Through a friend, I had the pleasure recently of meeting Raymond Maaske and was taken by the combination of this man’s passion, joy, focus and wide ranging accomplishments.  I’m delighted to introduce Raymond, who since leaving home at 16 and facing many of life’s challenges, has shaped his life around the belief, “The impossible is just a little harder to achieve….now go for it!” Finishing Ironman Canada in less than 14 hours is just one example of his commitment to excellence. The fact that he has made family his priority while at the same time achieving tremendous success in business is further testimony.

 

Owner/Broker of HomeStar Realty, a Summerland boutique real estate business, Raymond may well have taken the longest recorded route to get from BC’s Nicola Valley to the Okanagan. He left his parents’ family farm at age 16 to pursue an acting and modeling dream in Vancouver.  While Raymond did not get discovered, he found the love of his life – while living in a car – whom he married.  Janice and Raymond graduated from high school and university together then sold everything they owned in exchange for backpacks and a search for a better place to live.  They spent a year traveling the world and while living at an Ashram in Rishikesh, India and searching for enlightenment, they narrowed their search to Vancouver Island or the Okanagan.  Neither Janice nor Raymond had a previous connection to the Okanagan but the lush orchards and pristine lakes attracted them.  They chose Summerland and anchored their life by purchasing a women’s clothing store on Main Street.  To date, the Maaske’s have traveled the world 3 times and remain certain that Summerland is the best place to call home.

 

Raymond wanted a university education and was the first in his family to take this step, making sacrifices as needed including working more than one job and even living on a bench.  He graduated from Simon Fraser University after 5 years with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Certificates in Chinese Studies and 2 years work experience with Price Waterhouse – Chartered Accountants. In fact, he has two degrees (Business and Theology), with specialized training and certificates in Canadian audit, accounting and taxation, as well as TEFL certification.  Talk about a commitment to learning!

 

When asked what makes his home-based real estate business unique, Raymond revealed, “My business operates ‘by referral only’ and gives 110% to those I serve to ensure they have the best experience possible. I hold myself responsible for creating exceptional, profitable results with the investments entrusted to me and efficiently serve my customers by not only being competitive, but by leading the way.” To get a better sense of the tools that Raymond makes available to clients, please also check out his BLOG.

 

I loved learning that between 2008 and 2009, Raymond, Janice and their 4 children spent 545 days traveling around the world, climbing mountains, river rafting, camel riding and much more.  Their adventure alternated between visiting modern cities and third world regions. While in China, Raymond taught English for 2 terms.  Class work was kept up to date and each member of the family regularly updated his/her blog to friends, teachers and loved ones at home.  During their journey, each family member wrote at least one book. A remarkable legacy!

 

Raymond is serious about making a contribution to the people who comprise the communities he serves. He has run for Mayor of Summerland, served on the executive of the Chamber of Commerce and passionately promotes Summerland and Penticton as great places to visit, live and work.  When asked what he does for recreation, other than travel and complete Ironman, Raymond added, “When what you do for a living is a form of relaxation, then recreation becomes a big part of everyday.  We live in a beautiful place so biking, hiking or walking is just another way to get out and do and see the people and things you love.”

 

In case you haven’t noticed Raymond Maaske’s vehicle out and about, watch for a wine-coloured PT Cruiser with Home Star Realty clearly identified on the driver and passenger doors. Keep your eyes peeled and if you get a chance, wave or shout hello. In the meantime, check out his real estate market updates and send a quick email to let him know you have read this article.

 

Phone: 250-488-8764

Email: Raymond@homestarrealty.ca

 

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