Karen McIntosh Telford

Written by Dave Danielson | Photos by Shawna McDuffie, Peak RES

One of the most emotional experiences for clients is going through the process of buying or selling their home. Luckily, they have you there to dedicate your experience and expertise on their behalf.

That’s the same spirit that Karen McIntosh Telford puts on display each day.

As a REALTOR® with Dillard Cies Real Estate, Karen is here to see her clients through to the closing table and beyond.

Getting Her Start

Karen’s start in real estate began under less-than-ideal circumstances. In February 1999, while holding a real estate license, she faced an unexpected layoff from the oil and gas industry. 

At a crossroads, Karen chose to pivot toward her long-held interest in real estate. 

“I had always been interested in real estate and started to take classes in the evenings,” she recalls. 

This decision was further fueled by her desire to support her young daughter, Ali McIntosh, and her son, Michael McIntosh III, as a single mother.

Her background in the oil and gas sector provided a strong foundation for understanding market dynamics, but it was her personal experiences and sheer determination that truly shaped her career. 

“I was a single mom for the majority of their young lives. So, my motivation was my children,” Karen explains. “They did amazing. I did open houses both days of the weekend. They are my biggest motivation.”

A Local Legacy

Karen’s roots in Norman run deep. She has lived there since she was five years old, a place where her journey began and where her professional life flourished. Her family’s decision to purchase a home with local real estate agent Bev Lafferrandre back in 1972 was a pivotal moment. 

“Bev is 93, and she and I still work side by side and have for the past 25 years. Her experience, wisdom and guidance has been priceless to me in my real estate career,” Karen shares. 

This relationship is a testament to the enduring bonds within the community and the collaborative spirit that defines Karen’s approach to real estate.

Karen’s success is not just a result of her expertise but also her innate ability to connect with people. 

“I’m a big people person. I enjoy working with first-time homebuyers, repeat customers, and referrals,” she explains. 

Her ability to navigate the emotional and financial complexities of real estate transactions has earned her accolades, including being named REALTOR® of the Year for the highest production in her office over several years.

Raising the Bar

One of the most striking aspects of Karen’s career is her dedication to understanding and addressing the emotional aspects of real estate transactions. 

“Real estate transactions can be very emotional for people. I love helping people and navigating them through the process,” she says. 

For Karen, it’s not just about closing deals but about facilitating a process that often represents the most significant financial decision of her clients’ lives.

Her approach is rooted in honesty, fairness, and a genuine care for her clients’ best interests. 

“I have their best interests at heart and will go to bat for them,” she asserts. 

This dedication is reflected in the high level of referrals she receives, a testament to the trust and satisfaction she builds with her clients.

Balancing Act

Balancing a demanding career with family life is a testament to Karen’s resilience and organizational skills. Her two adult children, Ali and Michael McIntosh, III, have grown into successful individuals, and Karen’s new husband, Steve Telford, adds another layer of support to her life. 

“My family is incredibly important to me. They have been my rock throughout my career,” Karen says.

In her free time, Karen cherishes moments spent with her lifelong friends, whom she met in kindergarten. Her interests are diverse, ranging from traveling and attending OU football games with her son to indulging in her love for trying to learn and play Mahjong, walking, Pilates, and camping. Her involvement in a local book club and passion for Bassett hounds further highlight her vibrant personality and well-rounded life.

Community Commitment

Karen’s dedication extends beyond her professional life into significant community involvement. She serves on the board at Sooner Theater, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships for young people to engage in the arts. Also, her work with the Bridges organization in Norman, which supports high school students by furnishing their apartments, showcases her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of youth in her community.

Lifting Others

As Karen looks towards the future, she considers the prospect of working alongside her son, who is contemplating a real estate license. 

Her advice for aspiring real estate professionals is straightforward. 

“It’s important to be accessible and to respond promptly to a text, email, or phone message. It’s important to be present and listen with the opportunity to help someone realize the American Dream.”

Congratulations to Karen McIntosh Telford on demonstrating the power of purpose and… in turn, seeing her clients open new doors in their lives.