Join us in welcoming Allison Kaufman with Colliers. Read more about Allison below:
Name: Allison Kaufman
Title: Advisor
Email: allison.kaufman@colliers.com
Phone:(404) 376-6914
Allison Kaufman is a commercial real estate advisor with Colliers Wisconsin who specializes in retail leasing, small business growth, and placemaking. With nearly a decade of real estate experience and a background in marketing and operations leadership, she brings a creative, boutique approach to helping clients reimagine spaces and tell their brand stories through real estate. Originally from the South and now rooted in Milwaukee, Allison is passionate about projects that connect people, strengthen communities, and make cities feel more alive.
How did you get started in Commercial Real Estate?
I started in residential real estate in Atlanta in 2016 and quickly realized I loved the strategy and storytelling side of the business as much as the sales. After moving to Wisconsin, I was drawn to commercial because it felt like the natural intersection of everything I love – design, business development, and helping creative entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life.
What do you enjoy about working in CRE?
I love that every deal tells a story – about a neighborhood, a business owner, or a city’s future. Commercial real estate sits at the intersection of vision and execution, and there’s something really energizing about helping turn an idea into a place people gather, shop, or grow. It’s collaborative, fast-moving, and deeply human when done well.
What is your favorite quote or personal mantra?
Make it beautiful, make it matter.
Where did you grow up and how has it shaped who you are today?
I was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and spent the school years just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. Growing up in the South shaped almost all of who I am – creative, grounded, and deeply connected to people and place. It gave me a love of storytelling, hospitality, and a sense of responsibility to lead with grace and kindness.
What was considered “cool” when you were growing up that totally isn’t anymore?
Tanning beds
What projects are you currently working on or most excited about?
I’m currently focused on retail and restaurant leasing projects across the North Shore and Lake Country – including helping several local brands expand into new spaces. I’m also passionate about improving how vacant properties are marketed, making them more approachable and inspiring for small business owners.
Where’s your favorite place to travel—or a destination still on your bucket list?
Now that we live in the great white north, I find myself craving the South – especially Louisiana and North Carolina. There’s something about the warmth, the food, and the slower rhythm that always feels like home. Internationally, I love London, and I’d love to make it to Paris one day – mostly so I can buy an entire shipping container of antiques to bring back.
Who would you love to have lunch with—past or present—and why?
I’d have lunch with my grandfather. He passed away in 2016, and I’d give anything to sit across from him one more time. He was one of those rare people who made you feel both grounded and capable – wise without being preachy. I’d love the chance to tell him where life has taken me and thank him for the steady influence he had on who I became.
What do you hope to gain through your CARW membership?
Collaboration and connection. I’m excited to learn from experienced brokers, share ideas, and be part of shaping what the next generation of CRE in Wisconsin looks like – especially as new voices and small business owners change the landscape.
Any fun facts or advice you’d like to share with fellow CARW members?
Fun fact: Before real estate, I worked in fashion and lifestyle branding – which still influences how I approach placemaking and marketing properties today. Advice: The best deals are the ones where everyone leaves the table proud of the work they’ve done and excited about what comes next.