Olympic Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to welcome Nari Shivananda, a lifelong Thurston County resident with a deep love for the South Sound and a strong foundation in community connection.
Before stepping into real estate, Nari spent years inspiring young minds in the classroom, primarily teaching grades 4 through 8. Her time as an educator wasn’t just about academics—it was about building lasting relationships with students and their families and becoming a part of the community fabric. That same passion for connection and service is what now drives her in her real estate career.
Nari’s interest in real estate was sparked years ago when she worked the front desk at a real estate office while attending college in Bellingham. Life eventually brought her back to her hometown of Olympia, where she and her husband, Andrew—share five boys between them. Over the years, Nari bought and sold several homes with the help of her friend and fellow Olympic SIR agent, Carlee Hjelm, who ultimately encouraged her to take the leap into real estate. Now, with her teaching background and natural ability to guide others, Nari is ready to help clients navigate their next chapter with care and confidence.
When it comes to favorite neighborhoods, Nari is drawn to the peaceful charm of South Bay and Southern Thurston County. Whether it’s the rural beauty of Rochester or the Chehalis Western Trail winding through open space and wooded paths, she loves the way these areas balance accessibility with a serene, small-town feel.
Outside of real estate, Nari leads a vibrant life centered on nature and community. She’s an avid horseback rider, gardener, and skier—often hitting the slopes at White Pass or paddling along the Black River near her home. Whether hiking in Capitol Forest or exploring the Olympic Mountains, she and her husband find joy in the outdoors. She also shares her passions by giving horseback riding lessons and tutoring local students.
Her favorite hidden gems in Olympia? Mi Luna Cuban Cafe, a cozy new Cuban spot downtown, the ever-vibrant Olympia Farmers Market, and waterfront destinations like the Boston Harbor Marina—especially in the warmer months when local events bring the area to life.
Nari’s commitment to stewardship extends beyond her professional and personal life. She and her husband manage a conservation easement on their family farm along the Black River to protect local water and wildlife. Her past work on water quality projects and dedication to environmental education are testaments to her values of sustainability and giving back.
Above all, Nari brings a teacher’s heart and a community-first mindset to her real estate career. “I’m passionate about helping people reach their goals,” she says. “Whether it’s finding a first home or transitioning to a new chapter, I love being part of that journey.”
Olympic SIR 
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