Meet the Team

Our team is a talented group of individuals dedicated to making our vision a reality. Learn more about the people who drive our success.

Photo of Andrew Topka, founder and managing principal at Lamplighter.

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.

Strength in building trusting relationships and communicating complex concepts in a simple and easy to understand way
Avid Minnesota Viking’s fan

Hannah Matteson

Director of  Strategic Partnerships

Hannah helps clients navigate tax-advantaged investment strategies and make confident moves with their money. With a background in commercial real estate, she knows the industry inside and out, but what truly sets her apart is how she partners with clients through every step, translating complex strategies into clear, actionable plans. Her roots in digital marketing give her an edge in big-picture thinking and creative problem-solving, ensuring smart ideas don’t just stay ideas. Whether she’s collaborating with clients, exploring new opportunities, or shaping Lamplighter’s next big move, she brings energy, insight, and a little fun to the process. You’ll likely find her on the trails or out and about in Minneapolis with her dog, who—let’s be honest—runs the show.

Knows way too much about dogs
Hiking connoisseur
Photo of Hannah Matteson, an invaluable human on our team.
Photo of Neil Almy, Director of Due Diligence

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.

Aspiring male hand model
Memoir would be titled “Likely Tall Tales from a Number Cruncher”

You're in Good Hands

25+

Years Experience

$500 Million

Transaction Volume

170+

Transactions

Andrew Topka working closely with clients on a §1031 Exchange.

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.

100% tax deferral goal
Clear expectations, tailored outcomes
Driven by outcomes and long-term relationships

My goals & objectives

I value relationships and strongly believe the results of our work at Lamplighter reflect that. I am dedicated to honest, transparent and exemplary service, empowering clients with knowledge and strategies tailored to their specific needs and goals. I am proud of the work we have done, and will continue to work hard to preserve and protect what our clients hold most dear.

- Andy Topka, Founder

Testimonials

Ruth (Alexandria, MN)
Ruth (Alexandria, MN)
My Siblings and I came to Andy and his team at Lamplighter needing to understand our options in going our separate ways through the sale and 1031 exchange of our family farm. There was so much to do and understand in a short period of time. Not only did they take time to educate us, but they were so valuable in us finding and buying the replacement properties that fit our individual needs. Both the sale and the purchases went off without a hitch and couldn't have happened without Lamplighter!
David (Minneapolis, MN)
David (Minneapolis, MN)
I am a skeptical, analytical, hard to convince seasoned CPA who worked with Andy on a recent tax-free exchange for a client of mine who sold a warehouse/office building. Andy is everything you would want an advisor to be on such a transaction. I highly recommend him. He is great to work with, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable and experienced in tax-free-exchanges and the practical aspects of how to get them done. He is skilled at educating clients on all aspects of how to get them done so they work for the client. Andy has a wide network of individuals and firms that can be used to find his client's suitable replacement properties, including buying a share of mega-properties that you could not otherwise find and invest in on your own, even properties that allow you take significant tax-free cash out of the deal.
Doug and Amanda (Raleigh, NC)
Doug and Amanda (Raleigh, NC)
Working with Lamplighter was a game-changer for us. We recently sold an office building and were looking for the best way to reinvest and defer our capital gains tax. We were open to a higher-risk, higher-reward strategy, and the team at Lamplighter really took the time to understand our goals and risk tolerance. Instead of the traditional 1031 exchange, they guided us toward investing in an Opportunity Zone development, which aligned perfectly with our long-term vision. Their expertise and personalized approach gave us confidence to take this next step in our financial journey. We couldn’t be more satisfied with the results.