I’m Kaila Atkins, and my career has been shaped by a belief that strong organizations — and strong communities — are built by putting people first. I began my journey with Galbreath Costner in 2015 as a real estate paralegal, where I gained a deep appreciation for the details, relationships, and trust that underpin meaningful work. Over time, that foundation led me into leadership roles focused on operations, team development, and client experience. Today, my work centers on helping people and processes grow together, while staying rooted in empathy, clarity, and connection within the community.
I’m a Greer native, and this community has always felt like home to me. I graduated from Greer High School and later earned my associate degree in applied science from Greenville Technical College, taking a practical path that fit both my life and my goals. I’m married to my husband, Gabe, and we have a 20‑year‑old son, Emmett, who keeps us laughing, grounded and proud. Our home is also ruled by three rescue dogs—Doedee, Negan, and Jane Doe—who fully embody our family’s soft spot for animals and second chances. I’m passionate about providing an experience like none other for our clients. Buying home is one of the most stressful things we do in our lives, it’s my goal to take some of that stress away and turn it into something to celebrate. Outside of work, I love traveling anywhere with sand and water, trying new restaurants, getting lost in a good book, and cheering on the Gamecocks.Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
I have worked in the Golden Strip area for my entire real estate career which has been nearly twenty years.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I was adopted when I was five years old!
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
I’ve met so many great and interesting people in The Golden Strip it is hard to name just one.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
It’s not really a business, but having a son who played football for many years at the different parks across The Golden Strip, just thinking about that time in my life makes me nostalgic.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
My favorite thing is the growth the area is experiencing. Families from all over are choosing our little corner to call home.
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
Stella’s Brasserie! The food is amazing. I’m dying to try Wednesday Night Girl Dinner at Rôtie by Stella’s.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Family, Community, Opportunity
Q: If you had friends or family visiting you from out of town, what is the one place that you must take them to?
Bridgeway Station-There is something there for everyone.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
During football season, cheering on the Gamecocks. Outside of football season, you can find me trying new restaurants or planning my next travel adventure.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
My major motion picture would be a comedy, so I would pick Tyler Perry for his ability to transform himself and make people laugh.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Visiting Paris during the Christmas season.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
If I could offer advice, it would be to never stop learning and never assume you have it all figured out. The moment you decide you’re done growing is the moment you limit what’s possible. Stay curious, stay coachable, and be willing to listen — even when the feedback is uncomfortable. Some of the most meaningful growth in my life has come from being open to learning from others, no matter their title or role. I’d also encourage people to count their blessings more often than their hardships. Challenges are inevitable, but perspective changes everything. When you take time to recognize what’s going right — the people who support you, the opportunities in front of you, the lessons along the way — it becomes easier to move forward with gratitude and resilience. Growth happens when humility, gratitude, and effort meet.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
Taylor Lyles-HBA of Greenville
