Meet Raya White-McInnis | Real Estate Agent

We had the good fortune of connecting with Raya White-McInnis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raya, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
My life motto has always been, “Never give up.” We often evaluate our progress based on our current position and our ultimate goal. Instead, focus on your current position versus where you started. You will be shocked to see how far you have come. It might seem like you are light years away from your ultimate goal, but each day is one step closer to that goal and further from where you started. Giving up will only set you right back to your starting point! I also firmly believe as long as you are doing your personal best, that’s all that matters. Don’t strive to be THE BEST, strive to be YOUR BEST, and you will succeed.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
From the time I could talk I wanted to be an actor and model. I would rehearse lines to commercials in my room when I was a little girl. I was thoroughly involved in pageants growing up which I LOVED. (Don’t let reality television fool you!) After graduating high school, I went to the University of Arizona, where I earned my bachelors degree in Humanities and Social Science’s. (I am now one semester away from my Masters in Educational Leadership!) Meanwhile, I lived in Burbank, CA where I pursued my dream of modeling and acting. I had a successful career, I am so grateful for. My resume includes: 90210, Roseanne, Animal Planet, Ellen, Disney, NBC, Nitro Circus, Nike, and many more. Most notably, I was on season 16 of Say Yes To the Dress “Coco’s Not Impressed” where I said yes to a beautiful blue dress to match my chiweenie Coco!
During my college years, I developed a passion for fitness. My goal was to be on American Ninja Warrior, and while I didn’t make it that far, I did get to do a practice run on the real course at the LA tour! (See never give up!) I also was a yoga instructor and it is still something I enjoy very much!
I later got married at the beautiful Wayfarers Chapel in Palos Verdes, CA. My husband and I moved to Arizona shortly after and welcomed our son the following spring making my ultimate dream of becoming a mom come true.
In May of 2020 felt moved to become a realtor. After a not so easy house hunt, I started my journey. I am now a licensed realtor with Keller Williams Arizona. I love being able to work with people and help meet their needs. I want to take the stress out of their buying/selling process, so they can enjoy it!! Life is too short to be stressed out!

I have a passion for foster care an adoption. I hope to one day be able to give a child a home and family they deserve. While not everyone is able to adopt or foster, anyone can help! One of my favorite local charities to donate to is Helen’s Hope Chest. Not only do they need clothing for foster children, but teens as well. Next time you clean out your closet, your kids, or eve your grandkids, consider donating. This is something that can help tremendously and doesn’t cost a penny! Contact: http://www.helenshopechest.org/

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend (Since Pre-School!) just welcomed her son a few months ago, so we would have a family filled itinerary! First, we would stop by the McCormick-Stillman Ranch Railroad park. This park offers train rides (adults and kids!), a vintage carousel, multiple playground areas (with misters!), museums, and a little restaurant with kid friendly food. It is the number one must see for anyone with babies or children.
Next we would head to MacDonald’s Ranch. This Ranch has free horse rides for kids, games, a whole play area with toys galore, and a FREE petting zoo! They even offer sunset horse rides for adults and older youth.
Now we are off to the Comicx restaurant at Desert Ridge for dinner. Picture eating dinner inside a comic book! If it’s not too late, we can stop by As You Wish! Pottery and paint a new bowl or piggy bank for the kids!
You can’t come to Arizona without going on a hike. My favorite kid friendly hiking spot is Lost Dog Wash Trail. It offers easy terrain for the kids to “hike” and learn about the Sonoran Desert. It also has varying levels of trails from beginner to expert offering an unforgettable experience for any hiker. It is so tranquil, you will forget you are in the city at all!
Next up on our nature day is a visit to the Phoenix zoo! And it wouldn’t be complete without a camel ride, a zoo cruise tour, and a stop at the petting zoo. After we finished at the zoo, we would head across the street to the Hole in the Rock. This very easy 5-10 minute hike, gives you panoramic views of Phoenix. It is also a one of a kind photo op!
For dinner we are going to eat at Si Senor in Mesa. This Mexican restaurant, has the most amazing authentic Mexican food and is a hidden gem.
The Hall of Flame Fire Museum would start of our next day. It has an entire museum filled with fire trucks! Kids can play dress up and even sit in a real fire truck! They also have a play area for parents to relax and kids to learn and play.
Next up is a day of golf at Troon North for the dads. This course is a must for all golfers. Us moms will be busy shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Quarter. Not to worry about the kids, because it has a fun splash pad and movie theater to keep some kid friendly fun going!
To end the night we are heading over to the Odysea Aquarium. It’s a perfect way to end the day for adults and children.
Dinner is at Isabella’s kitchen where the parents can relax, while the kids play in the grass filled patio, as we watch the Arizona sunset and reminisce on a great trip!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom is definitely the number one person I dedicate my shout out to. She has helped me to go after all of my dreams no matter how big they are. From sitting in the car for 12 plus hours during my acting days in Los Angeles to make sure I was safe, to supporting me at my first open house, she is my rock. My faith and God are responsible for my success in all areas of life. I live every day to make a positive impact in the lives of others and inspire people to never give up.

Website: Rayawhite@kw.com

Instagram: @48realtor and @bangerzfitnezz

Facebook: Raya White Scottsdale and Phoenix Real Estate

Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/MariahCoco

Image Credits
Jimmy song- (Graduation photo) Copper Sky Photography- (Red Dress and pink Dress)