About Karen Kelly

For more than two decades, Karen Kelly has been at the forefront of Austin’s real estate market, consistently ranking among the city’s most trusted and accomplished agents. Now in her second year as a member of Luxury League Austin, Karen combines the strategic insight of an MBA from The McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas with a lifelong passion for art, architecture, and design. Her approach blends sharp market intelligence with a deep commitment to her clients, guiding them seamlessly through every stage of buying, selling, or investing.

Widely recognized as an industry authority, Karen maintains a finger on the pulse of Austin’s evolving market—tracking trends, forecasting opportunities, navigating building codes and regulations—and is known for her discretion, diligence, and ability to turn her clients’ visions into reality. She has personally designed, built, and owned multiple investment properties, and today she owns and self-manages an impressive portfolio of 12 Austin properties, spanning Zilker, Bouldin, Downtown, and East Austin. Her expertise extends to 1031 exchanges, development processes, and the short- and long-term rental markets, making her a sought-after advisor for income-producing properties.

A native of Brownwood, TX, Karen credits her work ethic, curiosity, and approachable style to her small-town roots. Many of her clients are repeat and referral-based—drawn back not only by her results, but by her professionalism, positivity, and genuine connection. Beyond real estate, she has contributed her time and leadership to the Seton Forum, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, and the Real Estate Council of Austin, where she served on the Leadership Development Council. She also served over a decade on the MBA Alumni Advisory Board at UT Austin, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Mathematics from Southern Methodist University.

At home in the vibrant Zilker neighborhood, Karen lives with her husband, Austin, their two young children, Olive and Pancho, and their two dogs, Smooch and Peaches. An avid traveler, she has explored more than 45 countries and is always planning her next adventure—whether across the globe or right here in the heart of Austin.