De-Risking and Deal-Making

A conversation about structuring deals, reducing exposure, and moving projects forward despite economic headwinds

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  William Grubbs Jr.

  A senior real estate executive with over 33 years of real estate investment and development experience through multiple cycles. Bill recently joined Denver based McWhinney where he is serving as Chief Investment Officer. Prior to this new role, Bill was with Invesco Real Estate for 20 years, where he launched Invesco’s flagship fund, and was the Lead Portfolio Manager, growing the fund from $350M to over $18B during his tenure. In addition, Bill was also Chief Investment Officer for the last 4 years at Invesco. Prior to Invesco, Bill ran the real estate investment activity for Bailard, Biehl & Kaiser, and was a Senior Real Estate Investment Manager at Prudential. Bill’s experience includes, equity and debt transactions, portfolio management, development, and investor relations. Experience is on a national basis, and with multiple property types. Bill holds an MBA from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University.

  McWhinney

  CIO

  William Grubbs Jr.

  CIO

  McWhinney

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  Tim Craft

  As a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in finance and real estate development, Tim Craft serves as the Founder and Principal of Craft Companies. His comprehensive skill set includes adept management of acquisitions, entitlements, political and regulatory landscapes, infrastructure design, vertical construction, marketing strategies, and financial acumen. Tim has successfully orchestrated the acquisition and development of assets exceeding $500 million, with a current project pipeline and portfolio valued at $1.5 billion. His strategic financing approach involves securing innovative institutional-level capital through various channels, showcasing versatility in the financial landscape. Since establishing roots in Denver, Colorado, in 1997, Tim has been a key contributor to Denver's landscape. Beyond the Craft team, he actively participates in fifteen financial districts, three water and sanitation boards, and various non-profit organizations. Tim’s multifaceted involvement reflects his dedication to enhancing both the business and social landscapes in Denver and beyond. As an inspired entrepreneur, community and housing advocate, and finance expert, Tim Craft continues to strive to improve the Front Range.

  Craft Companies

  CEO

  Tim Craft

  CEO

  Craft Companies

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  Brett Silverstein

  Mr. Silverstein is Senior Vice President of Acquisitions at Trailbreak Partners, where he is responsible for investment strategy, opportunity sourcing, underwriting, transaction execution, capital structuring, and portfolio growth. He brings a disciplined and data-driven approach to sourcing and executing investments that align with the firm’s long-term objectives. Prior to joining Trailbreak in 2025, Mr. Silverstein served as Chief Acquisition Officer at Brinkman Real Estate, where he led the firm’s multifamily investment strategy across the Mountain West, overseeing the acquisition and capitalization of nearly $400 million across 20 multifamily communities with a particular focus on the Colorado, Utah and Idaho markets. Earlier in his career, he held acquisition and asset management roles at Cortland, focusing on markets in Colorado and Arizona. Mr. Silverstein received his Master’s degree in Hospitality Real Estate from Cornell University and holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Recreation Management from the University of Vermont.

  Trailbreak Partners

  SVP

  Brett Silverstein

  SVP

  Trailbreak Partners

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  Jon Abrahamson

  Jon Abrahamson is a partner within our real estate practice. His area of focus within our real estate practice is comprised mostly of Private Equity Real Estate Funds, Real Estate Development, Real Estate Investments, and Family Office Real Estate. He takes a proactive approach toward client service which includes being up to speed on ever-changing tax laws, ensuring compliance needs are met in a timely manner, and providing tax strategies to minimize any potential tax impacts, all while remaining fully compliant. Additionally, he is experienced in succession planning, due diligence, re-organizations, and estate planning.

  Wipfli

  Partner

  Jon Abrahamson

  Partner

  Wipfli

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  Chris Mosley

  Chris is a partner in the Denver office who focuses his practice on Insurance Recovery exclusively on behalf of policyholders. He also advises companies on various risk management issues, including the development of complex insurance programs and assistance in due diligence and other activities related to M&A and similar activity. Throughout Chris’ career, he has helped businesses recover more than $150 million from insurance companies. His experience extends to all types of commercial insurance policies in virtually all industries. Chris is the former national Chair for the Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee of the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section. Chris has also been selected as a Fellow in the American College of Coverage Counsel, where he serves as a board member. Chris has been selected Colorado’s Policyholder of the Year twice and honored as a Top 100 Colorado lawyer since 2016. Chris regularly speaks on insurance coverage issues and has authored several articles and advisories addressing insurance related issues, including multiple presentations and publications addressing insurance coverage for pandemic-related losses. He has also been involved in some of the most significant and groundbreaking legislation benefiting corporate policyholders in Colorado.

  Reed Smith

  Partner

  Moderator

  Chris Mosley

  Partner

  Reed Smith

DEN Submarket in Focus

How airport expansion, industrial demand and infrastructure investment are fueling growth around Denver International Airport

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  Dan Green

  Dan Green is the third-generation leader of JAG and seasoned developer with over 30 years of ground up development experience. During his tenure at JAG, Dan has personally directed the ground up development, construction and management of numerous retail, office and industrial properties in six U.S. cities. He began training for his career with JAG at age 15, when he spent the summer working as an apprentice to an electrical contractor. Every subsequent summer Dan worked with a different contractor, learning the basics of each trade and what it takes to build a high-quality building. Dan received his Bachelor of Science at Babson College with a concentration in Entrepreneurship in 1992. While at Babson, Dan played on the varsity tennis team. Dan was promoted to President of JAG in 2000 and continues in that role today. Dan lives in Denver, CO with his wife and three children.

