Karen Key Speck, owner, designated broker and property manager of Cherie L. Lindholm Real Estate is the Orcas Island Association of Realtors’ 2012 President.

Speck was president of the local association in 1991 and secretary for several years in the late 1980s.

“I look forward to serving the association and the Orcas market during 2012,” Speck said.  “I have an experienced board in vice president Stu Stephens, treasurer John Erly, secretary Reba MacLeod, and coordinator Sandi Friel.”

Speck has been a licensed real estate agent since 1986.  Her company is also one of the oldest in the San Juan Islands. Cherie L. Lindholm Real Estate opened in 1968.

“I’ve certainly seen a lot of changes in the industry as well as the local market,” Speck said. “We’ve ridden three or four booms, and a couple of depressed markets like now.  But we are beginning to see some glimmer of recovery nationally and our local sales are up a wee bit.  With low interest rates and prices, it’s time to buy.”