Latest news with #ShaunMichaelLewis
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
The Rise Of The Ranchette For Business And Investment
Shaun Michael Lewis is the CEO of Clearwater Properties. Investors have discovered something known to rural America for a long time: Great things are possible with small pieces of rural land. What appeared to be a real estate trend has now gained a real footing and may represent a fundamental shift in the way in which investors and entrepreneurs are approaching location, scale and opportunity. These investors are turning to 'ranchettes,' typically defined as rural properties between 5 and 40 acres in size. A trend that at one time was almost strictly the domain of retirement-age buyers seeking hobby farms has now expanded to include young professionals, serious investors and even corporations seeking portfolio diversification amid economic uncertainty and a saturation of more traditional ventures. What Is Driving This Trend? What is causing the surge in this trend? I believe there are several converging factors: During periods of inflation, hard assets tend to attract investors because they're seen as a reliable store and driver of value. Land represents a classic 'hedge,' offering both return through agribusiness use and appreciation via development potential. The pandemic fundamentally changed the perspective of many Americans as to density and open space, including investors and entrepreneurs. The psychological impact of the lockdowns seems to have enhanced the value of alternative locations that exist outside of dense urban environments. Improvements in rural connectivity, in conjunction with the emergence of tools for working or running businesses remotely, has reduced the barriers for both semi-absentee ownership and full-time remote work in rural areas. I've worked with investors who, concerned about the resilience of food systems, are increasingly interested in properties with a potential for small-scale agriculture. Even if these investors never grow anything commercially, the option to potentially do so provides value. There also exists a financial rationale for buying these properties, albeit one that varies considerably by region. In my work, I've observed some common characteristics shared by properties that experience the highest levels of appreciation: proximity to growing metropolitan areas, natural amenities such as lakes, streams or mountain views, and favorable zoning regulations. The return on a ranchette investment can come in different forms, whether from land appreciation, tax benefits arising from agricultural exemptions, potential income streams from grazing leases or specialty crops, or even conservation easements in certain regions. There exists an entrepreneurial angle, too, as the possible creative uses of these properties exist in staggering numbers. An entrepreneur might consider launching a craft brewery or winery, an organic farm or restaurant, artisan workshops, and many other ventures. The risk profile for ranchettes does differ significantly from more traditional real estate investments, especially when the former investments have established businesses that tend to maintain value during economic downturns because they generate revenue rather than relying solely upon appreciation. Who Is Buying Ranchettes? The demographic profile (including age) of investors buying small rural properties has shifted in some areas in recent years, and based on my own and other firms' experience in this domain, several distinct categories of buyers have emerged: Younger investors who have observed their peers' earned wealth evaporate during recessions or market crashes, and who are dissatisfied with traditional investment vehicles may be drawn to more tangible assets. These individuals, with legitimate skepticism about market stability, are seeking out investments that offer potential appreciation and business opportunities. Some buyers are betting purely on appreciation after watching land values in certain rural corridors rising. Such properties, including those within reasonable driving distances of growing metropolitan areas, have the potential to experience superb increases in value. Some companies are buying ranchettes for use as employee retreats or remote working hubs. Such use cases typically involve higher-end properties with existing infrastructure than can be repurposed for remote work, meetings or company retreats. High-earning professionals increasingly have the ability to work from anywhere, and I've seen some of them leveraging that geographic flexibility. Tech workers, consultants and even creative professionals have come to the realization that they need not be constrained to high-cost urban locations. They now have the freedom to take their big metro salaries to rural areas where prices for land are far more reasonable. Future Outlook I expect to see continuous growth in ranchettes as investments, particularly if professionals continue embracing freedom of location. Despite this, I've seen the most premium properties in the most desirable locations becoming increasingly scarce, which could result in higher prices and push buyers to seek out previously overlooked areas. Technology will continue to expand the possibilities, especially considering the emergence of satellite internet, improvements in off-grid solutions, and flexible work and management systems. I believe the next wave of ranchette businesses will only grow in terms of their sophistication and viability. The