MEET THE TEAM
Allen Shipman
Allen is the broker and co-owner of Shipman Partners, a boutique real estate firm he founded with his wife Melissa in 2010. He has been licensed as a real estate agent since 2007 and a broker since 2010, bringing a rare mix of technical expertise, business leadership, and hands-on property knowledge to the Austin market.
Before real estate, Allen spent 25+ years leading engineering and operations teams in telecom and technology, including executive roles as CEO, COO, and VP of Engineering. This background sharpened his ability to manage complex projects, lead high-performing teams, and negotiate strategically on behalf of clients.
Allen specializes in working with buyers and has helped nearly 100 families purchase homes. Known for his analytical approach and genuine care for clients’ financial wellbeing, he has been recognized as a top 5% buyers agent in Austin. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Texas Tech University and is a Certified Negotiations Expert.
What truly sets Allen apart is his deep understanding of homes from the ground up. He completed a full property flip himself, including foundation leveling, flooring replacement, HVAC and roof installation, full kitchen rebuild, plumbing updates, and interior and exterior finishes. This experience helps him quickly identify both opportunities and red flags during a walkthrough.
Outside of work, Allen enjoys photography and taking on his next renovation project.
Melissa Shipman
Melissa is co-owner of Shipman Partners and a highly experienced Austin real estate professional with over 27 years in the market and nearly 1,000 successful closings. She brings deep local knowledge, strong leadership, and an expert-level command of contracts and listings.
Melissa began her career with two of Austin’s top-performing real estate teams, quickly building a reputation as a trusted industry leader. Her accomplishments include being featured on the cover of Texas REALTORS magazine, helping develop Keller Williams’ widely used Contract to Close program, and serving on a national advisory panel for Gary Keller’s Millionaire Real Estate Agent training workshop.
As Shipman Partners’ in-house listing specialist and resident contracts expert, Melissa has successfully handled virtually every scenario the real estate process can present. Her clients value her meticulous attention to detail, steady guidance, and unwavering commitment to protecting their interests.
Outside of real estate, Melissa is passionate about animal welfare and volunteers more than 200 hours each year with the Austin chapter of Houston Chow Chow Rescue. She is also a certified sound healer and enjoys collecting crystals and precious stones. At home, she shares life with a 90-pound German Shepherd/Great Pyrenees rescue mix and five rescue cats.
Melissa’s blend of expertise and compassion makes her an exceptional agent and a trusted partner in one of life’s biggest decisions.
Sadie Shipman
Sadie Shipman is the newest agent at Shipman Partners, bringing fresh energy backed by a lifetime of real estate experience. As the daughter of Allen and Melissa Shipman, she grew up around showings, inspections, flips, and negotiations, building an insider’s understanding of the Austin market long before earning her license.
Before real estate, Sadie competed as a Division I beach volleyball athlete, developing the discipline, resilience, and competitive mindset she now brings to every client relationship. She also spent years as a private coach, where she became known for clear communication, calm leadership, and the ability to guide people with confidence and support.
Sadie specializes in helping first-time buyers, young professionals, and families relocating to Austin. She is proactive, highly organized, and committed to making the process feel clear and manageable, while strongly advocating for her clients at every step. With modern insight and the mentorship of two top-producing agents, she offers clients both fresh perspective and proven expertise.
Outside of real estate, Sadie continues to coach and train athletes, pursue wellness and personal growth, and stay active in the beach volleyball community.
Sadie brings ambition, authenticity, and a client-first approach to every transaction, with the drive to deliver results.