  JAG

  CEO

  Dan Green

  CEO

  JAG

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  Ken Cope

  Ken manages real estate development activities at Denver International Airport and their integration with the DEN Real Estate strategic land use plan as well as overseeing all land lease activities such as rental cars, solar, farm, and oil & gas leasing. Ken has over 20 years of experience in the commercial real estate industry, having been responsible for the acquisition, asset management, and disposition of over $2 billion worth of properties during that time. His career includes working for REITs, private equity companies, and small entrepreneurial real estate firms throughout the United States. Ken holds a Bachelor of Science from Montana State University, and earned his MBA from Indiana University.

  Denver International Airport

  SVP, Real Estate Development

  Ken Cope

  SVP, Real Estate Development

  Denver International Airport

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  Blake Fulenwider

  VP

  L.C. Fulenwider, Inc.

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  Maricarmen Tamez

  Maricarmen Tamez is a dedicated professional with a passion for community development and fostering meaningful partnerships. As the Community and Citizenship Director at Turner Construction, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's impact beyond construction sites. Maricarmen's responsibilities encompass community outreach and engagement, as well as collaboration with minority trade partners. Driven by a profound belief in the importance of building up the communities in which Turner Construction operates, Maricarmen focuses on initiatives that go beyond bricks and mortar. She understands that true progress involves empowering local residents and businesses, and she is committed to creating opportunities for growth and advancement. One of Maricarmen's key roles is working closely with minority trade partners to ensure their success within the construction industry. Recognizing that capacity-building is essential for sustained growth, she takes a personalized approach to understand the unique needs and aspirations of each partner. By tailoring support and resources accordingly, Maricarmen helps these businesses reach their full potential. Maricarmen is actively involved in her local community, serving on the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado and Hunger Busters Board of Directors. She has served on the Regional Hispanic Contractors Association as well as the Uptown Houston Boards, Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to make a positive impact in her community. Maricarmen's educational background reflects her diverse skill set and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Public Relations from the University of Colorado, where she gained foundational knowledge in communication and strategic planning. Additionally, she obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Design Institute of San Diego, honing her creative thinking and design expertise. With her blend of business acumen, creative flair, and commitment to community engagement, Maricarmen Tamez is a driving force behind Turner Construction's efforts to make a positive and lasting impact in the communities it serves. Her leadership exemplifies the company's dedication to building not only structures but also brighter futures for all stakeholders involved.

  Turner Construction

  Community + Citizenship Director

  Maricarmen Tamez

  Community + Citizenship Director

  Turner Construction

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  Eric Hiraga

  Eric Hiraga is Chief Strategy Officer and Board Member at Matrix Design Group, a multidisciplinary, employee-owned consulting firm that provides engineering, planning, environmental, and other consulting services. With eleven offices and headquarters in Denver, Matrix serves public and private clients, including local and state governments, federal agencies, private developers, and special districts. The firm’s comprehensive services span civil and transportation engineering, water resources, environmental consulting, landscape architecture, ecology, construction management, surveying, GIS, and government consulting. At Matrix, Eric leads major pursuits, provides senior leadership oversight, and drives overall growth and competitiveness. Eric brings more than 25 years of experience and a proven track record of relationship-building and strategic leadership across economic development, real estate development, aviation, government affairs, international business development, finance, and public-private partnerships. Prior to joining Matrix, Eric was appointed Executive Director of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) by Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock and oversaw the City’s efforts to create an inclusive and innovative economy for all residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. Previously, Eric served as Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff for Denver International Airport (DEN). Eric, his wife Gabbie, and his dog Kuma lives in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver.

  Matrix Design Group

  Chief Strategy Office, Board Member

  Moderator

  Eric Hiraga

  Chief Strategy Office, Board Member

  Matrix Design Group

Creating Connected Communities

How public policy, private investment and mixed-use development are shaping the next generation of neighborhoods

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  Amanda Sandoval

  Denver City Council President Amanda P. Sandoval has proudly served District 1, Northwest Denver, on the City Council since her election in 2019. Born and raised in Denver's Northside, she comes from a family deeply rooted in local politics, which has profoundly shaped her work as a councilwoman. Her father, the late State Senator Paul Sandoval, instilled in her the values of public service through his work as a public servant and as the owner of the beloved restaurant La Casita. Her mother, Mary Helen Sandoval, who led several non-profits and was a prominent advocate for social justice, inspired Amanda's commitment to equity, inclusion, and the importance of community engagement in her work. Together, their legacies guide Amanda's leadership, driving her dedication to serving and uplifting the diverse communities of Northwest Denver. Prior to her role on the City Council, Councilwoman Sandoval gained valuable experience as a Council Aide to two former Denver City Councilmembers. Her profound commitment to the Northside and public service is reflected in over a decade of dedicated community involvement. Among her many achievements, she has championed the renaming of La Raza Park, facilitated the rezoning of more than 70% of the Northwest Denver, became the first woman to Chair Denver's redistricting process, secured a resounding re-election victory in 2023, and led the successful designation of La Raza Park as Denver’s third Cultural Historic District. Councilwoman Sandoval remains steadfast in her dedication to land use, small business development, and the preservation of Northwest Denver's rich history and culture. Her vision is to honor the legacy of past generations while fostering a thriving environment for future generations.

