Lance is a Regional Sales Director for Allen Edwin Homes, overseeing operations in the greater Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Lansing, and Southeast Michigan/Metro Detroit areas. With extensive experience in the home building industry, Lance previously served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the largest builder in the country and Vice President of Operations for a private builder. He also co-authored a national sales training manual, further establishing his expertise in the field.

When asked why he joined Allen Edwin Homes, Lance shared, "The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence. Allen Edwin Homes demonstrates this commitment to both our internal and external customers." Originally from Northville, MI,

Lance earned his degree in Finance and Business from Michigan State University. In his free time, he enjoys reading, traveling, exercising, and spending time with his family.

Mike is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Allen Edwin Homes, a role he has held since joining the company in February 2010. His career in the homebuilding industry began with Pulte Homes of Michigan in 1999, where he excelled in new home sales before becoming Sales Manager in 2003. In 2004, he was promoted to Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Pulte Homes of Ohio. From 2008 to 2010, Mike served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KB Homes in South Carolina and North Carolina. 

When asked why he joined the Allen Edwin team, Mike explained, “The people of Allen Edwin. The team is highly focused and devoted to building and delivering a great home and experience for our homeowners. I toured and visited several communities and the New Home Showroom and was amazed at the features and style that was offered for a new home including Energy Star, 10-Year Structural Warranty, and great style features such as granite countertops, crown and chair moldings, stainless steel appliances, and more. All of this is designed to give homebuyers an unparalleled homebuying experience.” 

Mike holds a BA degree from Michigan State University and is actively involved in the Michigan State University Alumni Association and the Knights of Columbus. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, golfing, traveling, and reading.

Tom Valeko joined the Allen Edwin Homes team in 2008, bringing a diverse professional background that includes experience in staffing, banking, computers, teaching as a KVCC instructor, management, and sales.

His well-rounded expertise adds immense value to the Allen Edwin team. Originally from Kalamazoo, MI, Tom earned his BBA degree from Western Michigan University.

Crystal Haydo joined the Allen Edwin Homes Kalamazoo Sales Team after a 12-year career in preclinical research, where she most recently held the position of Associate Director of Laboratory Operations of Specialty Toxicology.

Her extensive background, combined with her education, enables her to effectively communicate and manage customer relationships, ensuring a remarkable homebuilding and buying experience. Crystal understands that building a home can be both exciting and intimidating.

She shared, “Building a home can be both an exciting and scary experience. Understanding this, not only do I strive to provide my customers with clear expectations to eliminate the anxiety of navigating through an unfamiliar process, but I also mix in a little fun.” Originally from Portage, MI, Crystal holds a BS in Biomedical Sciences from Western Michigan University and an MBA from Michigan State University.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family in their large vegetable and perennial flower garden, attending Michigan State basketball games with her nephew (Go Green!), hosting themed dinner parties, and exploring her culinary interests, especially French cuisine.

Jim Douglass began his journey with Allen Edwin Homes in 2004, starting in sales and quickly discovering his passion for the new home industry. After pursuing other career goals for seven years, he realized his true calling was working in new home construction and rejoined Allen Edwin Homes in October 2014.

Jim is thrilled to be back, contributing to a field he loves. Jim’s career began in financial planning, but he soon recognized that it lacked the excitement and fulfillment he was seeking. His transition to the new home industry reignited his enthusiasm, and he is proud to be part of the Allen Edwin Homes team once again.

A graduate of Vicksburg High School, Jim earned a BBA in Sales and Business Marketing/Finance from Western Michigan University and an Executive MBA from The Ohio State University. In his free time, Jim enjoys golfing, snowmobiling, photography, and fast-paced hobbies like cars—especially Corvettes, muscle cars, and Ferraris. He cherishes time with his wife, Julie, their daughter, Madison, and their two black labs, Enzo and Lilly.

Jeff Wallenstein has been part of the Allen Edwin Homes team for a total of nine years. He first joined the company in May 2007 and, after a brief departure to pursue a career in the mortgage industry, returned in December 2018. During his professional journey, Jeff has gained valuable experience in mortgage lending, customer service, and business banking, further enhancing his ability to guide homebuyers through their journey.

Jeff’s connection with Allen Edwin Homes began as a first-time buyer in 2006 when he and his wife decided to build their first home after visiting a model home. Now a two-time Allen Edwin homeowner, Jeff shared, “I would never endorse a product I did not believe in 100 percent. I have personally experienced the value that Allen Edwin Homes provides to families. I love our homes and the people affiliated with the company, which led me back to this amazing organization. Helping people understand our value and find the right fit is something I take great pride and pleasure in doing.”

