Born on Maui and raised in Bend, Oregon, Chelsea Maliakai Ortega brings a rare blend of deep local roots and global perspective to her real estate practice. Guided by a lifelong appreciation for place, purpose, and connection, she helps clients find more than a home-she helps them find community and a sense of belonging.
With a degree in Marketing and Journalism from the University of Denver, Chelsea built her foundation in storytelling and community leadership through her work with NBC 9News Denver and in a number of start-up ventures. Those experiences honed her natural strengths in communication, brand strategy, and authentic relationship-building.
In partnership with her mother and Principal Broker, Sherry Ortega, Chelsea co-founded The Ortega Collective , a lifestyle-driven real estate team that has become one of Bend's most trusted names. Together, they've combined nearly three decades of experience, modern marketing strategy, and a shared commitment to integrity, intention, and care, a philosophy that resonates with both longtime Bend residents and newcomers alike.
Since 2021, Chelsea has achieved nearly $85 million in sales and represented 79 listings across Bend's most sought-after neighborhoods and has experience in new construction and custom homes.
Guided by more than two decades of yoga and meditation practice, Chelsea approaches her work with calm, clarity, and intention. She believes that buying or selling a home is both a strategic and emotional journey. Her grounded presence ensures that clients feel confident and supported at every step.
Beyond real estate, Chelsea hosts yoga and mindfulness workshops and retreats for teen girls, merging her passion for young women's empowerment, education, and wellbeing.
When she's not with clients, you'll find her surfing, teaching yoga, camping on the Oregon Coast with her golden retriever, Bali, and partner Walt-or traveling to visit family in Maui, Kauai, and Santa Barbara. Chelsea is deeply connected to her roots in these coastal communities and often assists clients relocating to and from these markets through her extensive referral network. She also volunteers locally at the Saving Grace Foundation and the Alzheimer's Association, continuing her commitment to service and community.
To Chelsea, home is more than a place-it's a reflection of how we live, love, and connect.