About Us

OUR STORY

Rooted in Community,
Driven by Excellence

Founded by longtime residents who saw the need for a more personalized approach to real estate, Top Tier Real Estate has grown from a small boutique agency into one of the region's most trusted names in property services.

What started as a commitment to serve our neighbors with integrity has evolved into a full-service real estate firm that combines cutting-edge technology with old-fashioned relationship building. We've helped thousands of families find their perfect homes, and each transaction reinforces our belief that real estate is about people, not just properties.

Today, we value relationships first and recognize that we don’t just sell houses. We serve people.

OUR BROKERS

Meet the Experts Behind Your Journey

Our brokers bring decades of combined experience, local market knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals.

Nicole Happel

Broker Owner

Today, Nicole is celebrating her 30th year as a licensed Colorado Realtor. Nicole is the Broker Owner of this company. She’ll tell you it was never her vision to own a boutique real estate brokerage, but sometimes the best things in life are unexpected. Nicole was born and raised in Southern California. Arriving in Colorado Springs in 1995, she was quick to obtain her real estate license and dive right in. Nicole enjoys working with Buyers and Sellers. “Doing one makes me good at the other.”

She proudly supports our military and loves Colorado Springs for its strong military presence. This work is her calling, and she does it with passion and a servant’s heart. Her other passions include running, Pilates and playing piano.

Courtney Gilmore

Broker Associate

Courtney brings 28 years of experience as a licensed Colorado Realtor. She grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee and moved to Colorado Springs to attend the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, where she got her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing. Folks who know her say she is passionate with childlike enthusiasm.

Courtney LOVES Jesus, her family, her clients/friends and being in Colorado. When she’s not showing houses you’ll find her hiking the local trails and mountains. Occasionally, she is known to engage in a friendly game of volleyball, her college sport. Find her on Facebook and you’ll see posts of scenic Colorado sunsets & sunrises a long with quotes of unwavering faith.

Joe Authement, Jr.

Broker Associate

Rooted in Northern Colorado, Joe’s connection to the land runs deep. Growing up in agriculture, his work ethic was shaped early—right from the moment he first put his hands into Colorado soil. That grounded, hardworking spirit naturally evolved into a passion for real estate.

Today, Joe is a Colorado‑based real estate professional with a genuine commitment to helping people find their place in the world. Inspired by the Rocky Mountain lifestyle, he brings his love for the outdoors into his work: steady, grounded, and always willing to go the extra mile. Known for his honesty, patience, and people‑first approach, Joe makes the buying and selling process clear, comfortable, and even enjoyable.

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. We specialize in guiding buyers through every detail with patience, clarity, and expert advice.

From understanding down payment options and mortgage programs to navigating inspections and closing costs, we'll demystify the process and empower you to make confident decisions.

For more real estate tips, visit and subscribe to my YouTube channel.

We believe finding a home should be as
inspiring as the life you'll live there.

At Top Tier Real Estate, we're more than real estate professionals—we're storytellers, community advocates, and trusted advisors who understand that every property represents a new chapter in someone's life. Our mission is to elevate the home buying and selling experience through deep local knowledge, strategic marketing, and unwavering commitment to our clients' dreams.

BY THE NUMBERS

A Track Record of Excellence

58+

Years of Combined Experience

1,500+

Homes Sold

CORE VALUES

The Principles That Guide Us

Integrity First

We believe honesty and transparency build lasting relationships. Every recommendation we make is in your best interest, not ours.

Community Connection

Our deep roots in the area mean we don't just sell houses—we help you find the neighborhood where you'll thrive.

Innovation & Excellence

We combine traditional service values with cutting-edge marketing and technology to deliver exceptional results.

GIVING BACK

Committed to Our
Community

We believe in investing in the communities we serve. That's why we're proud partners with local charities, schools, and non-profit organizations dedicated to making our neighborhoods better places to live.

From sponsoring youth sports teams to supporting affordable housing initiatives, we're committed to creating positive change beyond the transaction.

Volunteer work at New Life Church
Volunteer work at Fort Carson Army base
Monthly food drive supporting local families in need