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About Real Estate Transition Solutions

Who We Are

Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS) is a real estate investment firm specializing in tax-deferred 1031 Exchange strategies and options. For over 26 years, we have helped investment property owners understand, select, and acquire suitable 1031 Exchange properties that meet both their financial and lifestyle objectives. Our approach is grounded in education, transparency, and above all, putting the best interest of our clients first. We are agnostic to the type of replacement property selected by our clients and base our recommendations entirely on their objectives and what they seek to accomplish.

Why Work With RETS

We strive to help every client make the best possible decision for their 1031 Exchange. Our personalized approach considers each client’s unique blend of lifestyle and financial objectives. We provide industry-leading educational resources and expert guidance from licensed 1031 Exchange Advisors. Our recommendations are based on continuous analysis of local and national market conditions and rigorous property and sponsor due diligence.

Meet Your 1031 Exchange Team

Our company’s rapid growth is driven by a team of 21 dedicated professionals who bring together a wealth of expertise in diverse functions such as investment strategy, marketing, investment analysis, and client services. Through our collective knowledge in real estate investment consulting, we provide comprehensive and strategic solutions to meet our clients’ unique needs.

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1031 ADVISORY SERVICES

Roger Bowlin

Roger W. Bowlin

Founder and Partner

Roger W. Bowlin

Roger is the Founding Partner of Real Estate Transition Solutions and is key to sourcing real estate replacement property options that satisfy individualized client objectives. He is a licensed 1031 Exchange Advisor, maintains relationships with a vast network of institutional real estate firms, provides consultation on tax deferral strategies, 1031 replacement options, and Delaware Statutory Trusts. Roger holds Series 7, 22, 63 and 65 licenses.

Roger is a graduate of the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington. While attending UW, he rowed crew from 1975-1978, rowing in both the 1975 freshman national champion boat and on the 1977 national champion team.

Roger has a broad background in real estate construction having presided over Coleman Construction, a mid-tier contractor of schools, libraries and prisons. He learned the transaction-side of real estate through his time working in the brokerage group of Marcus and Millichap as well as the Investment Group of Westwater Development.

He currently sits on the board of the Washington Policy Center, a non-partisan research organization that focuses on free market solutions, limited government and advocacy for private property rights. WPC serves policy makers, media and Washington citizens.

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Austin Bowlin 2

Austin Bowlin, CPA

Partner, Chief Exchange Strategist

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Taylor Armstrong

Taylor Armstrong

Senior Exchange Advisor

Taylor Armstrong

Taylor serves as a 1031 Exchange Advisor at Real Estate Transition Solutions. He works closely with
investment property owners to understand the nature of their properties, financial objectives and lifestyle goals. He educates property owners about the 1031 Exchange process. Taylor is well versed in replacement property options, including securitized replacement properties such as Delaware Statutory Trusts. He currently holds Series 7 and 66 securities licenses.

Taylor is a graduate of the Carson School of Business at Washington State University. Following college, he worked as a Financial Planner at Voya Financial where he gained key experience in the analysis of client portfolios and needs.

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Zachary Kocurek

Zachary Kocurek

1031 Exchange Advisor

Zachary Kocurek

Zachary performs research and financial analysis at Real Estate Transition Solutions. His responsibilities focus on reviewing upcoming available DST properties, researching property submarkets, and conducting evaluations of clients’ investment property holdings.

Zachary holds a degree in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Sciences from Texas A&M University, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree from Texas A&M University. During Zachary’s college career, he represented Texas A&M’s archery team and helped secure 20 straight years of the school’s Collegiate Archery National Championship Title. Following his bachelor’s degree, he became a licensed Washington real estate agent for investors and personally invests in residential rental real estate.

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Evan Akers

Evan Akers

1031 Exchange Advisor

Evan Akers

Evan Akers contributes his expertise as a Research & Financial Analyst within the Due Diligence team at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), playing a crucial role in enhancing our financial and real estate due diligence processes. Evan's role is pivotal in reinforcing our commitment to client-focused risk mitigation, a cornerstone of our advisory services.

Evan graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University, laying a solid foundation for his analytical expertise. His previous experience in due diligence and financial analysis within the healthcare lending sector brings valuable insights and methodologies to our team.