Reality Check Despite the appeal and benefits of ranchette investment, it is by no means a guaranteed path to success. Rural entrepreneurship employs a different skill set than that required for urban businesses. Infrastructure challenges are real, even with continuous technological improvements. Weather, seasonal and tourist fluctuations, and local operations can often complicate business operations in ways that would not affect urban entrepreneurs. The most pronounced risk may be overconfidence. Buying the property is relatively straightforward. Building a profitable business on that same property requires planning, discipline and execution much like any other venture. The rural setting, while different, doesn't eliminate fundamental business challenges. Nevertheless, for entrepreneurs seeking ventures outside of the norm, ranchettes represent an opportunity to build something truly different: an enterprise firmly rooted in community, place and authenticity. The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation. Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
I earn over $260,000 as a CEO, but I'm still a HENRY. Big titles don't always mean big wealth.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Shaun Michael Lewis, a 42-year-old real estate CEO in Whitefish, Montana. It has been edited for length and clarity. Growing up in the '90s, I saw how my father and grandfather spent their entire careers at a single company. My dad worked at PG&E for decades, and my grandfather was an engineer at HP his whole life. That was the promise then: a pension, job security, and retirement. I'm part of what may be the first generation that doesn't broadly believe Social Security will be there when we need it. That shaped many of my early career choices, and I gravitated toward federal government work because it felt safe. After a few jumps around industries and the globe, I'm now a CEO. My personal income is about $264,000 a year. Combined with my wife's income, we're solidly high earners. However, if you asked if we could retire tomorrow and maintain our current standard of living, the answer would be no — we're considered HENRYs. I started my career in the military and for the government I joined the Navy and spent almost a decade working for the US Department of Justice and the Department of Veterans Affairs. I was doing well — I hit six figures in my early 20s and managed large teams — but there was a nagging feeling that something was missing. Love Business Insider? Log in to Google and make us a preferred source. Seven or eight years into my federal career, I asked myself, "Is this really what I want to do for the rest of my life?" I felt an enormous, crushing feeling that this wasn't the right path for me. I took a chance and switched tracks. I left stability to get my MBA I enrolled at the University of Washington to pursue my MBA and subsequently completed Harvard Business School's Executive MBA program. Leaving the federal government was unheard of among my peers. You just didn't walk away from a guaranteed pension — but I did. My first major private sector role was as COO at Clearwater Properties, a large, multi-state real estate company, in 2016. That was a massive leap from the safety net of federal work to the volatility of the private sector. I'm proud of that decision because it marked a complete shift in how I thought about risk. Previously, I was quite risk-averse. I then realized I could bet on myself and come out ahead. In 2020, I accepted a global executive position with Cofix, an international coffee retail chain based in Europe. When I quit my job in the US, I didn't even have the offer in hand. I just packed up, put my stuff in storage, and went to Tel Aviv, Israel, the headquarters, for the in-person interview. Following discussions with the CEO and Board of Directors, we mutually agreed that Moscow would be the optimal location for my role. The CEO was based there, and Russia represented our fastest-growing market at the time. My wife and I relocated there together. Life abroad was challenging in a new way That international role came with its own set of challenges. I led seven countries, including Russia. When the conflict in Ukraine broke out, sanctions made things very difficult, and the reputational damage was significant. The same happened when the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up; our company was founded in Israel. It was a massive learning curve: managing dual households across continents in Moscow and Warsaw, Poland, converting currencies, and trying to build real purchasing power amid volatility and geopolitical risk. After spending five and a half years in Europe, I returned to Clearwater Properties as CEO in 2025. In hindsight, that chaotic time abroad was exactly what prepared me to lead this company. Why am I a 'HENRY' at 42? A few reasons stand out. First, every strategic career pivot I made required a reset. New cities, new homes, and new costs. I was always building, not accumulating. Second, living and working abroad means maintaining more than one home. I spent years flying back and forth, paying for housing in multiple cities, and absorbing the higher cost of living in major cities. Third, lifestyle inflation is real. As your income grows, so does your spending, especially when you run in elite circles. I'm a Harvard Business School alum, and keeping up with that network comes with a cost: private club memberships, alumni events in far-flung places, and international