Freda Wilkinson

Thanks for taking the time to get to know our BSB associates! Finding a real estate agent with whom you are comfortable is key to a pleasant real estate experience. 

I became licensed to sell Real Estate in 2006 after spending a decade in the field of energy conservation consulting. Having audited nearly 5000 homes across the state of Montana, I had gained a comprehensive understanding of residential construction and invaluable perspective on buildings of all vintages. That professional background turned out to provide an unexpected yet practical foundation for a career in real estate. 

In 2020, fourteen years after joining Big Sky Brokers, I was presented with the opportunity to help lead the company; and became one of four owners of Helena’s top-producing real estate firm. 

On a personal note, I’m a down-to-earth Helenan; connected to the community. I love to spend time on the water and hike with my dogs, Zoka and Ginger. I grew up in the mountains of rural western Montana, moved to Helena in my early 20’s, and have lived right in the heart of our beautiful Queen City ever since. I am steadfast in supporting local businesses, attending local music & community events, and enjoy cooking and gathering with friends. My husband and I have one fabulously independent and adventurous teenage son. Now more than ever, I understand that priorities change as life unfolds. 

I appreciate walkability, sustainability, and smart growth. I applaud preservation and restoration of Helena’s lovely historic buildings and love to see the eclectic mix of architecture – from historic victorians to mid-century ranchers to the occasional contemporary home sprouting up on an infill lot. 

I also have extensive experience exploring our outlying areas and representing buyers and sellers of rural real estate seeking to leave behind the commotion of the city and indulge in some privacy and elbow room. The nice thing about the Helena area is there are many neighborhoods that satisfy both urban and rural cravings at the same time! It’s not out of the question to find a home that’s a quick walk or pedal to your favorite trailhead and your place of employment (or your favorite watering hole!)

Over the past 20+ years, my husband and I have taken on a lot of interesting DIY projects, including remodel/restoration of a mid-century concrete home, a 70’s A-Frame, a giant 1800’s stone Appleton Victorian, and an 1800’s Queen Anne duplex. Our more unusual recreational real estate projects have been converting a large garage to a modern cabin on the river and building an off-grid cabin out of a repurposed grain bin in the Castle Mountains at 8,000 ft elevation, 10 miles from pavement, and 30 miles from cell service! 

In 2012 we were honored with a Lewis and Clark County Historic Preservation Award. I like to think that this is evidence that (I am not just a glutton for punishment, but also) that I can recognize and help clients rationally evaluate the potential in every property. I’m not just all about the old quirky properties though, I absolutely love (thoughtfully designed) new construction and am wrapping up what I hope is our final project, a super contemporary and energy efficient new build on the edge of the hills just a few blocks south of downtown.

In my client relationships, I aim to make myself available 24/7. I understand the gravity of your first home purchase or your 10th home sale. The care and experience I leverage in each transaction directly impacts your financial outcome and I don’t take that lightly. As your Realtor, I will bring a sincere dedication to your interests and an uncommon level of experience. I listen carefully and dig deep in transactions to help you make informed decisions. I offer open and prompt communication, straight-forward negotiation, a good sense of humor, excellent rapport with other Realtor colleagues, efficient systems, and expert connections, all orchestrated to ensure that your real estate transaction proceeds with a positive tone from start to finish. 

Realtor Association awards, volunteer work, & certifications/designations:

• Helena Association of Realtors: 2020 President, 2017 Realtor of the Year, 2016 Memorial Scholarship Award, Professional Standards committee, Education Committee, Membership Committee, Ombudsman
• Montana Association of Realtors: Board of Directors, Professional Development Committee, IMF Trustee
• National Association of Realtors: Housing Opportunities Committee
• EcoBroker Certified, CNE (Certified Negotiations Expert), GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), AHWD (At Home w/Diversity) designation

In January of 2009, I committed to making a donation with each closing to the Alternative Energy Resources Organization and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Montana.  AERO https://aeromt.org/ cultivates sustainability by engaging community stakeholders and weaving networks that build lasting partnerships in the climate smart, sustainable agriculture, and local food system spheres. BBBS http://www.bbbs-helena.org/, makes meaningful matches between adult volunteers and children, developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.

When you decide that buying or selling real estate is your next priority, allow me the opportunity to provide exceptional service.

Please feel comfortable contacting me any day of the week by phone, email or text. I look forward to hearing from you.