Re/Max Direct’s Karen Gant: From Hollywood To Wellington
By Matthew Auerbach
Many real estate professionals have an interesting back story that details the road taken to their current profession. You’d be hard-pressed, however, to find a tale more unique than that of Re/Max Direct’s Karen Gant. How many real estate agents do you know who also are lifetime members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences?
“I am a true movie buff,” Gant said. “After receiving a BFA (bachelor’s of fine arts) degree at Hunter College in New York City, I aspired to build a career in entertainment. I moved to Los Angeles and worked my way up to senior level marketing positions at Warner Brothers, Twentieth Century Fox and CBS, creating and producing movie and television advertising campaigns. During that period, I had the honor to be elected into the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences as a lifelong member.”
In 1994, Gant met her husband, Richard. A new phase of her life was about to begin.
“We began to think about buying a home together,” Gant said. “Good climate was a priority, and Florida seemed like the answer. I have always had a history with South Florida, where I visited generations of relatives over the years. In 1998, we bought a beautiful home in Boca Raton and quickly adapted to our new lifestyle and friends. Only one thing was missing: a new career to challenge me and provide stability for our new life. An acquaintance suggested real estate, and shortly thereafter, I was on my way to real estate school.”
Gant was also on her way to Wellington. She and Richard moved here in 2003, where she continued to specialize in luxury homes.
“To me, a beautiful home reflects artistry in its architecture and design,” she said. “Initially, I focused on waterfront properties, as well as new construction. Since moving to Wellington, I have concentrated particularly on the community of Versailles, where I have lived and worked for more than 12 years, becoming the number one Realtor in transactions and closings.”
Gant credits the unique makeup of Wellington for making her job easier.
“The comfortable, laid-back charm of Wellington provides a great backdrop for me to work,” she said. “The majesty of the beautiful horses trotting along as cars whiz by is not typical of any area I know. I am impressed by the growth and opportunity of Wellington, although I have had the experience of working all over Palm Beach County and know most of the area quite well.”
Gant has been associated with Re/Max Direct for three years. The relationship has been a successful one for both parties.
“Their focus on new technology exceeds the boundaries of every other brokerage I have been affiliated with,” Gant said. “Since we inhabit a digital world where technology moves faster than warp speed, I feel confident knowing that I have the tools to serve my clients with maximum efficiency. My goal is to ensure that my clients feel that they are well-informed through close communication.”
She takes a clear-eyed view of the future of the housing market.
“The current real estate market is still volatile,” Gant said. “Although certain areas of the country have made a healthy recovery, Florida is still in the process. I see that improving now, and even with a slight increase in interest rates, for every prospective buyer, the American Dream is still fueled by the desire to purchase a home.”
To contact Karen Gant, call (561) 644-3720 or (561) 615-1081, or visit www.karengant.com.
