In the dynamic world of real estate, success is often measured not just by transactions closed or properties managed, but by the enduring impact individuals make within their communities. Meet Kathy May-Martin, a seasoned professional whose name has become synonymous with integrity, dedication, and innovation in real estate.
As she marks another milestone in her illustrious career, it’s clear that Kathy’s journey is more than just about buying and selling properties—it’s about building relationships, fostering growth, and leaving a lasting legacy in every neighborhood she touches. With a career spanning over 30 years, Kathy’s journey is a testament to hard work, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to her clients.
A best-selling author as well as a producing broker in the Knoxville, TN region, Kathy has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit. Her extensive knowledge and expertise, coupled with a passion for helping others, have served her and her clients extremely well. Throughout her accomplished career as an agent and broker, Kathy has built a network of satisfied clients across the state. Today, she is the successful owner and managing broker of Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Associates, where she assists clients across Tennessee.
As a dedicated real estate leader, Kathy stands out as one of the most accomplished professionals in the industry. She is a global luxury agent and has been featured in numerous notable publications, including the cover of “Top 100 People in Real Estate Magazine,” CIO Women’s Magazine’s “Top Women Leaders in Real Estate,” Success Pitchers Magazine’s “Most Eminent Leaders in Real Estate,” and Top Executive Magazine’s “Agent of the Month.” She has also graced the cover of “Top Agent Tennessee” twice and was highlighted in CIO Today’s “Top 5 Unstoppable Business Women Creating History in The Business World 2024,” as well as “World’s Most Admired Women Leaders in Real Estate 2024.”
In addition to her professional achievements, Kathy is known for her commitment to community and mentorship. She actively engages in initiatives that support local housing projects, provides educational workshops for aspiring real estate professionals, and mentors young agents entering the industry. This commitment to giving back underscores her belief that success in real estate is not just about closing deals, but also about building strong, vibrant communities.
Your Trusted Real Estate Partner
Kathy May-Martin stands as a titan in the realm of real estate, boasting a multitude of accolades that affirm her unparalleled expertise. Globally renowned and celebrated among the elite as one of the Top 100 figures in the industry, she consistently ranks within the top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents nationwide.
At the helm of Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Assoc in Kingston, Kathy steers a 50-year legacy of excellence in real estate. Under her guidance, this brokerage continues to set the standard for future generations, cementing its reputation of trust and reliability in the industry. As a best-selling author of The Essential Guide to Buying and Selling Homes and a
global luxury agent ranked among the top one percent of Coldwell Banker’s brokers nationwide, she stands as one of the most accomplished professionals in the industry.
With an unmatched reservoir of knowledge and experience, Kathy May-Martin offers a level of service that is truly unparalleled. When you entrust Kathy as your Realtor, you can be confident in her exceptional negotiating skills and unwavering determination to surmount any challenges that may arise. From the initial stages to the final closing, Kathy ensures a seamless transaction, ensuring your peace of mind every step of the way.
With thousands of property sales and multimillion-dollar billings, Kathy credits her success as a managing broker for 23 years and a real estate agent for nearly three decades to her strong work ethic, commitment to service, and attention to detail. Her exceptional communication skills have earned her a loyal client base, with many returning to her and referring others. “One of my favorite aspects of my business is getting repeat clients. I’m also based largely on referrals. My clients always say how easy I make the process—and that is my goal,” shares Kathy.
Based in Kingston, Tennessee, Kathy’s reputation as a driven professional with extensive market knowledge is well-known across the region. Her dedication to her clients and agents has made her a constant force in the industry. Known for her capacity to navigate and solve any problem, she has garnered numerous industry awards, including Coldwell Banker President Elite and President Premiere.
Guided by the motto, “I guarantee my personal best,” Kathy has successfully managed her office, training and hiring agents, and overseeing operations and marketing initiatives. Under her leadership, the office has grown from four agents to thirty-three, absorbing several companies along the way.
Kathy attributes the growth of her office to consistency, hard work, and the ability to forecast and embrace change. Her commitment to simplifying the buying and selling process and providing comprehensive training for her agents serves as the foundation for the company’s success. “Our office is ever-evolving, and if we’re not changing and evolving, we’re dying. That is what makes us successful,” shares Kathy.
