When we caught up with Kaity for our latest Q&A, she painted a vivid picture of Homestead as the rare blend of high-velocity ambition and genuine support, where lofty goals come hand-in-hand with an open door and a helping hand. In her dynamic role, every day brings fresh challenges and creative problem-solving opportunities, keeping her energized and engaged. She still carries the mantra from CEO Jayson Hardie— “sometimes we build the plane as we fly it”—through both work and life, embracing each curveball with confidence.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Homestead, and what makes it different from other places you’ve worked?
A: The culture at Homestead is ambitious yet incredibly approachable. That balance is rare. In most high-performance environments I’ve worked in, high expectations came with high pressure and little support. But at Homestead, I feel genuinely supported while also being challenged to grow. It’s a place where you’re not just seen as an employee, but as an asset—someone integral to the company’s mission and vision. That recognition makes a significant difference in how connected and motivated I feel in my role.
Q: What do you love most about your role at Homestead?
A: What I love most about my role at Homestead is how dynamic and engaging it is. Every day brings new goals, evolving objectives, and fresh opportunities. I thrive on the variety—no two transactions are ever the same, and each company project presents unique challenges and creative problem-solving moments. It keeps the work exciting and fulfilling.
Q: What is the best advice you received in your mortgage career?
A: The best piece of advice I’ve received came from CEO Jayson Hardie. He often says, “Sometimes we build the plane as we fly it.” That metaphor stuck with me. It perfectly encapsulates the nature of the mortgage industry—fast-paced, adaptive, and full of unique scenarios that often require creative, in-the-moment solutions. Interestingly, that wisdom applies far beyond mortgages; it’s become a guiding principle in my personal life as well. That little aphorism continues to help me navigate uncertainty with confidence and resilience.
Q: Our mission statement is “Making lives better, one home at a time.” How has working at Homestead helped make your life better?
A: My life has improved dramatically since joining Homestead. With the flexibility of my schedule, I can now be fully present for my daughter’s school and dance events, milestones I used to miss with previous employers. Beyond that, there’s deep fulfillment in my work—helping people through what can be one of the most overwhelming experiences of their lives. Being part of their journey, seeing their relief and joy at the end, brings purpose to my day. I’ve found that my life is better because I’m also making other people’s lives better, and that’s undeniably rewarding.
Q: If you could give advice to someone considering joining Homestead, what would it be?
A: When I first joined Homestead, I was filled with uncertainty. I had just made the biggest career change of my life and didn’t know what to expect—whether I’d fit in, have an impact, or find the support I needed. What I quickly discovered was that this company overflows with resources and genuine support. Every question I had—no matter how small—was answered with care. Homestead takes the time to find your niche and ensures you feel seen, heard, and valued. My advice? Take the leap. Trust the process. You’ll be amazed how supported you’ll feel… and remember, sometimes you just have to build the plane as you fly it.
At Homestead, our greatest strength lies in our people—when they’re empowered to excel, our clients reap the rewards. That’s why we’ve built a workplace where driven professionals like Kaity can take bold steps, innovate, and always know they have a support system behind them. Kaity’s fearless “build the plane as we fly it” attitude, combined with her dedication to guiding families through life’s biggest decisions—and still having the flexibility to celebrate every dance recital—perfectly captures the balance we strive for. Her energy, creativity, and genuine care are living proof of our commitment to putting people first and making lives better, one home at a time.