Clearwater Properties

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Clearwater Properties
Private
Industry
Founded1993; 33 years ago (1993)
Seeley Lake, Montana, U.S.
FounderKevin Wetherell
Headquarters3134 MT Highway 83,
Seeley Lake, Montana
,
U.S.
Area served
Key people
Services
  • Real Estate Brokerage
  • Real Estate Development
  • Commercial Real Estate
  • Media
RevenueIncrease US$520 million (2023)
SubsidiariesClearwater Montana Properties
Websiteclearwaterproperties.com

Clearwater Properties is an American real estate brokerage firm founded in 1993, specializing in recreational, luxury, residential, and ranch properties[1][2] across the Mountain West and internationally. The company operates over 35 office locations throughout Montana[3], Idaho[4], Washington, Wyoming, North Dakota, Costa Rica, and Belize and has been recognized as one of "America's Best Brokerages" by The Land Report for eight consecutive years since 2017.

History

Founding and early years (1993-2010)

Clearwater Properties was founded in 1993 by Kevin Wetherell in Seeley Lake, Montana, originally named "Clearwater River Realty."[5] The company has since grown from a local Montana business into a regional powerhouse in the recreational real estate market. Wetherell, a fifth-generation Montanan from White Sulphur Springs, started the company with what he described as "a dream and some cash advances from a credit card." Prior to real estate, Wetherell worked as a power plant operator and senior power plant operator in Montana's utility industry starting in 1984.

The company's breakthrough came through strategic marketing innovations, including the "absentee owner strategy," where Wetherell manually compiled property ownership data using a microfiche reader, targeting 840 properties with absentee owners through direct mail campaigns. During the early years, the company used revolutionary marketing approaches for the era, including colored construction paper brochures with taped photographs, while competitors relied on basic text listings.

The company's second office opened in White Sulphur Springs in 1995 - Wetherell's hometown - and operated for 28 years before temporarily closing in 2023 and reopening in June 2025.[6] The company survived the 2008 recession by acquiring failing competitors and purchasing Cabela's Trophy Properties territorial rights.

Expansion and industry recognition (2010-2025)

A major strategic milestone came in 2007 when Clearwater became the exclusive Montana participant with Cabela's Trophy Properties, transitioning to Sports Afield Trophy Properties in 2014 when Sports Afield acquired the division. This partnership established Clearwater as the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties brokerage worldwide in both sales volume and number of transactions.

Beginning in 2017, Clearwater Properties earned "America's Best Brokerages" designation from The Land Report[7][8] for eight consecutive years through 2025. The first recognition highlighted over $200 million in sales volume and positioned the company among only a small number of brokerages achieving $100-250M in sales nationally. With over $500 million in sales volume in 2023, Clearwater was one of only a small number of brokerages throughout the nation that achieved $250-500M in sales and was specifically recognized by The Land Report for its high number of completed transactions above $750,000.

In 2025, Shaun Michael Lewis, a seasoned global executive and former COO for real estate and retail brands, succeeded founding broker and outgoing CEO Kevin Wetherell.[9] Wetherell remains actively engaged with the company as chairman and continues to serve as Regional Director for Southwest Montana.[10]

Products and Services

Property specializations and services

Clearwater Properties specializes in recreational properties, farm and ranch, waterfront property, luxury homes, commercial real estate, residential real estate, bare land, hunting property, fishing property, ski property, and equestrian estates. The company focuses on high-end properties with compelling recreational features. The company participates in 17 multiple listing services - more than any other brokerage in their region - and Clearwater Montana Properties is a member of 8 Montana MLS services, more than any other brokerage in the state.

Find Your Wild Magazine

Clearwater Properties publishes "Find Your Wild," a bi-annual lifestyle and real estate magazine with a distribution of over 50,000 copies per issue. Previously titled "Real Estate Magazine," the publication was rebranded to align with the company's "Find Your Wild®" registered trademark and marketing strategy. The magazine features high-end recreational properties, ranch and farm listings, luxury homes, and lifestyle content that reflects the outdoor recreation culture of Montana, Idaho, Washington, Wyoming, and North Dakota. Each issue showcases the company's premier listings alongside editorial content focused on hunting, fishing, skiing, ranching, and other recreational activities that define the Mountain West lifestyle. The publication serves as both a marketing tool for Clearwater Properties' listings and a lifestyle magazine for property owners and enthusiasts interested in recreational real estate across the company's operating territories. Distribution includes direct mail to targeted demographics, placement in high-end lodges and recreational facilities, and availability at all Clearwater Properties office locations.

