Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassandra Credle.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, I had the privilege of watching my parents collect rent from their tenant, Mr. Baker. He lived in my parents’ basement apartment for years. In New York, it was common for families to rent out part of their homes to help supplement their income. Coming from a large family, I saw firsthand how that extra income each month helped keep food on the table. That experience opened my eyes to the power of real estate and planted the seed for what would later become my passion.
When my husband and I purchased our first home—a two-family house with an unfinished basement in Jamaica, Queens, New York, we followed a similar path. With help from some of his handy friends, we finished the basement ourselves. Once the renovations were complete, we decided to move downstairs and rent out the two upstairs apartments. It turned out to be the perfect “house hack,” allowing us to save a significant amount of money and experience the benefits of being property owners.
After living at that property for ten years, we relocated to Virginia Beach, where Generation of Excellence LLC was created. We lived there for fourteen years before moving to Tennessee, and that’s where our real estate investing truly took off.
During that time, I began researching the internet and came across the concept of mid-term rentals. These rentals typically have a 30-day minimum stay and can extend up to a year. What attracted me most was the type of clients they serve, usually traveling professionals coming to the area for temporary work assignments. Initially, our primary customers were traveling nurses, who often needed comfortable, furnished housing for a few months at a time. We also host clients who relocate to the area and need a place to stay while they look for a new residence. Over time, our clientele expanded to include professionals on assignment. We now offer our services to insurance claim guests displaced by natural disasters and to others seeking quality short-term housing solutions.
While researching mid-term rentals, I discovered Furnished Finder, a website where property owners can list their rentals. Most of our guests find us through that platform, though we also use other resources including our own website, RentGox.com to connect with potential guests and showcase our beautiful properties.
At Generation of Excellence Property Management & Rentals, we pride ourselves on being a benefit to the Knoxville community. Our goal is to make every guest feel at home while contributing positively to the growth and warmth that makes Knoxville so special.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, we’ve faced our share of challenges and learning curves along the way.
When we first bought our rental property, it actually took some time before we booked our first guest. That experience taught us patience and the importance of preparation.
We also learned early on that things don’t always go as planned. There are unexpected repairs, maintenance issues, and slow seasons, which are all part of the journey. One of the biggest lessons was the value of having a reserve fund. It’s essential to have money set aside for those unplanned expenses so you’re not caught off guard.
Every challenge taught us how to build smarter, plan better, and stay resilient, and those lessons have truly shaped how I manage my business today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My strong faith is the foundation of everything I do. I truly believe that serving others through hospitality is part of my God-given purpose. Each home we prepare, each guest we welcome, and each smile we create is an opportunity to reflect God’s love and excellence in action.
What sets us apart is our heart for people and community. We take pride in being beneficial to Knoxville — by accommodating those who come to enhance the city and by supporting individuals and families who are starting new chapters here. Every property we manage is a reflection of our faith, integrity, and commitment to serve others with excellence.
What I’m most proud of about our brand is that our guests always tell us how comfortable, peaceful, and “at home” they feel in our spaces. because Generation of Excellence isn’t just a business — it’s a ministry of hospitality, built on faith, hard work, and a genuine love for people.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is helping people and creating spaces that truly feel like home. I find so much joy in the process of renovating, decorating, and adding personal touches that make each property warm and welcoming. Knowing that I’ve put my heart into every detail and then seeing guests smile the moment they walk in is the best reward.
I’ve always loved a clean, beautiful space, but even more than that, I love the feeling of comfort and peace it gives others. That’s what drives me, turning houses into homes and helping people feel cared for, even if it’s just for a short stay.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Rentgox.com
