Katie Grindon says, “In 2012 a family friend suggested I get into real estate.” In order to become a realtor, Katie adds: “You have to take a certain amount of clock hours, and then you go and take a test with the Department of licensing, and then you become a licensed Real Estate Agent.” She launched KG Realty in 2018.
Katie grew up on South Whidbey and decided she wanted to build a career on the island. Her family has a long history on Whidbey Island: Six generations on her father’s side of the family have lived in Clinton. On her mother’s side, her grandfather founded Nichols Brothers Boat Builders in Freeland. She says, “Everybody on Whidbey knows my family” and adds “Being a realtor is an amazing fit for me.”
Every two years she is required to renew her license, and she is always working on building her business. Currently KG Realty has four employees. Katie believes it’s important for her to play a major role in the Clinton community. She is the Vice President of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce and sits on the Clinton Community Council Board and the Island County Tourism Board.
She is a Certified Master Negotiation Expert and a luxury marketing specialist. KG Realty has sold nearly 400 houses valued at $192 million since she became a Real Estate Agent. She adds, “I love having my own business, and I pride myself on being an entrepreneur.”
The current KG Realty building at 6415 Central Avenue in Clinton was originally a private home where her dad, Billy Thorsen, would spend the night with his friends; then it became a hotel, then a restaurant, then a bank. It was remodeled in 2021 for the current business.
Katie spends a lot of time educating her clients about investing in real estate. She notes, “Real estate is the largest wealth factor for most people, and the biggest investment they will make.”
Being a real estate broker is a perfect fit for Katie: “I love working with buyers and sellers; I love investing in property; and I like helping people learn how to make money by investing in real estate.” She also enjoys helping her brokers learn how to buy and sell houses.
She adds, “Buying a home is a great way to create a legacy for your family.”
July 29: KG Realty Grand Opening, 2-6pm
6415 Central Avenue in Clinton
KG Realty will be having a Grand Opening ceremony at its Clinton Location.
There will be food, a bouncy house, and tours of the building.