Haymaker Residential Real Estate
859.361.7390 hbhomes.net
Serving as the broker of Haymaker Residential Real Estate and representing custom homebuilders for 26 years at McLellan Homes, Karen Mundy has a range of real estate experience that enhances her work for clients every day. Mundy’s impressive 38 years of real estate experience and multiple leadership positions with real estate organizations and the local community provide her with a unique perspective for those considering buying or selling residential real estate.
“My number one specialty in real estate is custom new construction,” Mundy explained. “I’m also a specialist at satisfying family wants and needs as they navigate the resale market.”
“The lack of availability and changes in interest rates have made this current market unlike any other,” Mundy said. “Making dreams come true through custom building or in existing properties will continue to drive my love for working as a real estate broker in Central Kentucky.”
161 N Eagle Creek Drive, Suite 200, Lexington 859-948-1985 • cwdkycom • sigkycom
MELISSA BROWN THOMPSON
Keller Williams Legacy Group
859.274.3714 melissabrownthompson@kw.com
“Real estate has changed for me personally in the past year in a vast way,” explained Melissa Thompson of Keller Williams Legacy Group, summarizing a sentiment that has been felt by many professionals, buyers and sellers in the real estate market today. “I now have more clientele looking to purchase real estate and/or sell than ever before. The spring season is defi nitely upon us and I don’t see the market slowing down anytime soon.” And with so much changing in realty these days, it’s now more important than ever to turn to professionals in the space who can help clients reach their ultimate buying and selling goals, all while keeping the process stress free. A vast array of clients have found Thompson does just that by drawing upon her passion for this region and the chance to serve others. “I value most the beautiful properties here and that satisfactory feeling that comes along with being able to help as many clients as possible turn their dreams into achievements,” she said. “I love to see happy faces and know that I have gone the extra mile to ensure their happiness for years to come!”