Meet Karen

Founding Partner of Estridge Murtagh Coplen

A real estate expert since 2001, Karen Kuchins brings a unique blend of design-savvy insight and high-tech agility to the DMV market. Originally from Northern California’s Bay Area, she began her professional journey in Silicon Valley and then transitioned into real estate after building her own home in Menlo Park—immersing herself in every detail from general contracting to design.

Today, a longtime resident of Chevy Chase, MD, Karen combines her passion for architecture, interior design, and client-focused communication to provide expert guidance across all transaction types—from relocations and historic homes to investment properties and new construction Long & Foster Forbes Global Properties. She is regularly sought out by builders for her expertise in home finishing and consultations.

When the opportunity arose to unite with Melinda, Eric, and John, Karen recognized an even bigger opportunity to elevate the client experience. Today, she's proud to be a founding partner of Estridge Murtagh Coplen, adding her creative and consultative strengths to the team’s collective force.

What Clients Say

My home sale was handled professionally and sensitively, with outstanding communication and process expertise. I was very satisfied with the effort put into every step—highly recommend Karen!

Chevy Chase Zillow

Happy Seller

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Stronger Together The EMC Story

Three trusted leaders. One shared mission. Rooted in legacy. Built for what’s next.

After decades of individual success in the D.C. Metro real estate market, Melinda Estridge, Eric Murtagh, and John Coplen realized something powerful: together, they could offer clients more.

More insight. More strategy. More service. More results.

That’s how —EMC— was born. A collaborative team of seasoned professionals united by one belief:

Every Move Counts

Why EMC Came Together

A New Standard of Real Estate, Rooted in Shared Values

Legacy Meets Strategy

Melinda’s dedication to client relationships, Eric’s market mastery, and John’s creative, marketing-first mindset form the core of EMC’s power. Each brings something unique—and together, they’re stronger than ever.

Built on Trust

Our clients span generations. That trust is sacred—and now backed by a team that brings collective insight and the personal care of a longtime advisor.

More Than the Sum of Our Parts

Estridge Murtagh Coplen is not just a merger. It’s a mission. We came together to serve our clients better, faster, smarter, and more personally—because every detail matters.

Our Philosophy:
Every Move Counts

Buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a major life moment. At EMC, we guide you through it with strategy, clarity, and care. That means:

No guesswork. Just smart preparation.
No one-size-fits-all plans. Just curated strategies.
No generic support. Just expert insight, personalized to you.

We don’t just help you make a move—we help you make the right one.

“At Estridge Murtagh Coplen, we believe that luxury isn’t a look—it’s how you’re guided.”

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Let's Start Your Journey

You deserve a real estate experience that’s thoughtful, powerful, and personal. Let EMC guide your next chapter—with strategy, care, and results that count.