Wilmington Native Nelson MacRae III Promoted into a Brokerage Role with Lee & Associates
September 21, 2026 (Wilmington, NC) – Lee & Associates Raleigh Durham Wilmington announces that Wilmington native Nelson MacRae III has been promoted to an Associate Broker role with the firm’s Wilmington office.
MacRae’s career progression reflects Lee & Associates’ commitment to developing talent from within and creating opportunities for team members to grow throughout their careers. He first joined the firm as an intern, then advanced to Research Analyst, and is now an Associate Broker, gaining experience in market research, financial analysis, development, and commercial real estate at each stage.
As a Research Analyst, MacRae worked closely with the Wilmington brokerage team to evaluate market trends, analyze commercial real estate opportunities, and support client assignments. In his new role, he will build on that experience while working more directly with clients throughout Wilmington and coastal North Carolina.
Before joining Lee & Associates, MacRae gained experience with Zimmer Development Company, Live Oak Bank, and Intracoastal Realty. Through these roles, he developed a well-rounded background in real estate development, financial and construction analysis, and brokerage support.
“Nelson has consistently demonstrated the initiative, curiosity, and commitment to deepen his understanding of commercial real estate,” said Sandy Thorpe, Managing Director of Lee & Associates Raleigh Durham Wilmington. “His local market knowledge and experience in research, finance, and development provide a strong foundation for his continued growth in brokerage.”
MacRae earned both his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Real Estate and his Master’s in Finance and Investment Management from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. As a Wilmington native and UNC Wilmington graduate, MacRae brings a strong understanding of the region and a longstanding connection to the local community.
Lee & Associates continues to expand its Wilmington platform by recruiting experienced brokers while also investing in the development of promising professionals within the firm. MacRae’s progression from intern to Research Analyst to Associate Broker demonstrates the value of that approach and strengthens the firm’s ability to serve clients throughout southeastern North Carolina.
ABOUT LEE & ASSOCIATES
Lee & Associates offers an array of real estate services tailored to the needs of its clients, including commercial real estate brokerage, integrated services, and construction services. Established in 1979, Lee & Associates is now an international firm with 85 offices throughout the United States and Canada. The Lee & Associates Raleigh Durham office was started in 2018 and expanded into Wilmington in 2025. Professionals across the firm regularly collaborate to make sure they are providing their clients with the most advanced, up-to-date market technology and information. For the latest news from Lee & Associates, visit lee-associates.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.