“I get my creative outlet through my work at Savvy + Co. To help someone sell their home or find their little corner of the world is more important than a standing ovation.”– Kim Parati
Why Savvy + Co. Real Estate
At Savvy + Co. we believe that our unique customer service philosophy of “Smart Real Estate, Nice People” can help take our agents’ careers to the next level. Our collaborative atmosphere, agent camaraderie, unparalleled marketing support, and commitment to education and technology help our agents succeed in the real estate industry.
But don’t just take our word for it. Check out what Kim Parati has to say about why she chose Savvy + Co. Real Estate.
Where to start
“I was born and raised in Charlotte, which makes me a unicorn, according to some. I went away to attend college at UNC-Chapel Hill and moved back to Charlotte after graduation.
Professionally, I’ve had many lives and loved them all. My first job post-college was in media sales, but I quickly realized it wasn’t really for me. I found work as a stage actress and starred in commercials and professional videos for various companies and industries. I was also fortunate to be a part of many professional stage opportunities with the Charlotte Repertory Theatre, Actor’s Theatre, and Charlotte Children’s Theatre, as well as opportunities outside of the state.
My goal was to become a big-time actor in a bigger city, but logistically it didn’t make sense, and I realized that acting wasn’t MY career path. Serendipity soon came my way when a friend shared a job posting with me at a nonprofit radio station. I got the job and was responsible for securing donations for underwriting credits. I worked on analyzing data, did research, and focused on problem-solving using numbers and stats. I was in this role for 11 years, but due to restructuring at the station, I believed it was time to move on.
This moment was a fork in the road. I wanted more control over my life. Years prior, I had a conversation with Lexie Longstreet, an owner of Savvy + Co. Real Estate and a member of the Charlotte creative community. I revisited a conversation with her about the real estate industry. After I stepped away from my position at the radio station, I took time off to direct two local shows. After that, I entered real estate and haven’t looked back. That was six years ago.”
Where to find support
“One of the best things I could have done was join a boutique firm like Savvy. Savvy has some of the best branding I’ve ever seen, and the people are quality. The marketing team is ready to help you with your creative endeavors. From brainstorming to execution and turning an idea into something incredible, I can’t say enough about Julie, Stevie, and Sarah Jane.
When I started at Savvy, I soon realized that my previous careers would serve me well. I could mine data about what was happening in the real estate market to better advise clients. My background in acting and directing, allowed me to see opportunities for creative problem-solving. Now instead of directing shows, I direct the listing. The narrative of the house is important, and I focus on how it looks, how the description sounds, and use videos to tell the story of the house to attract the right people.
A rising tide lifts all boats, and this is true at Savvy. When I started with the company, I went into the office daily and built rapport with other agents.
The information shared amongst agents is invaluable. The experienced agents will pass on their knowledge and lessons learned. They invest time and information and aren’t afraid of competing against you. Charles Major is a godsend. He’s mission-driven, and we connected immediately.
He has been so instrumental in my growth.
There is enough work and opportunity for everyone.”
Where to succeed
“My mom was a single mom, and I remember looking at a house with her when I was young. I thought we would get it, but she was overwhelmed and eventually decided not to move forward with buying the home. I wish she’d had a realtor to help talk her through it and make what might seem mind-boggling, and manageable. I pride myself on being that kind of agent for others.
Real estate is a way to build wealth, and I want to be an instrument of change for people. I come from a family of educators, and I love to teach others. When you are educated, you are less fearful, and when you are less fearful you’re more likely to act. If you act in real estate, you are building something for yourself and your future. I want to help as many people as possible get that.
I love sitting down with my clients and having a conversation about their needs and passions. Your home is not only an asset, it is a place of refuge. It is the setting for your story. The more I understand the buyer story, the more equipped I am to find their home – house matchmaking if you will.
I want people to get what they are due regardless of if they are selling or buying.
Since embarking on this journey, I’ve been fortunate to be named a Rising Star in Real Estate by the Charlotte Observer in my first year of business, to teach the “How to Buy a House” course with Skillpop, and to serve as the Chairperson of the Historic District Commission.
Lexie saw something in me when I didn’t see it or know what it was. I feel nurtured and supported at Savvy + Co.
Want to Get Savvy?
We are taking a fresh approach and are looking for agents that want to move their business forward with new technology. Fill out our contact form on our Careers page, and let us know a little bit about yourself. We’ll be in touch soon!
