When I moved back to Traverse City, Michigan after years away, I was at a crossroads. The housing market crashed and the furniture market followed, I had two young children, and I was searching for a new direction.

 

In 2010, I earned my real estate license. It might have seemed like a challenging time to start, but it was the perfect opportunity to learn and grow at a gradual pace. I wanted a career that allowed me to be present for my kids, contribute to my community, and use my skills in a way that felt impactful.

 

Growing up here as the youngest of six, I learned early what true strength and resilience look like. My father passed away when I was 10, and I watched my mother hold our family together and provide for us. She is still my role model at 97, living independently in the same house I grew up in. She taught me the real value of relationships and the importance of having people you love to count on.

 

After attending Western Michigan University, I went backpacking through Europe, spending my last dime to see the world. That sense of adventure and willingness to step into the unknown has shaped how I approach life and work.

 

I spent years in the furniture industry, starting in retail and then moving into wholesale sales and management. That career took me to Colorado, where I settled for over a decade, met my husband Beau, and started our family. Over time, I found myself longing for the deeper connections and sense of belonging that come from being close to extended family and a familiar community.

 

Returning to Michigan was incredible. I wanted my children to grow up surrounded by family; thankfully my in-laws followed, and I wanted to contribute to the place that shaped me. I love the small-town feel, the strong sense of community, and the natural beauty that surrounds us. We are right on Lake Michigan, with rivers, beaches, and endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. The area is full of vineyards, orchards, and local food, and I appreciate how much people here value the outdoors and support one another. It is a place where people know their neighbors and look out for each other, and I am grateful to be part of it.

 

Real estate offered the perfect blend of independence, service, and connection. I entered the field after the challenging market of 2008 and 2009, starting as an assistant to a longtime friend. With the market slow and my kids still young, it was the right time to learn the business at my own pace. As I gained experience, I transitioned to working independently, focusing on building strong relationships and guiding clients through important transitions.

 

Over the years, I have built my business almost entirely through relationships. Through the different chapters of my own life, I have learned firsthand just how important those connections are. Whether it is family, friends, or community, relationships have always been what matter most to me. In real estate, I know how important it is to have someone you trust in your corner. By the end of the transaction, many of my clients have become friends. That’s the ultimate reward for me, and it allows me to continue supporting them in the next chapter, beyond just real estate.

Outside of work, I am happiest outdoors, skiing, gardening, and walking my two yellow labs, Maizey and Dune. I also love throwing client events and neighborhood parties. Now that both Tim and Sydney are starting their own lives, I am focused on growing my business and remain active in the school community because I value the connections I have made there.

 

Through each chapter in my life, I’ve learned the value in strong relationships, hard work, and showing up for others. I’m excited to see how my career continues to evolve and grow in the coming years!

 

For me, real estate is never about the sale. It’s about helping my clients achieve their goals, whether that means staging a home, helping with a move, or simply being a resource long after the sale is done. I value integrity, hard work, and the kind of personal touch that turns a stressful process into a positive experience.

 

I am highly organized, responsive, and proactive, guiding clients through every step of the buying or selling process. I provide honest advice, practical solutions, and connect clients with trusted local professionals for repairs, staging, financing, or moving services. My strong negotiation skills and attention to detail ensure my clients’ interests are always protected and transactions go smoothly. My background in furniture sales and design gives me an added eye for staging and helping clients see the potential in every property. Even after closing, I remain a resource for my clients, ready to assist with anything they need.

 

Sincerely,

 

Kristine Shacklette