We are thrilled to announce that Taylor-Made Sales Agent Katie Cantrell was named REALTOR® of the Year by the Garrett County Board of REALTORS® (GCBR). This award honors a REALTOR member for outstanding service to the real estate profession and community.
Since earning her real estate license in 2023 and joining Taylor-Made, Katie has quickly made an impact that extends well beyond helping clients buy and sell homes. Her commitment to building relationships, supporting the local community, and getting involved wherever she can has become an important part of her real estate career.
“I never set out to be Realtor of the Year. I just wanted to work hard, help people, and be involved in a community I love. For me, success has never just been about how many homes I sell. It is about being someone people can trust, showing up for my community, and hopefully leaving people a little happier than I found them. To be recognized for doing those things is incredibly special.”
A Natural Fit for Real Estate
Katie’s path into real estate began with a little encouragement from her friend, Bryan Chaney, who recognized that her strong community connections and genuine love of helping people could translate naturally into a successful career. It turned out to be the right fit.
Since then, Katie has quickly become involved with the Garrett County Board of REALTORS®, serving as Secretary and Networking Chair and participating on the Affordable Housing Committee. Through these roles, she has helped create opportunities for REALTORS®, local businesses, and community members to connect while also raising awareness of housing needs in Garrett County.
One project she is especially proud of is helping organize the Homeowners Assistance Fund kickoff fundraiser. It raised funds and increased awareness of resources available to help make homeownership more attainable.
Community Endeavors
Katie’s community involvement reaches beyond real estate. For the past year, she served as a Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Diplomat, supporting area businesses, welcoming and connecting Chamber members, and taking part in events throughout the county.
She is also involved with Bridging Gaps, a local nonprofit working to address needs in the community. Among its initiatives is a program that provides food to local children over the weekend, helping bridge the time between school meals on Friday and Monday.
Life Outside of Real Estate
Outside of work and volunteering, Katie enjoys spending time with friends and family, especially her daughter, summers at Deep Creek Lake, interior design, community events, and event planning.