Get to Know Forte: Five Questions with Kate Damato

Meet the people behind Forte! We asked five fun and insightful questions to commercial real estate expert Kate Damato. It’s a quick way to get to know the Forte team—passionate, experienced professionals advocating for clients across the Twin Cities and beyond.

1. What first got you interested in real estate?

While I was in high school and college, my mom worked in the city planning offices for a few cities in Washington State. Listening to the types of projects she was involved in must have piqued my interest—maybe even subconsciously. I was fascinated by the behind-the-scenes work that shapes our cities.

As a transplant to Minnesota from the Pacific Northwest, real estate has become a way to connect with my new community and understand the local landscape. This allowed me to dive into the details of the region, giving me a greater appreciation for its unique characteristics and dynamics.

I’ve always been a bit of a nerd about understanding how systems work, where ideas come from, and the iterations it takes to bring them to life. Real estate is not just about buying and selling properties; it plays a critical role in the health and vitality of individuals and communities. It influences economic stability, social cohesion, and the overall well-being of the area.

Through real estate, I have found a meaningful way to engage and learn about the various neighborhoods and participate in the growth and development of our community. This field allows me to apply my passion for understanding complex systems in a practical and impactful manner.

2. As a woman in CRE, how have you used that as your superpower?

I am gifted with the superpowers of curiosity, intuition, and empathy. These qualities help me uncover what truly motivates clients and decision-makers—often uncovering needs and desires that aren’t explicitly stated. This insight allows me to find solutions that align with their goals on a deeper level. The ability to listen and translate needs into action has become a key differentiator in my approach to tenant advisory.

I appreciate at Forte that we benefit from a strong blend of both masculine and feminine energy—analytical thinking, strategic problem solving, and emotional intelligence—all working in tandem. It’s a balanced dynamic that consistently delivers better results for our clients.

3. If you had the opportunity to do anything other than work, what would you choose to do?

As Spring is in the air and the ground is thawing, I would love to be playing in dirt tending to plants and designing my ideal outdoor living space. Spending time outdoors, breathing in fresh air, and reaping the rewards of hard work is always worthwhile to me.

4. What non-profits do you support and why?

WeCan (Western Communities Action Network) – This group supports families and individuals in the Western Hennepin County to equip them to reach stability and self-sufficiency. I chose to support this non-profit organization because it is deeply rooted in the community where I live. Its hyperlocal focus allows me to directly contribute to the well-being of my neighbors and the area I call home. I feel a strong sense of fulfillment knowing that my efforts are making a tangible difference in my local community. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the needs of those around me. My favorite events to volunteer with this group are their annual coat drive distribution and the back-to-school backpack and school supply pick up event.

In an effort to expand my reach internationally I also spend time volunteering with Give us Wings. This St. Paul based organization is celebrating its 26th year providing support to impoverished communities in Eastern Uganda. They have built a hospital with a full-time staff of local physicians and nurses to provide essential healthcare, in addition to providing economic development and educational opportunities to the people in the community. The services Give Us Wings provides are often taken for granted in our culture. The positive impact they have made on these villages is truly inspirational. Their work highlights the importance of basic necessities and the transformative power of community support.

5. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career?

Success is never a solo endeavor. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the power of surrounding yourself with good people—those who bring diverse perspectives, challenge your thinking, and support your growth. Equally important is staying open to feedback and treating every experience, whether a win or a setback, as a chance to learn and improve.

Throughout my career in real estate, I have operated as an individual producer and as a member of a team. Without a doubt, the team environment has pushed me to think bigger, take risks, share ideas. Knowing I have the support of my team has opened doors otherwise not available to me as an individual.

Discover more about Kate Damato’s expertise in Real Estate Advisory services.