Trailblazers

Karrie-Ann Sheppard

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

Karrie-Ann Sheppard fundamentally evolved real estate education in 2025 by bridging the gap between lifestyle media and market strategy. As vice president of Learning for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate (BHGRE), Sheppard spearheaded the official launch of the Trendmaker℠ Accreditation program. This first-of-its-kind initiative translates billions of consumer data points into actionable intelligence, allowing agents to advise clients on emerging design, behavioral and lifestyle trends. Beyond design, Sheppard addressed the economic needs of the network by launching a comprehensive 11-session financial management course for brokers. This curriculum focuses on four vital pillars—Finance 101, revenue optimization, expense management and business planning—to help owners make data-driven decisions in a shifting market.

At The Better Retreat 2025, Sheppard introduced a 360-degree approach to professional development by piloting the Boundaries Are a Business Strategy class, which emphasizes mental well-being as a core component of sustainable growth. Her innovative strategies have yielded tangible results, with year-over-year class attendance surging by 85%.

“Helping others succeed at their highest level is a privilege and a joy,” shares Sheppard. “I have a front-row seat to witnessing some of the most incredible real estate professionals realize their full potential. What inspires me most is not just the business success they achieve, but the personal growth and confidence they gain along the way.”

Sheppard’s leadership continues to set a new standard for lifestyle-focused real estate expertise.

Karrie-Ann Sheppard
Vice President of Learning

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate