Katie Payne

My best advice for buyers? Get prepared early and lean on your team. Start with a solid pre-approval so you know your numbers and can move fast when the right home hits the market. In competitive areas, that preparation gives you a real edge. Next, focus on your needs versus wants. It’s easy to fall for the pretty finishes, but the right location, layout, and condition are what protect your investment long-term. And finally—trust the process. I guide my clients step-by-step, from negotiations to inspections to closing, making sure they’re informed and protected every step of the way. Buying a home should be exciting, not overwhelming—and with the right plan, it absolutely can be.

For sellers, preparation and strategy make all the difference. Start by focusing on presentation—clean, declutter, and take care of small repairs that make a big impact. First impressions matter, and buyers decide within seconds how they feel about your home. Next, price it strategically. The goal isn’t just to list—it’s to sell. I study market data and nearby competition to help you price in a way that attracts the right buyers and maximizes your return. Lastly, trust your agent’s marketing plan. Professional photos, video tours, social media exposure, and great communication all help position your home to stand out. Selling can feel emotional, but with a clear plan, the right guidance, and strong negotiation—you can move forward confidently to your next chapter.

I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients—each with their own story and goals. From first-time homebuyers learning the process step-by-step, to seasoned sellers ready to downsize or relocate, I’ve helped clients in all stages of life. A large part of my business focuses on military families—both active duty and retired—navigating PCS moves, VA loans, and tight timelines. I am a military relocation specialist. I’ve also worked with investors looking to grow their portfolios, and families moving locally within the Kansas City and Fort Leavenworth areas who want to find that perfect next home. Every client is different, but my approach stays the same: clear communication, strong advocacy, and a commitment to making their move as smooth and successful as possible.

There’s something really special about watching clients grow into the next chapter of their lives. I helped a wonderful couple buy their very first home when they were just retiring from the military. Fast forward five years—they had built equity and were ready to move up to something that fit their new season of life. We started by listing their first home, which was such a full-circle moment for me. I remembered how excited they were when they bought it, and now I got to help them prepare it for sale—staging, pricing, and marketing it to highlight all the updates they’d made. It sold quickly and smoothly, which made the transition even sweeter. Then, we turned around and found their dream “move-up” home—one that checked every box. Being part of both sides of their journey reminded me why I love what I do: it’s not just about transactions, it’s about relationships that last.

I got started in real estate after years of moving with the military—and realizing how much a good agent can impact that experience. As a military spouse, I’ve been through countless moves, from the excitement of new beginnings to the stress of tight timelines and changing duty stations. Along the way, I worked with some incredible REALTORS®—and some who left me thinking, there has to be a better way to guide families through this. That’s what inspired me to become an agent myself. I wanted to take my firsthand experience, my love of community, and my passion for helping others—and use it to serve families like mine. Now, years later, I get to help military and local families buy and sell homes around Fort Leavenworth and the Kansas City area. It’s not just a career for me—it’s a calling, and I’m grateful every day that I get to do what I love.

Yes—my background in communication and leadership has a huge impact on how I serve my clients. I hold both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Communication, which means I bring strong listening, negotiation, and problem-solving skills to every transaction. Real estate is all about people—understanding needs, building trust, and keeping everyone informed—and that’s where my education truly shines. Beyond academics, I’ve spent years in volunteer and leadership roles, especially during times of community building and even crisis management. Those experiences taught me how to stay calm under pressure, adapt quickly, and lead with empathy—skills that directly translate to guiding buyers and sellers through one of the most emotional and important decisions of their lives. Whether we’re navigating a complex move, a military relocation, or a fast-paced market, my goal is always the same: communicate clearly, protect your interests, and help you move forward with confidence.