Meet Carolin Walters, founder of At Home on Cape Cod, a real estate brand that celebrates her love for the coastal beauty and community of Cape Cod. Originally from Germany, Carolin has embraced Orleans, MA, as her true home, bringing a deep passion for the Cape’s unique architecture and lifestyle to her work. Here, Carolin shares her inspirations, the journey that led her to real estate, and why Cape Cod feels like home.
First things first—where did the name “At Home on Cape Cod” come from?
“For obvious reasons, the name reflects that I not only work on Cape Cod but truly feel at home here,” Carolin explains. “Having been born far away in Germany, it’s a big thing for me to actually feel at home somewhere in the U.S.” This brand name underscores her personal journey and her commitment to helping others find that same sense of belonging on the Cape.
What inspired you to start this business and become a realtor?
“The hunger to do something new and entirely different,” says Carolin. “I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could excel at something other than sports marketing.” Her shift from sports marketing to real estate was motivated by a sense of adventure and the drive to discover new talents in a field she had always been curious about.
How would you describe your style or aesthetic?
“Traditional and preppy with clear lines,” she says confidently. Carolin’s aesthetic aligns perfectly with the classic, timeless look of Cape Cod, blending clean lines with a coastal touch that resonates deeply with her clients and the community.
Did you always have a passion for real estate?
“While I worked in sports marketing for over 18 years, I was always intrigued by real estate and especially Cape Cod architecture,” Carolin admits. Her curiosity about the unique architecture of Cape Cod turned into a full-time passion, bringing her love of homes and community into her work.
Who or what has inspired your career in this field?
“My own broker Laura Clements of Cove Road Real Estate where I work,” she says with appreciation. Carolin’s broker served as a mentor, showing her the ropes in real estate and inspiring her to build a successful brand.
What do you love most about running your own business?
“The flexibility and the control you have over your own actions. What you put in, you will get out,” Carolin explains. The independence of being her own boss allows her to balance her career with life on the Cape, creating a fulfilling and flexible lifestyle that aligns with her values.
And the biggest challenge?
“Working mostly by yourself,” she admits. “That’s one of the reasons I joined the NECC!” Carolin’s proactive approach to connecting with other professionals has helped her overcome the solitude of working solo, keeping her motivated and inspired by her community.
What’s inspiring you creatively these days?
“The beautiful nature of Cape Cod on every single walk with my dogs,” she says. For Carolin, every stroll with her dogs Jessie and Harry provides fresh inspiration, reminding her of why she fell in love with the Cape and chose to make it her permanent home.
How has New England influenced your brand?
“It literally inspired me to become a realtor,” Carolin explains, “because of the beauty of New England and especially Cape Cod.” The scenic charm of the Cape motivated Carolin to share this lifestyle with others, helping clients find their own piece of paradise.
What’s your New England or Coastal Happy Place?
“Orleans,” she says with a smile. Carolin’s home base is more than just her place of work; it’s her haven, a place where she feels deeply connected to her surroundings and community.
Describe your perfect day on the Cape.
“An early morning walk on Nauset Beach with my Goldens, Jessie and Harry, followed by a tennis match. Some time relaxing on the beach, swimming, and reading a book, then a hot lobster roll for dinner at a local shack, and dark chocolate ice cream to finish off. Nothing fancy, but so much quality of life.” Carolin’s ideal day reflects the relaxed, unpretentious lifestyle she loves, filled with simple pleasures that capture the essence of Cape Cod living.
Do you have a dream project or collaboration?
“One day, I’d love to have a listing staged by Serena & Lily,” she says. Carolin’s vision of working with Serena & Lily’s coastal-chic style would be a perfect pairing for her Cape Cod homes.
Where do you see the brand in 5 years?
“I hope it’s well-established on the Lower Cape,” she says. Carolin’s goal is to become a trusted real estate presence, helping clients feel just as at home on Cape Cod as she does.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t sweat the small things,” she shares. This advice has been a guiding force for Carolin, keeping her focused on what truly matters in both her career and personal life.
Favorite inspirational quote?
“Life is not about how many breaths you take but how many times it takes your breath away!” Carolin says with a smile. This quote resonates with her deeply, reminding her to embrace each breathtaking moment that life on the Cape has to offer.
Carolin’s local favorites:
- Favorite beach? Nauset Beach
- Breakfast or brunch spot? Sorry, but I love eating my baguette with Nutella at home!
- Lunch? Corner Store
- Dinner spot? Rock Harbor Grill
- Favorite bar? Barley Neck Inn
- Grab & go? Friends Marketplace
- Best people-watching spot? No such thing in our town, which makes it wonderful!
- Favorite ice cream spot & flavor? Ice Cream Cafe, Dark Chocolate Almond
- Annual tradition? Watching Cape Cod Baseball League games
- Favorite sunset spot? Rock Harbor, Orleans
- Kid-friendly activity? Cape Cod Baseball
- Date night spot? Used to be Capt’n Cass in Orleans (hoping it reopens this year!)
- Meal you always come back for? The perfect hot lobster roll
- Hidden gem? No such thing as hidden, but probably Capt’n Cass