Duffy Chats with real estate expert katie machoskie

Katie Machoskie, Kym Whitney, Mandy Huntsman

Some careers are carefully planned. Others begin with a simple conversation.

When Newport Beach Realtor Katie Machoskie joined us aboard a Duffy Electric Boat for the latest episode of "Duffy Chats," she shared the unexpected journey that led her into real estate, along with stories that reflected her deep appreciation for community, family and the place she's proudly called home for decades.

Katie never envisioned a career in real estate. After spending 16 years in nonprofit management while raising a growing family, she was ready for a change. One evening, she joined a group of friends who were preparing to get their real estate licenses. With a final nudge from her husband, she decided to do the same. Looking back, Katie says every chapter of her career prepared her for the work she loves today, blending relationship building, negotiation, marketing and psychology into a profession that perfectly suited her strengths.

As one of the original homeowners in One Ford Road, Katie also reflected on watching one of Newport Beach's most recognizable neighborhoods grow from little more than model homes into the thriving community it is today. While the homes and landscaping have evolved over the years, she believes the neighborhood's greatest asset has always been its people. Holiday celebrations, community events, neighbors who genuinely know one another and children playing freely throughout the greenbelts have created the kind of close-knit atmosphere that keeps families there for generations.

Our conversation naturally turned to Newport Beach itself and the changes Katie has witnessed over the decades. From the development of Newport Coast to the transformation of longtime neighborhoods like the Port Streets, she has watched the city evolve while somehow maintaining the small-town character that continues to make it so special.

Katie also shared several memorable stories from her years in real estate. One of the most touching involved helping a young family purchase their first home. During the final walkthrough, their young son stood at the front door, happily ringing the doorbell because he had never lived in a house with one before. Moments like that, Katie said, are powerful reminders that homeownership is about far more than a real estate transaction.

Not every story was emotional. Some were simply unforgettable. Katie had us laughing as she recalled home tours that included backyard chickens, a wandering pig and clients who affectionately nicknamed properties after the unexpected animals they encountered along the way.

Perhaps the most remarkable story came while Katie was preparing to welcome her fourth child. As she was in labor at Hoag Hospital, a complicated real estate transaction unexpectedly fell apart. From her hospital room, she calmly worked with another agent, secured a second buyer and successfully put the home back into escrow before turning her full attention to her daughter's arrival.

Beyond real estate, Katie shared a few of her favorite Newport Beach traditions, from longtime dining destinations to the iconic Blue Beet, where she met her husband many years ago. Those personal memories served as a reminder that Newport Beach is more than beautiful homes and waterfront views. It's a community where lifelong friendships begin, families grow and countless stories unfold.

Whether discussing neighborhood history, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her career, or reflecting on the moments that matter most, Katie reminded us that helping people find a home is ultimately about helping them build a life.

To watch the full episode, visit "Duffy Chats" on YouTube. To watch clips from the episode, along with others, visit Instagram @officialduffychats 

Hosted by Kym Whitney and Mandy Huntsman, Duffy Chats is filmed aboard a Duffy Electric Boat as we cruise Newport Harbor, sharing conversations with the people, businesses and organizations that help shape our community.

Duffy Chats is powered by Duffy Electric Boats and presented by Newport Beach Living Magazine.

Production by Zaw Studios

Duffy styling by Leigh Rose Events