McGraw Realtors 

In the heart of Saline County where community values resonate, Managing Executive Broker for McGraw Realtors Kayla Jones is a guiding force turning homeownership dreams into tangible reality. Kayla’s journey into real estate, though unexpected, is a result of her resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of community and others.

Kayla’s road to real estate started while serving as a private school teacher. A parent-teacher meeting and a chance encounter led to a conversation about the potential fit for a career in the field. Intrigued, Kayla embraced the opportunity, later entering a pivotal role for McGraw Realtors.

“In 2019, I found myself becoming a managing broker in a unique and unexpected way,” she says. “The opportunity arose when a management position became vacant, and despite the search for a suitable replacement, no one seemed to meet the qualifications. Recognizing the need for someone to fill the crucial role, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I enrolled in Broker Class that week, and the rest is history.”

Kayla shares that what sets McGraw Realtors apart in Saline County is its distinctive approach, highlighted by the presence of an in-house real estate school, McGraw Real Estate Academy & its in-house Principal Instructor, Kim Gaines. This educational resource symbolizes a commitment to equipping agents with practical skills and keeping them updated on industry trends. Additionally, McGraw Realtors takes pride in providing free Continuing Education (CE) courses for all agents.

“Our commitment to professional development is exemplified by our provision of free Continuing Education (CE) courses for all our agents. Understanding the importance of staying current with industry regulations and advancements, we go above and beyond by covering the costs of the mandatory CEs required annually,” Kayla shares. “This not only demonstrates our investment in our agents’ growth but also ensures that they remain at the forefront of their profession.”

Beyond the real estate transactions, McGraw Realtors is deeply rooted in serving the community, Kayla points out. The agency actively engages in philanthropy, with team members dedicating time and expertise to nonprofit organizations. Serving on the Board of Directors for various nonprofits and taking leadership roles in community initiatives,

McGraw Realtors showcases a commitment to the well-being and growth of the community they serve.

“As a full-service brokerage that has been around for 86 years, we take pride in catering to a diverse range of real estate needs. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the comprehensive services we offer to our clients,” says Kayla.

Kayla relishes the joy of handing over keys to new homeowners. Witnessing dreams come true and playing a role in the journey to homeownership provides unparalleled satisfaction. However, what truly drives Kayla is the success of new agents she guides.

“Guiding them through the intricacies of the real estate industry, helping them hone their skills, and witnessing their growth and accomplishments is incredibly fulfilling,” she says.

“Seeing them achieve their goals and make strides in their careers brings a sense of pride and purpose to my role.”

On a personal level, the pursuit of improvement also motivates Kayla. A self-driven competition to surpass previous achievements keeps her at the forefront of the industry, ensuring continuous evolution and adaptation to the ever-changing real estate landscape.

On a typical day, mornings for Kayla begin with quiet reflection and devotion before plunging into the fast-paced world of real estate and family life. Email catchups and e-signs take precedence, ensuring that she is on top of updates and urgent matters. The mid-morning is dedicated to the gym, providing a mental and physical recharge for the challenges ahead. The focus then shifts entirely to real estate: assisting agents, attending meetings, negotiating, and strategic planning. Evenings strike a balance between professional responsibilities and family activities.

 Addressing the volatility of the current real estate market, Kayla dispels common myths. While the national market may experience fluctuations, she says Arkansas, and particularly Saline County, maintains a healthy and vibrant real estate landscape. Local factors like economic conditions, job growth, and demographic patterns, play a crucial role in shaping the real estate environment. Potential buyers and sellers are encouraged to consult local experts who can provide insights tailored to the specific dynamics of their area.

Kayla shares valuable advice for those considering buying or selling a home. Finding a real estate agent aligned with one’s needs is crucial, she notes. McGraw Realtors stands out as a reliable choice, with its 21 offices and nearly 850 agents who close over $2 billion in real estate year after year. A dedicated and experienced team can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of real estate transactions.

In Saline County, McGraw Realtors stand as pillars of expertise, commitment, and community engagement. And rest assured, Kayla says, “With the right guidance, you can approach the real estate process with confidence and increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful transaction.” νJillian Jacuzzi