CHAPPELL RESIDENTIAL - Key Persons


AAS, Forsyth

Job Titles:
  • Education, Honors, & Accolades

Billy Hoffman

Job Titles:
  • Senior Broker
Buying a home is, without a doubt, one of the most rewarding achievements a person can experience in their lifetime. It has also been described as one of the most stressful. I take great pride in proving that last sentiment wrong. My goal is for every client to know that they have a true advocate in their corner before, during, and after their transaction. Originally from rural Gates County, NC, I have been a steadfast resident of the Triangle since 2002. I am a UNC-Chapel Hill graduate (Go Heels!) but I now live in Downtown Raleigh. From Apex to Zebulon, I help my clients with all of their residential real estate needs across the greater Triangle area. When I'm not negotiating offers for my clients, you can most likely find me in my kitchen pretending to be a sommelier or a contestant on Top Chef. I also enjoy hanging out with friends, watching movies at The Alamo Drafthouse, and cuddling with my pups. "We purchased our first home with Billy and Chappell and it was a great experience even with this insane market! Billy was patient while we figured out what we wanted, and guided us through a competitive situation to help us land in the house we wanted. Would highly recommend!"

Britt Close

Job Titles:
  • Team Performance Manager

Chad Murray

Job Titles:
  • Broker
As a Raleigh native, I have witnessed a great transformation - from a quiet downtown into a rapidly growing metropolitan city that retains its small-town feel. My intimate knowledge of this region and my experiences of having lived here all my life and being raised by Raleigh natives gives me enthusiasm and a desire to make my home, your home. I love to work with buyers and sellers. It's always exciting to help someone start the next chapter of their life. My goal is to earn your respect by working tirelessly on your behalf and always offering candid advice. I believe the people I'm able to help truly appreciate my flexibility, low pressure approach, patience, ability to listen and hear what you really want and need. I am constantly reading and learning about local real estate developments and am also drawn to the design aspect of a home from my background in furniture and design.

Charles Umstead

Job Titles:
  • VP Developer Services
Originally from the eastern part of the state, I came to the Triangle to study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and have lived here ever since. Minutes away from some of the best restaurants in the South and only a short Uber ride to an international airport - I can't think of a better place to call home. "For more than a year, I've had the pleasure of working with Charles on sales and marketing for a new development. Charles is a consummate professional who is precise, responsive, and considerate of all viewpoints in a transaction. His attention to detail is refreshing and ensures successful outcomes"

Elyse Appelmann

Job Titles:
  • Broker
Born and raised in Cary, I'm excited to be working with a team like Chappell to develop my city. I've been fortunate to have several careers over the years and wear many hats (peep the ears for proof ). I've fine-tuned my skills to become the best realtor and asset for clients I can be. I've always gravitated to relationship-building roles, preferring personal connections to cold calling. I love taking a hands-on approach and utilizing the power of digital promotion to maximize the audience on any project I'm representing. My unique eye as a realtor stems from my architectural background. I understand the ins & outs of every home, and my insight and dedication to transparent transactions ensure my clients are knowledgeable about their home and confident throughout an unfamiliar buying process. When I'm not meeting with clients or showing properties, I try to stay as spontaneous as possible! Gardening, hiking, and playing with my adorable pups, I try to stay active and outside. It's not out of the ordinary for me to travel on a whim and explore a new city. It's all about adventure and searching for inspiration. "On two separate occasions, I have worked with Elyse. She is by far the most professional and hardworking realtor I have had the pleasure of working with in my life. Elyse makes the home buying process easy. She is a true professional who is fully dedicated to delivering quality service through closing. Her competence, kindness, and strategic thinking set her apart. I look forward to working with her again. Thank you, Elyse!"

Heather Mansfield

Job Titles:
  • Broker
  • Certified Sales Professional ( CSP )
As a native to North Carolina, I am proud to call Raleigh home. I was born in Durham and grew up mostly in Raleigh with a couple of short stays in Los Angeles and San Francisco which spurred a passion for downtown living and a walkable community. I have been selling homes for 15+ years, most of which has been specialized in Downtown Raleigh. I've been excited to be a part of the transformation. I have a great passion for the growth and strength of our local real estate market, our local businesses and the amazing people here.

