Member of the Month: December 2013
Brooke Sipe
Each month, ICBR honors one of its members as Member of the Month. This month, we recognize our 2014 Conference Committee Chair, Brooke Sipe. Brooke is a broker with Alliance Commercial Group in Indianapolis, Ind.
ICBR: Why are you an ICBR member? What do you look to gain out of your membership?
Sipe: I’m a member of ICBR because I feel it’s important to support and promote our profession on the commercial level. As a member, I look to gain unique opportunities to network with commercial brokers all over the state of Indiana, something most other industry organizations don’t offer because they only have a local Indianapolis presence or reach. I also appreciate ICBR’s educational programs, online resources and legislative support and updates.
ICBR: What designations/awards/recognition have you received?
Sipe: 2013 Junior Achievement – Indy’s Best & Brightest Finalist, 2012 IndyCREW President, IndyCREW Board Member from 2010-2013… and reappointed to the Board of Directors for 2014
ICBR: How did you start your career in commercial real estate/development?
Sipe: I actually attended University of Cincinnati as Architecture & Interior Design major and worked as an intern for CSO Architects during my summers while in college. Although I enjoyed commercial design, I ultimately decided I wanted a career that allowed for more social interaction and one with unlimited income opportunities. Already having a background in commercial design and with brokerage in my blood, I starting working for a brokerage company called NAI Bergman in college, then after graduating I moved back to Indianapolis to work for NAI Olympia Partners.
ICBR: Do you have any mentors? If so, who? How has he/she inspired you?
Sipe: My dad, Drew Augustin… He’s always been very driven, successful and well respected by others in the industry. He’s taught me how to transact deals but I’ve also learned that honesty, loyalty and being ethical are some of the most important traits to being successful. Although I’ve appreciated his mentorship, I’ve always been determined to create my own relationships, build my own client base, and hold industry leadership positions so that I can achieve my own success.
ICBR: What is the most important thing you have learned by working in commercial real estate?
Sipe: The future depends on what we do in the present.
ICBR: What is your most recent accomplishment?
Sipe: 2013 Junior Achievement – Indy’s Best & Brightest Finalist
ICBR: Do you have any special skills, interests or hobbies?
Sipe: I’m extremely handy and have tons of tools including 5 different power saws. I’ve built outdoor furniture, decks, fences and even custom cabinets and bars. I also enjoy traveling and experiencing new cultures.