Sports Afield Trophy Properties partnership

Clearwater is the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties brokerage in the world in both sales volume and number of transactions. The company serves as the exclusive territory broker participant with Sports Afield Trophy Properties (SATP) across Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Washington.

This partnership, which began with Cabela's Trophy Properties in 2007 before transitioning to Sports Afield in 2014[11], provides global marketing reach through syndication to over 650 recreationally oriented websites focused on lakes, rivers, fishing, skiing, golf, hunting and similar pursuits. Since 1887, the Sports Afield name has been synonymous with outdoor recreation and conservation, aligning with Clearwater's mission while greatly magnifying their marketing reach.

Notable Listings and Sales

Clearwater Properties has represented several exceptional and unique properties that demonstrate the company's expertise in marketing distinctive recreational and luxury real estate across the Mountain West.

Great Falls Castle

One of the company's most distinctive listings was the "Castle on the Plains," a modern castle-inspired estate located at 665 Wilson Butte Road in Great Falls, Montana[12]. Built in 2010 and listed by Clearwater Montana Properties agent Peter Schultz for $4 million, the property featured a 5,212-square-foot main residence designed with a castle-like façade complete with decorative gargoyles.[13] The four-bedroom, four-and-one-half-bathroom estate was situated on 41.9 acres with over 5,000 square feet of Missouri River frontage. The property's unique amenities included three private airstrips ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet in length, a private aircraft hangar, and a comprehensive workshop facility. Additional features encompassed a spacious guest apartment, boathouse with fuel storage, expansive wine cellar, and multiple luxury appointments including Miele appliances, Corian countertops, dual ovens, and a dumbwaiter system. The estate was designed as a self-contained compound with dual generators, geothermal heating and cooling systems, a boiler for snow melt, and dual septic systems. The upper level featured a dramatic 360-degree observation room overlooking the river and neighboring islands, emphasizing the property's pristine waterfront setting and recreational opportunities.

Salmon Lake Lodge

Clearwater Montana Properties, in partnership with Cabela's Trophy Properties, listed the Montana Island Lodge on Sourdough Island in Salmon Lake for $6.5 million.[14] The property, owned by the University of Montana, represented one of the most unique recreational properties in western Montana. The 18,000-square-foot lodge occupied more than an acre of private island surrounded by the pristine waters of Salmon Lake. The lodge featured 10 individual guest rooms, each equipped with private bathrooms, and could comfortably accommodate 25 guests. The property had operated as an exclusive retreat charging $2,500 per night and hosted various high-profile events including weddings and corporate gatherings. Listing agent Kevin Wetherell noted the marketing challenge presented by the property's uniqueness, stating "It is a challenge in marketing in that it's so unique" and that there were "no comparable properties in western Montana".[15] The island estate included old-growth trees, a private dock, fire pit, and hot tub positioned within close proximity to the lake's pristine waters. The property had been operated by general manager Jane Fisher for 18 years, hosting everything from weddings to visits by Los Angeles television producers. The sale was prompted by Fisher's retirement and the University of Montana's decision to divest the unique asset, with proceeds intended to benefit four UM-affiliated campuses across the state.

Corporate Affairs

Leadership

Chairman: Kevin Wetherell (CEO from 1993-2025)

Kevin Wetherell''' is the founder and Chairman of Clearwater Properties.[16] A fifth-generation Montanan from White Sulphur Springs, Wetherell founded the company in 1993 with what he famously described as "a credit card and a dream." Prior to entering real estate, Wetherell worked in Montana's utility industry starting in 1984, serving as a Power Plant Operator and later Senior Power Plant Operator. Wetherell holds multiple professional designations including appointment to the Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers (CRB), Graduate Realtors Institute (GRI), and Resort & Recreation Specialist (RRS), and is a candidate for the Realtors Land Institute (RLI). He is licensed in Montana and Georgia and has more than 25 years of successful real estate marketing experience. As the company's top producer, Wetherell achieved #1 Top Sales Volume Producer status in 2010, 2014, 2015, and 2016. Beyond his business achievements, Wetherell is a financial and volunteer supporter in the local communities that Clearwater Properties serves and is a supporter of conservation and land use ethics, respecting the traditional uses of ranches and farms. His conservation efforts include support for the Montana Land Reliance, Blackfoot Challenge, Trout Unlimited, and various local community foundations in Montana. He previously served as a Board Member on the State of Montana Board of Realty Regulation. As an avid outdoorsman reflecting the company's recreational property focus, Wetherell enjoys fly fishing, downhill skiing, elk hunting, and other outdoor activities. He continues to serve as Regional Director for Southwest Montana while maintaining his role as Chairman following the leadership transition to CEO Shaun Michael Lewis in 2025.

