For almost three decades, Kete Quick Cannon has excelled in the competitive Homewood real estate market, establishing a reputation as a detailed agent that goes the extra mile for her clients. Kete closed her first transaction in 1993. In 1995, she earned her spot as a top producer within her company — a title she continues today.
“Both of my parents were Realtors, and they had their own company in Homewood for 35 years,” Kete said. “I grew up in the business; it’s in my blood and comes natural to me. My degree is in interior design. My love of architecture and creating beautiful homes progressed naturally for me into real estate.”
With a keen eye for detail, an uncompromising standard of client service and savvy negotiating skills Kete is the perfect partner for her clients to help them navigate the buying and selling process.
“I’m a bit old school — I answer my phone. Yes, I know how to text, but I believe personal communication is the key to excellent service,” Kete said. “Personal and effective communication skills are crucial to the real estate process, and especially negotiations,” she said.
Kete realizes as a Realtor she only gets one chance to make a first impression, and she emphasizes listening to her clients and understanding their goals.
“It’s crucial in gaining their trust in me and in making the process enjoyable for them,” Kete said. “Every client and transaction presents new and unique challenges requiring creative thinking and various resources. With more than 29 years of experience and connections in the area, my goal is bringing my client’s closing in for a smooth landing.”
From entry-level price point homes to multimillion-dollar properties, Kete’s understanding of the local markets comes from her decades of successful real estate sales. “Discovering trends, watching property sales and analyzing data keeps me informed so I can better guide the clients I represent,” she said.
When it comes to marketing, “appearance is everything! You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” Kete said. She added that in today’s market “life usually begins on the internet for a listing, which is why professional photography is paramount. Guiding my sellers on how to prepare their homes for photography and marketability brings maximum return.”
Kete offers a wide range of marketing tools which includes maximizing exposure on the internet, mobile ads and networking with her fellow Realtors. “ARC Realty is a worldwide, luxury affiliate that brings buyers and sellers together,” Kete said.
Following the rocky year of 2020, Kete said she knows homeownership is even more important to her clients now. She urges homeowners and homebuyers not to lose focus in the rush to find the perfect home. Even though buyers need to move fast in this low inventory market, Kete said it’s important they do their due diligence.
“Be prepared to make an offer with the least amount of contingencies,” she advised. “Getting the home you want isn’t always about the money. It’s about creating the least amount of barriers for the seller.”
Kete consistently ranks in the top 10% of all Birmingham Realtors. “With an extensive knowledge of the market, attention to detail and unmatched loyalty to my clients, I guide them through the real estate process to a successful and smooth closing,” Kete said.
Kete has served on the Homewood Beautification Board, is the founder of the West Homewood Neighborhood Association and is a gold sponsor of West Homewood StreetFest and the Homewood Back to School Bash which benefits the Homewood Patriot Band. Kete is also a recipient of the Chief’s Award from the Homewood Police Department for outstanding community service.
Kete is a 59-year Homewood resident and both her and her daughter are alumnae of the city school system.
Kete said she recognizes the importance of what she does and the value she provides to her clients.
“I don’t just sell real estate; I list and sell people’s homes,” Kete said. “There is a big difference, I believe.”