There's discipline, and then there's Kailani Kimoto. This Walnut Creek-based realtor has not just built her life on it; she embodies it.
Whether it's crushing early morning cardio, meticulously sculpting her physique for bodybuilding competitions, or negotiating contracts in Contra Costa County's dynamic housing market, Kailani's journey is a powerful blend of grit, grace, and service.
Kailani's story begins with a spark of boldness: "I was the first girl to try out for my high school football team—and I made it," she recalls.
That fearlessness would eventually carry her into the world of bodybuilding, a sport known as much for its mental demands as its physical ones.
"I was drawn to the discipline, and to the community," she says. "I wanted to be an example for my kids—show them that if mom could do it, they could do anything."
But success on the competition stage came with an unexpected cost. Like many athletes, Kailani faced a struggle with body image that she had hoped fitness might heal.
"I've struggled with body image my whole life," she says candidly, "I thought bodybuilding would fix that. But the leaner I got, the more I felt out of shape. It's something I still work through."
Everything changed in 2020. Like so many, Kailani was poised for a big year, training for a statewide competition. When the world shut down, it forced her to reevaluate her definition of wellness.
"That time made me realize (that) I don't need to train four hours a day or eat just fish and asparagus to be healthy. Real health is the trifecta—physical, mental, and spiritual."
Now, as one of Walnut Creek's top-producing real estate agents, Kailani brings that same holistic mindset to her business.
"It's one thing to be a realtor. It's another to connect," she says, "People aren't just transactions. They're people with real needs, and I'm the lucky person they trust to help them."
She credits bodybuilding for giving her the tenacity she brings to her career today.
"Every day is a chance to be better than yesterday," she says, "In real estate, no two clients are the same, just like no two workouts are the same. You have to listen to what's needed and adapt."
That discipline is evident in her daily routine: she wakes up at 5 a.m., journals, does fasted cardio with motivational sermons, works out with weights in the afternoon, and goes on six-mile hikes on Saturdays.
"It's not about consistency anymore," she laughs, "It's just who I am."
Style also plays a role, favoring fashion that suits her on-the-go lifestyle.
"I love comfort and style. I change out of work clothes into workout gear every day—it's where I feel most me. Confidence should come in a blazer or leggings."
Her success proves it. Kailani came in 2nd and 3rd place in statewide bodybuilding competitions, and in 2024, she was honored as a top producer and for having the best testimonials in her brokerage.
Most recently, she received an appreciation award from the Rossmoor Pickleball Club for her sponsorship and community support.
So what should buyers and sellers know about navigating Walnut Creek's real estate market landscape? Kailani breaks it down:
- The market is shifting—but not crashing.
"More inventory and softer prices give buyers leverage—but well-priced homes still move fast."
- The luxury market is holding strong.
"Cash buyers and families continue to seek Walnut Creek for its lifestyle, schools, and location."
- Strategy is everything.
"In this market, success comes down to timing, presentation, and pricing."
Ultimately, Kailani sees her role as more than a realtor. "I'm here to help rebuild the sense of community that was lost during COVID," she says. "I want people to know they are seen, supported, and valued—not just another number."
And whether she's on a hike, at an open house, or repping her favorite athleisure line, Kailani Kimoto proves one truth over and over: strength starts within.
Style Highlight: Kailani's fitness apparel featured in this shoot was provided by Lifetime Fitness Athleisure Line.