DORN – President

Gary Hippensteel – Vice President

Gary launched his real estate investing career in 2000, when he began to assist his parents with their small real estate investment portfolio. As the years passed, he began to notice an increase in volatility in the job market for his industry, and began to consider how he could control his own destiny. His educational and work background had been in supervision and project management in the logistics and warehousing industry. He began to invest in himself and his education by learning first hand from both local and national real estate mentors and coaches, and continues to be advised by top real estate investors today.

In 2005, Gary became a full time real estate investor. He has completed specialized training in short sales, lease options, basic asset protection and tax strategies, self directed IRA investing strategies through real estate, buy-and-hold strategies of land-lording, as well as rehabbing. He founded Solid Foundation Investment Properties (SFIP), Inc. in 2006, as a real estate investment company. SFIP, Inc. specializes in the redevelopment of residential single-family properties in a turnkey system. This system is built on strategic relationships with private lenders, joint venture partners, and business associates who have the same mindset as Gary. SFIP, Inc. sells properties to both retail buyers and investor buyers who provide a quality end product with both equity and cash flow.

Though not a financial advisor or a securities dealer, through SFIP Inc, Gary focuses on developing investment opportunities for individuals who have both the desire and financial ability to invest in real estate, but prefer not to manage the details due to geographic location or lack of time or knowledge. Through his proprietary DST system for providing Due Diligence and his keen eye for detail, SFIP Inc’s private clients participate in real estate investments that provide opportunities with ROI/Joint Ventures, equity, and cash flow executed through various transactions, including private mortgages, land trusts, equity sharing and joint venture agreements.

Gary received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision from Purdue University in 1990. As a participating member of CIREIA, he earned the coveted Professional Housing Provider (PHP) Certification in October 2009.

He is also the CEO and Founder of Solid Foundation Investment Properties, Inc.

Ryan Blakley – Treasurer

Ryan Blakley has been in business and financial management for the past 12 years and supply chain management prior to that. Ryan created and developed the real estate banking programs for both Old National Bank and RBS Citizens. Ryan has top tier experience in working with residential and commercial real estate investors in initial funding, cash management, and cash flow controls.

In his career, Ryan has won multiple corporate awards for excellence including Manager of the Year honors. Ryan credits his professional attitude to the solid example of his late father who raised him to value honesty, hard work, and service to others.

Ryan holds two Bachelors of Science degrees from the University of Evansville, one in Economics and the other in Finance. Ryan was also a Physical Therapy Assistant and Combat Medic for the US Army.

Joe Thompson – Secretary

Tony Fesi – Membership Chair

Holds Bachelors of Science Degree in Marketing from Indiana University 1982

Almost 3 decades in Corp. America with IT, Financial Services including Stock Brokerage, and International Automotive Industry Distribution

Member of CIREIA since 2007, Rehabbed homes successfully, completing multiple projects for self and other association members & non-members. 2009 Transitioned into Wholesaling due to changing market conditions. 2010 started on 1st rental in portfolio (and building) and became Private Lender for CIRIEA members. Slated to receive PHP designation in May ceremonial of 2011 with over 300 hours of documented classes. Taught or assisted in several CIREIA educational events and PHP Super Saturdays.

Short term personal goals are to continue to use wholesaling to build a portfolio of rentals & RTO’s to build both immediate income and long term capital within Real Estate. Expand role in education within CIREIA, and to build membership and vendor base. To continue the Habitat for Humanity program and to assist in formation of and building into roles for CIREIA in public relations and the political agenda of Indiana REIA.

Hobbies: Once taught Ballroom Dancing for Arthur Murray, been involved in racing Motocross from age 12, Go Kart Racing from age 10, and Formula 500 racing for 6 years. PADI Certified SCUBA diver and all around thrill seeker.

Bill Riggs – Communications Chair

Lucy Brenton – At-Large Board Member

Rex Laing – Education Chair
Rex has been investing in real estate since 2005 with experience in Rehabbing, Lease-Options, Short Sales, Wholesaling and Holding rental property. He is always “hunting” for a good deal!

Currently Unfilled – Legal Affairs