Member News

What started with childhood Monopoly games and hard-earned lessons from his father became a lifelong career in commercial real estate for Salem broker Ian Levin. Today, as principal broker of Nathan Levin Co., Levin helps clients navigate investment decisions, manage risk, and build generational wealth.

If success in real estate is driven by building relationships, then Jordan Hill is no doubt made of the right stuff. A self-described extrovert, Hill says she is most energized being around people. Her friendly and outgoing personality naturally lends itself to the real estate industry, where she leads Hilltop Property Group with eXp Realty, LLC in Salem.

Two years ago, as Katy Voves and Allie Saunders were working around the clock to start their own real estate brokerage in Salem, one question kept coming up in conversations with friends and colleagues: “Are we crazy?”Of course, they were kidding. Or were they?

Jenny Pakula’s career has spanned criminal prosecution, real estate, and association leadership, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges facing today’s REALTORS®. As CEO of Oregon REALTORS®, she is helping members navigate industry change while advocating for policies that protect homeownership and strengthen the profession across the state.

Judy Gysin and her husband, Greg, are principal brokers with The Gysin Group at Premiere Property Group LLC in Salem. Earlier this year, she was asked by MVAR to represent our industry on a task force with Cherriots, the local mass transit district.

The story of how Thuy Chrestenson arrived in the United States from her native Vietnam reads like a classic Hollywood movie script, from the chance encounter with her future husband to their whirlwind romance and life together on a rural Oregon farm.

As the real estate industry adapts to new regulations, technology, and consumer expectations, Windermere Heritage owner Ashleigh Fordham says success depends on staying informed rather than avoiding change.

The Garibays are passionate about building stronger communities, both through their real estate business and their extensive volunteer work across Salem. From reviving MVAR’s Salem Brokers Tours to leading downtown holiday light displays and supporting local nonprofits, Ruben and Erin Garibay embody a spirit of collaboration, service, and giving back.

Named MVAR’s 2025 REALTOR® of the Year, Cathie Velasco has built her career on exceptional client service, community involvement, and a passion for helping others. Whether guiding buyers and sellers through changing markets or volunteering with local nonprofits and leadership programs, Velasco believes success comes from giving back and building meaningful relationships.

Heather Egan’s passion for homeownership stems from her own childhood experiences, inspiring a career dedicated to helping clients navigate one of life’s biggest investments with confidence and care. As Sales Manager for First American Title and an MVAR Affiliate Director, Egan is committed to building trust, fostering industry collaboration, and strengthening the Mid-Valley community.

Drawing on more than 30 years of military service and a successful real estate career, Jim Sparkman shared how resilience, teamwork, and servant leadership have shaped his approach to overcoming adversity and empowering others. Speaking to MVAR’s Salem Emerging Leaders, Sparkman encouraged attendees to lead by example, invest deeply in their teams, and view challenges as opportunities for growth.

Zach Fischer never planned on a career in real estate, but today the Windermere Mid-Valley owner is passionate about helping first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership through strong communication and a deep understanding of their goals. As a past president of MVAR, Fischer also advocates for policies that protect property rights and expand opportunities for future homeowners.