From Service to Success: Luke's Journey in Real Estate Building a future in property investing, development, and community growth
My name is Luke Durkee, and I am proudly from Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where I graduated from Rhinelander High School in the Class of 2013. My journey has been anything but standard, shaped by choices, challenges, and opportunities that brought me to where I am today.
Before finishing high school, I joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard as a member of the 32nd Infantry Brigade. That decision marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life. In 2019, I had the honor of serving on a combat deployment to Afghanistan — an experience that deepened my appreciation for resilience, teamwork, and community.
After returning from basic training in 2013, I realized that college wasn’t the right path for me. Instead, I entered the workforce and began working shift work at Packaging Corporation of America in Tomahawk, where I spent nine years and worked my way up to an operator on the Number 2 paper machine.
Before I left on deployment in 2017, I purchased my first rental unit — a triplex in Rhinelander — and founded my rental company, Red Arrow Rental. After returning home from deployment in 2019, I dove deeper into real estate by purchasing an additional 21 units. I earned my real estate sales license in 2022 and ultimately became a real estate broker in 2024.
Also in 2024, I obtained my general contractor’s license and founded Durkee Builders. I began work on my first speculative single?family home build and helped a client subdivide an 80?acre parcel into 12 lots, facilitating the sale of the subdivision.
Now, in 2026, I have officially launched my own real estate brokerage firm: Twenty-Two RE.
Why “Twenty-Two”?
The name “Twenty-Two” holds deep personal meaning. It represents a significant part of my military career, and 2022 was one of the most meaningful years of my life — the year I became a father. In numerology, the number 22 is known as the “Master Builder,” symbolizing the ability to turn ambitious ideas into lasting realities. That symbolism aligns with the mission of Twenty-Two RE: empowering clients to build their future by creating strong foundations for generations to come through buying, selling, investing, and developing.
In 2026, I was honored to be named one of the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce Fantastic Five Under 40. Some of my proudest contributions have been serving on the boards of the Northwoods Veterans Homestead and the Oneida County Economic Development Corporation, doing my part to support community progress for current and future families here at home.
On a personal note, in 2025 I married the love of my life, Zoey. We welcomed our first son, Nashton, in 2022, and as of this writing, we are excitedly awaiting the birth of our second son any day now.
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Licensed Real Estate Broker / Owner SFR / REI
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Combat Veteran of the Wisconsin Army National Guard
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Northwoods Native
Rooted Where It Matters Most Stewardship of Home, Family, Faith and Community
More than two decades ago, my husband and I chose the Northwoods as our forever home—a decision that has shaped not only where I live, but how I serve. This community, its people, and its way of life continue to inspire me every day. Family has always been at the center of my life, and I’m grateful to be a proud mother of three and grandmother to eight grandchildren who bring tremendous joy and perspective to everything I do.
Being deeply involved in the community I serve is important to me. I currently serve as an Oneida County Board Supervisor and remain actively involved in my church, which keeps me closely connected to the people, values, and responsibilities that matter most. These experiences have reinforced my belief that trust, service, and accountability are the foundation of meaningful work.
At heart, I’m a people person. My genuine love for connecting with others is what ultimately led me to real estate. With a BS in Accounting and a strong background in business management, I bring a thoughtful, organized, and detail‑driven approach to every transaction. After dedicating many years to raising my family, transitioning into real estate felt like a natural next chapter—one that allowed me to combine structure, problem‑solving, and service in a way that felt purposeful.
Today, I approach each client relationship with care, integrity, and intention, focusing on guidance and trust rather than transactions alone. I’m proud to be part of Twenty‑Two RE LLC and grateful for the opportunity to serve both my clients and the community I’ve called home for so long.
From Service to Success: Luke's Journey in Real Estate Building a future in property investing, development, and community growth
I was born and raised in the Northwoods, where a deep appreciation for people, place, and community has shaped both my personal and professional journey. My career began in a client‑focused role, spending nearly a decade serving others through cosmetology—an experience that honed my attention to detail, trust‑building, and commitment to service. In 2020, I brought that foundation into real estate, where my passion for supporting people and meaningful work naturally continued to grow.
After five active years in the field, I transitioned into a behind‑the‑scenes support role—where I truly thrive. As a self‑described homebody, I find fulfillment in organization, education, and operational support. I continue to hold my real estate license, allowing me to stay current on industry changes, local market trends, and the information most relevant to supporting our agents and clients.
I’m deeply attuned to the local market and community, and I take pride in helping guide, educate, and support those around me. Whether assisting agents, streamlining processes, or ensuring clients receive informed and thoughtful service, my goal is always to contribute positively and meaningfully.
Outside of work, I share life with my husband, Tanner, and together we’re building a home with our son, Haze, and our small dog, Petunia. We enjoy spending time outdoors fishing and hiking, and I personally enjoy reading and exploring art whenever I can.
I’m truly grateful and overjoyed to be part of Twenty‑Two RE, supporting an agency and community I deeply believe in.
Why Work With Twenty-Two RE? Strengths & What You Can Expect
Local Expertise
Twenty-Two RE offers insider insight, market knowledge, and a genuine passion for the Northwoods lifestyle.
Proven Track Record
- $35+ Million in sales in under 4 years!
- 9 years of personal real estate investment expertise.
- General contracting building & subdividing knowledge.
Advanced Marketing
We employ professional and drone photography, robust marketing campaigns, and technology-backed tools to ensure top visibility for your property.
Full-Service Real Estate
Twenty-Two RE's services span the full spectrum—from first-time buyers to savvy investors.