Jeff holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science from Western Michigan University. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. As a hockey family, they can often be found at hockey rinks in the Kalamazoo area, where Jeff also coaches his two sons’ hockey teams. The Wallenstein family loves outdoor activities and traveling whenever they can.

James Bakeman joined Allen Edwin Homes in August 2016, bringing a passion for family and exceptional customer service to his role. A graduate of Ferris State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Hospitality, James discovered early on that he wanted a career where he could provide outstanding service and make every interaction meaningful. Inspired by family members in the real estate industry, he earned his Real Estate License during his senior year and worked in residential real estate before joining Allen Edwin Homes.

As the oldest of eight siblings, family has always been a central part of James’s life. He shared, “My two greatest passions are family and customer service. I strive to ensure every family I work with has an experience that exceeds expectations in every way. I’m proud to work for a company that aligns with my values and takes care of its customers with confidence and excellence. I’m happy to say I work for the best builder in the United States.”

Outside of work, James enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and going to the movies. He holds a Real Estate License and is committed to creating memorable experiences for every family he serves.

Trevor joined Allen Edwin Homes in 2007 and serves as a Senior Partner on the sales team, focusing on the Grand Rapids and Lakeshore markets. Before joining Allen Edwin, he gained valuable experience in new home construction sales management while working with a lumber company.

Originally from Battle Creek, MI, Trevor graduated from Western Michigan University. In his free time, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and kids.

Lori Lewis joined Allen Edwin Homes in January 2017, bringing over a decade of experience in the homebuilding industry. Prior to her role at Allen Edwin, Lori partnered with some of the best builders in the industry as a representative for Residential Warranty Company (RWC).

Her career involved extensive travel across five states, allowing her to develop strong relationships and gain a unique perspective by working closely with both builders and homeowners. Now, she’s thrilled to stay closer to home and enjoy all the beauty that West Michigan has to offer.

Lori shared her excitement about joining Allen Edwin Homes: “Having worked with Allen Edwin Homes for the past 9 years as an RWC builder member and being very familiar with the excellent warranty program they offer, I reached out directly to them when I was ready to make the transition. I am blessed beyond words to now be part of their Sales Team! I proudly represent the amazing quality, space, style, and value that Allen Edwin Homes offers. It is an honor to help families find the home and community that perfectly fit their needs.”

Lori is an avid traveler and has recently checked Ireland and Hawaii off her list, with plans to visit Australia and return to Kauai in the future. She also enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, camping, kayaking, and watching beautiful West Michigan sunsets. In addition to holding a Builder Salesperson License,

Lori is an active advocate for the Victim Services Unit in Holland and serves as a board member for Pancakes Are Us, a nonprofit organization providing free Saturday breakfasts to meet community needs in Holland.

Tom Anderson joined Allen Edwin Homes to combine his background and experience with his desire to be closer to family and contribute to the growth of West Michigan. After spending 25 years in the Carolinas, he returned to the area and found Allen Edwin Homes to be the perfect fit due to their impeccable reputation as a quality home builder.

Before joining Allen Edwin, Tom worked for K Hovnanian Homes in North Carolina. His professional journey also includes establishing and selling a truck leasing business, as well as holding corporate sales positions with Navistar and Daimler. Tom earned a BA in Public Relations and Political Science from Western Michigan University. In his free time, he enjoys bicycling, motorcycle cruising, and exploring local history.

Kelly Lehman is a Sales Counselor for Allen Edwin Homes in the Grand Rapids region. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Grand Valley State University and began her career in new home sales in 2015. Kelly discovered her passion for serving others and introducing the idea of new homeownership to families who may not have realized it was possible.

With a lifelong connection to new construction, she brings a deep understanding of the homebuilding process and works to make it fun and stress-free for her clients. Before joining the Allen Edwin Homes team, Kelly gained valuable experience in corporate retail merchandising and marketing in Michigan and Ohio. Her decision to join Allen Edwin Homes was influenced by the company's unique approach. She shared, “I noticed something different here.

Allen Edwin Homes offers unparalleled value in terms of style, space, features, customer service, and home warranty. The team truly puts our clients first. It is an honor to serve our homeowners and help fulfill their dreams!” In her free time, Kelly enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, gardening, playing tennis, decorating, reading, and learning. She holds both a Real Estate Salesperson License and a Builder Salesperson License.

