Where They Are Now: Kat Cannella
Kat Cannella Is Still Selling Dreams—One Home at a Time
When Kat Cannella first joined StartUP Columbus, she was making a bold leap—from the stability of W2 employment into the uncertain world of self-employment as a Realtor. Nearly seven years later, she’s still thriving as a full-time agent in the Chattahoochee Valley, with a business built on clarity, confidence, and community.
Through StartUP Columbus, Kat found the tools and connections that helped her turn that mindset shift into measurable progress. “The support you will get from others who are on a similar journey is immeasurable. Learn from other people’s mistakes! And then get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
Since launching her real estate business, Kat’s not only helped clients find homes—she’s also become a trusted connector in the Columbus community. “It’s hard to quantify, but I have contacts in all kinds of industries,” she says. “If you have a need, I probably know someone who knows someone who can help.”
“I have a much clearer picture of who my customer is and the market niches I can serve best than when I began,” Kat says. “Not every client is a good match for me—and vice versa.”
Like many entrepreneurs, Kat’s biggest challenge wasn’t her skillset—it was mindset. “Mindset is 100% the biggest shift going from W2 employment to owning your own business,” she shares. “Being around like-minded people who share similar, but different, struggles to share stories and experiences with was very helpful.”
Most recently, she’s expanding her reach by giving back through education. Kat now co-teaches a real estate pre-licensing course with a Realtor colleague and Columbus State University’s Continuing and Professional Education program. “Who knows, maybe I’ll run a real estate school one day!”
Balancing it all—business, clients, and personal life—comes with its own rhythm. “It’s all one big mishmash—whichever fire burns hottest currently,” she laughs. “I’m told this is normal.” Looking back, she admits she didn’t know exactly what she was walking into. “I had no idea what I was getting myself into—not truly. I still don’t know that I know what I’m doing in terms of actually managing my business, but at least I have some tools to use and people to turn to when I need guidance.”
To future StartUP participants, Kat offers a mix of encouragement and realism. “Know your numbers. Take an honest look at your revenue and expenses, and prepare for that risk,” she says. “But don’t forget—Columbus loves to support an underdog, especially once you prove the concept.”
From her first listing to her newest classroom, Kat Cannella’s journey is a testament to grit, growth, and the power of showing up—even when you don’t have all the answers.
