A few weeks ago, we chatted with our incredible partner Catherine McGinnis to get the low-down on her background and her real estate business. This is what we uncovered: Where were you born and raised? I was born in New Britain, CT and lived in Central CT until I moved to Boston for College. Where was the first home that you ever sold? The first home I sold was in Van Nuys to a young couple (first time homebuyers). It was an adorable 2-floor town-home with a private garage and outdoor patio. We had searched for months looking for the right property that met their specific needs. I will never forget the looks on their faces when we first walked in…it was “the one”. What attracted you to real estate? The decision to buy, sell, or invest is a part of someone’s life story. They may have a growing family and need a larger home, or looking to supplement their retirement plan with income properties, or maybe they are ready to put down roots in a city they love. Either way I love the being apart of their journey and sharing in the creation of this part of their life story. What do you think you do differently than most agents? I draw on my past experiences as a former special education teacher when working with my clients. I access my clients individual needs, break down what can be an overwhelming process into manageable steps, and guide my clients through each milestone with patience, dedication, and diligence. What do you like about the RARE brand? I love that RARE approaches every client and transaction with the same level of service regardless of price point. Our clients are the lifeblood of this business and RARE has built and maintains their success by having an exceptional level of customer service, high standards of practice, and regularly exceeds client expectations by going the extra mile. My favorite quote is _______. “I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I’ve ended up where I needed to be” – Douglas Adams. Life is full of twists and turns and this quote reminds me that even when things don’t go according to plan, this is a journey and I need to embrace where I am, appreciate what I have accomplished, and make adjustments if necessary. Love the life you are in or it will pass you by. My favorite door knocking quote is _______. “ Keep knocking and the joy inside will eventually open a window and look out to see who’s there” – Rumi. This quote keeps me motivated. My main interest outside of real estate is _______. Cooking and spending time with loved ones! The kitchen is where my family and friends gather to catch up, share stories, drink good wine, and eat good food. I love being in the center of it all cooking with love, trying new recipes, tweaking old favorites with a healthy twist, and just experimenting with whatever is on hand. Right now I am working on homemade dog treats! One thing I couldn’t live without: Chapstick. Also, my husband and sisters. Family is very important to me and I would drop everything for them in a heartbeat if they needed me. I wouldn’t be where I am without their love and support.