Evan's integration into the dual path Due Diligence Analyst and Client Advisory program at RETS furthers our due diligence endeavors, aligning with our strategic focus on detail-oriented and client-specific risk assessment. His contributions significantly bolster our ability to serve our clients with the utmost precision and care.

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DUE DILIGENCE

Patrick Liu

Patrick Liu

Due Diligence Manager

Patrick Liu

Patrick Liu serves as the Due Diligence Manager at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), overseeing a team of research and financial analysts that review upcoming, available DST properties, REITs, and income funds. The due diligence team performs independent underwriting and analysis of commercial properties and portfolios for investment viability and return potential, while identifying risks and opportunities.

Prior to joining RETS, Patrick has been in client-focused due diligence roles for over ten years. He also has a broad background in both commercial and residential real estate and lending for institutional investors.

Patrick graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with concentrations in marketing and management. As an avid outdoorsman, he shares his passion by volunteering as a coach and mentor for underserved/underprivileged youth in the local community.

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Eleu Akimseu

Eleu Akimseu

Senior Research and Financial Analyst

`Eleu Akimseu

`Eleu performs research and financial analysis at Real Estate Transition Solutions. He works primarily with replacement property due diligence and streamlines the transition process for clients. His responsibilities focus on reviewing upcoming, available DST properties, researching property submarkets, and conducting valuations of clients’ investment property holdings. Eleu is a graduate of the Jepson School of Business at Gonzaga University. Following college, he worked as a research analyst at a regional commercial real estate appraisal company.

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August Cooke 1

August Cooke

Research and Financial Analyst

August Cooke

August Cooke is a dynamic Research and Financial Analyst on the Due Diligence team at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where she applies her expertise to enhance project outcomes and boost client relationships.

A graduate of the University of Washington, August earned a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate, equipping her with a strong foundation in the principles of investment strategies, risk management, and market analysis.  She has since excelled in the real estate industry, honing her skills at a property management firm, where she demonstrated expertise in real estate investment evaluations and financial analysis.

Beyond her analytical acumen, August enjoys outdoor activities, and was a rower for both the Sammamish Rowing Association and the University of Washington.

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Jeff Yang

Jeff Yang

Research and Financial Analyst

Jeff Yang

Jeff Yang is a key member of the Due Diligence team at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where he applies his keen analytical skills to evaluate investment opportunities with precision. With an MBA from Seattle University and a certificate in Business Analytics, Jeff brings a solid understanding of financial data and market trends, ensuring informed and strategic decision-making.

As a dedicated real estate investor himself, Jeff has a passion for identifying opportunities and maximizing returns. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, combined with his hands-on investing experience, makes him a valuable asset to the team.

Outside of work, Jeff enjoys spending time outdoors, finding balance and inspiration in nature, which fuels his drive and creativity in both his personal and professional pursuits. His drive, and passion for both real estate and the great outdoors bring a fresh perspective to his role at RETS.

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Henry Ruf

Henry Ruf

Exchange Associate

August Cooke

A Seattle native, Henry brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the real estate sector, having previously worked as a multi-family commercial real estate broker at Kidder Mathews.
 
In addition to his real estate license, Henry holds a degree in Finance with a minor in Economics from Washington State University. In his role at RETS, he is instrumental in setting up consultations and supporting our Exchange Advisors, utilizing his strong organizational and communication skills along the way. 
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Marketing

Joe Duckett

Joe Duckett

Chief Marketing Officer

Joe Duckett

Meet Joe Duckett, an accomplished executive and versatile Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) with an impressive track record of driving transformative growth, award-winning innovation, and operational scale across hospitality, healthcare, and financial services organizations.

As CMO of Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), Joe spearheads our Go-To-Market strategy, identifying target markets, positioning the brand, and crafting full-funnel marketing programs that effectively engage potential clients and valuable business partners.

Joe's expertise in demand generation is exceptional, with a key focus on utilizing SEO, content marketing, digital media, and partner relationship marketing (PRM). Additionally, his proficiency in lifecycle marketing, utilizing Salesforce CRM, automation, AI, and sales enablement best practices, ensures that RETS delivers personalized and seamless client and partner experiences.

Before joining RETS, Joe was founder and President of AQYR Media, an inbound marketing agency headquartered in Seattle. Specializing in demand generation and lifecycle marketing for clients in service-based industries, AQYR Media played a pivotal role in driving prolific growth and innovation for RETS. Such was the impact that an agreement was reached to merge AQYR Media into RETS in January of 2023.

