In Metro Vancouver and along the Sea to Sky corridor, talk of real estate seems to dominate virtually every gathering. Buying and selling real estate is typically one of life’s biggest and most stressful decisions, and yet it is too often treated as just another transaction. One group of real estate agents is looking to change that, with a distinctly West Coast approach and the relentless pursuit of excellence and integrity. These agents are collectively and successfully raising the bar to redefine an industry too often driven by quantity over quality.
True to their mission "to elevate the real estate industry through the relentless pursuit of a higher professional standard," Stilhavn Real Estate Services is a revolution in B.C.’s real estate industry. With a client-first philosophy, a collaborative style and a hyper-local perspective, they're founded on the belief that buyers and sellers deserve an elevated experience.
"Our agents subscribe to the core values that define Stilhavn: honesty, excellence and a commitment to community," says Ben Chimes, founding partner and chief executive officer, Stilhavn Real Estate Services.
Culture of excellence and collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of Stilhavn’s success. Unlike traditional brokerages that foster internal competition, Stilhavn agents work together, sharing market insights, strategies and networks to benefit every client. To that end, Chimes believes, "What really sets us apart is the fact that our agents are open to sharing what they know and what they've learned."
Heather Harley, chief strategy officer, Stilhavn Real Estate Services acknowledges their agents are inherently inquisitive and dedicated to ongoing education. "They engage in regular professional development, something that we've woven into our culture; we're constantly keeping on top of what's happening in the industry."
Their new mentorship program demonstrates these dedicated efforts, offering
bi-weekly education sessions led by Stilhavn’s most senior real estate agents. The sessions are enthusiastically attended by a large group of already experienced, successful agents who are dedicated to ongoing professional development.
Unlike other brokerages, Stilhavn steers away from individual rewards, instead believing that their collaborative model supports all agents to rise together, generating successful outcomes for everyone and consistently delivering outstanding results in a competitive market.
In 2024, for example, their Metro Vancouver agents sold 3.85 times more homes than the average Greater Vancouver REALTOR® and sold them 33% faster, according to Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) and Stillhavn’s own internal data.
With 127 active agents across the region, rather than prioritizing rapid expansion, Stilhavn has been intentional about its growth, selecting only the most skilled, ethical and service-driven agents. Ultimately, agents are selected based on a demonstrated commitment to those shared core values of excellence and collaboration.
Commitment to charity and community
Beyond real estate, Stilhavn is deeply passionate about giving back. Through Stilhavn Cares, agents contribute directly to local charities of their choosing, strengthening the communities where they live and work.
They support organizations in Metro Vancouver such as Covenant House and BC SPCA, and Backpack Buddies in Squamish. Further afield, their partnership with KGH Foundation created Toyhavn with Kelowna General Hospital, providing toys and books for young patients.
In 2024 alone, Stilhavn donated over $63,000 to causes that reflect their values. "This collective effort reflects our belief that real estate is about more than homes — it’s about building communities," says Harley.
Hyper-local focus
Stilhavn's deep local connections enable them to provide buyers with valuable neighbourhood insights and sellers with a network of motivated, qualified buyers. Founded by a small group of passionate, local owners who live and work in British Columbia, Stilhavn is committed to ensuring that every decision made, every dollar reinvested and every strategy implemented is designed to strengthen and support the local real estate market. Offices are spread across the province in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler and the Okanagan.
"We hold our annual convention in Kelowna or Whistler, reinforcing our commitment to keeping our focus where it matters — on B.C.’s unique real estate landscape and the people who call it home," says Chimes. "Our clients benefit from this hyper-local expertise, our agents thrive in a culture built for B.C.’s market and our communities grow stronger because our success stays here."
"At Stilhavn, we don’t just work here — we live here, we give back here and we’re invested in building a better future for B.C. real estate."
If you're a buyer, seller, investor or experienced agent with aligned core values in real estate excellence looking to transition brokerages, visit Stilhavn.com for more information.
This publication is not intended to cause or induce a breach of an existing agency relationship.
