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Laura Thomas was raised in the Foothills of Western North Carolina, growing up in Forest City before attending undergraduate and graduate school at Western Carolina University. Having lived in Haywood County for over 35 years, she loves to share her passion for her home state and the beautiful Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains with her real estate clients. A broker with Allen Tate/Beverly Hanks Realtors, Laura is a member of the Canopy REALTOR® Association.

Previously, Laura had an impressive 30-year career in education. She served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district-level director, while earning her doctorate degree in educational leadership. Drawing upon her vast experience in the classroom and beyond, Laura spent the last four years of her educational career mentoring high school principals across the state before retiring and embarking on a second career as a real estate professional in 2016. The culmination of Laura’s years as an educator has proven to be very beneficial in all aspects of her real estate business, from negotiating contracts to educating her clients on current market conditions and trends. Much like education, Laura knows the importance of being patient and taking the time to listen to exactly what her buyers and sellers are looking for in their real estate journey and finds it truly rewarding to assist her clients as they make meaningful life decisions.

Laura and her husband call Clyde home. Whenever she can get her husband to take a break from their candy shop, Country Maid Fudge in Cherokee, Laura loves traveling to explore exotic places and sandy beaches. However, after every adventure, there’s no better feeling than returning home to the beautiful mountains of North Carolina.

We make it easy.

Buying or selling a home is not easy. Partnering with the home experts at Howard Hanna is. As the #1 privately owned Real Estate Company in the country, we can help you successfully navigate the process with ease - whether you're buying, selling, relocating, or seeking financing or insurance, we can help. Because at Howard Hanna, Home Happens Here.

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Monessen, PA

Monessen, PA is a city in southwestern Pennsylvania, south of Pittsburgh. Located in Westmoreland County, Monessen is near Round Hill Park. Serviced by Monessen City School Distric…

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Jun 18, 2026

From Listed to Sold: How Long Does It Really Take to Sell a House in 2026?

By: Luca Mascellino If you’re thinking about selling your home, one of the first questions you’re likely asking is: How long will it take? The answer depends on several factors, including your home’s condition, local market conditions and pricing strategy. Understanding the typical timeline can help you plan ahead, set realistic expectations and make informed …