the Sookepoint team
Meet the Team Behind SookePoint’s Oceanfront Living Vision
At SookePoint, our team brings together decades of experience in real estate development, hospitality, and customer service — all rooted right here on Vancouver Island. We’re more than professionals; we’re locals who love the beauty of Sooke, BC and are proud to share this one-of-a-kind oceanfront lifestyle with others. Whether you’re looking to buy a vacation home, explore investment opportunities, or relocate to a luxury cottage by the sea, our knowledgeable and friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Michael Thornton | Owner
Michael Thornton has been involved in the real estate investment and development business since 1988. He structured more than two dozen real estate limited partnerships, purchasing, managing, and reselling approximately 280 residential investment properties in British Columbia between 1988 and 1996. Michael has developed or co-developed several strata and fee simple projects in Chilliwack, Langley, Rossland, East Sooke, and Sooke, British Columbia. Since 1996, he has been the lead agent in assembling, rezoning, servicing, and subdividing the Silver Spray Lands, of which the SookePoint Development is a part. His company, Landus Development Group Inc., served as the registered builder for the first 70 finished suites at SookePoint and has won nine regional, provincial, national, and international first-place Awards of Excellence.
Mark Watts | Owner
Mark Watts has been involved in the real estate investment and development business since 1995. As founder and President of BLT Construction Services, Mark’s company has been a boutique builder of custom projects in various sectors including luxury residential, institutional, retail, hotel, event, and hospitality projects. BLT expanded to British Columbia in 2013 to assist with a multi-year revitalization of Rogers Arena and to construct the newly built West Tower. In 2016 the Aquilini Family (owners of the NHL Vancouver Canucks) acquired an interest in BLT. Among other projects on Vancouver Island, BLT completed Victoria’s ‘Marilena Café’, which won a ‘Best Restaurant Design’ award (curated under BLT’s Fleur de Lis Interior Design banner) and received Air Canada’s 3rd ‘Best New Restaurant’ award in Canada for 2023. BLT’s core strength and pride is delivering creative and complex projects at the highest standards for its clients, and is now managing construction at SookePoint
Joann Kief | Sales MANAGER
Celebrating 10 years at SookePoint, Joann Kief is an integral team member, known for her passion, dedication, and belief in the SookePoint vision and community. Her journey began on a BC Ferry, where a striking SookePoint poster captured her imagination. She knew she’d found a place where she could wake up to ocean views, call paradise home—and help others do the same. Since 2015, Joann has worked closely with the developer and onsite consultant, bringing heart and expertise to every step of the homeowner journey. As Sales Manager, Joann wears many hats. Whether welcoming and touring visitors, guiding future residents, or supporting longtime owners, she brings kindness, care, and knowledge to every interaction—helping countless people turn their dream of seaside living into reality. Her creative vision and coordination also help shape the Ocean Cottages—creating beautiful, inviting interiors that reflect SookePoint’s unique coastal charm.
Cindy MacKinnon | Sales
Cindy MacKinnon has been part of the SookePoint team since 2019. After a successful professional career and relocating to Vancouver Island, she continued to pursue her passions—supporting charitable causes and enjoying the natural beauty of the island. Drawn to the breath-taking trails of East Sooke Regional Park, Cindy discovered SookePoint and soon joined the Sales Team, eager to help others experience its unique charm. Her warm, welcoming nature and engaging personality have made her a valued team member, helping prospective owners envision the lifestyle that comes with calling SookePoint home.
Lauren Kief | Sales & Social Media Marketing
With over six years at SookePoint, Lauren Kief is a deeply valued member of the team and a familiar, trusted face—known for her passion, creativity, and genuine love for the community. A graduate of the Professional Photography program at Pacific Design Academy, Lauren blends her artistic eye with a thoughtful, client-focused approach—whether she’s capturing breathtaking moments behind the lens or helping future residents find their perfect oceanfront home, she brings heart, authenticity, and professionalism to every interaction. In addition to her role in sales and guest experience, Lauren manages SookePoint’s social media presence, beautifully sharing the spirit, lifestyle, and natural magic of this one-of-a-kind oceanfront resort. Her ability to connect with people, paired with her deep appreciation for the SookePoint vision, makes her an essential part of what makes SookePoint feel like home.
From helping you find the perfect waterfront property to guiding you through ownership and resort living, the SookePoint team is committed to providing exceptional service and expert advice. Our focus on oceanfront cottages, luxury homes, and real estate investment opportunities in Sooke means you’re working with a team that understands both the market and the lifestyle. Let us help you make informed decisions and feel confident in your journey to own a piece of Canada’s rugged and beautiful west coast.