Ryan McCoy joined Allen Edwin Homes in October 2021, bringing a diverse background in construction and sales. Before joining Allen Edwin, Ryan spent over a decade in the construction industry as a roofer. He later transitioned to a sales career, working as an Auto Sales Consultant and eventually becoming a Sales Manager at Williams Auto in Traverse City, where he worked for eight years. Originally from Lansing, Ryan moved to Traverse City, where he lived for over 20 years before relocating to the Grand Rapids area to be closer to family.

Ryan shared his enthusiasm for joining Allen Edwin Homes: "I've always had a dream to be in home sales, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a reputable builder that offers an incredible experience for both our clients and our team." In his spare time, Ryan enjoys spending quality time with his family, whether it’s movie nights, camping, hiking, or outdoor adventures. He also loves bass fishing and takes every opportunity to get out on the lake.

Joe Dunlap joined Allen Edwin Homes on September 11, 2023, bringing with him 18 years of experience in real estate. For the past 15 years, he managed daily operations and his own real estate business at his family’s company, Dunlap & Associates LLC.

Joe's extensive background in real estate and business management has provided him with a deep understanding of the industry and a customer-focused approach. Joe shared his journey to Allen Edwin Homes: “I have always enjoyed working with Allen Edwin over the years in the capacity of Broker for my own real estate business because the sales process was so smooth.

When I learned of the opportunity to join the Sales Team, I responded right away.” Joe graduated from Forest Hills Central High School and furthered his education at GRCC and Davenport University. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, playing basketball, fishing with his boys, and watching his kids’ sporting events. Joe holds a Builder Salesperson License and was previously a licensed Real Estate Agent and Associate Broker for 18 years. He can be reached at 616-741-6732 or jdunlap@allenedwin.com

Alexis Waple joined Allen Edwin Homes in October 2021, bringing her passion for homes and helping others create their dream spaces. A graduate of Central Michigan University, Alexis earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a Major in Marketing and a Concentration in Professional Sales in 2018. Following graduation, she spent three years in sales at DM Payroll.

Her journey to Allen Edwin Homes began after earning her Real Estate License, inspired by the complete renovation of her own 1900 farmhouse. Alexis shared, “I’ve always loved looking at houses for fun in my free time and envisioning how someone could make it a home. Once I was able to do that for myself, I wanted nothing more than to help others find and achieve that themselves.”

In her free time, Alexis enjoys crafting, DIY projects, traveling, home decorating, and spending quality time with family, friends, and her two bulldogs. She describes her role at Allen Edwin Homes as her “true calling” and “absolute dream job.”

Ray Nouhan III joined Allen Edwin Homes in August 2016, bringing his passion for customer service and a strong background in real estate. A graduate of Ferris State University, Ray earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Hospitality.

During his time in college, he realized his desire to work in a field where he could provide exceptional service and make every interaction meaningful. Inspired by family members in the real estate industry, he obtained his Real Estate License during his senior year and began his career in residential real estate before transitioning to Allen Edwin Homes.

As the oldest of eight siblings, family is a central part of Ray’s life. He shared, “My two greatest passions are family and customer service. I truly strive to ensure every family I work with has an experience that exceeds expectations in every way. I am proud to say that I work for the best builder in the entire United States.” Ray’s dedication to aligning his values with his work has made him a valuable member of the Allen Edwin team.

In his free time, Ray enjoys spending time with family, staying active, and going to the movies. He holds a Real Estate License and is committed to delivering outstanding service to every family he works with.

Chris Hando joined Allen Edwin Homes in September 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in sales and a deep passion for helping families achieve their dream of homeownership. His career path includes years in various sales roles, most recently as a Mortgage Loan Officer.

This role not only fueled his desire to assist families in purchasing their first homes but also gave him the skills to help clients navigate and overcome financial obstacles to homeownership. Chris’s passion for real estate extends beyond his professional life, as he has personally fixed and flipped two homes in his spare time. Chris’s love for real estate began during his childhood when his family searched for and purchased a new construction home in Livingston County.

Reflecting on that experience, he shared, “It was such a great experience that lit a passion for me that has stayed with me ever since. I feel so fortunate to have grown up in such a wonderful community, surrounded by family and friends, and I’m excited to help others achieve their goal of homeownership.”

Outside of work, Chris enjoys spending time with his family, playing sports—especially golf—participating in poker, and seeking out adventures like skydiving and roller coasters. He holds both a Mortgage License and a Builder Sales License, allowing him to provide expert guidance to homebuyers throughout their journey.

Adam Walker joined Allen Edwin Homes in October 2020, bringing with him 15 years of executive leadership experience managing remote sales teams across the Midwest for leading telecommunication and technology companies. His background also includes expertise in human capital and 3PL, as well as a strong passion for real estate.