Prior to AQYR Media, Joe served as Vice President of Marketing & Sales for Windstar Cruises, a luxury cruise line headquartered in Miami. During his impressive 7-year tenure, Joe orchestrated an exponential turnaround and surge in demand, propelling Windstar's market share to new heights and expansion of the fleet from 3 ships to 6. Windstar’s increasing market presence was further validated by recognition as the World's Best Small Ship Cruise Line by both Travel + Leisure magazine and Conde Nast magazine.

Before his tenure with Windstar Cruises, Joe served as President of REVOLVE, an award-winning agency and subsidiary of Taylor Corporation. His 9-year journey with Taylor Corporation saw his business units consistently surpass expectations, celebrated for technology innovation, and honored with numerous growth and profitability awards. REVOLVE's prolific growth and innovation earned Joe the prestigious Top Entrepreneurial Leader award from Taylor Corporation.

Joe is a well-rounded professional with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Pennsylvania State University, complemented by numerous digital marketing, CRM, and analytics certifications.

Joe's marketing philosophy is deeply rooted in a comprehensive understanding of industry dynamics, competitive landscapes, and client data. He firmly believes in leveraging technology to create impactful and scalable user experiences. This forward-thinking approach, combined with his innate talent for creative problem-solving and strong interpersonal skills, has been the driving force behind consistent growth and unparalleled results for the organizations he has served.

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Ryan J. Barr

Ryan J. Barr

Director of Digital Marketing

Ryan J. Barr

Ryan is a results-driven digital marketing expert and USAF Veteran with an impressive background in airborne search and rescue operations, SERE, and nuclear security. Following his military service, Ryan earned a degree in Tourism Marketing, a testament to his adventurous spirit and professional acumen. He's also served as a Backcountry Ranger in GNP.

His skill set is both expansive and specialized, covering areas such as SEO, CRM, WordPress, AI, and more. Proficient in tools like AI Prompts, JavaScript, Salesforce, Social Ads, HubSpot, analytics, machine learning, graphic design, video editing, website conversion optimization, Zapier, and automation, Ryan's capabilities are as diverse as they are cutting-edge. He is always eager to learn, develop new skills, and share his knowledge to drive success in his professional endeavors.

Outside the professional realm, Ryan's adventurous hobbies, including hiking, snowboarding, and mountaineering, mirror his boundless energy and pursuit of excellence. More than just a marketer, Ryan is a thrill-seeker, experienced in leading teams across various mountainous environments.

As an integral part of RETS, Ryan's dedication, expertise, and unique approach to problem-solving continue to be key drivers in the digital marketing landscape. His unwavering commitment to innovation solidifies his role as an invaluable asset to the team and a true leader in the field.

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Jojo Huang 1

Jojo Huang

Marketing Program Manager

Jojo Huang

Jojo Huang is a visionary Marketing Program Manager at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where she leverages over eight years of industry experience to drive strategic marketing initiatives. Known for her dynamic leadership and data-driven approach, Jojo excels in orchestrating comprehensive marketing strategies that span the entire customer journey. At RETS, she seamlessly integrates demand generation, lead nurturing, and conversion optimization techniques to propel business growth and enhance the sales funnel.

Under Jojo's guidance, RETS has experienced transformative improvements in marketing performance and revenue generation. Her innovative approach has revitalized webinar programs, optimized lead quality, and maximized ROI across multiple channels. Jojo's expertise encompasses the full marketing spectrum, including content marketing, SEO/SEM, social media engagement, and email automation. By leveraging advanced analytics, CRM systems, and marketing automation platforms, she implements data-informed strategies that consistently yield measurable results.

Jojo's marketing acumen was honed during her tenure at a national cancer research organization, where she managed large-scale marketing and fundraising initiatives. This experience, combined with her MBA in Marketing and ongoing education in emerging technologies like AI, keeps Jojo at the forefront of marketing innovation. Her strategic vision and ability to execute complex, integrated marketing plans continue to cement RETS's position as an industry leader in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

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Tina Gunn

Tina Gunn

Content Marketing Manager

Tina Gunn

Tina Gunn is the Content Marketing Manager at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where she brings her extensive experience as a full-stack content marketer to the team. Tina excels in crafting and executing content strategies that elevate brand awareness, establish thought leadership, and drive demand in both B2B and B2C markets. Her work spans startups to global tech and SaaS brands, demonstrating her versatility and expertise in the content marketing space.

