Meet Our Extraordinary Team!
Karen Mabe, Founder & Owner
When I reflect on an incredible 27 years in the title and escrow industry, I find myself not only cherishing my professional journey but also deeply appreciating the family that has been my
cornerstone through it all. With six children and eleven grandkids, my life is a beautiful tapestry woven from both my career and my role as a parent and grandparent. Each year in the title and escrow field has been marked by challenges and triumphs, much like raising a large family. The skills I’ve honed—attention to detail, patience, communication, and problem-solving—have served me well both in the office and at home. Navigating complex transactions parallels navigating the dynamics of a bustling household with six kids, where each moment is filled with learning and growth.
In the title and escrow industry, every transaction tells a story. I’ve had the privilege of helping countless families secure their dream homes, providing them with a sense of stability and belonging. Likewise, family has always been the bedrock of my own life. Each of my six children have taught me invaluable lessons about love, resilience, and adaptability, shaping who I am today. Their journeys, along with those of my eleven grandchildren, are a constant reminder of what truly matters—connection and support through all life’s endeavors.
As I continue my career, I look forward to passing down the values I’ve learned in both realms—professionalism, dedication, and the importance of community—to my children and grandchildren. I’m excited to see how they will take these principles into their futures, just as I have done over the past 27 years. In conclusion, my journey in the title and escrow industry is more than a professional milestone; it’s intertwined with the legacy of my family. Each deal closed represents not just a transaction, but a building block for future generations. Here’s to the next chapter—both in my career and in nurturing my ever-growing family!
Sheri Wilder, Escrow Manager
I grew up in the Virginia Beach area and am a proud graduate of First Colonial High School. I met my husband just after graduation, and we have been inseparable ever since. Together we share a love for adventure and our fur-babies. I began my professional career in the automotive industry at Hall Honda. Over the 15 years working there I advanced from an entry-level position to Assistant Parts Manager. This
experience taught me the importance of operational efficiency, clear communication and strong vendor relationships. In 2004, Karen Mabe introduced me to the world of real estate title and settlement. I began this journey by handling post-closing, recording, disbursing funds and ensuring all documentation was in order. In 2009 I became a licensed title agent, solidifying my commitment to this industry. Over the years, I’ve held various positions at a few title companies which gave me firsthand knowledge of the title and settlement process from contract to close and beyond. I specialize in guiding clients through the title and settlement process with accuracy, transparency and care. My goal is to make what can be a complex process feel smooth and seamless. I genuinely enjoy getting to know clients and connecting with them on a personal level during the transaction process. Everyone has a story to share, and I love hearing them! Whether it’s upsizing for a growing family, downsizing into retirement or relocating for a new opportunity
I treasure the things shared by my clients. Hearing these stories keeps me energized and passionate about every transaction. When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, fur-babies, family and friends. We enjoy camping, fishing and exploring pet-friendly destinations. I look forward to the opportunity to hear new stories while working together to help you navigate your next real estate journey.
Bristol Boles Barnes, Executive Marketing Director
I have had the pleasure of growing up and living my life in the Northern Neck of VA which is a special place and provides a different way of being raised in the “country” versus the “city.”
Growing up here I learned to do all things on the water from skiing, how to catch soft crabs, bait a hook, catch and clean a fish. One of my favorite things was feeding the wild ponies on Beach Rd. owned by the Hubbard family.
Growing up here in the slower paced way of life helped shape and mold me into the person I am today. I learned to not just work hard but what it meant to have a good “work ethic,” that using my manners would take me far while garnering respect, to be proud of my last name and where my family came from, to treat others the way I wanted to be treated and to always show compassion and kindness to people as you never know what they are going through.
It's the way I was raised, the morals and values my family instilled in me and my love for this community that led me into the Title and Settlement industry. When deciding I wanted a new career later in life, I wanted to do something I was passionate about and fell in love with this field. Getting to help families purchase and sell homes in the Northern Neck, a place I know like the back of my hand was perfect for me! I was heavily focused on a personal relationship with all parties involved because people spend too much time emailing and texting these days versus truly getting to know one another. When Karen and I first talked it was evident to me immediately that her company was where I was meant to be! Her vision and priorities align with mine seamlessly! I am truly honored to join Karen and Sheri who have over 47 years of experience in this industry. I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience with me from many places, especially with how we do things here in the Neck! I am dedicated to being the best settlement agent I can be by creating and growing personal relationships with my clients and offering superior closing services!
It is my hope to share the things I was taught growing up in the Northern Neck as I begin this new chapter working alongside my colleagues at Coastal Title & Settlement, LLC. I am beyond thrilled to begin this journey and perhaps I’ll share all my “local secrets” with all the folks I get the privilege to serve!
