ABOUT team vanrahan

A woman (Catherine) smiling in a white dress.

Catherine Hanrahan, Salesperson Team vanRahan

I grew up in Sudbury working alongside my parents and siblings at my family owned and operated bakery. I moved to Peterborough in 2002 to take a job with Corus Entertainment as a part- time broadcaster on The Wolf 101.5 FM. Early in my broadcasting career I also worked for two legendary/historic Peterborough businesses: Canada's oldest independent music store, Moondance Records, and what was at the time Peterborough's oldest family operated restaurant, Hi-Tops.

While most people know me in this community for my 15 years of radio and tv work, I’ve also been working as an audio producer at Impact Communications, where my responsibilities grew over the years to include the management and maintenance of hundreds of clients across North America and the writing and production of their radio and telecommunications marketing material. 

I take great pride in the volunteer work I’ve done in the community. I’m a past member of the Peterborough Snofest and Downtown Countdown committees. I’ve Emceed numerous charity events and galas for Hospice Peterborough, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Community Counselling and Resource Centre, and Art School of Peterborough. 

When I’m not working I enjoy providing the play-by-play/colour commentary for the Peterborough Area Roller Derby League on YourTV. I’ve even strapped on a pair of skates myself and trained with the team. I recently joined the Women’s Over 35 Softball league and, of course, my pride and joy, my hobby farm, vanRahan Acres. My business and life partner Ben vanVeen and I care for several dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and a pony on our little slice of heaven outside Havelock.  

A man (Ben) Smiling in a grey suit with a red tie.

Ben vanVeen, Salesperson Team vanRahan

I have developed a deep sense of appreciation for, and roots in, Peterborough since moving to the city in 1998. This city has long been a part of my family as my father immigrated to Peterborough in 1955. I have left the city more than once over the years to travel and work abroad, but this place has always drawn me home.

My almost decade of work in real estate has seen my business expand annually, with satisfied clients buying and selling an array of property types. Resale homes, income properties large and small, waterfront, and businesses have all crossed my desk. I am committed to an ongoing learning process that allows me to handle all of my clients’ needs.

Of course, not all real estate work is done behind a desk. I believe in the importance of being involved in the community I work in so that my clients have a Realtor who is knowledgeable about where they will live, play, and make a living. As such, I have been a proud and active member of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce for over ten years, where I have sat on the Board of Directors and am currently the Vice-Chair. I am a proud sponsor of various community initiatives and events, such as the Team vanRahan Summer Family Film Series, Executive Producer of the documentary Pushback, sponsor of a lady’s slow pitch team, sponsor of a local race car, and sponsor of a senior men’s hockey team.

Like Catherine, my favourite ways to unwind are found at vanRahan Acres. Whether it’s walking the fields with the dogs, tending to the goats, chickens, and pony, or creating in the workshop, I find a positive work/life balance on our property.

A girl (Sara) smiling, wearing a blue shirt with a black cardigan. She has black hair.

Sara Lytle, Director of Operations

I’ve lived in the Peterborough area my whole life, both in town and in surrounding areas. I’ve always been a very creative person. I went to school at Thomas A. Stewart secondary school, and then Trent University, where I obtained a degree in psychology. Both of these adventures affirmed my love for Peterborough and its rich arts culture, which brings a strong element of community to the city. I love this city for that reason, the way it seems to bring people together. Peterborough will always be my home. 

The vast majority of my professional experience has been in retail management. I am a natural leader, with a passion for helping people. I am always happy to help clients, and am also highly organized and detail oriented. This has perfectly prepared me for the role I am in now, as I am in the office through the week to help both my team and our clients. Even though I am just jumping in, the real estate world has always been very prominent in my life, and I am thrilled to be on this path now.   

I believe that one of the most impactful ways to contribute to our community is by supporting our local businesses and art scene. I make attending local dance and art shows a personal goal, as well as shopping at local small businesses. By participating in these events, I am not only able to appreciate the remarkable dedication of these people, but also provide much-needed support to the local community and the people who help build it. 

If  I’m out of the office, you can probably find me in a dance class, performing in a dance show, or on another adventure of some sort. I love exploring the city that is my home, and I hope to make a lasting positive impact here.