About Us: Built on Hard Truths and High Standards
The real estate and construction industries are full of easy answers, quick fixes, and salespeople who have never swung a hammer. Atlas was built to be the exact opposite. Operating across Apple Valley and the South Metro, we run on a simple, uncompromising philosophy: give clients the hard truths they need to make the best possible decisions with their largest investments.
After nearly two decades of navigating the complexities of the local market, one thing became abundantly clear: buyers, sellers, and homeowners were being underserved by a fractured system. Realtors didn't understand structural realities, and builders didn't understand market equity.
That’s why Atlas was formed. By operating as both a licensed General Contractor (Atlas Built Construction) and a licensed Real Estate Brokerage (Atlas Realty), we eliminate the blind spots. We don't just see a house; we see its potential, its structure, and its practical insights. Whether we are framing a custom deck, executing a complex basement remodel, building a new home or negotiating a property sale, we bring an unmatched depth of knowledge to the table. We know how homes are put together, and we know exactly how they are sold.
Bridging the Gap Between Building and Buying
The Story behind the Name
If you’ve looked closely at our logo, you’ve already met the inspiration behind the company. Atlas is our Mastiff/Newfoundland mix, and he embodies everything this business stands for.
Mastiffs and Newfoundlands are working dogs known for their massive strength, unwavering loyalty, and protective nature. When it came time to name a company built on a foundation of heavy lifting and fiercely protecting our clients' investments, "Atlas" was the only choice that made sense.
He might not be able to swing a hammer or negotiate a contract, but his spirit—sturdy, dependable, and totally no-nonsense—is the standard we strive to bring to every single job site and closing table.
Meet Cory Kellum I didn't start Atlas to be just another real estate brokerage or another volume builder. I started it because I saw a gap in how people were being advised on their biggest investments.
For nearly two decades, I have been deeply immersed in the technical, structural, and financial realities of the Metro area housing market. My approach is hands-on and zero-fluff. Whether it's reworking the roof line of an addition, evaluating the plumbing realities of a basement remodel, or negotiating a complex real estate transaction, I handle the details directly.
I am proud to call Minnesota home. When I am not on a job site or at the closing table, you can usually find me at the rink coaching youth hockey, spending time with my wife, our three sons and four dogs, or turning wrenches in the garage. I build in this community, I sell in this community, and I am committed to raising the standard for how things are done here.