Chief Executive Officer: Shaun Michael Lewis (2025-present)

Shaun Michael Lewis is the CEO of Clearwater Properties[17][18][19] and a Montana-based executive with extensive global business experience.[20] Born into a five-generation Montana family, Shaun combines deep local roots with extensive global business expertise. Prior to becoming CEO of Clearwater Properties in 2025, Lewis served as Global Chief Operating Officer of Cofix[21] (2020-2025), a technology-centric retail coffee company operating over 450 stores across seven countries in EMEA, LATAM, and APAC regions. Lewis's connection to Clearwater Properties spans nearly a decade, having previously served as Chief Operations & Technology Officer (COO & CTO) from 2016-2020[22][23], where he orchestrated a comprehensive digital transformation of the company's HR, administrative, operational, client-facing, and financial processes. Lewis holds advanced degrees from prestigious institutions including an Executive MBA from Harvard Business School's Program for Leadership Development (2016-2018), an MBA in Technology Management from the University of Washington's Michael G. Foster School of Business[24] (2014-2016), where he graduated in the top 10% and earned Beta Gamma Sigma honors. His educational background also includes graduate-level coursework at Columbia University Business School, Seattle University School of Law, a Master of Science in Human Resources & Organizational Leadership from Chapman University, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Finance from Columbia College, where he graduated summa cum laude. His diverse career includes strategic consulting work as an AI Technology & Strategy Consultant for BoldIQ (2015-2016), a Bellevue-based operational artificial intelligence firm, where he collaborated with executives to identify market opportunities and develop growth strategies leveraging AI competitive advantages. Lewis brings significant federal government experience, having served in senior HR leadership roles with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs[25] (2009-2016) and the U.S. Department of Justice (2006-2009).[26] Lewis is a Veteran of the United States Navy[27], where he served as an Electronics Engineer.[28]

Financial Performance

While Clearwater Properties is a private company and does not publicly disclose detailed financial information, the company has reported significant sales volumes. In 2022, the company achieved approximately $500 million in sales volume[29], and according to company leadership materials, the company reports $570M+ in annual sales volume as of more recent years.

Corporate Identity

Branding

The company operates under the registered trademarks "Clearwater Properties" and "Clearwater Montana Properties". The company additional trademarks for marketing purposes, including "Stake your Claim®" and "Find Your Wild®". Montana-specific operations also use "Find Your Montana®" as a regional tagline.

The company's logo features a circular mountain arch symbol with stylized mountain peaks, pine trees, and a water element, rendered in lime green (#AFBD23), combined with dark turquoise (#003E52) text reading "CLEARWATER PROPERTIES."

Brand Evolution

The company's name has evolved three times throughout its history, reflecting its geographic expansion and market growth from a local valley enterprise to a multi-state operation.

Clearwater River Realty (1993-2008)

The company was originally founded in 1993 as "Clearwater River Realty," deriving its name from the Clearwater River, which flows through the Seeley-Swan Valley where the company established its headquarters. The Clearwater River holds significant importance in the region as it forms the backbone of the Seeley Valley's ecosystem and recreational economy. The Clearwater River originates in the Swan Range and flows southward through a chain of pristine lakes including Rainy Lake, Lake Alva, Lake Inez, Seeley Lake, and Salmon Lake before joining the Blackfoot River near Clearwater Junction. The 46-mile river system is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serves as a critical habitat for endangered species including bull trout, while the surrounding forested watershed provides habitat for grizzly bears and Canada lynx. The Clearwater watershed forms the southernmost portion of the North Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE), encompassing over 10 million acres of some of the most unspoiled lands on the North American continent, where all plants and animals present during the Lewis and Clark expedition continue to inhabit the region. The Seeley-Swan Valley chain of lakes connected by the Clearwater and Swan Rivers represents the last natural chain of lakes in the northwestern region, making it a premier destination for recreational property investment. The river's importance extends beyond its ecological value to encompass significant recreational and economic benefits for the region. This natural treasure provided both the inspiration for the company's original name and the foundation for its specialization in recreational and waterfront properties.