Ian C. Dunne - CMO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Marketing Officer
  • Creative Director
I believe every person, place, and organization has a story worth sharing. My passion comes from crafting that story and making it come to life. I'm a homeowner in downtown Raleigh where I live with my wife, Eleni, and our son, Declan, plus our Goldadoor pup, Sophie. I grew up in Charlotte, but having been in Raleigh for 17+ years I now consider myself a true Triangle native. I believe in what this great city and region have to offer anyone and everyone. This is a place where I have earned my education, made lifelong friends, found the love of my life, grown professionally, became a homeowner, and started a family - you can have it all in Raleigh, y'all. A graduate of NC State University, I am a diehard Pack fan. Having been raised in the Queen City, I'm hoping for that first Super Bowl as a Carolina Panthers fan (#KeepPounding). Either way, my sports teams keep me stressed because I want a championship in something already.

Ivan Hovis Gobern

Job Titles:
  • Broker
Originally from New England, I've had the privilege of living and working in some of the most bustling cities in the nation. From Washington D.C. to San Francisco, I've been able to build strong relationships coast to coast. While I've traveled all over the US, my family moved to Wake County from rural NC in the 1950s and I'm proud of my deep Triangle roots! I love taking a hands-on approach - meeting my clients and buyers right where they are and managing our collaboration every step of the way. As an active Real Estate Broker in Raleigh-Durham, I approach every challenge with endless optimism and energy - I sincerely believe if we are working together, there's not much we can't accomplish. When I'm not meeting with clients or showing properties, I enjoy letting my dog, Al, make the decisions, or staying active road cycling, kayaking, traveling for beach or mountain weekends, gardening, volunteering, non-profit organization fundraising, renovating my home, and spending time with my family, and last but never least, eating and laughing with friends I love! "It was a pleasure working with Ivan. From start to finish he treated us like we were family. In our absence, he made sure the house was deep-cleaned and beautifully staged. His pricing guidance led to us getting an excellent offer on the first day on the market which we accepted. He is knowledgeable, tenacious, and an all-around wonderful individual to work with."

Jess Kleean

Job Titles:
  • Marketing Specialist
I believe that everybody has a unique perspective worth exploring, and to get the full perspective, we have to make sure that everyone has a voice in the conversation.

Johnny Chappell

Job Titles:
  • Owner
  • Triangle Real Estate Brokers
© 2022 Chappell Residential, Inc. CHAPPELL, the House logo, and EXPERIENCE REAL ESTATE DIFFERENTLY are service marks of Chappell Residential, Inc. "Johnny and his whole team were excellent to work with. When I saw a house I was interested in buying, he explained all my options with selling or keeping my current residence. His knowledge of the Raleigh market was invaluable as I weighed everything. It all went smoothly and I was under contract to buy and under contract to sell in a matter of days. Johnny and his whole team were available to answer any and all questions at any time. I will definitely work with them again on my next home purchase!" Of 10k+ brokers in the area, this is where our owner, Johnny Chappell, ranks among Triangle real estate brokers. With 15+ years experience, he knows the local market inside and out.

Kalpna Jean Patel

Job Titles:
  • Broker
I've held many positions in my career, but Kalpna Jean Patel Real Estate Agent is my favorite thus far. Born and raised in Birmingham, England, and now living in Raleigh's Village District - I'm a globe-trotting go-getter who understands the value of a place to call home. As a greater Raleigh real estate agent, the relationships that I've built have defined my career. Years of renovation experience & residential energy exploration developed my keen eye for opportunity: from broader buying/selling advice to more specialized insight surrounding urban development or historic tax credits. While others are motivated by profit, I'm proud to say my dedication to helping, protecting, and serving my clients & community with integrity has never steered me wrong. My extensive sales background has culminated in multiple professional honors & certificates of achievement. However, I've always defined my success by the level of service I offer others. After working with Johnny and the Chappell team on several occasions and being impressed by their level of detailed professionalism, I'm excited to join a brokerage doing so much to empower agent success and deliver exceptional client experiences. When I'm not in the office - I'm out exploring! My wanderlust has inspired many adventures: walking the Great Wall of China (in heels!), climbing Machu Picchu (without water), and more! Now that I've settled in the Triangle, I spend my days bopping around to different breweries, playing with my pups, and enjoying family. "This is the second time I've used Kalpna, and just like the first time, she exceeded my expectations in every area. This purchase was new construction, and since it was the first time, she walked me through the whole process from picking the lot, picking options on the house, upgrades, communication with the builders, issues, and so much more. Without her help, the whole new construction process would have been very overwhelming, but thanks to her, it wasn't. I couldn't have asked for a more friendly, detail-oriented, driven, and passionate person when it comes to helping you find/build the perfect house!"