A proud alumna of the University of Washington, Tina earned her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. During her time there, she was an active student liaison for the Asian American Journalists Association and completed an immersive Washington State legislative program, covering a quarter of political news for the Kitsap Sun from the state Capitol in Olympia. Tina’s journalistic background fuels her commitment to creating content that upholds the highest standards of integrity and insight, aligning perfectly with RETS’s mission to support real estate investors with clarity and confidence.

A storyteller at heart, when Tina isn't crafting compelling content for RETS, she channels her creativity into personal projects, including writing articles, short stories, poems, novels, songs, screenplays, and video essays.

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Dara Adegunloye

Dara Adegunloye

Marketing Campaign Specialist

Dara Adegunloye

Dara Adegunloye has stepped into the role of Marketing Campaign Specialist at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), bringing a dynamic blend of analytical prowess and marketing acumen. Specializing in demand generation and lead nurturing campaigns, Dara's expertise lies in her ability to develop, launch, and refine marketing strategies that enhance lead generation and foster engagement.

With a Master's degree in Marketing Analytics from Pace University and an MBA from Pensacola Christian College, Dara possesses a robust understanding of market dynamics and business strategy. Her professional journey, marked by significant achievements in SEO, social media marketing, and A/B testing, positions her as a valuable asset to the RETS Marketing team.

Dara's approach to marketing is deeply rooted in data-driven analysis, ensuring that every campaign is optimized for maximum impact. Her contributions are poised to make a significant imprint on RETS's growth and success, making complex marketing initiatives resonate with our clientele.

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Brit Martin

Brit Martin

Sales Enablement Specialist

Brit Martin

Transitioning from RETS Operations to the Marketing team, Brit utilizes her rich experience in real estate brokerage and marketing to take on the role of Marketing Campaign Associate. In her role, Brit will work closely with a campaign team focusing on partner marketing, product marketing, and client communications. Brit first joined RETS in 2021 and swiftly demonstrated her expertise working with clients and the Operations team, playing a pivotal role in our Salesforce CRM migration.

Brit's analytical skills and attention to detail make her a key asset to the RETS Marketing team. Her expertise in client engagement and experience in targeted marketing enables her to effectively lead campaigns that resonate with our clients and align with our service objectives.
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Todd Young

Todd Young

Business Development Manager

Todd Young

Todd Young is the Business Development Manager at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where he plays a crucial role in identifying and cultivating relationships with key partners, including real estate brokers, agents, CPAs, estate planning professionals, and more.

A seasoned real estate investor, Todd’s journey with RETS began with his participation in a successful DST exchange. His professional background includes 15 years of experience as a content publishing manager, and in the last decade, he has focused on building a portfolio of multifamily properties. Through his vast experience, he has developed exceptional skills in investment analysis, portfolio management, and strategic growth planning.

Outside of work, Todd enjoys spending time with his wife and five children, engaging in various Northwest activities such as skiing, hiking, and sailing. He also enjoys volunteering with the youth group at his church and playing in the band.

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Nancy Duckett

Nancy Duckett

Channel Marketing Manager

Nancy Duckett

As the Marketing & Communications Manager at Real Estate Transition Solutions, Nancy oversees all marketing communications and brand awareness programs for the firm. She takes the lead in managing our website, e-mail, and event communications.

Nancy has over 14 years of experience working at marketing agencies and has successfully managed integrated marketing programs and led agency account teams for Fortune 1,000 clients that include Hyatt Resorts, Universal Studios, Lowes Entertainment, Red Door Spas and Grand Expeditions.

Nancy is a graduate from the University of Central Florida, with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing on Business Administration, Communications and Applied Computer Science.

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Operations

Leslie Bowlin

Leslie Bowlin

Director of Operations

Leslie Bowlin

Leslie oversees administration at Real Estate Transition Solutions, which includes new client on-boarding, qualified intermediary and sponsor communication, and preparation of necessary replacement property acquisition paperwork for clients that have acquired securitized replacement properties.

Leslie graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in English and an M.A. from the Information School. Prior to joining Real Estate Transition Solutions, she oversaw Operations and Process for Safeco Mutual Funds, was a commercial leasing broker and worked for an international non-profit organization.

