A Cotswolds estate agency owner is preparing to scale the highest mountain in the Americas in a bid to raise vital funds for a charity supporting property professionals in crisis.
In January 2026, Sarka Wilde, owner of Distinct Property Consultants and a Propertymark Regional Executive, will attempt to summit Aconcagua in Argentina.
At 6,961 metres, it is the tallest mountain outside the Himalayas and one of the most physically and mentally demanding climbs in the world.
The expedition will raise money for The Propertymark Trust, which provides financial, medical and mental health support to property professionals, their families and colleagues when they are facing unexpected hardship.
CHALLENGE SARKA
Sarka is well known within the industry for her resilience and appetite for challenge. A trained Master Firewalking Instructor and experienced mountaineer, she has already completed several high-altitude climbs.
But she says this expedition carries a deeper meaning than any she has taken on before.
Having survived domestic violence, the loss of her mother to suicide and the experience of miscarriage, Sarka says she understands first-hand how isolating personal crises can feel, particularly while trying to maintain a professional life.
When she learned about the work of The Propertymark Trust, she says the charity’s mission resonated immediately.
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE
“I want people in our industry to know that help exists – that you don’t have to face your mountain alone,” she says. “This climb is about showing what’s possible when we support each other, one step at a time.”
The climb will involve around two weeks of extreme trekking and acclimatisation in the Andes, with temperatures expected to fall below -20°C and oxygen levels less than half those at sea level. The challenge will test both physical endurance and mental strength as climbers gradually ascend to the summit.
Sarka initially set out to raise £10,000 for the Trust, a target that has already been exceeded thanks to industry support. She has now set her sights on raising £20,000 ahead of the expedition.
POWERFUL FORCE
Lauren Scott-Simpson, Chair of The Propertymark Trust, says Sarka’s challenge captured the spirit of the charity’s work.
She adds that Sarka has transformed personal adversity into a powerful force for good, helping to shine a light on the support available to property professionals when life takes an unexpected turn.
Funds raised through the climb will go directly towards helping Propertymark members and their families access financial assistance, medical help and emotional support during times of crisis.
As preparations continue for the ascent, Sarka hopes her challenge will encourage more people across the property sector to talk openly about hardship – and to know that support is available when they need it most.
To support Sarka’s climb and follow her journey, click HERE.
