Commercial real estate firm Lee & Associates Wilmington has added Lannin Braddock, Alex Thorpe and Luke Mello to its team, "marking a significant step forward in the firm’s continued growth and influence across the Cape Fear region," according to a news release.

Lee & Associates announced the establishment of its Wilmington location in February.

“Lannin, Alex and Luke each bring unique strengths and perspectives that align perfectly with our mission to lead the market with experience, vision, and integrity," said Sandy Thorpe, managing director of Lee & Associates Wilmington, in the release.

Co-founder of The Braddock Group, Lannin Braddock brings nearly 20 years of experience in development, leasing, sales and project management, according to the release. Her portfolio includes over $500 million in development projects, such as a 500,000-square-foot cold storage facility.

Braddock’s asset management experience spans more than 1 million square feet across industrial, medical, office, and retail sectors. Her client roster includes major industry players such as GLE and FedUp Foods, demonstrating her ability to drive performance in complex, high-stakes environments. 

A graduate of Radford University with a degree in public relations communications and a minor in political science, Braddock "is known for her strategic thinking and collaborative leadership," the release stated.

Her accolades include 2024 RCASENC Rockstar, 2024 Woman-Owned Business of the Year, and 2025 WILMA Women to Watch Finalist.

Alex Thorpe, father of Sandy Thorpe, has 25 years of experience in commercial real estate.

"As a key player at a leading Wilmington-based real estate development firm, his accomplishments include two decades of leasing at The Forum, a landmark specialty retail destination that has become a model for thoughtful urban development," the release stated.

According to the release, Thorpe has led leasing efforts across grocery-anchored centers, unanchored retail strips and office developments. Before entering real estate, Thorpe spent five years in his family’s international tobacco export business. He earned a BA in Political Science and an MBA from UNC Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School. 

Mello "brings a next-generation, client-centered perspective to Lee & Associates Wilmington, blending his professional background in healthcare and hospitality with a strong commitment to service and community," the release stated. "Luke’s entry into commercial real estate was inspired by active involvement in investor meetups and networking events, where he developed a keen interest in how land and development shape thriving communities."

Specializing in land advisory and new development, Mello works with investors, builders and developers to identify high-potential opportunities, according to the release. 

Additionally, Mello is a member of Port City Young Professionals, Cape Fear Realtors and Cape Fear CREW, the release stated.