In the Beginning
Several years ago, Kathy May-Martin encountered a formidable challenge. Faced with the responsibilities of single motherhood and the uncertainty of a commission-based career, she refused to entertain the notion of failure. Instead, adversity became the catalyst for her discovery of a resilient and resourceful version of herself that she had not previously realized.
As a devoted mother to a six-month-old and anticipating her second child, Kathy made the courageous decision to transition from a career in hospitality management to pursue a new path in real estate. Relocating to a new town, she embarked on a journey to create a harmonious balance between her professional aspirations and her role as a mother.
Determined to succeed in life, Kathy joined Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Associates in Kingston, TN. Six years later, she found triumph when the owner, Jim Henry, noticed her
potential and offered her the position of managing broker for a team serving clients across the west Knoxville area.
On her first day in real estate, she began a transformative journey. Her profession evolved into more than just a successful career, becoming a profound passion for helping people from all walks of life achieve their real estate goals.
Reflecting on this pivotal period, Kathy emphasizes, “My two beautiful girls deserved nothing less than the best from me each day, as did my colleagues and clients. Overcoming the challenges of motherhood, mastering the intricacies of a novel profession, and establishing my presence in a close-knit community demanded an abundance of effort, enthusiasm, and unwavering determination.”
Today, as a revered woman leader in the real estate industry, Kathy places a strong emphasis on the continual advancement of both herself and her team. She firmly believes that if she reaches a point where her growth stagnates, it’s a sign that she should reassess her position. Kathy feels a profound responsibility towards her organization, understanding that ongoing evolution and the search for more effective ways to conduct business and lead are indispensable. She perceives complacency as a warning sign of organizational decline and highlights the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic in today’s dynamic work environment.
A Heritage in Property Excellence
Established in 1906, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has built its core values around professionalism and unparalleled customer service. As the nation’s pioneering real estate company, Coldwell Banker has been instrumental in transforming the dream of homeownership into reality for countless families. Rooted in a bedrock of unity and comprehensive training, Coldwell Banker equips its affiliates with cutting-edge tools, empowering them not only to thrive but also to outshine competitors in any market landscape.
At the heart of Coldwell Banker’s success lies its commitment to cultivating a culture of trust and continuous learning. Since its inception, the company has prioritized comprehensive training programs, ensuring that its affiliates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in an ever-changing industry. This steadfast dedication to education, coupled with a relentless pursuit of innovation, has positioned Coldwell Banker as a trailblazer in the real estate arena, setting the standard for excellence and professionalism.
Central to Coldwell Banker’s mission is its strong belief in the power of technology to enhance the client experience. Through its state-of-the-art online platform, coldwellbanker.com, the company provides clients with unparalleled access to a wealth of real estate resources and information. From property listings to market insights and agent connections, the website serves as a gateway to a seamless and transparent real estate experience, available to clients anytime, anywhere.
However, Coldwell Banker’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond the digital realm. At its core, the company is driven by a deep-seated passion for serving its clients and
exceeding their expectations at every turn. Whether guiding first-time homebuyers through the intricacies of the purchasing process or assisting seasoned investors in navigating complex transactions, Coldwell Banker-affiliated real estate agents stand ready to provide expert guidance and unwavering support, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and unparalleled service.
What further sets Coldwell Banker apart is its unwavering dedication to community and legacy. As the nation’s oldest real estate company, Coldwell Banker boasts a rich heritage of service and philanthropy, deeply ingrained in the communities it serves. From sponsoring local events to supporting charitable initiatives, Coldwell Banker remains committed to giving back and making a positive impact wherever it operates.
A trusted partner, Coldwell Banker is more than just a real estate company – it is a champion of excellence and a steward of the community. With a legacy built on integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to customer service, Coldwell Banker continues to shape the future of real estate, one client, one transaction, and one community at a time.
As Owner and Principal Broker, Kathy is the face and driving force of this historic organization. Known for her interpersonal prowess she adopts a thorough approach with her clients. She begins by diligently preparing her clients for the market, ensuring they are fully equipped. Subsequently, Kathy demonstrates the same level of attentiveness in assisting her buyers, meticulously steering them towards investments that align with their best interests.
