When the life I’d built as a teacher and mother began to unravel, I chose not to break but to reinvent myself.
Divorce shakes everyone, and I was no exception. After years of a predictable life, my foundations suddenly felt unstable. Teaching, which had once seemed like a lifelong path, no longer provided the financial security I needed. For the first time in years, I faced the possibility of a completely new direction. It was intimidating. I hadn’t stepped this far outside my comfort zone since my twenties.
Ah, my twenties—years of searching, experimenting, and trying to find my path. After graduating with a degree in graphic design and media, I landed a job with a television network in production. I discovered the income and pace were too unpredictable for the life I wanted. Eventually, I surrendered to a more stable future and followed a family tradition: teaching. My parents and uncles were educators, and I knew I could be good at it, too. I earned my teaching credentials and began working as a kindergarten and elementary school teacher.
Children taught me patience—and joy. Over time, I gravitated toward teaching P.E., the most playful class on the schedule, and I loved it. Watching kids learn through movement, having fun, and expressing themselves freely left an imprint on me. I also became deeply involved in school activities, as the hot lunch coordinator and getting deeply involved in that community.
When I had my two sons, Cal and Ryan, I was fortunate enough to step away from teaching and become a stay-at-home mom. I wanted to be the one raising my kids, and those years at home were precious. But when the market crashed in 2007, our finances took a hit. I returned to teaching to help support the family.
As things stabilized, I bought a rental property—a small but important investment that opened a new door for me. Investing in that property was my first real introduction to real estate. I discovered I liked the process, from the numbers to the problem-solving to the sense of creating a home. So, when my divorce came and I wanted to build a new career for myself, real estate felt like a natural next step. It was a world I already knew and enjoyed, and it offered the potential for the independence and security I now needed.
Today my boys are in their twenties, figuring out their own paths just as I once did. To be honest, I feel like I’m rediscovering my path every decade. It’s not a one-time event. But whatever path I choose, I like bringing joy and silliness along with me. Outside of work, I play pickleball, sew, and spend time with my animals—my chickens, dog, and cat keep me happy. Gardening is another passion: I care for a fig tree, roses, and a collection of herbs that fill my home with scent and flavor.
After so many years of teaching children, I still carry their lessons with me. They reminded me every day to find joy in small things—to laugh, to play, to stay curious. I try to bring that same spirit into everything I do now, including my real estate work. Silliness, humor, and a sense of fun can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. That’s what I hope to offer the people I serve: not just professional expertise, but a reminder that finding a home can be a joyful experience, too.
Buying or selling real estate can feel overwhelming, so my first priority is to calm and guide my clients through the process. I approach each transaction with neutrality and focus, keeping emotions in check so I can concentrate on what needs to be done—and then make it happen. Acting as a steady voice of reason, I aim to bring clarity and calmness to every step.
I’m easygoing and flexible, yet also willing to go above and beyond to ensure a successful outcome. Whether it’s coordinating repairs, painting, or handling last-minute details, I manage every aspect needed to prepare a property for sale. Having spent most of my life in Chico, I’ve built a trusted network of vendors who can address any real estate need quickly and professionally.
Along with my hardworking attitude, I’m honest, knowledgeable, and meticulous about details that could become deal-breakers later. I treat every property as if it were my own, combining care and expertise to create a smooth experience for every client.
Sincerely,
Kami Smith