Kevin Woody - COO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Operating Officer
I'm thrilled to bring my passion and 25 years of experience to Chappell's leadership team as Chief Operating Officer. From the beginning of my career, I've been inspired by the opportunity to influence the lives of others around me. I've served in several positions, from broker management to multiple C-suite roles, and while acting in each, I kept the mentality of "reach high and grow deep" at my core. As COO of Chappell, I oversee our daily operations and optimize workflows to ensure our team runs effectively and efficiently. If my years of experience have taught me anything - it's that all this growth starts at home. I have a passion for elevating the skills + confidence of my collaborators because I recognize personal growth drives progress for an entire organization. I'm floored by creative innovation, and I pride myself on my ability to empower those around me to pursue their best. When I'm not in the office, you'll find me enjoying my wife's care and cooking, reading far too many books at one time, spending time with family along the coast, or enjoying my favorite place in the Triangle: Hwy 751 from Apex to Durham.

Laura Guld

Job Titles:
  • Broker
A NATIVE OF FT. LAUDERDALE, FL - I AM PROUD TO CALL RALEIGH HOME. I BEGAN MY REAL ESTATE CAREER AS A PROPERTY MANAGER FOR VARIOUS RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES, INCLUDING LUXURY APARTMENT COMPLEXES AND HISTORIC BUILDINGS IN DOWNTOWN RALEIGH AND GLENWOOD SOUTH. MY SPECIALTY IS WORKING WITH BUYERS, SELLERS AND INVESTORS IN THE RALEIGH AREA, BUT I AM COMFORTABLE HELPING YOU ANYWHERE YOU NEED ME. I'M EXCITED TO BE A PART OF THE CHAPPELL TEAM AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE ALL THAT WE ACCOMPLISH TOGETHER. MY FAVORITE ASPECT OF REAL ESTATE IS CONNECTING WITH NEW PEOPLE AND BUILDING A LIFE LONG RELATIONSHIP WITH THEM. NOTHING IS MORE SATISFYING TO ME THAN WALKING INTO A HOUSE WITH MY CLIENTS AND WATCHING THEM LIGHT UP KNOWING WE'VE FOUND THEIR NEW HOME. WHEN I'M NOT WORKING, YOU CAN FIND ME AT ANY CYCLING OR YOGA STUDIO IN THE AREA! I LOVE TAKING A MOMENT TO RECHARGE - SO I CAN BE MY BEST FOR MY CLIENTS. SOME OF MY FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS & STOPS INCLUDE DEATH AND TAXES, OAKWOOD PIZZA BOX, LOLA'S, AND THE ROOFTOP OF TAVERNA AGORA. I also am regularly involved with the Special Olympics of North Carolina, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and the Alzheimer's Association. "If you want an agent that is on your side and always reliable, use Laura! She expertly guided me through the entire home buying process, from making an offer, to working with a lender, and even giving me information to set up my utilities after closing! She was also always available 24/7 if I ever had any random questions. She was personable, professional, always went above and beyond what was asked of her, and I could not recommend her enough to everyone out there!"

Lauren Paravella

Job Titles:
  • Transactions Assistant
A native of Greenville, I am proud to call Raleigh home. I've worked at Chappell for a few years now and I am constantly excited about all of the new projects we take on, and all of the great people I get to work with. When I'm not spending time helping with transactions, you can find me with my family enjoying concerts, hopping from brewery to brewery, cooking, hiking, and watching basketball. Some of my favorite local restaurants & stops include Angus Barn, Gonza, King's Barcade, and Aviator. I'm a proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and love everything Tarheel related.

Lonnie Pyatt Jr.

