Some stories begin quietly, with a moment so simple you don’t realize it’s the start of everything. For Chris Allen and Mark Zimmerman, that moment happened in 2014 at an art show in Sellersburg, Indiana. They met afterward at a coffee shop to continue the conversation and enjoy the ease of each other’s company. What began as a casual exchange over coffee quickly revealed a connection that felt promising and full of possibility. That chance meeting began their life together, one built on simple values, shared interests, and a love of exploring the world and their own community.

Before meeting or imagining a life in Norton Commons, both had built rich personal lives centered on family. Chris, a lifelong resident in the Highlands, raised two children who live nearby, and is the proud grandparent of two granddaughters. Mark, who had been living happily in Georgetown, Indiana, experienced profound loss with the passing of his partner in 2013. That chance meeting at the art fair opened a new chapter for each of them.

Professionally, Chris and Mark each carved out impressive careers. Chris, a graduate of UK’s Gatton College of Business and Economics, later earned his MBA from Bellarmine. Today he owns one of the local offices of Rainey Allen & Shaw, a real estate company with a long history in Louisville. His daughter Audrey serves as the Principal Broker, making their business a true family affair. Chris’s decades of experience in real estate and mortgage lending give him a uniquely comprehensive perspective with which to serve his clients. Mark attended Indiana University, where he majored in accounting before earning his CPA credentials. He has served as the Controller for a local healthcare company in Middletown for almost two decades. 

The couple’s journey to Norton Commons began when Chris sold a home on Passionflower during NoCo’s home show in 2019. While touring the homes, he found one that both he and Mark instantly loved and immediately imagined as their own. The vibrancy of Norton Commons, along with its ideal location to their workplaces, prompted the move from the Highlands. It was a bold adventure, but they were drawn to the idea of a beautiful new home and a welcoming new community. They took the plunge into the next chapter of their lives together.

They quickly discovered that Norton Commons offered far more than beautiful architecture—it delivered on everything it promised…vitality, social connection, and neighbors supporting one another...a true community, and it felt like home. Two years later, Chris and Mark purchased a home under construction in a newer section of the neighborhood, allowing them to personalize the space and create a home that truly felt their own.

When they moved to Starflower Street, they brought along their Shih Tzu, Dolly Pawton—a spunky little dog who lived up to the grand personality of her namesake and quickly became a celebrity in her own right. Dolly’s sudden passing at just two years old was heartbreaking, but what happened next revealed the soul of Norton Commons. “One neighbor organized rainbow flags for everyone on the street to display on their front porches in Dolly’s memory. Seeing those flags throughout the neighborhood was such a beautiful tribute and meant more [to us] than could be put into words”, Chris recalls. That outpouring was as unexpected as it was extraordinary; a moment that showed them they found a community of truly kind people that cared deeply.

The void left by Dolly ached deeply, and Chris and Mark missed life with a spirited Shih Tzu…enter Goldie Pawn. Now two years old, Goldie has stepped seamlessly into her role as the neighborhood sweetheart. She loves strolling through Oval Park, greeting neighbors, and dining alfresco. Like Dolly, she brightens everyone’s day.

Life in NoCo suits Chris, Mark, and Goldie perfectly, and serves as their home base from which to launch every adventure and share things they are passionate about. They love spontaneous travel, but most trips need to be short to work around active work schedules. Fitting neatly within those parameters is Sarasota, with its beaches, museums, sunshine, and endless things to do. Most recently, they traveled to Italy and France to visit as many cities, landmarks, and cultural sites as possible in the time they had. Both men have a deep appreciation for art and have especially enjoyed collecting works by local artists during their travels, gathering pieces that bring memories and stories to be shared in their home.

Back at home, the two stay active with pickleball and long walks with Goldie, attend neighborhood events, concerts, Food Truck Fridays, and continue to enjoy dinners with the group of friends they met when they first moved here in 2019. 

The pair also loves to entertain and welcomes the opportunity to host any gathering, celebration, or impromptu party. Chris is passionate about cooking (he was once invited to join the show MasterChef, with Gordon Ramsay, but unfortunately had to decline), while Mark excels at planning, prep, and cleanup—a winning combination. Guests can always count on good food, great company, and Mark out on the dance floor.

Community involvement is also an important value and non-negotiable for Chris and Mark.  Habitat for Humanity has been one of the ongoing beneficiaries of their generosity. Among their contributions is sponsoring tables at the annual fundraiser. It’s an opportunity to invite neighbors, introduce them to the organization’s meaningful work, meet members of the Habitat team, and hear from families whose lives have changed. Chris and Mark are continually inspired by the generosity of NoCo residents and their willingness to give back.

The couple recognizes the little things in life and that joy can spark from the smallest gesture. Like the unassuming start to a beautiful life, Chris and Mark lean on the simplicity of what truly matters, crafting a future filled with happiness and emotional wealth.