Clearwater Montana Properties (2008-2019)

In 2007, the company rebranded as "Clearwater Montana Properties" following a major strategic acquisition and expansion. The company merged with Waldbillig Realty, a well-established firm founded in 1957 by Frank Waldbillig, which had been purchased in 2002 by Thor Sichveland and operated three offices. This substantial cash and stock acquisition significantly expanded Clearwater's footprint beyond the Seeley-Swan Valley to serve clients throughout Montana. The acquisition of Waldbillig Realty coincided with Clearwater's acceptance as a Montana Participant with Cabela's Trophy Properties, marking the company's entry into national recreational property marketing networks. This merger represented a pivotal expansion that established Clearwater as a statewide presence rather than a regional valley operation, necessitating a name change that reflected this broader Montana market focus. The "Montana Properties" designation acknowledged the company's evolution from a local Seeley Valley firm to Montana's largest real estate brokerage, with the expanded name better representing its statewide scope while maintaining its connection to the Clearwater brand heritage.

Clearwater Properties (2019-present)

In 2019, the company adopted "Clearwater Properties" as its primary brand identity to reflect its multi-state operations spanning Montana, Idaho, Washington, Wyoming, North Dakota, and international markets including Costa Rica and Belize. This final brand evolution recognized the company's transformation from a Montana-focused enterprise to a regional Mountain West and international operation. Under this structure, Montana operations retained the "Clearwater Montana Properties" designation as a subsidiary of the parent company, Clearwater Properties. This approach allows the company to maintain its strong Montana heritage and brand recognition within the state while presenting a unified multi-state identity for broader operations. Clearwater Montana Properties continues to operate as Montana's largest brokerage specializing in premier residential, recreational, and ranch properties, preserving the legacy and local market strength built over more than two decades in the state. The current brand architecture enables Clearwater Properties to leverage both its deep Montana roots and its expanded geographic capabilities, maintaining local expertise while offering clients access to recreational properties across the Mountain West and beyond.

  • Clearwater logo history
  • Cleanwater-River-Realty-1993-2003.svg

    1993 – 2003: First Clearwater logo.

  • CRR-Arch-Logo-2003-2008.svg

    2003 – 2008: Second Clearwater logo.

  • Clearwater-Montana-Properties-Arch-Logo-2008-2019.svg

    2008 – 2019: Third Clearwater logo.

  • Clearwater-Properties-Arch-Logo-2019-2025.svg

    2019 – Present: Fourth and current Clearwater logo

  • Clearwater-Properties-TextLogo-Black.svg

    2025 – Present: Fifth and current Clearwater logo

  • Clearwater-Properties-FullLogo-Blue-NoArch.svg

    2025 – Present: Sixth and current Clearwater logo


Collaborations

Glacier to Yellowstone - Life in the West

In 2025, Clearwater Properties began a strategic content collaboration with Trinity Vandenacre, creator of the "Life in the West" brand. Vandenacre, a Montana-based rancher and content creator from Townsend, Montana, operates one of the most successful rural lifestyle media platforms, with a combined social media reach of over 877,000 followers across YouTube (299,000 subscribers), TikTok (297,000 followers), Instagram (166,000 followers), and Facebook (115,000 followers). The partnership focuses on highlighting Clearwater Properties' unique recreational and ranch properties to Vandenacre's audience of farmers, ranchers, and eco-conscious consumers who are deeply engaged with content about rural lifestyles, sustainable grazing practices, and authentic Montana ranch life. Vandenacre's brand, which emphasizes supporting independent farms and ranches while preserving the rural way of life, closely aligns with Clearwater Properties' specialization in recreational and agricultural real estate. Vandenacre, described as a "ranching storyteller," creates educational and entertaining content about western lifestyle, land management practices, and rural economics through various media including video content, podcasts, and social media posts. His audience demographic represents an ideal match for Clearwater Properties' target market of recreational property buyers and those seeking authentic western ranch experiences.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Clearwater Giving Fund

The Clearwater Giving Fund is Clearwater Properties' way of ensuring that every transaction gives back.[30] Through this charitable program, a portion of each sale is directed to a local service group or charitable organization selected by the Agent[31]. To date, the company has donated more than $1.3 million[32]through the program, helping to strengthen and uplift the very communities it calls home.[33]

As of 2025, the company has given back over $1.3 million to non-profits across Montana and continues this tradition across all their operating markets.

