Josh Shives is the founder of Raeco Realty, an independent, locally owned brokerage headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, with additional offices throughout the region.
After years of success inside a national brokerage, Josh realized that something critical was missing from his work: authentic connection. He saw talented agents working hard while distant decision-makers and franchise fees pulled money and influence away from the very communities they served. In 2017, he and his wife, Cassie, decided to do things differently. Together, they launched Raeco Realty with a simple but powerful mission to be local on purpose.
Under Josh’s leadership, Raeco Realty has grown into one of Indiana’s most respected independent brokerages, known for its values-driven culture, commitment to community, and belief that agents deserve both freedom and support. His people-over-profit philosophy and hands-on mentoring have helped dozens of agents find success on their own terms.
Before real estate, Josh built his career in hospitality management, where he learned the importance of service, standards, and teamwork — lessons that continue to shape the way he leads today.
Outside of work, Josh is most at home surrounded by the people and places he loves. He and his wife, Cassie, are raising three amazing kids who keep life full and grounded. Together, they enjoy sharing meals with friends at Lafayette’s local restaurants, spending long summer days boating on Lake Freeman, and unwinding around a bonfire with their close-knit circle of lifelong friends — lovingly known as The Crew — where laughter, reflection, new ideas, and bourbon always seem to flow.