Meet Karen Dupree Williams | REALTOR® GRI, CREN | Business Owner | State Political Coordinator | Philanthropist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karen Dupree Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karen, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking has been paramount on my journey to entrepreneurship. Throughout my career in real estate, I’ve learned that calculated risks often lead to some of the greatest rewards. When I made the decision to start my own brokerage, Triangle to Coast Realty eXp, after over two decades of experience, it was undoubtedly a leap of faith. However, I knew that in order to achieve my goals and fully realize my vision for the future, I had to embrace the uncertainty and step outside of my comfort zone.

Launching Triangle to Coast Realty eXp was just the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey. One year later, I co-founded Triangle to Coast Property Management, further expanding my business ventures and diversifying my portfolio. These decisions involved significant risk, but I firmly believed in the potential for success and was willing to invest my time, energy, and resources into making it happen.

For me, risk-taking isn’t about blindly jumping into the unknown; it’s about carefully evaluating opportunities, trusting my instincts, and having the courage to pursue my ambitions despite the possibility of failure. Each risk I’ve taken has been calculated, backed by thorough research and strategic planning.

Ultimately, taking risks has been instrumental in propelling my career forward and achieving significant milestones. It has allowed me to break free from limitations, explore new opportunities, and ultimately, realize my full potential as an entrepreneur. While there have been challenges along the way, I’ve learned that with perseverance, determination, and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible. I firmly believe that it’s through embracing risk and embracing the unknown that we truly unlock our greatest potential for success

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Triangle to Coast Realty eXp and Triangle to Coast Property Management represents the culmination of my passion for real estate and my commitment to providing exceptional service to clients in the Fuquay-Varina area. Established in November of 2022, Triangle to Coast Realty eXp was born out of my desire to create a brokerage that prioritizes integrity, professionalism, and client satisfaction above all else. Just one year later, I co-founded Triangle to Coast Property Management with my business partner Nicole West, further expanding our services to meet the diverse needs of property owners and tenants in our community.

What Sets Us Apart:

What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to excellence and our commitment to going above and beyond for our clients. At Triangle to Coast Realty eXp, we prioritize personalized attention, expert guidance, and innovative solutions to help our clients achieve their real estate goals. Whether buying, selling, or investing, we provide tailored strategies and unparalleled support every step of the way.

Similarly, Triangle to Coast Property Management stands out for its comprehensive management solutions, transparent communication, and tenant-focused approach. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities of property ownership, and we work tirelessly to maximize the value of our clients’ investments while ensuring a positive and hassle-free rental experience for tenants.

Journey to Success:

My journey to entrepreneurship has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. While it hasn’t always been easy, my passion for real estate and true determination to succeed have been driving forces behind my accomplishments.

Overcoming challenges required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change. From navigating market fluctuations to building a team and establishing brand credibility, each obstacle presented an opportunity for growth and learning. Through persistence, strategic decision-making, and a focus on continuous improvement, I was able to overcome challenges and propel my businesses forward.

Lessons Learned:

Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, integrity, and surrounding myself with a supportive network of family, friends, colleagues, and team members. I’ve learned to embrace change, adapt to new technologies and market trends, and always put the needs of my clients first. Every setback has been a learning opportunity, and every success has been a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and passion.

What We Want the World to Know:

What I want the world to know is that Triangle to Coast Realty eXp and Triangle to Coast Property Management are more than just businesses—they’re a reflection of my commitment to excellence, integrity, and service. Our brands are built on a foundation of trust, transparency, and professionalism, and we are deeply invested in the success and well-being of our clients and community.

As we continue to grow and evolve, our mission remains the same: to provide unparalleled real estate services and property management solutions that exceed expectations and make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. We are proud of our journey thus far, and we are excited for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. With our dedication and passion, we are confident that the future holds boundless potential for Triangle to Coast Realty eXp, Triangle to Coast Property Management, and the clients we have the privilege to serve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve lived in this area my whole life, so sharing some of my favorite spots will be easy! I love Fuquay-Varina because of the Hallmark Movie feel, the people, and the thriving downtown district. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy in Fuquay-Varina.

