Cathy Hotchkiss withCathy Hotchkiss Fine Property Group (CathyHotchkiss.com) is a well-known Realtor in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. Prior to helping buyers and sellers with real estate transactions, she spent 22 years as an interior designer. Here, we talk to her about her unique career path, what buyers are looking for now, and her favorite places in Scottsdale.
Your career path is unique—transitioning from interior design to luxury real estate. What inspired that shift?
I have always loved interior design and spent over 35 years building and owning my own design company. However, by 2007, the industry became increasingly challenging—products were often unavailable, backorders were lengthy, and the process grew frustrating for both my clients and me. Real estate felt like a natural transition and one that complemented my design background while offering new opportunities. I had always enjoyed visiting open houses and model homes, drawing inspiration from fresh ideas and innovative spaces, and real estate allowed me to merge that passion with my professional experience.
Does having an interior design background influence how you approach real estate?
The two professions work together seamlessly. My interior design background allows me to market homes in a way that highlights their best features when listing them for sale, while also giving buyer clients valuable insight into a home’s future potential and design possibilities.
What features and amenities do luxury home buyers value most in today’s market?
Open floor plans and few interior steps seem to be important with the current trend of less formal living. Homes that are updated with current finishes are more attractive, as many buyers do not have the expertise or time to complete the project themselves. Outdoor spaces for entertaining and gathering are extremely popular, and a great view is an additional plus.
In your opinion, what’s one underestimated aspect of luxury home buying or selling that most buyers don’t consider—but should?
Working with a Realtor who is a specialist in the areas they are interested in is imperative, as these agents are familiar with current prices, recent sales, and home values in those neighborhoods. In many instances, local specialists know of homes coming available in the area that are not on the market yet, and they typically know the other agents in the area, which makes for a great working relationship during the home-buying process.
What has been the most memorable or rewarding moment of your career so far?
Many of my clients have become personal friends, as we spend a great deal of time together throughout the buying and selling process. There is nothing more rewarding than helping sellers move on to the next chapter of their lives, while sharing in the excitement of buyers as they discover their perfect dream home.
What do you believe sets your client service apart in a competitive luxury market?
Being a great agent requires a tremendous amount of time, knowledge, and dedication—it’s so much more than simply opening a door. There are countless moving parts involved in creating a smooth transaction, and my goal is to handle every detail while making the process feel calm and effortless for my clients. I want my clients to feel comfortable, confident, and relaxed throughout the entire experience … leave the stress to me!
You’re known for active involvement in local committees and mentoring newer agents. Why is community engagement important to you?
Being active in the local community is important in meeting future clients, as they are already familiar with your name and reputation. I meet many people who state they “know who I am” as they have seen ads or heard of me from other clients, which makes them more comfortable and trusting with me from the start. I appreciate the opportunity to mentor newer agents in guiding them to grow, as they soon will be agents I will be working with on future transactions.
What you love most about your job:
Knowing that I assisted a client’s dream come true for their family, whether selling or buying, larger or smaller home, or a different location. It’s very rewarding in moving them to their next journey!
Your favorite places in Scottsdale?
My husband and I live in DC Ranch, so we tend to stay north. We love being members at The Country Club at DC Ranch, which is a very friendly environment with many activities, lots of hiking and walking trails, and the McDowell Mountains are beautiful. We love all types of restaurants, and we have numerous choices in this amazing area; however, we spend a lot of time at Market Street at DC Ranch, Kierland Commons, and Scottsdale Quarter, which are all excellent for shopping and eating!