Culture and Arts

Forever Glacier Legacy Project

In 2017, Clearwater Montana Properties commissioned "Bison Bison," an original painting on silk created by Montana artist Nancy Cawdrey as part of the Forever Glacier Legacy Project.[34] The Cawdreys, who had been Clearwater clients for over 15 years, were selected to create this piece as a tribute to Glacier National Park and Montana's natural heritage. The painting depicts the American bison, described by the company as "a quintessential part of Montana's landscape" and honors the species that once roamed Glacier's lands in staggering numbers and continue to inhabit Montana's National Bison Range and regions near Yellowstone National Park. The artwork serves as both a majestic representation of Montana's splendor and an educational tool to raise awareness about the importance of conservation. "Bison" was selected as one of 20 paintings in the Forever Glacier Legacy Project, an initiative designed to generate awareness and engagement with respect to Glacier National Park's conservation needs. The painting became part of a traveling exhibition displayed at high-profile galleries, including the Smithsonian Institution. Upon conclusion of the traveling exhibition, "Bison" was placed on permanent exhibit at the Glacier National Park Visitor's Center. Full-sized Giclée reproductions of "Bison" are displayed at select Clearwater office locations, allowing the company to share the artwork and its conservation message with clients and visitors. This commission represented Clearwater Properties' commitment to supporting both local artists and National Park Service conservation efforts. Glacier National Park and Montana's natural heritage.

Journey to the Sun Documentary

In 2025, Clearwater Properties entered into a partnership with the "Journey to the Sun" documentary project, serving as the film's marketing and media partner. The 60-minute documentary, scheduled for release in Spring 2026, chronicles the history of Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road and follows the heroic crews who risk their lives each spring reopening the legendary 51-mile mountain road. The documentary has attracted major backing from Montana PBS, Glacier National Park Conservancy, Montana Film Office, and Greater Montana Foundation. Current production includes summer b-roll filming, compilation of historical footage, interviews with National Park Service personnel, Tribal Leaders, and road veterans including a 100-year-old former road camp resident. The film features original music by Montana band Saint of Soldiers and production artwork by Mountain West artist Cassidy Meade. Clearwater Properties' partnership encompasses comprehensive media and marketing support, including website development (journeytothesunfilm.com) and IMDb management, media outreach and placement, podcast coordination, film festival and distribution strategy, and public outreach campaigns. The company describes this collaboration as showcasing "Clearwater at our best - supporting meaningful projects while proving that responsible business growth and wilderness preservation can work hand in hand." The partnership reflects Clearwater Properties' commitment to preserving and promoting access to natural wonders, values the company states are deeply shared with their community. The Going-to-the-Sun Road represents what Clearwater describes as "the American belief that everyone deserves access to natural wonder," aligning with the company's mission of making recreational properties and outdoor experiences accessible to future generations.

Acquisitions

Clearwater Properties has grown through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions that have significantly expanded its geographic footprint and market presence across the Mountain West.

Waldbillig Realty Acquisition (2008)

The company's most significant acquisition occurred in 2008 when Clearwater River Realty merged with Waldbillig Realty, forming Clearwater Montana Properties.[35] This strategic merger brought together two successful Montana real estate companies with complementary strengths and overlapping territories. Waldbillig Realty was founded in 1958 by Frank Waldbillig as a small operation in Philipsburg, Montana.[36] The merger was facilitated by both companies' involvement with Cabela's Trophy Properties. Waldbillig Realty had been a Cabela's Trophy Properties franchise since 2004. Clearwater River Realty had also established a relationship with Cabela's Trophy Properties, and the overlapping territories and complementary skills made the merger strategically advantageous. The acquisition created a company with approximately 50 agents and eight offices spanning Montana, effectively providing statewide coverage. As Waldbillig management noted at the time of the merger, "We have enough agents right now where we have the whole state covered... from Yak to Wibaux." The merger removed geographical barriers, consolidated advertising budgets, and allowed each broker to benefit from the other's regional expertise and established client relationships. The integration of Waldbillig Realty's established presence in southwestern Montana with Clearwater's strength in the Seeley-Swan Valley and north-central regions created Montana's largest recreational real estate brokerage. This acquisition necessitated the rebranding from "Clearwater River Realty" to "Clearwater Montana Properties" in 2008, reflecting the expanded statewide operations and the company's evolution beyond its original Seeley Valley focus.

