John Hayes

John – REALTOR®, PureWest Christie's – Whitefish, Montana

"I wasn't born in Montana, but I got here as soon as I could."

Originally from Texas, I've always felt the pull of the mountains. My roots taught me respect, kindness, and a deep love for the land—values I bring to every transaction. My wife Jennifer, our five kids, and I moved to Whitefish to raise our family in this special small mountain town and embrace Montana's incredible seasons and adventures.

My primary specialty is guiding clients through buying and selling short-term rentals in Whitefish and the Flathead Valley—properties that deliver strong income potential from tourism-driven demand. Whether you're investing in a high-occupancy vacation rental, optimizing an existing STR, or transitioning to/from short-term use, I provide expert, compliant guidance to maximize returns and minimize stress. 

I also excel in residential & second home sales, investment properties, new construction, and farm/ranch/land. With my business degree from Texas A&M, 12 years as a U.S. Air Force Combat Systems Officer (Navigator) on the C-130, and over a decade as a broker/investor focused on residential, new builds, investments, and short-term rentals, I deliver straightforward, results-oriented service.

What truly sets me apart? I partner with my wife, Jennifer, an accomplished interior designer. Together, we offer free design consultations and professional home or STR set-up—helping sellers achieve top-dollar offers, and buyers create turnkey, guest-ready spaces that boost rental...