Meet Cat Thornton, Lake Homes Realty
Cat Thornton has lived by the water her entire life. Her father was a Navy veteran, so the coast was always within reach, no matter where they moved. The summers of her youth were spent fishing on the pier, swimming on base, and visiting the beach. Today, Cat proudly services lakes in the greater Columbia area, including Lake Murray, Lake Carolina, Lake Frances, Lake Katherine, Lake Monticello, Lake Wateree, and Forest Lake.
Before Cat immersed herself in the real estate industry, she worked in corporate America. Her job required her to travel far and frequently, and Cat loved to contribute her skills positively — but not all was right. These extended hours and trips meant more hours away from her three young children. Cat recognized that her job consumed most of her time and didn’t want to miss out on her kids’ formative years. So, she semi-retired to appreciate the time she had with them, and this experience revealed something else for Cat: she desires flexibility in her career. Eventually, in 2007, she found that freedom in real estate.
In 2006, the housing industry surged and boomed, and it was the perfect time to get in. However, when Cat jumped aboard in 2007, many other agents likewise jumped ship — just before the crisis of 2008. This unique situation helped Cat become comfortable with real estate’s ever-changing mood between viability and volatility. If housing markets prove daunting for agents, imagine how buyers and sellers must view things. It’s this realization that drives her work ethic and commitment to quality service, and she prioritizes building solid and lasting relationships with clients.
For Cat, establishing those relationships is crucial, as people have to trust you with what could be the most significant investment of their lives. It’s essential for clients to know her and believe in her experience, knowledge, and skills in maneuvering a sale — buying or selling. Communication is the crux of her business model, and though she remains busy and occupied with many deals, she’s never too busy for her clients.
When she’s not working the lake, Cat is busy living the Lake Murray lifestyle! She enjoys long rides on the boat with her family and dogs, as well as sunbathing, floating, and visiting neighbors. Aside from her love of the lake, she’s a grandmother who loves spending time with her grandchild.