In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Amanda Westrheim
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
My entire life!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My whole family, they're just awesome to be around.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Honestly? ANYWHERE. I've cancelled all vacations for the year because the market is so busy.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Okanagan Lifestyle Apparel – their stuff just rocks!
What is your favourite activity?
Browsing MLS
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
All three. Together. At once.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
My cell phone died from heat stroke one summer and I lost all my data, including my schedule…I missed all appointments for two full days and stood up potential clients I had never met. I still have nightmares about it!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
A very, very high profile investor hired me to help them find property here in Kelowna, based on my online testimonials from clients. So huge!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My great grandparents build a cottage on Okanagan Lake in Fintry. I grew up there, every summer. The whole family would go for several weeks. It was paradise and so much fun.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I've been involved with Easter Seals for many years, and in previous years the 24-hour relay. What's special is knowing Camp Winfield is so close, we have actually visited the place where our raised dollars are being spent. The kids have such an amazing time. It's a really great cause.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
It seems crazy to me that in 2016 there is still world hunger and no access to clean water. It makes no sense! We have the ability to change this if we just unite.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Boating on Okanagan Lake
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Knox Mountain is so great for that. I hike it regularly.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
We need a second bridge, from Carr's Landing to Fintry and up over to the connector. It would solve our traffic problem and wouldn't effect tourism.
If you could be granted one wish for work or in life, what would it be?
No other REALTORs! Just me. hahaha
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm a closet bodybuilder.
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Westrheim Group
What does your business do?
We assist buyers and sellers with purchasing and/or selling their most expensive asset…their home!
How do people connect with you through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
You can find us on Facebook!
Where can people find your business online?
www.TWGKELOWNA.com
Why did you get into/start this business?
I've had a passion for real estate forever! When I was six-years-old, I knew I wanted to be a REALTOR when I grew up! By grade 11, I began working part time in the business, learning the in's and out's. At legal age, I took the real estate course.
What is the goal of your business?
To change the public impression of real estate agents. We really strive to go above and beyond with the experience, from beginning to end.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Real estate is not a 9-5 career. I work seven days a week, 15 hour days, 365 days a year. It's a big commitment and friends/family suffer. But I love it!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
We all make mistakes. But…how would you learn otherwise?
Why do you think it is important to shop local?
The big box stores will always survive. I like knowing where my money goes and keeping it in the community supports everyone.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My team members: Lisa Moldenhauer, Ben Houghton and Dave Drexel. Without them, The Westrheim Group wouldn't be nearly as successful!
My nomination for the In Focus spotlight is:
Rebecca Armitage, Armitage Mortgage Group
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below, and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna!
