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ABOUT US
Ani Paulson
Team Lead | Senior Director Investments | Atlanta - Charlotte - Charleston- Nashville Offices
Ani Paulson and her team focus on the analysis and disposition of office/industrial & retail properties with an emphasis on exclusive seller representation. The AP Group of Marcus and Millichap provides their clients access to the largest pool of qualified investors nationally and internationally, creating maximum exposure for their properties and a competitive bidding environment. The team is committed to the highest level of client service, direct involvement in every transaction and superior underwriting.
Ani Paulson, founder of The AP Group, leads a successful and top producing team located in Atlanta, Charleston, Nashville, and Charlotte. As an investor herself, Ani Paulson aligns with the clients’ goals, which enables her to help investors to achieve their goals and grow their investment returns. Ani focuses on building advisory relationships by helping her clients achieve their real estate objectives and by keeping them informed of transactions and trends locally and nationally that will affect their property decisions.
Prior to joining Marcus & Millichap, Ani Paulson has been an investor since 2013 by acquiring franchisees and increasing the net revenues. Ani obtained her B.S. from College of Charleston majoring in International Business with a minor in Global Logistics and Transportation.
Willa Beth Hood
Financial Analyst
Originally hailing from Texas, Willa Beth Hood graduated from The College of Charleston with a degree in Commercial Real Estate Finance. Throughout her academic journey, she cultivated a deep interest in industrial, retail, and office asset types. This passion continued to grow during her tenure with The AP Group, where she further honed her expertise through in-depth analysis. Willa Beth thrives as a valued member of the AP Group, contributing not only through her analytical skills but also by providing essential support in administrative tasks and financial underwriting. Her dedication and versatile skill set make her a key asset to the team.
Phone: (843) 952-2266
Manton Paine
Associate Investments
Manton Paine is an outcome-focused commercial broker who specializes in the analysis, acquisition, and disposition of office/industrial and retail assets. Manton provides his clients access to the largest pool of qualified investors, both nationally and internationally, maximizing exposure in order to curate the most competitive bidding environment possible.
A frictionless, ROI-focused customer experience is fundamental to Manton’s advisory relationships. Transparency, communication, and market knowledge allow him to consistently deliver positive outcomes and grow the wealth and portfolios of his clients.
Prior to joining Marcus & Millichap, Manton spent a decade in software sales in San Francisco. He obtained his B.A. from the College of Charleston, where he was the captain of the D-I National Champion sailing team. Outside of the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, sailing, skiing, surfing, windsurfing, and driving old cars.
Ally Paragano, MBA
Associate Investments
Ally Paragano, MBA, specializes in the acquisition & disposition of retail properties across the Southeast with an emphasis on exclusive seller representation. By utilizing her extensive market knowledge and dedication, Ms. Paragano is committed to assisting clients in preserving their wealth and growing their portfolios. Her in-depth market research skills ensure that her clients receive the most accurate and up-to-date information, therefore assisting them in making informed decisions in a constantly evolving market. Ally comes from a multigenerational real estate background, where both her father and grandfather cultivated and developed their own real estate portfolios. This heritage instilled in Ally a profound understanding of the nuances of real estate and the power of strategic acquisitions & dispositions.
Prior to joining Marcus & Millichap, Ally earned her Master of Business Administration from the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. With a background in hospitality and tourism management, Ally realizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships. Understanding her clients’ needs and delivering on those needs is at the core of what sets Ally apart.
Nick DiPietro
Associate Investments
Nick DiPietro is an associate in Marcus & Millichap’s Atlanta office, working as a member of the highly regarded AP Group. With an interest in retail and industrial/office properties, Nick helps clients evaluate opportunities, maximize property value, and navigate the sales process. His strategic approach and strong market insights make him an ideal advisor for investors, property owners, and business operators.
Before joining Marcus & Millichap, Nick spent a decade in the automotive and supply-chain industries, leading operational initiatives at General Motors, Nissan, and Southeastern Freight Lines. This hands-on experience gives him a unique understanding of the functional needs and challenges that shape a variety of real estate decisions.
Nick obtained his B.S. in Marketing from Clemson University. Outside of the office, he enjoys golf, tennis, cycling and traveling with his family.
Rachel W. Lakian
Business Operations Manager
Rachel, a Charleston, SC native, has a deep appreciation for her community and a keen understanding of its dynamic market. After a successful nine-year career in logistics, she transitioned into commercial real estate, leveraging her expertise in strategic planning, problem-solving, and operational management.
Before joining Marcus & Millichap, Rachel managed a large, multi-state commercial real estate portfolio for a family office, overseeing retail, office, and industrial assets across eight states along the East Coast. This experience gave her a well-rounded foundation in leasing, asset management, tenant relations, and investment strategy, ultimately leading her to the AP Group of Marcus & Millichap in 2025.
Rachel’s strong background in customer service and sales enhances her ability to navigate complex transactions and build lasting client relationships. With her attention to detail, adaptability, and commitment to excellence, she plays a vital role in the AP Group, ensuring seamless transactions and top-tier service in every deal.
Where We're Located
Marcus & Millichap
1100 Abernathy Road, N.E. Bldg. 500, Suite 600 Atlanta, GA 30328
Get in Touch
We’re happy to answer any questions.