About Us: Mission & Approach
Once a guide, always a guide
Rachel, profesionally
I’m a full-time realtor representing buyers and sellers of both residential and commercial properties. I’m experienced with primary residences, investments, development, mixed use, multi-family, and smaller hobby farms or acreage parcels. If you’re new to the area, as a 10-year resident, I welcome the opportunity to introduce you to this amazing, beautiful place I call home. If you’re a local, I’m a real estate expert with the inside track on all you need to know to make your best deal.
I’m not pretending that I know everything, but if you have a question that I can’t answer, I’ll hunt down the information you need. I love being creative and thinking outside the box, and I’m happy to pound the pavement and knock on doors, if that’s what it takes to find your perfect property.
Why did I become a realtor?
After a decade spent working in outdoor and traditional education as a guide, instructor and teacher, I moved to Bend in 2008 and met my future husband Chris in a Wilderness First Aid Class. When we were looking to buy a house in town, nothing really fit us, so we ended up buying a lot and building a home that matched our needs. During the process, I learned a huge amount about planning, permitting and navigating the rules and regulations of the city of Bend.
As we built our home, I never felt like the realtors we worked with provided much guidance. As a result, I started to think about how I could combine my love for guiding and educating, and my desire to help people, with a career in real estate.
So, with the goal of guiding people through their real estate decisions, I became a realtor. Whether I’m working with first-time home buyers, seasoned investors, new residents to Bend or whomever else, I want to help them find their ideal property.
Yes, I sell to make a living. But I’m not driven by the sale. Rather, I’m driven by the desire to help my clients navigate the real estate market of Central Oregon. My mission is to make sure my clients are informed, comfortable and, in the end, happy with their decision.
Rachel, personally
I moved to Bend for the lifestyle. I love to be outside, and I’m a passionate skier, mountain biker, runner and climber. When I’m not working, you can find me hiking for powder turns, turning pedals on our endless local singletrack, working my latest project at Smith Rock State Park, or inhaling packets of salt and vinegar potato chips or pickles with my nephews…who tell me I may have a little bit of a salt craving.
Shana, professionally
For twenty years, I worked in family law as a paralegal and operations director, where I specialized in complex divorces. This experience taught me the intricacies of navigating sensitive situations, managing strict deadlines, and handling intricate contracts. I developed strong relationships with clients, guiding them through challenging times with compassion and clarity. This role shaped who I am as a realtor.
Transitioning to real estate has been exciting and the parallels of needing compassion while being a strong advocate will serve my clients well. I can help with residential, acreage (I lived on small acreage) and commercial properties. I approach every transaction with a critical mindset, always seeking creative solutions to meet my clients’ needs. While I love the easy transactions, I thrive in complex situations and love the extra challenge.
I believe that true success in real estate comes from understanding that no two situations are alike. My goal is to provide a supportive, informed, and innovative experience for everyone I work with. Whether helping a family find their dream home or assisting a business in locating the perfect commercial space, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional service and achieving the best outcomes, no matter how challenging the path may be.
Why did I become a realtor?
After 20 years working in family law, I felt a calling for a new challenge—something that would allow me to leverage my experience while embracing a different set of skills and passions. Becoming a realtor was a natural choice for me, blending my deep understanding of contracts, negotiation, and client advocacy with my enthusiasm for real estate.
Throughout my legal career, I honed the ability to navigate complex situations and communicate effectively. These skills translate seamlessly into the world of real estate, where understanding client needs and providing guidance are paramount. I’ve always been driven by a desire to help others, and as a realtor, I can facilitate one of life’s most significant decisions—buying or selling a home.
Fun fact – Rachel is my stepmom! Her journey as a realtor has been inspiring! Watching her thrive in a dynamic industry and make a meaningful impact in her clients’ lives has been a powerful motivator. Her passion and dedication showed me that real estate is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to build lasting relationships and foster community connections. I look forward to helping clients navigate their journeys, ensuring they feel informed and empowered every step of the way.
Shana, personally
I grew up in Central Oregon, spending my early years in Madras before moving to Colorado for 5 years. I’ve proudly called Bend home since 2003. I also spent my 5th and 6th grade years in Bend attending St. Francis Catholic School - now known as McMenamins!
My greatest achievement is being a mom to my two amazing kids—Wyatt, 15, and Lia, 13. Family is the center of my life, and I cherish our time together taking full advantage of all that Central Oregon has to offer - hiking, backpacking, skiing, fishing, and climbing. I’m also a yoga and barre teacher, which allows me to share my love for movement and mindfulness with others. It brings a sense of balance and peace to my life.
Living in this vibrant community has shaped who I am, instilling a love for adventure and a strong connection to nature. I’m excited to continue exploring and sharing the wonders of Central Oregon with my family, friends, and clients!