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

Scott Smith

Principal

Scott brings over 20 years of experience in capital markets, private equity real estate, and financial services. He has served in senior leadership roles, including CEO and Senior Director, where he built and led high-performing teams focused on investment strategy, capital formation, and business growth. Scott has led capital raising efforts across private and institutional real estate portfolios, working closely with wealth managers and family offices to deploy capital into multifamily, self-storage, and other alternative real estate strategies.

A licensed attorney in Minnesota and Missouri (inactive), Scott combines legal expertise with a strong track record in investor relations and deal structuring.

Originally from Missouri, Scott now lives in Minnesota with his wife and four kids. In the winter, you’ll find him at the hockey rink—either playing or cheering from the stands—and in the summer, on the ballfield or golf course.

Lifelong sports dad
Still thinks his slapshot has a little heat on it
Photo of Scott Smith, principal
Photo of Megan Costa, our senior advisor

Megan Costa

Director of Business Development

With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Megan leads with a relationship-driven approach in her role as Director of Business Development. She focuses on building strategic partnerships with industry professionals that deliver long-term value for their clients. Megan’s background in tax-advantaged real estate and wealth-building strategies provides a solid foundation, but it’s her ability to build trust, communicate clearly, and align with the goals of her partners that truly defines her work. A Colorado native, she now lives in Minnetonka, MN, with her three sons and their always goofy chocolate lab, Tank.

Live music lover
Nature enthusiast

Hannah Matteson

Director of  Strategic Investments

Hannah helps clients navigate tax-advantaged investment strategies and make smart moves with their money. With a background in commercial real estate, she knows the industry inside and out, but what really sets her apart is her ability to break down complex investment strategies into clear, actionable plans that work for real people. She also has a history in digital marketing, which means she’s got a knack for big-picture thinking, creative problem-solving, and making sure good ideas don’t just sit on the shelf. Whether she’s strategizing with clients, researching new investment opportunities, or mapping out the next big move for Lamplighter, she brings energy, insight, and a little bit of fun to the process. You’ll probably find her hitting the trails or out and about in Minneapolis with her Akita, Meeka—who, if we’re being honest, runs the show.

Dog enthusiast
Hiking connoisseur
Photo of Hannah Matteson, an invaluable human on our team.

Taylor Lynch

With over a decade of experience in finance, Taylor Lynch is a seasoned professional who has excelled in roles ranging from private equity and investment banking to wealth management and specialized §1031 Exchange tax consulting. Taylor is able to leverage his skills and navigate the dynamic intersection of finance and tax consulting with precision and dedication. A 2014 graduate of BYU, Taylor brings a unique blend of financial expertise. Originally from Boston, he now resides in Charlotte with his wife and three children.

Exercise and fitness nut
Enjoys outdoors with the family

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.