While living in South Bend, IN, for the past decade, Adam worked with local agents in the Northern Indiana market, flipping homes and developing a deep appreciation for the real estate industry. Adam shared his motivation for joining Allen Edwin Homes: “Learning of Allen Edwin Homes’ remarkable reputation in Michigan motivated me to join AEH and help transcend that in Indiana while helping people find their dream home.”

Originally from Southwest Michigan, Adam holds a degree in Business. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, exploring new foods as a self-proclaimed foodie, and all things sports-related. He also loves challenging his kids in competitions while he still holds the upper hand.

Rene Rodriguez joined Allen Edwin Homes on September 11, 2023, bringing over 27 years of experience in marketing, graphic design, photography, and videography. He began his career at an ad agency, where he worked for nearly a decade before starting his own company, serving clients ranging from start-ups and non-profits to Fortune 500 companies.

Rene’s dedication to his community is evident in his leadership roles, including serving multiple terms as President of the Paw Paw Area Chamber of Commerce and supporting the Southwest Michigan region. Rene’s connection with Allen Edwin Homes began eight years ago when he worked as a photographer for the company. Reflecting on this transition, he shared, “Getting to know and work with the amazing team at Allen Edwin Homes has been a pleasure and seemed like a natural fit when this opportunity presented itself. I look forward to supporting and helping introduce AEH to our Hispanic/Latino community.”

Rene holds a BA in Graphic Design with a minor in Graphic Design from Western Michigan University. In his free time, he enjoys photography, coaching basketball and softball, working on vintage cars, and spending time with his family.

Jim Douglass began his journey with Allen Edwin Homes in 2004, starting in sales and quickly discovering his passion for the new home industry. After pursuing other career goals for seven years, he realized his true calling was working in new home construction and rejoined Allen Edwin Homes in October 2014.

Jim is thrilled to be back, contributing to a field he loves. Jim’s career began in financial planning, but he soon recognized that it lacked the excitement and fulfillment he was seeking. His transition to the new home industry reignited his enthusiasm, and he is proud to be part of the Allen Edwin Homes team once again.

A graduate of Vicksburg High School, Jim earned a BBA in Sales and Business Marketing/Finance from Western Michigan University and an Executive MBA from The Ohio State University. In his free time, Jim enjoys golfing, snowmobiling, photography, and fast-paced hobbies like cars—especially Corvettes, muscle cars, and Ferraris. He cherishes time with his wife, Julie, their daughter, Madison, and their two black labs, Enzo and Lilly.

Sam Huisman joined Allen Edwin Homes in September 2023, bringing valuable experience and a deep appreciation for the homebuilding industry. A graduate of Indiana University South Bend.

Sam previously worked as an appliances subcontractor for various builders in the Michiana area through Best Buy. This role taught them that the best builders are defined by their strong systems and processes. When the opportunity arose to join Allen Edwin Homes, the largest new home builder in Michiana, it felt like a natural fit. Sam shared, “I’m proud to work for a company with such a strong reputation, and I’m excited to help families find their dream homes.”

Outside of work, Sam and their spouse enjoy cooking international foods, planning their next international trip, and watching movies at the theater. They are deeply connected to the Michiana community, staying active with their family, church, and favorite non-profits as a way to give back to the community that has given them so much.

Ryan Clark will join Allen Edwin Homes in May 2024, bringing extensive experience in sales, leadership, and training. A graduate of Ball State University and the University of St. Francis, Ryan spent 12 years at T-Mobile, serving as a Training Manager and Director of Outside Sales. Most recently, he worked in HVAC sales with Service Experts.

Ryan’s journey to Allen Edwin Homes began when a member of the AEH Sales Team shared his positive experiences with the company. After researching the company’s history, online presence, and discussing the opportunity in depth with Adam, Ryan knew it was the right fit.

He shared, “My previous experience working with people from the sales, leadership, and training perspective has well prepared me for a role with Allen Edwin Homes.” Outside of work, Ryan enjoys video games, sports—both playing and watching—and music.

Gary Frank joined the Allen Edwin Homes team in 2006, bringing a personal connection to the company as a two-time AE homeowner. Reflecting on his journey, Gary shared, “After outgrowing our first home and shopping the existing market, my wife and I realized just how much we loved our Allen Edwin Home.

It was while building that second home that I came to truly appreciate the AE team. As long as I can remember, I have been an advocate for homeownership. Having gone through the building process twice, I am able to share my experience and knowledge with countless families.”

Originally from Portage, MI, Gary enjoys spending his free time with his wife, two daughters, and their dogs. When time allows, he also loves exploring trails on his bicycle.

