Building Dreams, Building Carson

The Stories of Ale Moncada & Garret Lepire

By Angila Golik

In Carson City, success comes from determination, hard work, and a deep connection to the community. For Ale Moncada, a powerhouse in commercial real estate, and Garrett Lepire, a leader in residential real estate, their paths to success may differ, but both share a foundation of perseverance and a genuine love for the city they call home.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION: ALE MONCADA’S RISE IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Ale’s journey into real estate was unconventional. As a first -generation Latina entrepreneur, she grew up watching her parents work tirelessly for a better future, instilling in her a relentless work ethic. There were no roadmaps, no safety nets—just ambition and determination to carve her own path.

“Every milestone—I’ve earned through grit and an unbreakable drive. If you want something, go after it. No excuses, no shortcuts—just determination to make it happen.”

By 17, Ale had already stepped into roles most could never imagine wife and mother. With the odds stacked against her, she didn’t take the easy road. Instead, she turned challenges into opportunities.

“I want to make one thing clear: nothing in my life has been handed to me,” she says. “Every milestone— I’ve earned through grit and an unbreakable drive. If you want something, go after it. No excuses, no shortcuts—just determination to make it happen.”

Ale’s real estate journey started 13 years ago with Brad and Andie Bonkowski. She began as an administrative assistant, diving into the business and learning everything from the ground up. Under Brad’s mentorship, Ale mastered real estate mechanics and absorbed the art of leadership, vision, and integrity. Her relentless drive and sharp instincts quickly earned her a partnership. In 2021, Ale co-founded Nevada Commercial Group with Sam Douglass, turning it into one of Carson City’s most influential and top-performing brokerages.

For Ale, success isn’t just about deals but legacy and community. She served seven years on the Boys and Girls Club of Western Nevada Board and is currently on the Northern Nevada CCIM Board as 2025 Secretary, poised to become President in 2027.

“As a Latina, I refuse to be defined by stereotypes,” she says. “In commercial real estate, you either have the knowledge and hustle, or you don’t. I’ve worked hard to earn my place in this industry.”

As a trailblazing Latina, her fierce determination and unique perspective give her an edge, allowing her to connect with a diverse community, including Spanish- speaking business owners. Her CCIM (Masters) designation proves her expertise, but it’s her relentless drive and leadership that truly set her apart.

Beyond business, Ale’s biggest motivation is her daughters, Izabella and Illiana.

I want them to know their mom didn’t just dream—
she made things happen. I want them to walk through this city, see my impact, and feel proud of what I’ve built.

A HOMEGROWN SUCCESS: GARRETT LEPIRE’S PASSION FOR PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY

For Garrett Lepire, real estate has always been about more than just selling homes—it’s about shaping a community. His entrepreneurial mindset led him to get his real estate license before even graduating from Carson High School, making him one of the youngest agents in the area at the time. Today, he is a realtor at Re/Max Gold, one of the region’s most well-known firms.

Starting at just 18 years old, Garrett knew he had to prove himself in an industry where experience reigns supreme.

“People saw my age before they saw my ability,” he recalls. “I had to work twice as hard, stay ahead of market trends, and build a reputation based on trust and results.”

And he did just that. Over the years, Garrett has become one of Carson City’s most recognized realtors, not only because of his success in real estate but because of his deep commitment to giving back.

Garrett credits much of his drive and mindset to his grandfather, Rex Shoaf, who instilled in him an appreciation for architecture, home design, and hard work. In real estate, he also found valuable mentors who helped shape his approach and work ethic, reinforcing the importance of consistency, trust, and community involvement.

“Carson City isn’t just where I work—it’s my home,” he says. “I want to make it better for the next generation, just like the people before me did.”

His dedication to the community is evident in his leadership roles—serving as President-Elect of Sierra Nevada Realtors, leading the Downtown Carson City Neighborhood Improvement District, and advocating for local initiatives. He’s also passionate about Rotary service projects, supporting the homeless, and sponsoring local family events like Movies in the Park and judging the FBLA Talent show each year at Carson High School.

But Garrett’s biggest motivator is his daughter, Payton.

“Being a dad has changed everything for me,” he says. “It’s no longer just about what I build for myself—it’s about creating something meaningful for her and for the community she’ll grow up in.”

Whether it’s helping a family find their forever home, mentoring young professionals, or preserving the historic charm of Carson City, Garrett’s work is rooted in relationships and service.

BUILDING A LEGACY IN CARSON CITY

Despite their different paths, Ale Moncada and Garrett Lepire share a common vision—a commitment to growth, both personal and professional, and a desire to make Carson City better for future generations.

For Ale, that means breaking barriers in commercial real estate and showing young Latina entrepreneurs that success is possible, no matter where you start.

“My advice? Never let anyone make you believe you don’t belong. Keep showing up, and never, ever underestimate the power within you. Your journey, your strength, your story—nothing can take that away.”

For Garrett, it means ensuring that Carson City remains a place where businesses and families can thrive, all while leading by example for his daughter.

“If you want a strong community, you have to be part of building it. Carson City has given me so much—it’s only right that I give back.”

As two Carson High School graduates turned industry leaders, Ale and Garrett are proving that success isn’t just about the deals you close—it’s about the lives you impact along the way.

And in Carson City, their impact is undeniable.