Exploring Life & Business with Carla Castillo of LIV Sotheby’s

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carla Castillo.

Hi Carla, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in real estate began 25 years ago, when I started as an Office Assistant at Coldwell Banker in Littleton. Back then, we relied on MLS books, fax machines, and couriers to submit offers—a far cry from the fast-paced digital tools we use today. At the time, I was living in Lakewood, the city I grew up in, and where my roots were planted deep.

Over the years, I remained in the real estate world, working in various support roles as an assistant and office manager. I loved being part of the process, supporting agents and clients behind the scenes. But nine years ago, I took a leap of faith and got my real estate license. As an introvert, I wasn’t sure if being a licensed agent was the right fit for me—but I pushed through the uncertainty and gave it a chance.

I started my journey as a licensed agent with RE/MAX Synergy in Littleton, where I had the incredible fortune of being mentored by one of the most inspiring employing brokers I’ve ever known. Her guidance and belief in me shaped the agent I am today, and I carry her lessons with me still.

In these past nine years, I’ve found where my heart truly lies—helping first-time home buyers navigate the excitement and uncertainty of their first purchase, supporting couples through the complex transitions of divorce, and empowering single moms to achieve homeownership and even invest in income properties. These are more than just transactions—they’re life-changing moments, and I feel honored to be a part of them.

A year and a half ago, I earned my Managing Broker’s License, and now I’m preparing for my next chapter: opening my own brokerage. My goal is to create a space where I can mentor and guide new agents, just as I was mentored—passing on what I’ve learned and helping others find success and fulfillment in this industry.

Real estate has been more than just a career—it’s been a lifelong journey of growth, connection, and purpose. And I’m just getting started.

I am truly blessed to work with such amazing clients who allow me to be part of some of the most important moments in their lives. Each transaction carries a story, and I hold each one close to my heart.

One of those special stories is with The Tripp Family—a wonderful couple who purchased their first home together for themselves and their four beautiful children. I’ve known Rodney Tripp for years through my sister, who went to high school with him, and we’ve stayed connected ever since. It was such a joy to work with Rodney and his wife, Tia, and to see their dream of homeownership come true. (They’re the couple in the photo celebrating with a champagne bottle!)

Another moment that meant so much to me was helping my cousin, Desiree Rivera, and her husband, Mario Rivera, purchase their first home. There’s something extra special about helping family, and I felt deeply honored that they put their trust in me to guide them through the process. They found a beautiful home to start and grow their family in, and it fills me with pride to know I was a part of that. (You’ll see them in the photo kissing while holding the key in front of their new home.)

I was also lucky to receive a referral from my returning client, Stevie Tafoya, who connected me with his close friends, Ian Highley and Collette Eckhart. This was one of my all-time favorite sales—not just because of the connection we formed, but because of the incredible home they purchased. It was a stunning ranch on a large lot, and it even appraised well above the purchase price. It was the perfect fit for their beautiful family, and I couldn’t be happier for them. (They’re the family pictured sitting on the step, with their son proudly holding the SOLD sign.)

These are more than transactions—they’re relationships and memories that stay with me. I’m so grateful to be a part of each of these journeys and to do work that allows me to celebrate life’s milestones with the people I care about.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been navigating this industry as an introvert. Real estate often favors those who are naturally outgoing and thrive in constant social interaction, so learning how to show up with confidence and energy—even when it didn’t come naturally—was a major hurdle for me.

In the beginning, I also struggled with self-doubt. I questioned whether I was cut out for this business, especially in a role that requires so much visibility and self-promotion. But over time, and with the support of some incredible friends, mentors, and networking opportunities, I began to grow into the role. I learned how to promote myself in a way that felt authentic, not performative, and discovered that being genuine and truly caring about others is just as powerful as being the loudest voice in the room.

Those struggles ultimately helped me build deeper connections and serve my clients in a more thoughtful and personal way. They also made me stronger and more resilient—and for that, I’m grateful.

On a more personal note, one of the most impactful experiences for me was turning a personal struggle into a deep connection with an organization that now holds a special place in my heart—The Family Tree in Wheat Ridge, CO. They support survivors of domestic violence and individuals from all walks of life who are working to rebuild. The strength and resilience I’ve seen in the people they serve has been incredibly moving, and I feel truly blessed to be able to give back through volunteering. What once was a difficult chapter in my own journey has become a source of purpose and a way to support others who are walking a hard road.

