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

Megan Costa

Senior Advisor | Director of Business Development

With over a decade of experience in the multifaceted world of real estate investing, Megan possesses a deep understanding of real estate, tax advantage investing, and wealth building. Her hands-on experience in acquiring and divesting investment properties, coupled with her expertise in leveraging tax strategies, has established her as a trusted advisor in the field. A Colorado native, Megan now resides in Minnetonka, MN, with her three sons and their beloved and rambunctious chocolate lab, Tank.

Live music lover
Nature enthusiast
Photo of Megan Costa, our senior advisor
Photo of Hannah Matteson, an invaluable human on our team.

Hannah Matteson

Marketing Director | Invaluable Human

With a solid background in commercial real estate, Hannah knows the ins and outs of the industry. But that's not all—she also brings a strong history within the digital marketing world, bringing creative and effective strategies to the table. Her leadership skills have been a driving force in our team, always pushing us to deliver the best for our clients. When she's not helping clients, you might find her exploring the latest marketing trends or leading a new project with her signature enthusiasm and expertise. Originally from the other side of the tracks, Hannah now resides in Minneapolis with her closest confidant, her Akita, Meeka.

Dog enthusiast
Hiking connoisseur

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.