When I left my banking job on the mainland in 1989 and settled in the San Juans with my three young sons, I had no idea what the future would hold, only that Orcas spoke to my nature and I knew I had found my place in the world.

Through jobs as a title examiner and permit coordinator, I learned the ropes as San Juan County land use regulations became more complex. Eventually, people began to call me the local guru of permitting! So, in 1998, I started my own business, Permit Resources (today owned by my son, Cory Harrington). I never intended to get my real estate license, but a year later, someone “dared” me – a challenge I couldn’t resist. It turned out to be a natural fit as I love the interaction with people and the complexity of each transaction. Working in local real estate, it was clear my permitting expertise enhanced my ability to assist real estate clients, and my real estate knowledge was a boon to my permit clients. This prompted me to begin a new venture in 2006, opening T Williams Realty, a full service real estate brokerage in Eastsound on Orcas Island. My family settled in the San Juan Islands in the early 1960s. After 30+ years on Orcas, there is no other place in the world where I would rather be. With a deep appreciation for and connection to our island, I welcome opportunities to support our community through volunteering and board service on non-profits. You also can find me gardening, laughing with grandchildren, and venturing out on the water in my tug boat, exploring the nature that surrounds us. My passion is to share my love of island life, listen to stories of how others found their way to Orcas and what they enjoy most about the island. I’ve found my place here on Orcas Island and I hope to help you find your place here, too.