The life and lessons of Katie Linkous serve as outstanding examples of how financial prosperity and empathy can successfully coexist.
For many entrepreneurs, balancing capitalism with compassion tilts heavily toward the former.
For Katie Linkous—a former critical care nurse who now manages multiple enterprises and a large family—perfecting that balance comes naturally.
Katie incorporated Freedom Investment Group (FIG) with her husband, Clay, in 2017. Now hugely successful, the organization manages over 800 doors.
FIG has since branched out to include general contracting, maintenance, non-profit work, and more. To Katie, these aren’t simply extra business ventures: They’re passionate pursuits in which she’s both financially and emotionally invested.
Strategic PM sat down with Katie to learn more about her personal journey, her advice for others in the industry, and her deep belief that compassion doesn’t have to limit profits.
Katie Linkous
Over the past five years, Katie has bought and sold over $20M in real estate, grown her rental portfolio to over 300 doors in just three years, and achieved an average ROI of over 100% at exit. As President of FIG Property Management, she oversees the management of more than 900 doors, demonstrating her exceptional expertise and commitment to results. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Katie knows what it takes to achieve success. She has built her own impressive portfolio of real estate investments while serving as a trusted advisor and property manager for numerous loyal investors. Her clients range from single-property landlords to multi-family investors with hundreds of doors, all benefiting from her strategic insights and hands-on approach.
Katie and her husband Clay incorporated Freedom Investment Group in 2017. As President and CEO, Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as an investor and leader in the community. She cares deeply about the success of the individuals and families they work with and serve. Believing in creating a return on investment while addressing housing needs compassionately and sustainably, FIG has expanded to include FIG Property Management, FIG General Contracting, FIG Stays, and My Maintenance Men.
In 2020, Clay and Katie founded FIG Solutions, a nonprofit addressing the affordability and access to housing crisis. Specializing in affordable housing, FIG Solutions provides rent relief, deposit assistance, family housing, and transitional housing. With 45 subsidized doors and 87 conventional affordable doors, FIG Solutions partners with community agencies to maximize impact and outcomes.
In 2023, Clay and Katie launched Linkous Solutions, adding value to leaders and teams nationwide through coaching and leadership development.
Katie also serves as a managing broker for Ten Oaks Real Estate – Knoxville.
Katie and Clay have been married for 20 years and have six children, two of whom are adopted siblings who experienced homelessness early in life. Katie’s dedication to saying “yes” and offering opportunities to those in need drives her passion for transforming lives and communities.