Subsequent Growth Strategy

Following the successful integration of Waldbillig Realty, Clearwater Properties continued its acquisition-driven growth strategy during the Great Recession of 2008-2010. The company acquired several smaller brokerages that were struggling with the economic downturn, using these challenging market conditions as opportunities to expand its footprint and consolidate market share. These acquisitions, combined with organic office expansion, established the foundation for the company's later evolution into a multi-state operation. The acquisition strategy demonstrated Clearwater's ability to successfully integrate different company cultures while maintaining the personalized service and local market expertise that characterized each acquired firm. The Waldbillig Realty acquisition remains the most transformative in the company's history, establishing Clearwater Montana Properties as a dominant force in Montana's recreational and ranch property markets while providing the operational scale necessary for subsequent expansion across the Mountain West.

Date Acquired Description Source
January 2008 Waldbillig Realty Montana-based real estate brokerage company operating founded in 1958 [37][35]
March 2008 Montana Dreams Real Estate Montana-based real estate brokerage founded in 2007 [37]
December 2009 Ross Realty Montana-based real estate firm founded in 1981 [37][38]
October 2015 Grand Teton Realty Wyoming-based real estate company founded in 2011 [37]
April 2024 Buy Sell Montana Real Estate Montana-based real estate company founded in 2017 [37]

Office Locations

Clearwater Properties operates across multiple states in the Mountain West region:

  • Montana: The company's home state, where subsidiary Clearwater Montana Properties is the largest real estate brokerage within the state of Montana
  • Idaho: Multiple office locations serving recreational and residential markets
  • Washington: Including offices in cities like Newport
  • Wyoming: Serving ranch and recreational properties
  • North Dakota: Expanding presence in the state
  • International: Operations in Costa Rica and Belize

North America

Established City Country or US State
2022 Anaconda Montana
2008 Bigfork Montana
2017 Billings Montana
2024 Bismarck North Dakota
2017 Bozeman Montana
2020 Butte Montana
2011 Choteau Montana
2023 Clark Fork Idaho
2021 Cody Wyoming
2014 Coeur d'Alene Idaho
2008 Deer Lodge Montana
2023 Frenchtown Montana
2017 Great Falls Montana
2020 Hamilton Montana
2010 Helena Montana
2010 Kalispell Montana
2020 Lewistown Montana
2016 Libby Montana
2013 Livingston Montana
2006 Missoula[39] Montana
2017 Newport Washington
2009 Noxon Montana
2008 Philipsburg Montana
2017 Plains Montana
2014 Polson Montana
1993 Seeley Lake Montana
1997 Swan Valley Montana
2013 Townsend Montana
2020 Trout Creek Montana
2013 Troy Montana
2012 Whitefish Montana
1995 White Sulphur Springs Montana

Latin America

Established City Country or US State
1. Ambergris Caye Belize
2. Liberia Costa Rica

Workplace Culture

Clearwater Properties has developed a distinctive workplace culture that differentiates it from traditional real estate brokerages, which are typically characterized by high agent turnover and competitive internal dynamics. The company's approach to organizational culture has become a significant factor in agent retention and client service quality.

The Clearwater Way

The company's culture is formalized in "The Clearwater Way," described by the organization as "a philosophy of principled ambition" that serves as "the governing code underpinning every action we take." This cultural framework emphasizes loyalty and commitment both among colleagues and toward clients, functioning as what the company calls "our compass, guiding us in our professional and life pursuits." The Clearwater Way represents the company's response to what it views as problematic industry norms, including adversarial relationships between agents and what the company describes as "unwelcome and unfriendly interactions that unfortunately plague the broader real estate industry." The philosophy recognizes that clients are "making the biggest decision of their lives" and require professional advocates rather than aggressive sales approaches.

Agent Retention and Return

A notable characteristic of Clearwater's culture is the frequency with which former agents return to the company after working with other brokerages. Company leadership reports that agents who leave to "test the waters with other brands" often return, with company culture cited as the primary motivator for their return. This pattern of agent return is considered unusual in the real estate industry, where agent mobility between brokerages is typically permanent.