Leslie is a previous board member of Women of Washington and the Lake Chelan Library.

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Shawn McGehee

Shawn McGehee

Chief of Staff

Shawn McGehee

Shawn McGehee serves as the Chief of Staff at Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS), where he leads operational and organization-wide initiatives to advance the company’s strategic vision. With over two decades in leadership positions, Shawn played a significant role in doubling his prior company’s customer base and annual revenue for three consecutive years, propelling the company onto the Inc 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies.

Before joining RETS, Shawn held roles at PeopleConnect and Classmates.com, where he established his expertise in team leadership, revenue growth, and post-acquisition integration. A proud alum of Central Washington University, outside of work Shawn enjoys spending time with family, attending live music events, traveling, and has recently taken up pottery.

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Theresa Bussman

Theresa Bussman

Director of Human Resources

Theresa Bussman

Theresa joins Real Estate Transition Solutions with extensive HR experience, bringing over 20 years of leadership and expertise. Prior to RETS, Theresa was the Regional Human Resources Director at Turner Construction from 2014 to 2023 and VP, Human Resources Manager at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch from 2005 to 2014. Theresa is passionate about fostering a productive, positive, result-driven culture through active listening, employee development, and sustainable solutions. Theresa holds a Psychology degree and an MBA from the University of Washington.

A West Seattle native, she enjoys outdoor activities, traveling, community events, and spending time with her family and friends. Theresa's comprehensive experience in HR and her cohesive approach to team building and staff engagement make her a valuable addition to our team.

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Kimberly Frohardt

Kimberly Frohardt

Client Services Manager

Kimberly Frohardt

Kimberly serves as a dedicated client concierge. She monitors the investments of the Real Estate Transition Solution clients who utilize securitized replacement properties, including tracking of distributions, closing statements, and necessary tax reporting, as well as making sure that all client needs are met in a timely manner. Kimberly graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Business Administration.

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Kayla North

Kayla North

Client Services Coordinator

Kayla North

Originally from Bellevue, Kayla graduated from Seattle University in 2022 with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Economics. Her experience in marketing and legal support within a brokerage firm environment has honed her skills in teamwork and client-focused services. In her role, Kayla serves as a key player in managing the paperwork flow and assisting in the closing of our clients' real estate investments.

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The information herein has been prepared for educational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or sell securitized real estate investments. Such offers are only made through the Sponsor’s Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) which is solely available to accredited investors and accredited entities. DST 1031 properties are only available to accredited investors (generally described as having a net worth of over $1 million dollars exclusive of primary residence) and accredited entities only.  If you are unsure if you are an accredited investor and/or an accredited entity, please verify with your CPA and Attorney.
 
There are material risks associated with investing in DST properties and real estate securities including liquidity, tenant vacancies, general market conditions and competition, lack of operating history, interest rate risks, the risk of new supply coming to market and softening rental rates, general risks of owning/operating commercial and multifamily properties, short term leases associated with multi-family properties, financing risks, potentially adverse tax consequences, general economic risks, development risks, long hold periods, and potential loss of the entire investment principal. Potential cash flows/returns/appreciation are not guaranteed and could be lower than anticipated. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market. It is a method used to help manage investment risk. Because investor situations and objectives vary this information is not intended to indicate suitability for any particular investor.  This material is not to be interpreted as tax or legal advice. Please speak with your own tax and legal advisors for advice/guidance regarding your particular situation.
 
Securities offered through Aurora Securities, Inc. (ASI), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Secure Asset Management, LLC (SAM), a Registered Investment Advisor. ASI and SAM are affiliated companies. Real Estate Transition Solutions (RETS) is independent of ASI and SAM. To access Aurora Securities’ Form Customer Relationship Summary (CRS), please click HERE. For Secure Asset Management’s Form CRS, click HERE. Real Estate Transition Solutions, ASI, and SAM do not offer legal or tax advice. Please consult the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstances.
 
Client examples are hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. Individual results may vary.
 
This site is published for residents of the United States only. Representatives may only conduct business with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed until appropriate registration is obtained or exemption from registration is determined. Not all services referenced on this site are available in every state through every advisor listed. For additional information please contact 888-755-8595 or email info@re-transition.com.

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