We are top in the field with over 50 years of experience and unparalleled local knowledge. Wally Gudgell and Kevin Ranker are winning sales partners, supported by Heidi Staub and Susan Gudgell providing transaction coordination, business oversight, and marketing. The Gudgell Group deeply engages clients and excites them about life in the islands. Utilizing connections and relationships, we provide a strong foothold and unique access to opportunities in the market. Collectively we pride ourselves in being good listeners, carefully attending to the needs and goals of sellers and buyers. As ‘locals,’ we have a deep love for island life and extensive knowledge of real estate opportunities here

Wally Gudgell, Broker 360-507-5443 wally@compass.com

Wally was raised in the San Juan Islands and has been the top-producing realtor in the region for over 50 years. As such, he has honed unmatched skills in all facets of land use, estate properties, waterfront, private islands, commercial investments, affordable housing, permitting, and finance. He was a Founder of Islanders Bank and served as a Director for decades until its successful sale to Banner Bank. Wally has also served in numerous community roles including helping found the SeaDoc Society Marine Health Program and the San Juan County Land Bank. A life-long ‘local,’ Wally’s devotion to island life is keen, and he possesses a deep understanding of its wonders as well as its idiosyncrasies. His combination of local knowledge, business sophistication, and San Juan County permitting and planning is key in helping clients navigate the most complex issues involved in real estate sales and acquisition.

Kevin Ranker, Broker 360-472-1850 kevin@compass.com

Kevin is one of the top agents in the region, strategically representing sellers and buyers with his colleagues in over $110 million in transactions in the past 24 months. He brings a diverse and dynamic professional background. Prior to his role at the Gudgell Group, he served as an elected San Juan County and Washington State official, a White House Advisor, and as a global Executive Coach with clients in eight countries on four continents. Kevin possesses expertise in shoreline policy and procedure having specialized in coastal and ocean policy, including serving as a judge on the Washington State Shoreline Hearings Board. Kevin has also worked with numerous non profits including the Orcas Island Community Foundation, Friends of the San Juans, SeaDoc Society, Orcas Island Food Bank and Surfrider Foundation. He maintains an extensive network of contacts and is a skilled negotiator and thoughtful listener. Kevin and his team offer access to exclusive market opportunities in an area that requires honed skills to navigate effectively.

Heidi Staub is a licensed Broker with the Gudgell Group at Compass San Juan Islands. With a background in marketing and communications, she brings creativity, organization, and a client-first mindset to every transaction. Heidi helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with clarity and confidence. Her strengths lie in thoughtful communication, eye-catching property marketing, and a deep connection to the island community. Based on Orcas Island, Heidi is proud to be part of a team with over 50 years of unparalleled local knowledge, helping others find a home in the stunning San Juan Islands and embrace the island way of life.

Alexis Galindo, Administrative Assistant alexis.galindo@compass.com

Alexis has spent the past five years as a licensed real estate assistant and transaction coordinator in Oregon, we are excited to welcome her to the islands as she establishes roots across the Pacific Northwest. In July 2025, she and her husband relocated to San Juan Island after discovering the harmony of a place where local farms, strong community ties, and breathtaking scenery shape daily life. She understands that the meaning of home, stability, and transition is unique to each person, whether it involves purchasing a primary residence or finding the perfect vacation retreat. Alexis is committed to guiding people through pivotal moments by actively listening, fostering collaboration, and maintaining clear communication. Known for her strong organization skills, she streamlines processes and offers steady support to the brokers she assists.

Susan Gaiser Gudgell, Business Manager 360-507-5444 susan@gudgellproperties.com

Susan is the team’s ‘jack of all trades,’ providing oversight for marketing, operations, finance and more. In addition to The Gudgell Group’s real estate team, Susan has been owner/manager of Gudgell Properties since 1992, specializing in commercial property management, property development, and vacation rentals. She is the Chair of the Orcas Island Community Foundation, on the board of the Orcas Island Education Foundation, was President of the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce, on the Administrative Review Committee for the Orcas Island School District, President of the PTSA, and has volunteered for various other non profits. She has expertise in writing, editing, building design, business administration and finance. She is a resource for all things ‘island,’ and can help with referrals to contractors and whatever other connections you may need to smooth your integration into island life.