Collaborative Environment

Clearwater Properties emphasizes collaboration over competition among its agents, implementing what it describes as "guardrails to prevent normal adversarial mindsets" common in real estate. The company's leadership structure is designed to be responsive to agent input, with an organizational approach that "listens from the very top." This collaborative approach extends to the company's hiring and retention practices. The organization reports carefully vetting potential agents and implementing swift removal of individuals whose behavior conflicts with the established culture. The company acknowledges that this approach may limit access to "big hitters" whose performance expectations conflict with the cultural requirements, but maintains that agents who "excel in a nurturing environment will often treat your clients best."

Professional Development

The company implements comprehensive professional development programs including mentoring systems, continuous learning opportunities, and structured training programs described as "boot camps" for new agents. Clearwater Properties emphasizes internal promotion and leadership development, creating what it describes as "a career pipeline" to provide professional fulfillment beyond individual sales success. The organization prioritizes accessibility and personal engagement from leadership, emphasizing direct interaction and "face time" rather than purely digital communication. This approach reflects the company's philosophy of demonstrating care for agents through actions rather than statements.

Values-Based Operations

Clearwater Properties operates on the principle that "values must be the foundation of every decision and initiative," treating agents as "equally important stakeholders" alongside clients. The company maintains a "make it right attitude" in addressing issues and conflicts, with leadership emphasizing that cultural values should guide all business decisions. This values-based approach is designed to create what the company describes as a "trickle-down effect" on client interactions, with the premise that agents who experience supportive workplace culture will provide superior client service. The company's cultural philosophy recognizes that while some agents may thrive in highly competitive environments, others perform optimally in nurturing settings, with the latter group often delivering better client experiences. The cultural emphasis on principled behavior and client advocacy represents Clearwater Properties' strategic differentiation in an industry traditionally known for aggressive sales tactics and high-pressure environments.

Awards

America's Best Brokerages

Clearwater Properties has been named one of America's Best Brokerages by The Land Report for eight consecutive years (2017-2025).[40] The Land Report's annual survey of US land brokerages is based on the total value of self-reported domestic land sales through traditional brokerage, excluding commercial, industrial, and residential assets unless they were components of larger land assets.

The first recognition in 2017[41] highlighted over $200 million in sales volume and positioned Clearwater among brokerages achieving $100-250M in sales nationally, with specific recognition for high numbers of completed transactions above $750,000.

Best of the Valleys Awards

Clearwater Properties has received multiple "Best Real Estate Office" awards from the Seeley Swan Pathfinder's "Best of the Valleys" readers' choice awards program. The Best of the Valleys awards recognize outstanding businesses and services in the Blackfoot, Clearwater and Swan Valleys region of Montana, as voted by local residents, seasonal residents, and visitors to the area. The awards program, launched in 2017[42] by the Seeley Swan Pathfinder newspaper, allows community members to vote for their favorite businesses across multiple categories including dining, recreation, automotive services, and professional services. The competition covers all businesses and locations within the Pathfinder's readership area, including Ovando, Potomac, Seeley Lake, and the Swan Valley. Clearwater Properties' recognition in this local awards program reflects the company's strong community standing in their home market of Seeley Lake and the surrounding valleys where the company was founded and maintains its headquarters. Clearwater Properties received the "Best Real Estate Office" award in 2017[43], 2018[44], and 2019[45], the latter of which marked the final year of the award program.

Commercial real estate excellence

In 2025, Kevin Wetherell and broker Jeannette Carr-Smith were named 2025 Crexi Platinum Sales Winners[46], recognizing them among the top 1% of U.S. commercial real estate brokers. This achievement reinforces the company's diversification beyond traditional recreational properties into commercial real estate markets.

Other recognition

As the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties brokerage worldwide, Clearwater gained recognition within the specialized recreational property industry. The company has also received recognition from various regional business organizations and chambers of commerce across its operating territories.

