Growing up in Menomonee Falls, Kevin Mattson’s early life was shaped by an unusual family pastime that blurred the line between hobby and profession. “Our family all played in horseshoe tournaments throughout the state and some out of state,” Kevin recalls. “Winners were paid so technically, we were all professional horseshoe players.”

It’s a detail that hints at both competition and camaraderie—two forces that continue to define Kevin’s life today. Raised alongside three siblings who still live in southeastern Wisconsin, Kevin describes a close-knit family that valued time together. That foundation carried into adulthood, where family remains central to his identity.

After high school, Kevin attended UW-Milwaukee, earning a degree in Finance and Real Estate Finance—an education he says he still leans on today. “I have used my education to my advantage, especially today,” he explains. But his career path didn’t follow a straight line into real estate.

Instead, Kevin spent seven years working as a special education teacher, an experience that shaped his approach to working with people. Before that, he owned a mortgage broker company for 18 years, giving him a deep understanding of the financial side of homeownership. It wasn’t until 2018 that he officially entered real estate, a move he describes simply: “I started in real estate in 2018 and absolutely love it.”

Today, Kevin operates as an individual agent with Lannon Stone Realty, LLC, and runs his own company, Mattson Realty LLC. Choosing to remain independent is intentional. “I want to make sure my clients receive prompt and professional service throughout the process,” he says, emphasizing a hands-on approach that prioritizes accessibility and attention to detail.

That approach has translated into measurable success. Kevin finished as the #3 agent in volume with KW Lake Country in 2024 and has earned multiple monthly top sales honors at his brokerage. Still, he’s quick to downplay accolades. “I don't do this for awards, I do this to make sure clients receive the best possible experience,” he says. “There are a lot of moving parts with real estate transactions and with that, stress. I try to head-off stress by educating my clients to the best of my ability. It really helps make the transaction fun.”

For Kevin, the most rewarding moments come at the finish line. “I love the end where everyone is so happy,” he shares. “The accepted offer process is fun but when it all comes together, that is a win-win for everyone.”

That focus on outcomes is rooted in a broader philosophy shaped by his past experiences. “I try to help others as much as possible. Everyone has something going on and I try to bring a smile to the people I meet,” he says. “But my main focus is family.”

Kevin and his wife Jill, married since 1989, have built a life centered around their two children, Blake and Brenna, along with Blake’s spouse, Allison, and Brenna’s spouse, Steve. Whether it’s traveling, cooking during the holidays, or spending time at their cabin in northern Wisconsin, the Mattson family prioritizes time together. “We love taking family vacations and seeing our beautiful country,” he says.

Outside of work, Kevin stays active in his community, particularly through the Lake Country Optimist Club, which he helped start. “We support the youth in our community through a variety of programs,” he explains, underscoring his commitment to giving back.

In real estate, Kevin believes his ability to navigate challenges sets him apart. “I think outside the box,” he says. “When an issue arises, and they do, I explain it to my clients calmly and come up with solutions to make it happen.” That mindset is paired with patience and perspective. “It is important to step back and assess the situation from all angles before a decision is made. I pay close attention to the details.”

Looking ahead, Kevin’s goals are straightforward. “Keep learning and growing. That is the best way to help my clients,” he says. It’s advice he extends to others in the industry as well: “Don't take short cuts and always put the client's needs at the top.”

At the core of it all is a simple mantra that guides both his business and his life: “Find a way to make it happen!”