Andy Topka
Principal
With over 20 years in the §1031 Like-Kind Exchange industry, Andy has consulted hundreds and educated thousands on strategic tax-advantaged investment solutions within §1031 and similarly related tax codes. He is a former accredited Lorman Faculty Member and frequent speaker at state bar association conferences around the country. Mr. Topka is a native of Minnesota but has lived and practiced throughout the United States. He currently resides in Minnetonka, Minnesota with his four children and soon to be new puppy if the kids have their way.
Scott Smith
Senior Advisor
Scott Smith brings extensive leadership experience across alternative investments, capital markets, real estate asset management, product distribution, due diligence, and financial services. Scott has led organizations responsible for building, evaluating, and distributing investment products to high-net-worth investors through financial intermediaries. His experience includes serving as CEO of an asset manager overseeing approximately $225 million in self-storage properties, closing a $105 million acquisition involving 33 properties across eight states, and structuring a $75 million securitized offering. Scott has also led capital markets teams, relaunched private equity offerings, built alternative investment platforms, and sourced complex §1031 exchange capital.
Chad Collins
Senior Advisor
Chad brings over twenty years of commercial real estate finance experience to the table, having participated in the origination, underwriting, and closing of nearly $1B in loans, equity, and structured financings across all property types. An entrepreneur at heart, he previously launched and managed a private real estate lending firm in Texas. Chad began his career in business valuation with Deloitte & Touche, honing analytical and due diligence skills before transitioning into commercial mortgage banking. A Texas native, Chad lives in Houston with his wife and two children.
Garrett Kranz
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Garrett Kranz is a growth and business development leader who thrives on building relationships, creating strategic partnerships, and helping organizations turn opportunities into measurable growth. With experience across B2B SaaS, business development, and executive-level relationships, Garrett brings a curious, solutions-oriented approach to every conversation. He is particularly passionate about connecting the right people, identifying opportunities, and helping businesses navigate challenges with practical strategies that drive results.
Known for his energy, authenticity, and relationship-first approach, Garrett believes the best business relationships are built on trust, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.
James Kerson
Director, Client Development and Operations
James Kerson is an experienced commercial real estate operator and investor. Prior to joining Lamplighter, he founded and led Kerson & Company, a multifamily investment and property management firm. In that role, he acquired, rehabilitated, financed, and operated a portfolio that grew to approximately 160 apartments in Northeast Ohio. Earlier in his career, James served as asset manager for a portfolio of nearly 1,000 fee-managed multifamily units. His experience also includes corporate real estate consulting at Avison Young.
James earned his MBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and his BA, magna cum laude, from Carleton College. James draws on his experience as both an investor and an asset manager to structure and execute §1031 exchanges.
Neil Almy
Director of Due Diligence
Drawing on over 15 years of experience in real estate, finance, accounting, and project management, Neil approaches every venture with entrepreneurial energy and strategic insight. He has held CFO roles across diverse sectors, including real estate development and asset management. He offers a unique client perspective having been a client of Lamplighter prior to joining the team. Neil is a Colorado native and proud University of Colorado Leeds School of Business alumnus who lives in Vail, CO with his wife and energetic Australian Shepard. His adventurous spirit led him to sail the northwest passage which was featured on the Discovery Channel’s “Expedition to the Edge” series.
Makenzie Almy
Project Manager
Makenzie is a real estate and operations professional with more than a decade of experience in asset management, portfolio restructuring, and strategic advisory for privately held and family-owned enterprises. She specializes in optimizing asset performance, streamlining operational systems, and guiding owners through complex financial and transactional decisions. In 2025, Makenzie led more than $100 million in real estate transactions and restructured $13 million in debt, improving cash flow, reducing risk exposure, and driving long-term value creation. Known for her data-driven approach and ability to navigate intricate ownership and stakeholder environments, she brings a pragmatic, solutions-focused perspective to organizations navigating growth, transition, and generational change.
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Years Experience
Transaction Volume
Transactions
Small Firm, Massive Results
Despite our boutique size, our robust approach ensures substantial results. Join us for personalized attention, tailored to the specific needs and financial goals of our clients.