Here is the perfect itinerary for a week-long trip to Fuquay-Varina:

Day 1: Downtown Exploration
Start your week-long trip by exploring downtown Fuquay-Varina, where you’ll find charming shops, delicious eateries, and historic landmarks. Begin your day with breakfast at Stick Boy Bread Co., known for its freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread. After fueling up, take a stroll along Main Street, stopping to browse the boutiques and art galleries that line the historic downtown district. For lunch, head to Aviator SmokeHouse for mouthwatering barbecue and craft brews brewed on-site. In the afternoon, visit the Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, where you can learn about the town’s rich history and enjoy a leisurely walk around the scenic park.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
Embrace the natural beauty of Fuquay-Varina with a day of outdoor adventures. Start your morning with a hike at Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Park, where you can explore wooded trails and spot native wildlife. After working up an appetite, enjoy a picnic lunch at South Park, followed by a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake. In the afternoon, head to Bentwinds Golf and Country Club for a round of golf on the pristine course, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.

Day 3: Culinary Delights
Indulge your taste buds with a day dedicated to culinary delights in Fuquay-Varina. Begin your day with lunch at Mason Jar Lager Co., where you can enjoy Southern-inspired dishes and craft beer in a laid-back atmosphere. After lunch, take a short drive to Fainting Goat Brewing Company, where you can sample a variety of locally brewed beers and enjoy live music on the outdoor patio. For dinner, head to Garibaldi Trattoria for authentic Italian cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Day 4: Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in the cultural scene of Fuquay-Varina with a day of exploration and discovery. Start your morning with a visit to the Fuquay-Varina Museums Complex, where you can learn about the town’s history through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Afterward, explore the local art scene at Fuquay Art Gallery, where you’ll find a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media artwork by local artists. For lunch, grab a bite to eat at Anna’s Pizzeria, a beloved local spot known for its authentic New York-style pizza and casual ambiance.

Day 5: Relaxation and Wellness
Take a day to relax and rejuvenate in Fuquay-Varina’s tranquil surroundings. Start your morning with a yoga class at Infinite Yoga and Wellness, where you can unwind and center yourself with gentle stretches and meditation. In the afternoon, head to Fuquay Mineral Spring Park for a leisurely walk around the serene grounds.

Day 6: Shopping and Entertainment
Spend your final full day in Fuquay-Varina exploring the town’s shopping and entertainment options. Begin your day with breakfast at My Way Tavern, where you can enjoy classic American fare and craft cocktails in a cozy atmosphere. After breakfast, spend the morning browsing the shops at Fuquay Crossing, where you’ll find a variety of boutique stores, specialty shops, and unique gifts. In the afternoon, catch a movie at Fuquay-Varina Stadium 6, a cozy movie theater with comfortable seating and the latest films.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch
Wrap up your week-long trip to Fuquay-Varina with a farewell brunch at The Mill, a charming restaurant housed in a historic cotton mill overlooking the scenic South River. Indulge in Southern-inspired dishes such as shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and homemade biscuits with gravy, accompanied by bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys. As you savor your final meal in town, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories you’ve made during your time in Fuquay-Varina.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As I reflect on my journey to entrepreneurship and the milestones achieved, I am filled with immense gratitude for the unwavering support and encouragement of my family, friends, colleagues, and team.

To my family, thank you for being my rock, my source of strength, and my biggest cheerleaders. Your unwavering support, understanding, and sacrifices have been the foundation upon which I’ve built my dreams.

To my friends, thank you for believing in me, celebrating my successes, and lifting me up during challenging times. Your encouragement, camaraderie, and laughter have enriched my journey and made every milestone that much sweeter.

To my colleagues, thank you for your collaboration and mentorship. Your expertise, insights, and knowledge have been invaluable as I navigated the complexities of the real estate industry and ventured into entrepreneurship.

And to my incredible team, thank you for your dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. Your passion, talent, and unwavering support have been instrumental in the success of our companies. Together, we have overcome challenges, celebrated victories, and forged ahead with determination and resilience.

Each of you has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of my business and journey as an entrepreneur. Your belief in me, your support, and your shared vision have propelled me forward, even in the face of adversity.

As I dedicate this article to my husband, Rob, and children, Elizabeth and Reid, I want to express my deepest gratitude for being a constant source of inspiration, motivation, and strength. Your belief in me has fueled my ambition, your support has sustained me through the highs and lows, and your presence has made every step of this journey worthwhile.

Together, we have achieved incredible milestones, and I am excited to continue this journey with each of you by my side. Here’s to many more successes, adventures, and memories together. Thank you for being a part of my journey, and for making it truly extraordinary.

Website: https://triangletocoast.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karentriangletocoastrealtyexp/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karendupreewilliams/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TriangletoCoastRealty_exp

Other: Triangle to Coast Property Management: https://triangletocoastpm.com/

Image Credits
Sara Coffin Photography