Job Titles:
  • Broker
As a real estate broker, I not only prioritize my clients' needs, but I work to anticipate them every step of the way. While I'm relatively new to real estate, I've worked for years as a Business Analyst for multiple organizations, including First Citizens Bank, where I work to optimize current workflows and adapt everyday processes to new industry trends ensuring our day-to-day is easy and efficient. I'm a hard worker who not only understands complex transactions (aka everything in real estate) but makes them accessible as possible for my clients. I'm particularly passionate about relationships, and the ability to work directly with my clients and help them bring a long-held dream to life. Real estate is a huge, life-changing opportunity. I love knowing that I get to be a part of one of the biggest steps in my clients' lives and fostering a friendship with them long after the contracts are signed and the keys are handed over is vital to me. My favorite aspect of real estate is the relationships, and the incredible community growth I contribute to each and every day. I often gravitate to the Wake Forest, Rolesville, and North Raleigh areas of the Triangle as I've seen massive expansion opportunities right in my own neighborhood. Looking to relocate? Let's be neighbors. When I'm not working, I spend as much time with my family as possible. I love getting to relax with my wife and truly immerse myself in my other new favorite role - Dad to my 1-year-old! If I'm not at home, I'm sure you'll catch me grabbing a bite at one of my favorite local restaurants: Perry's Steak House, Five Star Restaurant, Prime Barbecue and - for my friends with a sweet tooth like me - Two Roosters! Want to talk about real estate goals? Let's meet for a scoop - so I can get the scoop on your situation!

Maggie Sparling

Job Titles:
  • Broker, Director of Land Acquisition
This industry, and my role at Chappell specifically, requires constant relationship-building, which brings me joy and is something I excel at. I believe our happiness is directly related to the health and depth of the relationships around us, so being able to build and maintain new relationships through work, while contributing to the growth and advancement of the physical place I call home, is incredibly fulfilling. I excel at sourcing land for investment // development opportunities and performing thoughtful market and site analysis. I'm not afraid to dive into a UDO or make a phone call, and I always strive for quality, efficiency, and above all, honesty and doing the right thing. Outside of work, I love to travel and recently spent a year touring Japan, Hawaii, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and five national parks. I also love being active (biking, hiking, yoga) and singing (I take karaoke quite seriously, shamelessly). Go Heels! "Maggie is one of the smartest and most thoughtful professionals in this region. She takes the work seriously, though she does not take herself seriously, and, as a result, is able to get results that others cannot because she is not afraid to ask questions or knock on doors or otherwise work out uncomfortable details. And, she does it all with humor and grace."

Matt Polinchak

Job Titles:
  • Broker
A native of Wilkes-Barre, PA - I am proud to call Raleigh home. I have been a realtor full-time since 2010, but I started my career as a teacher, and I apply that same mindset to real estate. My favorite aspect of real estate is helping others achieve their goals. I approach every transaction with the client's best interest in mind, and I work to serve all as a trusted advisor and friend. My specialty is working with buyers, sellers, and investors in the Triangle area. I'm excited to be a part of the Chappell team, who are such movers and shakers in this competitive real estate market. When I'm not assisting clients, you can find me with my family volunteering, brewery hopping, working out, or watching football & soccer. As a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, I wear my Wentz jersey as often as I wear my suit. Some of my favorite local restaurants & stops include Bella Monica, City Market Sushi, Stanbury, and Barcelona.

Nolan Wahl

Job Titles:
  • Broker
Growing up in a military family, guaranteed packing boxes was pretty routine. Growing up in military housing? Guaranteed "home" was only as homey as the candles we decided to light. I wanted nothing more than to settle down in a space I loved. Today, I get to be Nolan Wahl the Raleigh Realtor - the broker who helps individuals & families put down roots and there isn't a thing more rewarding than that. Joining Chappell [Powered by Compass] allows me to make a real difference in my community. My fiancé Anthony and I proudly call Downtown Raleigh home, so joining the leading brokerage in Downtown new construction sales felt like a perfect fit! I have family across the globe, but I can genuinely say Oak City has my heart. I can't wait to help my clients fall in love with our vibrant community - just like I did. When I'm not showing homes or assisting sellers, you can find me filling up my passport pages playing in our local Stonewall + Waka sports leagues or kicking butt on a travel kickball team. (Let's Go, Raleigh Llamas!) Otherwise, you'll see me at the gym or on the mat reliving my competitive cheerleading days - anything to keep me active so I can keep up with my boxer pups, Maddie & Lillie.