These experiences—both personal and professional—have shaped not just my career, but who I am. They’ve taught me the value of empathy, resilience, and showing up with heart.

As you know, we’re big fans of LIV Sotheby’s. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m a licensed real estate broker who specializes in helping first-time home buyers, divorcing couples, and single moms navigate the buying and selling process. I’m also a Certified Divorce Specialist, which allows me to provide thoughtful, informed guidance during what is often an emotionally complex time. My goal is always to make the process feel less overwhelming and more empowering, especially for those who may be navigating major life changes.

What sets me apart is my honest, compassionate approach. Real estate can be one of the most stressful steps in a person’s life, and I believe in meeting my clients where they are—with patience, understanding, and clear guidance. I’m not just here to close a deal; I’m here to walk alongside my clients, support them through transitions, and help them feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

I’m also deeply passionate about mentoring new agents. I know how overwhelming it can be starting out in this business, especially for those who may not fit the “typical” sales mold. I love being a resource and support system for new professionals—offering insight, encouragement, and real-world guidance to help them build sustainable, values-driven careers.

At the heart of everything I do is the desire to help others—whether it’s guiding a single mom to her first home, supporting a couple through the financial changes of divorce, or helping a new agent find their footing. Real estate is more than a transaction—it’s a relationship, and I’m honored to be part of that journey.

I am truly blessed to work with such amazing clients who allow me to be part of some of the most important moments in their lives. Each transaction carries a story, and I hold each one close to my heart.

One of those special stories is with The Tripp Family—a wonderful couple who purchased their first home together for themselves and their four beautiful children. I’ve known Rodney Tripp for years through my sister, who went to high school with him, and we’ve stayed connected ever since. It was such a joy to work with Rodney and his wife, Tia, and to see their dream of homeownership come true. (They’re the couple in the photo celebrating with a champagne bottle!)

Another moment that meant so much to me was helping my cousin, Desiree Rivera, and her husband, Mario Rivera, purchase their first home. There’s something extra special about helping family, and I felt deeply honored that they put their trust in me to guide them through the process. They found a beautiful home to start and grow their family in, and it fills me with pride to know I was a part of that. (You’ll see them in the photo kissing while holding the key in front of their new home.)

I was also lucky to receive a referral from my returning client, Stevie Tafoya, who connected me with his close friends, Ian Highley and Collette Eckhart. This was one of my all-time favorite sales—not just because of the connection we formed, but because of the incredible home they purchased. It was a stunning ranch on a large lot, and it even appraised well above the purchase price. It was the perfect fit for their beautiful family, and I couldn’t be happier for them. (They’re the family pictured sitting on the step, with their son proudly holding the SOLD sign.)

I am lucky to collaborate with BeardedDad Photography LLC to gift every client with professional family photos celebrating their new home. Likewise, if it is a sale of a home to capture one last family photo in the home where they created many memories.

These are more than transactions—they’re relationships and memories that stay with me. I’m so grateful to be a part of each of these journeys and to do work that allows me to celebrate life’s milestones with the people I care about.

How do you think about luck?
I believe luck has played a quiet but powerful role in both my life and career. In the beginning, just passing the real estate exam felt like a bit of good luck—it was intimidating, and I had to push through a lot of self-doubt. That early win gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.

In real estate transactions, I often see luck in the way things tend to work out just as they should. Sometimes buyers are heartbroken when a home they wanted goes under contract, only to end up finding one that’s a much better fit. What feels like bad luck in the moment often turns out to be a blessing in disguise.

Luck has also shown up in the relationships I’ve built along the way. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside my high school friend, Catrina Cohen-Reed, at RTS Lending Group. Collaborating with someone I’ve known for so long, and who shares my values, has been such a gift. I’ve also had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Stevenson from Primerica Financial Services. We originally met through social media several years ago and have since become good friends. These relationships, built on trust and mutual support, have truly enriched both my business and my life.

While I’ve worked hard to create opportunities, I absolutely believe luck—and the people it’s brought into my path—has played a meaningful role in where I am today.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Carla.Realtor.Denver
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarlaCRealtor
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlacastillorealtor/

Image Credits
BeardedDad Photography LLC.