In every issue, we will highlight the accomplishments or great careers of women in our area. In this issue, we celebrate Mimi Osterdahl, the new President of the Whatcom County Association of Realtors®. The Whatcom County Association of Realtors® is more than just a loose conglomeration of people who sell houses — it’s a powerful lobbying group that represents the interests of those in the housing and building communities here and in Olympia. The WCAR® is a big group, loaded with conflicting and strong opinions on politics and jetted tubs, transportation and extra garage space. And though it’s true that real estate associates don’t really compete in the traditional sense of business competition — by design they cooperate on sales and purchases — they can still be a tough group to manage. Into the fray steps their newly elected President, Mimi Osterdahl, a woman of good humor, warmth and lots of grit and determination of her own.
Mimi’s story begins with her mother, who, as with many real estate professionals, was a single mother. She raised and supported a family with her real estate career, and became one of the area’s most esteemed associates. Finding herself in need of a career that could support her, Mimi followed in her mother’s footsteps. At first, she hid her association with her mother from the local real estate community. Though close with her mom, she wanted to make it on her own steam. Years later, she has garnered her own stellar reputation, and is, like her mom, a great real estate professional who exudes ethics and fair-mindedness. “I have been celebrating closings since I was seven years old,” she quipped at the WCAR® Great Gatsby Gala, where she was installed as President. Lucky for buyers and sellers in Whatcom, and for the members of the WCAR®, she has kept celebrating.
