A Family History

In 1915, the Rolands sold their family farm to the University of Illinois, which built Memorial Stadium and Assembly Hall on the site. The Roland family then took the money from the land sale and built some of the first apartment buildings on campus, and the company known today as Roland Realty was born. Over the decades, the company continued to grow and evolve along with the University. Today, Roland Realty has more than 80 properties across Champaign—something different for every kind of student. We have established historic homes, affordable campus efficiencies, and stylish, modern high-rises.

Making Connections

The best business is done at a personal level – this philosophy has guided Roland Realty since its conception, allowing the company to thrive, grow, and expand. In 2004, childhood friends Tom Gillespie and Tom Scott teamed up to raise Roland Realty to the national level. The pair solidly believes in the importance of honest friendship at every level of the company, beginning with the landlord-tenant relationships. Based in Champaign, that sense of friendship is extended into every property we own and operate. When our residents know we are always here for them, both landlord and tenants truly succeed.