travel. Fourth, my wife and I make big bets. She left an impressive corporate career to launch a startup that we fully bootstrapped ourselves. It's doing well, but the conflict in Europe has definitely changed the market's dynamic and what would've likely been dramatic growth. These choices have kept us building I'm passionate about my work when I have the autonomy to execute my vision, which is certainly the case in my current role. My philosophy is that retirement should be a choice driven by personal fulfillment rather than financial necessity. As long as my passion and work-life remain aligned, I could envision working well into my late 50s or beyond. However, I would ideally like to have the flexibility to step back in my early to mid-60s to focus on travel, passion projects, and leisure pursuits. From the outside, people assume that big titles mean big wealth. I run a multi-state real estate company that handles over half a billion dollars in annual transactions. But you don't get to pocket all that, and the reality is that you're working because you have to, not just because you want to. Do I sometimes feel behind my peers? Sure. However, I believe that the calculated risks I took — such as the zigzags, career resets, and geopolitical curveballs — will pay off. I'm not there yet, but I can see it on the horizon.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Clearwater Properties Brokers Named 2025 Crexi Platinum Sales Winners
Shaun Michael Lewis, CEO Clearwater Properties Jeannette Carr-Smith, Broker Clearwater Properties Kevin Wetherell, Founding Broker Clearwater Properties SEELEY LAKE, Mont., May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clearwater Properties is proud to announce that two of its Brokers have been named 2025 Crexi Platinum Sales Winners: Kevin Wetherell, Founding Broker, of Seeley Lake, Montana, and Jeannette Carr-Smith, Broker, of Noxon, Montana. Crexi's Platinum Awards recognize the highest performing professionals on its commercial real estate platform, awarding professionals in four areas – Sale, Lease, Intelligence, and Auction. Winners from the Sale and Lease categories span hospitality, industrial, land, multifamily, office, retail, restaurant, and special purpose sectors, while the Intelligence and Auction category spotlights top performers overall (Crexi, 2025). Being named a Crexi Platinum Broker is a prestigious distinction in the commercial real estate industry - signifying not only outstanding transaction volume, but also exceptional platform engagement, marketing effectiveness, and a consistent dedication to professional excellence. Wetherell, Founding Broker of Clearwater Properties, has been conducting residential and commercial real estate for over 30 years, serving Seeley Lake, Swan Valley, Whitefish and other areas across Western Montana. His expertise extends beyond state borders with active licenses in Wyoming and Georgia. Carr-Smith has been a Broker with Clearwater Properties for over 10 years, serving Noxon and communities throughout Northwestern Montana. Her professional reach includes an active license to conduct real estate transactions throughout Idaho. "We are proud to have our brokers recognized with this prestigious accolade in the commercial real estate industry," says Clearwater Properties CEO, Shaun Michael Lewis. "This recognition highlights our commitment to excellence in recreational and commercial properties across the Mountain West. As we continue to stake our claim as the region's premier brokerage, Kevin and Jeannette exemplify the cutting-edge marketing and five-star client service that define the Clearwater Properties experience." Founded in 1993, Clearwater Properties is an award-winning real estate brokerage specializing in recreational, residential, and ranch properties across Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Wyoming, North Dakota, Costa Rica, and Belize. With over 30 office/agent locations, Clearwater Properties has been recognized as one of "America's Best Brokerages" by The Land Report and is the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties® brokerage worldwide in both sales volume and number of transactions. As stewards of the areas they serve, the 120+ agents of Clearwater Properties give back a portion of all real estate proceeds to the communities in which they were earned. Clearwater Montana Properties is the exclusive territory broker participant with Sports Afield in Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, Wyoming and Washington. Its affiliation with Sports Afield Trophy Properties® (SATP) has been one of the biggest game changers in real estate for Clearwater. Clearwater Montana Properties is proud to be the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties brokerage in the world in total sales volume and number of transactions. Since 1887, the iconic 'Sports Afield' name has been synonymous with outdoor recreation and conservation, which not only aligns with the brokerage's mission, but also greatly magnifies its marketing reach. The Clearwater Giving Fund is Clearwater Properties' way of ensuring that every transaction gives back. Through this charitable program, a portion of each sale is directed to a local service group or charitable organization selected by the Agent. At the end of each calendar year, Clearwater presents donations to organizations within the communities where those transactions occurred. Serving as a positive force in the communities it serves is central to Clearwater's mission and values. To date, the company has donated more than $1.2 million through the program, helping to strengthen and uplift the very communities it calls home. Crexi Team (2025, March 25). Meet Our 2025 Platinum Award Sales Winners. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from Contact the Headquarters office of Clearwater Montana Properties in Seeley Lake at (406) 677-3000 or via e-mail at info@ Shaun Michael Lewis can be reached at shaun@ Information regarding agents and available properties can be viewed on the company's website at: Media ContactContact: Tatum Hoehn, Operations LeaderPhone: 406.677.3000Email: tatum@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Clearwater Properties Brokers Named 2025 Crexi Platinum Sales Winners
