Our Team

Erik and Kristie Brown are the co-founders of Echo Estates, LLC, a real estate investment firm specializing in short-term vacation rental properties. Together, they’ve built a business grounded in research, strategic planning, and a hands-on approach to asset management.

At Echo Estates, Kristie and Erik bring complementary strengths to their partnership. Erik drives financial analysis and investor engagement, while Kristie leads project execution and asset performance. Together, they are focused on building a sustainable and profitable portfolio of short-term rentals, while cultivating strong relationships with their investment partners.

Erik Brown

Title/Role: Co-founder

Erik’s interest in real estate began while studying engineering at Northeastern University in Boston. Motivated by high rental costs, he began exploring the real estate market and became a self-taught investor. To expand his knowledge, he organized and hosted virtual meetups with industry professionals across the country, building a strong network and practical insights. In 2018, he officially entered the real estate investment space, focusing on short-term rentals.

Erik was drawn to the sector for its strong cash flow potential and long-term appreciation. His early investments were in Tennessee, chosen for its thriving tourism market, low property taxes, and lack of state income tax. At Echo Estates, Erik leads market analysis, investor relations, and financial planning. His responsibilities include sourcing properties, conducting due diligence, working with lenders, and creating financial projections. He also oversees operational performance to drive efficiency and profitability.

Kristie Brown

Title/Role: Co-founder

Kristie also entered real estate in 2018 after identifying a clear opportunity to turn her interest in undervalued properties into a focused investment strategy. Motivated to build a meaningful career, she made a full transition from her role in environmental consulting to focus on real estate. Based in New England, Kristie plays a key role in shaping the company’s investment strategy while maintaining a focus on long-term financial longevity for both their family and their investor partners.

She specializes in value-add strategies, managing renovations, design, and property upgrades with a focus on return on investment. Kristie works closely with contractors, vendors, and property managers to maintain high standards and deliver positive guest experiences. Success in her Tennessee investments helped lay the foundation for the company’s portfolio, driving both property value and revenue growth. One of her early projects involved converting a five-bedroom home into eight bedrooms, increasing annual revenue from $100,000 to over $220,000—a reflection of her strategic approach to property enhancement.