In the media

References

  1. ↑ "This Controversial Lawn Feature Might Be Negatively Impacting Your Home's Resale Value". House Beautiful. 2025-07-16. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
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  3. ↑ McMillin, David (2025-08-01). "How Much Is Title Insurance, And Why Do You Need It?". Bankrate. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  4. ↑ Matthews, Kyle (2024-04-30). "This Is How Much You Need To Make To Be Rich In Idaho". 104.3 WOW Country. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  5. ↑ "LIVING HERE | Log Houses; An American Classic". New York Times. 2006-02-17. Retrieved 2025-09-09.
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  7. ↑ "Clearwater Montana Properties Named One of America's Best Brokerages". bozemanmagazine.com. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
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  10. ↑ "Clearwater Properties announces new CEO". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  11. ↑ "Clearwater Properties Expands Sports Afield Trophy Properties Partnership | Outdoor Wire". www.theoutdoorwire.com. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
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  13. ↑ Puchaty, Amy (2020-07-16). "Montana Castle With Hanger And Boathouse Could Be Yours For $4 Million". Second Shelters. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  14. ↑ Black, Jo Dee. "Montana island mansion is for sale". Great Falls Tribune. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  15. ↑ "Montana private island retreat was built for contraceptive millionaire". TODAY.com. 2014-06-18. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
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  18. ↑ "Americans Are Flocking to These Small Locales To 'Townsize' This Summer". Yahoo Life. 2025-07-19. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
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  20. ↑ Passy, Charles (2025-07-19). "Some Americans are hoarding coffee, fearing that prices could go even higher". MarketWatch. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  21. ↑ ""We are unwavering in our pursuit of cost stability" – Cofix Global COO, Shaun Lewis". World Coffee Portal. 2023-08-11. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  22. ↑ "Business Briefcase published 07-30-17". The Independent Record. 2017-07-30. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  23. ↑ "Clearwater Montana Properties Announces Grand Opening of New Office in Columbia Falls". markets.businessinsider.com. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  24. ↑ "Want a Job after an Internship? Here's Ways to Boost Your Chances". find-mba.com. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  25. ↑ "What's Happening To Protect Veterans From Foreclosure?". The Mortgage Note. 2025-09-02. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  26. ↑ Dietrich, Eric. "Brain drain aside, here's why some young professionals do settle in small-town Montana". Great Falls Tribune. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  27. ↑ Dietrich, Eric (2018-01-09). "Why some young professionals settle in small-town Montana". High Country News. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  28. ↑ Dietrich, Eric (2018-01-14). "Montana brain drain is real, but here is why some young people return". The Missoulian. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  29. ↑ "2023 Best Brokerages - West". The Land Report. 2023-08-16. Retrieved 2025-09-02.
  30. ↑ Wilson, Judd (2018-04-27). "Elder Help gets donation". Coeur d'Alene Press. Retrieved 2025-09-09.
  31. ↑ "Clearwater Montana Properties continues local donations tradition". Yahoo News. 2021-05-07. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  32. ↑ "Donation made to local nonprofits". Valley Press/Mineral Independent. 2025-05-21. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  33. ↑ "Clearwater Montana Properties donates to Lewistown nonprofits". Lewistown News-Argus. 2025-05-12. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  34. ↑ Scott, Tristan (2017-10-18). "Art in Autumn". Flathead Beacon. Retrieved 2025-09-02.
  35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 Nicholes, Erin (2008-03-22). "2 successful real estate companies form Clearwater Montana Properties". Montana Standard. Retrieved 2025-09-02.
  36. ↑ Haffey, Vera (2005-08-27). "Philipsburg real estate a hot market". Montana Standard. Retrieved 2025-09-02.
  37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 37.2 37.3 37.4 "Our Story | Clearwater Properties". www.clearwaterproperties.com. Retrieved 2025-09-02.
  38. ↑ "Ross Realty, Inc". Better Business Bureau.
  39. ↑ Khameneh, Tandy (2006-04-09). "Getting Ahead". The Missoulian. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  40. ↑ "Clearwater Properties Named One of America's Best Brokerages for 2025". Morningstar, Inc. 2025-07-16. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  41. ↑ "CMP Receives 2017 America's Best Brokerages Award". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. 2017-08-24. Retrieved 2025-09-16.
  42. ↑ Pathfinder, Seeley Swan. "Best of the Valleys 2017". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  43. ↑ Pathfinder, Seeley Swan. "Best Real Estate Agency". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  44. ↑ Pathfinder, Seeley Swan. "Best Real Estate Office". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  45. ↑ Pathfinder, Seeley Swan. "Best of the Valleys 2019 Readers' Choice Award Winners". Seeley Swan Pathfinder. Retrieved 2025-09-03.
  46. ↑ "Clearwater Properties honors agent". Sanders County Ledger. Retrieved 2025-09-03.

External links

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