Mark Cipolletti
A Creative Approach To Success
If there’s one thing you should know about Mark Cipolletti, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Richmond West, it’s that he doesn’t do anything halfway. Friendly, creative, calm, and honest—these qualities define him both personally and professionally. He’s not the loudest voice in the room, nor does he try to be. Instead, he lets his marketing savvy, deep community ties, and passion for helping people do the talking. And in a competitive real estate market, that’s exactly what has set him apart.
A Path Years In The Making
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Mark moved to Richmond, Virginia, at the age of 11 and has called it home ever since. His career journey wasn’t a straight shot to real estate—far from it. After earning a degree in Mass Communications from James Madison University, he built a career in corporate and non-profit marketing, as well as local television news. But even as he thrived in those roles, something else was brewing in the background.
“It feels like everything I’ve done in the past has positioned me to be a great Realtor,” Mark says. “I’ve lived in Richmond for over 40 years, so I have an extensive network. I’ve been known as one of the area’s leading marketers, so I know how to market my services and listings. I’m comfortable talking to strangers and making presentations. I’ve been on senior leadership teams and know how to make hard decisions and how to negotiate to achieve goals. And on top of that, I’ve been a real estate investor for over 20 years.”
Though real estate was always an interest, it wasn’t until two corporate layoffs that Mark saw a clear path forward. He had already built and rented out a home in 2001 and flipped a house in 2007 while working full-time in marketing. But in late 2019, he finally got licensed, and by May 2022, he made the full-time leap into real estate.
Mark isn’t just another Realtor—his background in marketing gives him an edge that few can match. That expertise has allowed him to create unique offerings for his clients, particularly seniors looking to downsize.
“I’ve developed ‘products’ for seniors/downsizers that set me apart,” he explains. “It’s also helped me create three listing packages—‘good, better, best’—which has helped me sell my listing expertise and boost my commission percentages.”
Beyond that, he understands the power of presentation. “My marketing background gives me credibility over other agents when I promote staging, photography, social media, and other aspects of property marketing,” Mark says. “I know how to showcase a home in a way that attracts buyers.”
His approach has already earned him recognition. In 2023 and 2024, he was voted a Top Referred Realtor by Richmond Magazine, an honor decided largely by fellow real estate professionals. “That means a lot to me,” Mark says. “To know that other agents respect the way I do my job—it’s a big deal.”
A Rising Star In Richmond Real Estate
Mark runs a solo operation, but he’s making a big impact. In 2024, he closed $3.6 million in volume. This year, he projects at least 14 closings and $8.1 million in sales.
While accolades and transaction numbers are nice, Mark measures success differently. His biggest satisfaction comes from guiding seniors through the downsizing process. “Helping people find more appropriate places to live, especially seniors, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of what I do,” he says.
Life Beyond Real Estate
Mark’s career may be thriving, but family is at the center of everything he does. He’s been married to his wife, Lisa, for 29 years—they met in high school. Together, they have three sons: David (21), Matthew (18), and Michael (15).
Several of Mark’s closest friends are from high school, and many others come from his church, where he’s been a member for 30 years. “Community has always been a huge part of my life,” he says.
When he’s not working, Mark is either on the softball field or out in nature. “I’ve played on my church softball team for over 25 years,” he shares. “And I love hiking—especially in the Virginia mountains with my family.”
Beyond sports and the outdoors, Mark has a few more unexpected passions. “I am known for my love of donuts,” he admits. “I follow all the Cleveland sports teams, I love to clean my car, and I’m a huge Black Crowes fan—I never miss a chance to see them live.”
His dedication to community service is just as strong as his love for baseball and music. Mark currently serves as the President of the Godwin High School Theatre Boosters, a position that carries a deep personal connection. “My son Matthew is very involved in the program, and my wife and I were in it when we went to Godwin,” he explains. “Even my dad was a founding member and past president of the Theatre Boosters.”
Additionally, for every home he sells, Mark makes a donation to Liberation Veteran Services, an organization that provides shelter and support for homeless veterans. “I first got involved with this through my church,” he shares. “It’s a cause that means a lot to me.”
Looking Ahead
Mark has big plans for the future, both as a Realtor and a real estate investor. “I want to increase my closings in order to fund my real estate investment goals,” he says.
A book that has shaped his outlook is Rich Dad, Poor Dad, which he recently re-read. “I first read it over twenty years ago, and it inspired me to purchase my first investment property,” he says. “It still motivates me today.”
But above all, Mark’s focus is on maintaining the reputation he has built over decades. “My reputation in the Richmond market has always served me well,” he says. “My goal is always to work hard, maintain the trust of my clients, and deliver an exceptional experience that maintains my reputation.”
For those looking to break into the industry, Mark has one key piece of advice: “Choose one or two lead generation strategies that fit your personality and do them really well. Then commit to doing them for at least a year or two.”
Simple, smart, and effective—just like his approach to real estate.
