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In this episode of the Messages of Positivity podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Katherine Van Brocklin, the founder and owner of Mountain and Main Property Management, a full-service residential and commercial property management company based in Asheville, North Carolina. Katherine's journey to property management is both inspiring and insightful, as she shares her unique background and the experiences that led her to start her own business.

Katherine, originally from Miami, Florida, moved to Western North Carolina over 13 years ago. With a rich history in banking, where she spent nearly 30 years leading sales teams and managing operations, she decided to pivot during the pandemic and return to her roots in property management. She explains how her family background in property management influenced her decision and how her skills from banking seamlessly transferred to her new venture.

Throughout our conversation, Katherine emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in her role, as no two days are alike in property management. She discusses the structure she has implemented within her company, including team meetings and a clear division of responsibilities among her staff, which allows her to maintain a balance between work and family life.

We also delve into the challenges of managing rental properties, particularly in the current market of Western North Carolina, which has seen fluctuations due to recent events like the hurricane in 2024. Katherine explains how she determines rental rates through comprehensive market analysis and the importance of maintaining a professional relationship between landlords and tenants to mitigate potential conflicts.

Katherine addresses common misconceptions about property management, such as the belief that it is too expensive or that landlords can easily manage their properties on their own. She highlights the value of hiring a property manager, including legal compliance and the peace of mind it provides to property owners.

As we wrap up the episode, Katherine shares her thoughts on the importance of family support in business and how her husband plays a crucial role in her company. She also reflects on her experiences as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, noting that professionalism and competence have earned her respect among her peers.

Finally, Katherine offers valuable advice to high schoolers and young adults entering the workforce: to not sweat the small stuff, learn from mistakes, and embrace their individuality. Her insights are a testament to resilience and the power of pursuing one's passions.

Join us for this enlightening conversation filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a strong message of positivity and perseverance in the face of challenges.