Closing Surprise
Katrina Thomas prides herself on going all-out for people. In high school, while working as a JCPenney department store clerk, she realized she had a special way with customers. “I knew I could be a great salesperson,” Thomas says, “just by being myself, being honest, and making each person feel comfortable.” She decided to become a real estate agent, enabling her to choose her own path in business. When she helped a client upgrade to a larger, brand-new house, she paid attention when the client mentioned she’d always dreamed of owning a big-screen TV. On closing day, Thomas, 29, surprised her with a 65-inch TV. “She actually cried,” says Thomas. “It was just a special moment.” It’s little surprise that 50% of her business comes from referrals. The other 50% comes from social media. On Instagram, Thomas aims to educate her followers about homeownership.