Every Realtor has a unique journey that shapes their passion for the industry. Karen Parris is no exception.
From a career rooted in health care and a love for animals to serving in multiple leadership roles at Greater Chattanooga Realtors, Parris has embraced every opportunity to grow, give back and support her community.
With a strong focus on education, professionalism and making a difference, her story reflects the dedication and drive that Realtors bring to their work every day.
What did you do before transitioning into this profession?
“I worked in the health care industry, handling customer service and collections, and scheduled and processed claims for insurance companies, hospitals and medical centers in the Chattanooga area. I also handled collections and administrative work for an engineering company.
“In my earlier years, I worked in the pet care industry. My parents started a boarding, training and grooming kennel, and my dad was once ranked second in the nation for obedience training. Growing up, I helped in the kennel with upkeep and caring for the cats and dogs and other assorted animals.
“There was never a dull day. I also worked for a veterinarian. I’ve always loved animals and being out in nature. My fur babies always make me smile, love me unconditionally, and are always happy to see me come home.”
You ran and prevailed for a second term on the board of directors. Why did you choose to continue serving in a leadership capacity?
“Serving a second term on the board has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the vital work that happens behind the scenes at Greater Chattanooga Realtors. I’ve gained a greater appreciation for the dedicated volunteers on the board and various committees who work tirelessly, using their resources and skills to make decisions that benefit all of the Realtors in our association.
“It’s been a privilege to serve on the Placemaking and Diversity & Inclusion committees and to act as the board liaison for the Community Partnerships Committee, which organizes fundraisers for Snack Packs for children and the Tee Up & Wine Down in support of Habitat for Humanity.
“Additionally, serving on the Grievance and Professional Standards committees has highlighted the importance of the Realtor Code of Ethics in maintaining high industry standards for both Realtor and their clients. My time on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Committee gave me valuable insight into the ongoing efforts required to update our MLS and adapt to the ever-changing real estate landscape.
“With 16 years in real estate, my volunteer roles have broadened my knowledge, strengthened my passion for the industry and allowed me to give back to a profession I truly love.”
What would you like your peers to know about what our association offers its members?
“The association offers many free educational classes. The instructors are top-notch and provide real-life insight into the courses they offer. Complimentary refreshments are available and the learning environment is very nice. The staff is very accommodating.
“Another perk is the designation classes the association offers. November is Designation Awareness Month, and I obtained a few designations, which gave me a wider scope of expertise in those areas.
“My designations are currently GREEN, C2EX (Commitment to Excellence), AHWD (At Home With Diversity), ABR (Accredited buyer’s Representative) and SRS (Seller Representative Specialist.
“GREEN taught me more about energy efficiency and sustainability in real estate; C2EX is designed to elevate every aspect of your skills, strengths and standards; AHWD prepares Realtors to work effectively with and within today’s increasingly diverse pool of homebuyers and sellers; ABR focuses on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-buying process; and SRS is the premier credential in seller representation. It’s designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance.”
What’s your favorite part of being a Realtor?
“I enjoy the excitement of buyers while searching for homes and sellers that have just listed their house and showings have quickly begun. I like the adventure of traveling on new roads I’ve never been on, even though I’m a Chattanooga native and have been in the industry as long as I have. You can never know what you might see or what situation you may run into each day.
“I like my clients to experience a little fun along the way to keep stress at a minimum. I want my clients to know I’ve got their back in real estate, and they can focus on working and taking care of their loved ones.
“I strive to guide buyers and sellers smoothly through the process of buying or selling a home.”
What do your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about?
“Many agents in my office at Coldwell Banker Pryor Realty help prepare lunches at Ronald McDonald House each month. Ronald McDonald House provides families with the care and resources they need when their child is sick and supports programs and services that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
“This facility offers comfortable, convenient, free lodging accommodations that guarantee a hot meal every night and a community environment for families going through a difficult journey.
“Some of the amenities include a room for mental wellness, where families can engage in mindfulness activities during their stay while their child is in the hospital. They also offer a House to Home program that supports families throughout their child’s wellness journey after they’re discharged from the hospital.”
Have you read any recent books you want to share with others?
“I recently read ‘The Power of Positive Thinking’ by Norman Vincent Peale. This book focuses on faith and inspiration by using the power of prayer for all aspects of your daily life. The author wrote this book with the sole objective of helping the reader achieve a happy, satisfying and worthwhile life. I found guidance toward achieving my hopes and dreams.”
From helping clients find their dream homes to supporting impactful community programs like the Ronald McDonald House and Habitat for Humanity, Karen embodies the spirit of service and leadership that defines the profession. Her commitment to excellence, continued education and giving back highlights the value Realtors bring to the community and each other.
Whether guiding clients or volunteering, Realtors are passionate about making a positive impact every step of the way. #ThatsWhoWeR
Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations and boards of Realtors nationwide that comprise the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors owns and operates a multiple listing service that is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and that services more than 3,000 users. Local association membership is composed of Realtors who are servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines, including appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multifamily, property management and residential. Working alongside Realtors are our affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the association. Our affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.