Kristin Lanham

Buying a home is a process, not a one-moment decision. Take it step by step. Get clear on what really matters to you, get your finances lined up early, and give yourself grace along the way. Markets shift, emotions pop up, and questions are normal—that’s all part of it. Having a knowledgeable, calm advisor by your side makes a huge difference, helping you navigate the details, stay grounded, and make a smart decision you’ll feel good about long after the keys are in your hand.

Selling a home is also a process—and a very personal one. Give yourself time, preparation, pricing, and presentation matter more than most sellers expect. Taking the time to get the home ready, understand the market, and choose a thoughtful strategy can make a big difference in both the outcome and your stress level. With the right guidance, the process feels manageable and intentional, not overwhelming—so you can move forward with confidence and clarity, knowing you made smart decisions along the way.

I work with clients in all stages of life and homeownership. Buyers and sellers, first-time buyers, move-up buyers, downsizers, relocation and those navigating major life transitions. What they all have in common isn’t the type of transaction—it’s the desire for clear guidance, honest advice, and someone they can truly trust. I’m especially honored to work with military personnel and help them fully understand and use their VA benefits, and I have a soft spot for first-time buyers who are taking that exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) first step. But at the heart of every relationship is connection—listening closely, understanding goals, and guiding each client with care, integrity, and experience so they feel confident throughout the process.

A recent transaction I’m especially fond of was working with Vita and Joshua, who were expecting their first baby and navigating a big life transition. They were moving from Brentwood to the Walnut Creek/Martinez/Pleasant Hill area for an easier commute, closer family connections, and better long-term fit for a growing family. They had very specific criteria and found the right home—but we were competing against 14 offers, and the house needed significant work. Through strong communication with the listing agent and a well-structured, appealing offer, we won. From there, we coordinated the purchase and successfully sold their Brentwood home, all before the baby arrived. It was a great example of how strategy, timing, and trust can make a complex process come together smoothly.

I found my way into real estate during a big life shift. I had just been laid off from a company I’d been with for 12 years after surviving 17 layoffs during the dot-com era, and I was also looking for a career that offered more flexibility while raising my young children. A friend had mentioned—more than once—that she thought I’d be great in real estate, so I decided to take the leap and get licensed. Shortly after, I found myself navigating a divorce, and at that point it was truly all or nothing. I was determined to create stability for my kids and ultimately bought my ex out of our home so they could stay in the same school district. It took long hours, hard work, and perseverance—but I did it. That experience shaped how I show up for my clients today: steady, empathetic, and fully committed to helping people move forward with confidence during life’s biggest transitions.

Yes. My background and training are a big part of how I help clients navigate real estate with confidence. I hold a degree in marketing, which helps me strategically position homes for maximum exposure and value. I’m also a high D/I on the DISC profile, meaning I’m decisive, proactive, and highly communicative—clients always know what’s happening and what comes next. I’m relocation-certified and experienced in helping clients manage the logistics and timelines that come with moving, including military relocations. I have a strong understanding of VA loans and their specific requirements, and I’m also a certified Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES), which allows me to thoughtfully guide downsizers and clients navigating later-in-life transitions. I navigated many short sales and REOs during the downturn from 2008-2012. All of this translates into clear strategy, calm guidance, and a smoother experience for my clients.