Ryan Patty

Job Titles:
  • Broker
Born in Latrobe, PA. Educated in Morgantown, WV. Today? Thriving in Durham, NC. I started my career as a ball boy for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and I'm excited to add Ryan Patty - Broker to my list of many hats. More importantly, I'm thrilled to be joining the Chappell brokerage and helping families find their way home in Bull City, Raleigh, and beyond! "Ryan is THE definition of professional, hard work, and determination." We could not have asked for a more enthusiastic agent! Ryan's passion for real estate is evident in each and every conversation, and his guidance and advice reflect his love for helping others succeed. As first-time home buyers during a pandemic and housing crisis, we were prepared for stress and difficulty finding a home for us. However, there was no bigger advocate for us than Ryan. Here for us, at every turn, Ryan worked around our schedules and made himself available to us always. Communication was and remains smooth and easy. Ryan made what promised to be the most stressful situation into a fun and exciting journey. Finding our home truly would not have been possible without Ryan and his brilliant work!

Ryan Smith

Job Titles:
  • Business Affairs
A native of West Virgina, I have called North Carolina home for more than 20 years. I've worked at Chappell since the outset and I love the team and culture we have helped build here over the years. In the office, you can usually find me troubleshooting issues, seeking solutions and new technologies for our team, and just about anything else the day brings. When I'm not following local and national politics on Twitter or TV, you can find me binge-watching The Office, keeping our dog entertained, running, relaxing by the water, reading about space, or electric cars

Starla Sampson

Job Titles:
  • EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
I am passionate about real estate and about helping others. I started my career as an agent's assistant, while also taking classes to get my broker's license. I soon discovered that I really enjoy the systems side of the business, and found my true passion in making sure those systems run effectively and efficiently. I have worked in nearly every aspect of real estate, from time as an office manager to working directly with sellers and buyers, to assisting a team of agents. In the 20+ years, my husband and I have been together, we have purchased five new construction homes. We have lived in High Point, Raleigh, and Wilmington. North Carolina is truly our home having lived here for 25+ years, and we enjoy all that the Raleigh area has to offer. "Johnny and Starla were amazing to work with. Their customer service is outstanding. They are experts in marketing, negotiation, and making the process easy and smooth for their clients. I would highly recommend utilizing Chappell Residential for selling your home."

Teresa Cope

Job Titles:
  • Broker
When you are doing what you love, it's really all that you need. I joined the world of residential real estate in 2002, when the world had stopped due to 9/11. Even though times were tough, the process of buying and selling homes was still a positive, happy place to be. I quickly realized that I was doing what I was supposed to be doing. The main reason I love this business is the people. What an incredible opportunity to meet and befriend so many interesting people from all walks of life. We ARE building a home together, but we are mostly building memories and my goal is that the time spent together leaves clients with a rich experience that is fondly remembered. Born and bred in the Triangle area, I have never been enticed to live anywhere else. This is home and I am excited to see the growth and change that this area continues to experience. A true Carolina blue grad, I raised a daughter and son who are Wolfpackers. How did that happen? "When I sold my home recently I knew I was in good hands. Teresa was with me from start to finish and I could count on her to provide the best possible advice. The consummate negotiator and deal closer. Teresa is the ultimate professional…tough when she needs to be but always gracious. She is thorough and above all knows the market. This kind of knowledge only comes from experience."

Tristan Pendyck

Job Titles:
  • Broker
I was born in Lancaster, PA, and went to college in London, England. After graduating, I moved to NYC and lived there for nearly a decade before relocating to Raleigh. In the Big Apple, I discovered my passion for real estate through Compass, and I'm excited to bring my knowledge to Oak City. I take pride in providing a high level of service - guaranteeing I treat every person with the same level of importance & priority. A home is not just one of the most significant financial investments a person will make in their lifetime; it's the most meaningful. My goal is to create an enjoyable experience for every buyer & seller, every time. If you're looking for an agent who's excited about living in the Triangle as you are - I'm your guy! When I'm not meeting with clients or showing properties, I try to stay as involved as possible. I stay active and outside - martial arts, fishing, and taking long walks with my wife and our Golden Retriever, Rocky at our home in Wake Forest. When I'm not helping my clients get used to the city's rhythm, I'm helping craft them myself as a part-time producer and DJ. On the weekends, you can catch me at the London Bridge Pub cheering on Liverpool! Want to meet for a pint? You know where to find me.