Kathy’s outstanding reputation throughout Tennessee speaks volumes, as the majority of her business stems from repeat clients and referrals garnered over the years. She is the go-to source for all things real estate in the area.
Ushering the Rise of Women in Real Estate
The rising prominence of women such as Kathy in the real estate sector is becoming increasingly evident. A trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Kathy has made significant contributions to reshaping the landscape with her unique perspective, leadership style, and contributions. Her efforts have opened up new avenues for more women to follow in her footsteps and achieve success and brought fresh dynamism and diversity to the field, enriching decision-making processes and fostering innovation.
Kathy distinguishes herself through her remarkable abilities, unwavering commitment, and innovative approaches. As a pioneering woman in the real estate arena, she isn’t just breaking barriers; she’s spearheading a movement toward a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Bringing a fresh perspective, Kathy is reshaping the field in a traditionally male-dominated environment, proving her mettle and excelling in various roles including real estate agent, broker, property developer, and investor. Her influence spans residential and commercial markets, property management, and investments, making her presence felt throughout the entire spectrum of real estate.
What sets Kathy and other women leaders apart is their adeptness at navigating complex transactions, forging enduring connections, and adapting to the dynamic market landscape.
Their success stories serve as beacons of inspiration, highlighting that gender should never hinder one’s potential in the real estate industry.
In addition to their impact on business operations, women leaders in real estate are also champions of change in promoting gender equality and empowering other women within the industry. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, they pave the way for future generations of women to thrive in real estate.
Overall, the increasing presence of women like Kathy in the real estate industry reflects a positive trend toward greater diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. Their contributions are instrumental in driving innovation, fostering stronger client relationships, and promoting gender equality, ultimately enriching the industry as a whole.
Kathy’s overarching goal is to contribute to a society where everyone has equitable access to opportunities and fairness prevails as a cornerstone value. In the real estate domain, she is a vocal proponent of advancing training initiatives aimed at empowering emerging agents to deliver exceptional client experiences, stressing the crucial role of knowledge and professionalism in the industry. Her leadership is an inspiration for aspiring professionals, showing that gender is not a barrier to success.
Services at Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Associates
In the realm of commercial real estate, Coldwell Banker Commercial provides a full suite of services, including buying, selling, leasing, and managing various commercial properties such as office buildings, retail spaces, industrial properties, and investment properties. The organization offers a wide array of real estate services tailored to meet the diverse needs of clients, including buyers, sellers, renters, and investors. From assisting with buying and selling residential properties to providing rental, relocation, property management, commercial real estate, and mortgage services, Coldwell Banker is dedicated to facilitating seamless transactions and maximizing client satisfaction.
For clients in the market to buy or sell a home, Coldwell Banker provides expert guidance throughout the entire process, handling everything from property search and evaluation to negotiations and closing, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction regardless of property type, be it a single-family home, condominium, townhouse, or luxury estate.
For those seeking rental properties, Coldwell Banker offers comprehensive rental services, assisting clients with property searches, lease agreements, and tenant screenings to streamline the rental process and make the perfect home or apartment hassle-free.
Coldwell Banker specializes in relocation services for individuals and families transitioning to a new area, offering personalized assistance with home search, neighbourhood information, and relocation logistics to ensure a seamless transition to their new location.
Property management services are available for investment property owners, with Coldwell Banker handling tenant placement, rent collection, property maintenance, and financial reporting to maximize returns and minimize hassles.
Additionally, Coldwell Banker and their agents offers financing options and personalized guidance to help clients secure the financing they need to purchase a home, with a variety of loan programs available to suit individual needs and preferences.
With over 50 years of industry experience, the firm acknowledges the ever-evolving nature of the market and the dynamic needs of its clientele. Recognizing the necessity to adapt and innovate, they continuously seek out fresh approaches to conducting business and remain vigilant in identifying untapped opportunities that may elude competitors.
