Testimonials

I love being a member of this community and being connected to the state of Idaho. I'm rooted here growing a family, appreciate my opportunities, and contribute to the strengthening of this place. My wife, Ashley, was born in the old Moritz hospital and is now a Physician Assistant running her own medical clinic Ketchum Family Medicine. We have a young daughter, Penelope, who knows she lives in a special place and will one day understand the magnitude of it. And we love our world famous english chocolate lab, Chunk, who is a staple beside either one of us on any given day.

I moved to Utah out of college and coached ski racing. Early on I was fortunate enough to come up to Sun Valley for the first time and immediately knew I was somewhere different that gravitationally pulled me in, much like the lot of us felt upon our first visit. I try to revisit that feeling often as I can as I move and shake across the towns of Blaine and Custer County. This place isn't for all, and for those that it is, you know who you are because it's a decision your heart makes for you.

In the time I've grown into this community I have involved myself with many meaningful associations. I've spent five years as a head alpine coach with the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation, three years apart of the Sun Valley Economic Development Board where I am still in my first year on its executive committee, and am initiating my second year on the Keller Williams Agent Leadership Council.

I chose to be apart of the Keller Williams Brokerage because it's an agent centric office where one can learn and grow with a terrific amount of resources to do so and for that it is no wonder why we are the number one brokerage in the Sun Valley MLS. I also really like the fact that the brokerage covers all of South Central Idaho because it gives me greater perspective of our real estate market and the folks that make up this great part of the state. Lastly, KW as whole offers an incredible amount of opportunity to market and leverage itself across the country creating a network that is beyond regional. I've visited KW offices across the country and each one of them has that "old familiar feeling" to them. It's like walking into Cheers.

I am passionate about skiing, spending time with my family especially at our ranch riding horses and hunting, and selling real estate. And what really strikes my chord is playing and performing country western music. I love playing my guitar and singing favorites by Waylon, Marty Robbins, Merle, and Gene Autry. I front a band out of Ketchum called The Pisten Bullys where you can find us playing at any venue on any given night in the Wood River and Sawtooth Valleys. It's more than a hobby and you can see how when we perform.

I am grateful to be an Idahoan and love sharing my passion for this place. I hope to have the opportunity to get to know you and help you root yourself here too. Thank you for checking me out.

I highly recommend James Tautkus to accompany you on your acquisition or relinquishment journey in the real estate arena. He goes above and beyond to make transitions of property easy and seamless, even in difficult or complicated circumstances. Being personable and kind, he is nevertheless trustworthy and honest in all his dealings. No matter which side of the transaction you find yourself, he will work diligently to create a fair and commensurate outcome.

James literally went above and beyond on our real estate purchase. He was very patient with us and was always eager to show us a listing anytime, even by video. He was able to help us write up a great offer that closed quickly. After the sale he was able to assist with fixing property deficiencies and connect us with contractors to perform upgrades. He is a true local and his wealth of knowledge of Sun Valley was very helpful. I have already recommended him to another friend and will continue to do so in the future.

James helped me with the purchase of my condo in Ketchum and I can say with certainty that the purchase wouldn't have closed without him. He went above and beyond and was responsive at every stage of the process. Thanks!"