Laura Hart joined Allen Edwin Homes in 2011, bringing valuable experience as a Sales Manager for three furniture stores and a home accessory store in Lafayette, IN. Initially part of the Kalamazoo Sales Team, Laura helped customers build their dream homes in the area for five years before transitioning to the Online Sales Advisor Team, where she continues to assist families in finding their perfect homes. Laura is passionate about her role at Allen Edwin Homes, sharing, "I am thrilled to be on board with Michigan's #1 builder, Allen Edwin.

This company operates on a fantastic business model to achieve such high customer service ratings. Quality-built homes with more square footage, more choices, and a better experience—this is what people are looking for in homeownership! I can't think of a more fun and rewarding career than helping others find their dream homes."

Originally from Coldwater, MI, Laura earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Michigan State University. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters and her dogs, Pete and Buddy. She loves traveling, hiking, gardening, and spending summers on Lake Michigan.

Lauren Godlewski joined Allen Edwin Homes in August 2023, bringing a diverse background in business administration and education. Before starting her career in sales, Lauren spent roughly 10 years working in business administration within the automotive industry.

She then transitioned to the field of education, where she spent 14 years in various roles, ultimately earning advanced degrees in Educational Leadership and Administration. Inspired by her family’s positive experience building an Allen Edwin home, Lauren decided to return to the private sector and pursue a career in sales with the company.

Lauren holds a B.A. in American Studies and Anthropology from Eckerd College, an MAT in Secondary Social Studies Education from the University of South Florida, an Ed.S. in Education Administration from Argosy University, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from National-Louis University. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys crafting, hiking, watching baseball (Go Rays!), and reading books. She also holds Michigan and Indiana Educator and Administrator Licenses.

Education: 

Graduated/Studied marine technology at National University Polytechnic Institute

Studied Zoology with a focus in Marine Biology at MSU

NASM Certified Personal Trainer 

NBHMDT certified hyperbaric technologist 

National Registered Emergency Technician 

Start Date with AE (Month & Year): 

August 2023

Email: 

jbecker@allenedwin.com

Background (work experience prior to AE): 

Barista and Hostess through college

Hyperbaric Technologist in Denver, CO and San Diego, CA; (2018-2020)

Remote Disclosure analyst for Guaranteed Rate (2020-2022)

Hyperbaric Technologist in Phoenix, AZ (2022-2023)

What is your story/path to AE: 

Attended MSU. Moved to the mountains in Colorado and worked for vail resorts. On a whim, I moved to San Diego to pursue commercial dive school as the only female in my program of 18. Completed the trade school certified in Dive Medicine Technology. After some time between school, I returned to Colorado, Denver this time as a certified hyperbaric technologist and EMT. One year in Denver, I returned back to San Diego still in hyperbarics, working at an outpatient facility and emergency dives at UCSD. After covid, I took a break from healthcare and worked remote in mortgage. This allowed me the opportunity to travel, leavingCA, returned to MI to see family for some time and decided to live in Memphis Tenesseee and New Orleans for a few months before returning home. Continuing to take advantage of the freedom remote work offered, I moved to Phoenix Arizona. After an unexpected lay off in Feb 2022, I decided to pursue becoming a personal trainer. After working at multiple gyms, I was offered an opportunity to work Hyperbarics again at a private wellness center.

Life took a few unexpected turns, and making the decision to want to be closer to family and back in Michigan after 8 years, I returned to Michigan, moved to Gran Haven and the rest is history 😊 

Hobbies/sports/recreation:   

-running 

-kayaking 

-weight lifting 

-cooking

Licenses/Affiliations/Memberships:    

NASM Certified Personal Trainer 

NBHMDT certified hyperbaric technologist 

National Registered Emergency Technician (NREMT)

aura has previous experience as a sales manager for three furniture stores and a home accessory store that were located in Lafayette, IN. She joined the Kalamazoo Sales Team in 2011 and after helping customers build homes in the area for 5 years changed roles with the company to the Online Sales Advisor Team. 

"I am thrilled to be on board with Michigan's #1 builder, Allen Edwin. This company is operating on a fantastic business model to achieve such high customer service ratings. Quality built homes with more square footage, more choices, and a better experience...this is what people are looking for in home ownership! I can't think of a more fun and rewarding career than helping others find their dream homes!"

Hometown: Coldwater, MI

Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Michigan State University

Hobbies/Sports/Recreation: My favorite time is best spent with my two daughters and two dogs Pete and Buddy. I love to travel, go for hikes, work in the garden, and spend time on Lake Mi in the summer.