Island Real Estate
Our Team
Betty Ann Bickford Gagne
Betty Ann Bickford Gagne
Betty Ann (Bickford) Gagne grew up on Lake Winnipesaukee in Winter Harbor, and is a life long resident of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. She attended local schools and colleges, and eventually became employed as a legal secretary with a Wolfeboro law firm which specialized in real estate.

In 1985, Betty Ann joined Island Real Estate as a Salesperson, and in 1987 received her Broker's license. Over her 23 year career, she has gone from deck hand to co-captain, and in 2004, purchased the business from John Bridges. John, founder of Island Real Estate and known as "The Captain", continues working full time with customers, sharing his wealth of island and lake knowledge.

Betty Ann dedicates herself to educating customers on the ins and outs of island living, then matching them to the right property. She works hard at helping Sellers and Buyers feel comfortable with all aspects of an island transaction. Throughout the years, Betty Ann has learned the key to a positive, pleasant and successful conveyance, is a trusting relationship between all parties from the start.

Betty Ann is a member of the Lakes Region Board of Realtors, and both the New Hampshire and National Association of Realtors. She attends courses regularly in efforts to stay current with the ever changing rules and regulations of Lake Winnipesaukee and challenging business of selling island property.

When not in the office, you'll find Betty Ann out island hopping or at home enjoying her garden. She resides in Wolfeboro with her husband, Rick, and best buddies, "Mocha" and "Buster".

John F. Bridges
John F. Bridges
John F. Bridges grew up on Lake Winnipesaukee and worked in his teens as gas boy at Goodhue Hawkins Marina in Wolfeboro Bay and then Captain of the steamboat "Swallow". He eventually became Director of Safety Services, also known as Marine Patrol, the State Division that polices the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee.

John's love of the lake continued when he and his wife, Barbara, purchased their first island property on Treasure Island in Alton. Through his experience of purchasing island property, he saw a need for a real estate agent that handled just island property. He obtained his real estate license, and in 1977, founded Island Real Estate. What at first was really more of a weekend hobby, grew to a full time real estate company, that to this day specializes in non-bridged island property on Lake Winnipesaukee.

John's interest in the future of New Hampshire and Lake Winnipesaukee continues with his participation on several lake related boards at the State Capitol, as well as local boards. He is a graduate of the Tri-State Board of Realtors Institute and was awarded his GRI designation.

When not out showing or listing island property, he usually can be found relaxing out on his very own island located in South Wolfeboro Bay, with his pal "Roxie".

Brian J. Arenstam
Brian J. Arenstam
Brian’s love of the water began while spending the summer months on Cape Cod. Later his interest in sailing found him on the coast of Maine. Finally, he discovered the treasure of Winnipesaukee while visiting friends on Rattlesnake Island. This led Brian and his wife to contact Island Real Estate to find a cottage of their own on the broadside of Rattlesnake. This contact with Island Real Estate in 1998 began a friendship that continues today.

In 2001, after spending 16 years as a Business/Product Manager for several high tech companies, Brian decided it was time for a change. He gave up the corporate world and moved his family to the Lakes Region making real estate a full time career. He first obtained his real estate salesperson’s license and then became a licensed real estate appraiser. Now, ten years after first meeting John and Betty Ann, Brian has joined the team at Island Real Estate. His knowledge and experience will be beneficial in helping to understand the impact of a properly priced island property.

When not on the lake or islands, Brian can be found around his home in Gilford with his wife and three children.

Copyright © 2004 Island Real Estate of New Hampshire, LLC.
Website developed by
Horan Web Development