Shaun Michael Lewis, CEO Clearwater Properties Jeannette Carr-Smith, Broker Clearwater Properties Kevin Wetherell, Founding Broker Clearwater Properties SEELEY LAKE, Mont., May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clearwater Properties is proud to announce that two of its Brokers have been named 2025 Crexi Platinum Sales Winners: Kevin Wetherell, Founding Broker, of Seeley Lake, Montana, and Jeannette Carr-Smith, Broker, of Noxon, Montana. Crexi's Platinum Awards recognize the highest performing professionals on its commercial real estate platform, awarding professionals in four areas – Sale, Lease, Intelligence, and Auction. Winners from the Sale and Lease categories span hospitality, industrial, land, multifamily, office, retail, restaurant, and special purpose sectors, while the Intelligence and Auction category spotlights top performers overall (Crexi, 2025). Being named a Crexi Platinum Broker is a prestigious distinction in the commercial real estate industry - signifying not only outstanding transaction volume, but also exceptional platform engagement, marketing effectiveness, and a consistent dedication to professional excellence. Wetherell, Founding Broker of Clearwater Properties, has been conducting residential and commercial real estate for over 30 years, serving Seeley Lake, Swan Valley, Whitefish and other areas across Western Montana. His expertise extends beyond state borders with active licenses in Wyoming and Georgia. Carr-Smith has been a Broker with Clearwater Properties for over 10 years, serving Noxon and communities throughout Northwestern Montana. Her professional reach includes an active license to conduct real estate transactions throughout Idaho. "We are proud to have our brokers recognized with this prestigious accolade in the commercial real estate industry," says Clearwater Properties CEO, Shaun Michael Lewis. "This recognition highlights our commitment to excellence in recreational and commercial properties across the Mountain West. As we continue to stake our claim as the region's premier brokerage, Kevin and Jeannette exemplify the cutting-edge marketing and five-star client service that define the Clearwater Properties experience." Founded in 1993, Clearwater Properties is an award-winning real estate brokerage specializing in recreational, residential, and ranch properties across Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Wyoming, North Dakota, Costa Rica, and Belize. With over 30 office/agent locations, Clearwater Properties has been recognized as one of "America's Best Brokerages" by The Land Report and is the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties® brokerage worldwide in both sales volume and number of transactions. As stewards of the areas they serve, the 120+ agents of Clearwater Properties give back a portion of all real estate proceeds to the communities in which they were earned. Clearwater Montana Properties is the exclusive territory broker participant with Sports Afield in Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, Wyoming and Washington. Its affiliation with Sports Afield Trophy Properties® (SATP) has been one of the biggest game changers in real estate for Clearwater. Clearwater Montana Properties is proud to be the #1 Sports Afield Trophy Properties brokerage in the world in total sales volume and number of transactions. Since 1887, the iconic 'Sports Afield' name has been synonymous with outdoor recreation and conservation, which not only aligns with the brokerage's mission, but also greatly magnifies its marketing reach. The Clearwater Giving Fund is Clearwater Properties' way of ensuring that every transaction gives back. Through this charitable program, a portion of each sale is directed to a local service group or charitable organization selected by the Agent. At the end of each calendar year, Clearwater presents donations to organizations within the communities where those transactions occurred. Serving as a positive force in the communities it serves is central to Clearwater's mission and values. To date, the company has donated more than $1.2 million through the program, helping to strengthen and uplift the very communities it calls home. Crexi Team (2025, March 25). Meet Our 2025 Platinum Award Sales Winners. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from Contact the Headquarters office of Clearwater Montana Properties in Seeley Lake at (406) 677-3000 or via e-mail at info@ Shaun Michael Lewis can be reached at shaun@ Information regarding agents and available properties can be viewed on the company's website at: Media ContactContact: Tatum Hoehn, Operations LeaderPhone: 406.677.3000Email: tatum@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in to access your portfolio