Propelling this ethos forward, Kathy articulates, “We actively seek tools and solutions that streamline processes and enhance efficiency, benefiting both our consumers and agents. Our approach involves thorough research, including product evaluations and trial subscriptions. Only after confirming user-friendliness, alignment with our simplification goals, and feasibility, do we consider introducing the product to our agents and consumers.”
"In the ever-evolving economic landscape, change remains a constant force, irrespective of market conditions."
Staying Ahead of the Curve
In the dynamic world of real estate, technological advancements are an ever-present companion. Kathy acknowledges that technological advancements, evolving customer needs, and shifting expectations are driving forces propelling the industry forward. To effectively navigate these changes, one must remain well-informed through reading reliable sources, harnessing the power of the internet, gaining hands-on experience, and prioritizing continuous training.
In her efforts to stay connected with her clients, Kathy May-Martin relies on a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system and primarily utilizes email and social media platforms. “When customers go online, they encounter me,” explains Kathy. The internet also serves as a valuable tool for her marketing endeavors, leveraging prominent real estate websites such as Realtor.com, Zillow, and Lakehouse.com, as well as platforms provided by Coldwell Banker, among others, in addition to her personal website.
Kathy employs a multi-faceted approach to marketing herself, utilizing one company to promote her personal brand, another to maintain engagement with her audience, and enlisting the assistance of her team to market her listings across various social media platforms including Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Furthermore, she strategically invests in advertising space on local news websites and in print publications.
In response to the inundation of emails and social media noise, Kathy has adopted a more direct and personalized approach this year. She proactively engages with her target market by delivering presentations to local businesses and organizations, keeping them informed about market trends and the services she offers.
Additionally, Kathy also leverages a meticulously crafted blend of targeted networking, digital, and social media marketing campaigns to showcase her listings to her clients. Utilizing the latest innovative strategies and resources, she endeavors to provide her sellers with every advantage, facilitating faster sales and maximizing equity gains.
Dealing with the Unexpected
In the real estate industry, unexpected developments can always occur, requiring adaptability and foresight to navigate effectively. Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19, Kathy underscores its profound influence on the real estate landscape, a phenomenon unparalleled in her three decades within the profession.
Thanks to the pandemic, Kathy has noted a significant shift in customer preferences, with homes transitioning from mere shelters to havens, emphasizing safety, comfort, and versatility. The traditional process of home previewing and purchasing evolved, with sight-unseen transactions becoming commonplace, often accompanied by escalated offers and streamlined procedures, albeit posing dilemmas for some buyers.
To navigate this dynamic environment, Kathy and her team found it imperative to adapt their negotiation strategies with agility, recognizing the need for continual learning and innovation to maintain competitiveness. She remarks on the influx of individuals transitioning to real estate careers, highlighting the need for adaptiveness in this evolving landscape.
The operational dynamics of real estate offices also underwent substantial change, with virtual platforms such as Zoom replacing traditional in-person meetings, accompanied by a rapid integration of new technologies. While some semblance of normalcy has returned post-COVID, Kathy acknowledges persistent challenges in re-engaging agents in the office environment and fostering group collaboration.
In her role as Managing Broker, Kathy remains vigilant, recognizing the transient nature of market dynamics and industry shifts, necessitating ongoing adaptation and preparedness within her team. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and diligence, foreseeing a return to fundamentals such as negotiation, inspection processes, and meticulous transaction management as the market evolves beyond the temporary ‘unicorn market’ phase.
Kathy is a firm believer that the most significant aspect of the real estate profession is the daily acquisition of new knowledge. With the perpetual evolution and flux in the industry, she has mastered the ability to remain alert, adaptable, and open to change.
Giving Back
Kathy is deeply committed to giving back to her local communities, investing her time and resources to make a positive impact. Recognized as Roane County’s Woman of the Year in 2021, Kathy demonstrates her dedication by serving as Chair of The Fort Sanders Foundation Board of Directors, as well as holding positions on the local Chamber of Commerce board and the Harriman Rotary Club. Her involvement extends further as a former Chair of the Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Creek District, spanning five counties, and as Roane County’s Campaign Chair for Governor Bill Lee.
