In a landscape full of big views and even bigger decisions, I aim to be a steady hand on the wheel.

I’m a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty, working with sellers and buyers across Highlands, Cashiers, Sapphire, Glenville, Lake Toxaway, Cullowhee, and Scaly Mountain. I focus on residential, new construction, land, and luxury mountain properties, helping clients navigate a nuanced market with clarity and a calm, steady approach.

I’m originally from Orlando, but I grew up visiting the Highlands and Franklin area, where my family’s roots go back to the early 1960s. Like many of my clients, I eventually made the move here full-time. That perspective shapes how I work. I pay attention not just to the house itself, but to "how it will live" over time through seasons, changes, and everyday life.

Most of the people I work with are thoughtful and busy, and they want their mountain home to feel both special and practical. I focus on clear communication, honest guidance, and following through on the details so the process feels smooth and manageable.

I also spend a lot of time helping clients understand the realities of mountain living, from short-term rental considerations and HOAs to access, utilities, and seasonal factors, so they can make confident decisions without surprises.

Before real estate, my background included healthcare, human resources, finance, retail management, and running my own business. Those experiences help me stay organized, anticipate what matters, and keep things moving forward.

Whether you’re preparing to sell or looking for your place in the mountains, my goal is simple: help you get to the right outcome through a process that’s clear, steady, and thoughtfully managed from start to finish.

What clients have shared…

“Kara has been instrumental in coordinating every detail to perfection. Every aspect of our home search, from viewing to acquisition, was flawlessly executed and extremely pleasant.”

"Kara was outstanding, I have worked over the years with many real estate agents and up until now, always ended up being disappointed. Kara is a go getter. A treasure, only agent here in the mountains of NC that I will use. I’m a licensed builder and I am somewhat demanding. Kara went above and beyond."

"Kara Hardy is amazing at what she does! If you’re buying or selling in Highlands or Cashiers, NC, she’s the one to call. She knows the market, works hard for her clients, and makes the whole process easy. Highly recommend her!"