Yip Premier Real Estate opens new headquarters in Columbia’s Cottontown neighborhood
May 26, 2026
Yip Premier Real Estate officially opened its new headquarters at 2200 Sumter Street with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by city leaders, preservation advocates, economic development officials, and community partners.
The project represents a $1.5 million investment in Columbia’s Cottontown neighborhood through the adaptive reuse and renovation of a historic building. The new headquarters reflects the firm’s continued growth and long-term commitment to Columbia and the Midlands region.
The renovated space blends historic character with modern functionality, featuring heated floors, movable glass partition systems, collaborative workspaces, and flexible meeting areas designed to support both client experience and the firm’s evolving needs.
“This project represents more than just a new office for us,” said Karen Yip, Broker/Principal of Yip Premier Real Estate. “It reflects how strongly we believe in Columbia, in this neighborhood, and in the future of our city.”
Cottontown has long held personal significance for Karen Yip and her family. Her husband, Robbie Hinrichs, co-owner of Yip Premier Real Estate, completed his first renovation project as a builder in the neighborhood, and Yip’s parents operated one of their first businesses nearby after immigrating to Columbia.
“When we started Yip Premier Real Estate in 2013, a headquarters like this felt far beyond what we imagined possible,” Yip said. “Watching it all take shape reflects not only how far the firm has come, but all the hopes we had for what this company could one day be.”
At a time when much of the real estate industry is experiencing consolidation, Yip Premier Real Estate continues to operate as a locally owned and family-operated independent brokerage based in Columbia.
The headquarters opening also comes during a period of significant investment and redevelopment in Columbia’s north downtown corridor, including continued growth around the BullStreet District and nearby mixed-use projects.
“Projects like Yip Premier Real Estates new headquarters reflect the confidence local businesses have in Columbia’s future,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “This investment strengthens an already vibrant area of the city while preserving the character and identity that make neighborhoods like Cottontown special.”
Historic Columbia representatives highlighted the importance of adaptive reuse and reinvestment within historic districts.
“Thoughtful preservation projects like this help maintain the authenticity and architectural character that define Columbia’s historic neighborhoods,” said John Sherrer, Director of Preservation at Historic Columbia. “It is encouraging to see local businesses investing in historic structures in ways that both respect the past and support the future.”
Cohn Construction led the renovation and transformation of the property into Yip Premier Real Estate’s new headquarters.
“Our goal was to preserve the building’s character while creating a modern, flexible space that supports how Yip Premier Real Estate serves clients and operates as a growing firm,” said Carlie Allman, Director of Preconstruction at Cohn Construction. “It has been exciting to help bring that vision to life.”
Yip Premier Real Estate
Founded in 2013, Yip Premier Real Estate is a boutique, full-service residential and commercial brokerage serving Columbia and communities across South Carolina. The firm is recognized by Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate and combines local market expertise, strategic marketing, and elevated client service to guide buyers, sellers, investors, and businesses through every stage of the real estate process.