Beyond her community engagements, Kathy is a respected figure in the real estate industry, authoring the acclaimed book “The Essential Guide to Buying and Selling Homes,” drawing from her extensive experience. With a wealth of experience under her belt, she is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others. This drive led her to co-write her book, a long-held aspiration on her bucket list. “The book was always something I wanted to accomplish. Many
clients had questions, and I wanted to provide them with a comprehensive resource,” explains Kathy.
Her book quickly gained recognition on Amazon, achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the #1 Best Seller for Real Estate Sales and also topping the charts as the #1 Best Seller for Real Estate Sales & Selling. Additionally, it earned the status of a Hot New Release in several categories, solidifying its position as a valuable resource in the real estate industry.
As Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Associates marks the over 50th-year milestone, Kathy’s team reaffirms its dedication to giving back by sponsoring organizations and community events. Their profound investment in the community underscores Coldwell Banker’s enduring commitment over the past fifty years, exemplifying their unwavering hard work and dedication to the communities they serve.
When not engaged in client work or community service, Kathy enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, whether it’s relaxing on the lake, hiking, or golfing. Kathy also actively encourages a cultural shift towards prioritizing quality family time amidst the pervasive influence of technology, recognizing the profound benefits of fostering genuine human connections in an increasingly fast-paced and digitally-driven era.
Addressing Today’s Real Estate Challenges
Kathy recognizes a major risk inherent in the real estate industry: the necessity of investing money to generate returns. Despite this factor, she underscores the importance of undertaking calculated risks. Furthermore, she discusses Coldwell Banker management’s vision for the future, which includes expanding real estate services into underserved communities.
The delicate interplay between supply and demand significantly influences the real estate market, Kathy explains. A pressing issue is the Affordability Crisis, where homeownership remains a distant dream for many due to a shortage of affordable housing options. First-time buyers and those lacking significant equity are sidelined by soaring home prices and escalating interest rates. Addressing this requires the provision of more affordable housing and innovative financing solutions until market dynamics shift.
Another challenge facing the industry is the Building Blues, as prospective homeowners encounter myriad obstacles in construction endeavors. A scarcity of available builders and extended project timelines, often exceeding two years, are compounded by sluggish material supply chains and unexpected cost escalations due to inflation. Additionally, there’s a shortage of skilled professionals in various roles essential to the industry, including surveyors, plumbers, electricians, and movers, Kathy highlights.
Kathy proposes a multifaceted approach to address these challenges, advocating for interest rate reductions to alleviate buyer burdens, the implementation of affordable housing initiatives, and investments in workforce development to attract and retain skilled talent. In her capacity as Principal Broker, she continues to spearhead more innovative financing models aimed at making homeownership more attainable for middle-class Americans.
Into the Future
In the ever-evolving economic landscape, change remains a constant force, irrespective of market conditions. For Kathy, staying attuned to market shifts and actively responding to consumer demands and expectations are imperative strategies for survival. Continuous learning through reading and ongoing training remains paramount in her approach to achieving constant success for herself and her clients.
In the real estate industry, adaptability is indispensable. As a business owner, Kathy continually seeks out the right talent and growth prospects, ensuring the continual flourishing and evolution of the enterprise. By swiftly adjusting and implementing necessary measures she continues to drive operations full steam ahead.
Moreover, Kathy emphasizes the importance of having a diverse range of associates in terms of age, viewing it as essential for both resilience and longevity in business. While a blend of seasoned professionals and fresh talent ensures sustained success, Kathy continues to prioritize investing in the training and mentorship of individuals across these demographics.
Additionally, Kathy is dedicated to developing succession plans for associates ready to transition to the next phase of their careers. Her brand of leadership involves valuing each member of the team and consistently enabling their business growth. In the upcoming years, her focus is on fostering growth for many, facilitating succession for some, and continually welcoming new aspiring associates with fresh perspectives and opportunities.
Looking ahead Kathy expresses that she has no immediate plans for downsizing or scaling back. Kathy’s vision entails a gradual transition where she passes on the knowledge and experience of the business to her succession plan.
To other women around the world, looking for their path to success, Kathy says, “Don’t look back, only look ahead. The future is yours!!! Ceilings are only there if you look for them!”
