In 1965, Tom Brinkoetter founded Tom Brinkoetter & Co., Realtors at 1043 E. Eldorado. Within a short period of time the company became the market leader in real estate sales where it has remained. Active in local as well as state and national real estate organizations, Tom was instrumental in developing real estate procedures which remain in use to this day. He was, and still is, recognized throughout the country as a leader in the real estate profession.

In 1993, Tom retired and his daughter, Carla Brinkoetter, became President and Owner. Under Carla’s leadership, Tom Brinkoetter & Co. Realtors became "Brinkoetter & Associates" and adopted a new logo and tagline. Carla established Brinkoetter as a committed community parter, made meaningful impacts with the company’s philanthropic work, and furthered the company’s competitive stake in the marketplace. 

In 2012, Carla's brother, Tom, joined Brinkoetter & Associates as General Manager. Tom brought with him years of experience as a residential property appraiser, technological skill, and an innovative approach to developing to-scale floor plans on all listings. Tom became the Managing Broker in 2016, and Owner in 2018. 

Under Tom’s forward-thinking vision, Brinkoetter Realtors is committed to advanced technology, innovative communication, a collaborative team model, community impact, and a relationship-based approach to Real Estate throughout Central Illinois.