  Denver City Council

  President

  Amanda Sandoval

  President

  Denver City Council

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  Eric Buchanan

  Eric co-founded the OliverBuchananGroup in 2021 and leads the day-to-day operation of the company. Dene and Eric share a long and successful working relationship beginning at OliverMcMillan, where they executed a multi-billion-dollar pipeline of Class A mixed use and multifamily development. Prior to forming OliverBuchananGroup, Eric was the Chief Development Officer at Oliver McMillan, where he led all development and construction activities for the firm. He had a similar role at Brookfield and Lifestyle Communities, as well as a decade long tenure in development at Archstone-Smith earlier in his real estate career. At all companies he covered multiple national markets and managed in house and third-party teams simultaneously. During Eric’s career, he has been intricately involved in the successful development of over 8,000 Class A apartment units in California, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, Hawaii, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Massachusetts and New York. His execution experience covers all multifamily product types, as well as complex urban mixed use including Class A retail, office, hotel, convention and civic uses. Eric is an active member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and active board member of Colorado UpLift and Urban Youth Ministries, two Denver based nonprofit organizations focused on bringing long-term, life changing relationships to urban youth. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Asian Studies from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.

  OliverBuchananGroup

  CEO

  Eric Buchanan

  CEO

  OliverBuchananGroup

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  Haroun Cowans

  Haroun Cowans is a prominent social, financial, and philanthropic leader with over two decades of experience leading development and investment in the Five Points District of Denver, Colorado. Haroun is responsible for Goshen Development’s operations, client relations, partnerships, business development, and strategic leadership. He has held many leadership positions in real estate and finance but considers his greatest passion his work as an associate pastor at Church in the City – Beth Abraham. Outside of ministry, Haroun is the Founder and Managing Principal of Goshen Development. Haroun has built strong relationships to the Five Points and greater Denver community through his extensive work and board appointments. Throughout his career, Haroun has held many different positions in real-estate and finance including managing retail financial branches, raising capital for startups, financial advising, financial services at Merrill Lynch, Chief Real Estate Officer and commercial real estate broker. Haroun has been appointed by the Mayor to serve on the Denver Board of Human Services and the Advisory Committee for Housing People Experiencing Homelessness. He is a board member of the following organizations: Colorado Enterprise Fund, Five Points Business Improvement District, Historic Denver, Denver Health Foundation, Denver African American Philanthropists (co-chair), and Black Resilience in Colorado. He has previously served on the boards of Denver East YMCA, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and Youth Biz (chair). Notably, Haroun has been featured in the Denver Post, Denver Channel 7 News, Denver Channel 9 News, 303 Magazine, Westword, Business Den and has been cover stories for Denver Business Journal, Denver Rite and Vice Magazine.

  Goshen Development

  Founder & CEO

  Haroun Cowans

  Founder & CEO

  Goshen Development

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  Lauren Gerdes

  Lauren has over 12 years of experience serving clients across the country by providing industry-specific insights that allows them to stay at the forefront of the changes within their industry. As a member of the national real estate practice, she provides audit and other advisory services, including financial statement audit services, attest engagement services and specific transaction related services to a wide range of privately held companies developing and operating assets in all sectors of real estate. Lauren specializes in working with private equity investment advisors and funds holding various equity and debt positions in domestic and international real estate. She works closely with her clients through complex accounting and operational matters surrounding acquisitions, valuations and structures, including Qualified Opportunity Zone funds, real estate investment trusts (REITs) and open-ended funds. Lauren was selected as a senior analyst in RSM’s cutting edge Industry Eminence Program, which positions its senior analysts to understand, forecast and communicate economic, business and technology trends shaping the industries RSM serves. These senior analysts advise clients on conditions influencing middle market leaders. Lauren’s focus is on the real estate industry. Lauren is also active in RSM’s employee network group, STAR, which advocates for women in the workplace with a focus on stewardship, teamwork, advancement and retention opportunities.

  RSM US

  Partner & Real Estate Senior Analyst

  Lauren Gerdes

  Partner & Real Estate Senior Analyst

  RSM US

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  Ellie Reynolds

  Ellie Reynolds, President and CEO of Douglas County EDC, Ellie spearheads initiatives to promote economic vitality and foster collaboration, attracting investment and supporting local businesses. Committed to excellence and community engagement, Ellie also holds leadership positions on several nonprofit boards, including High Hopes, Ready Colorado, and the Leadership Program of the Rockies. In her role as Co-Founder of Purple Label Government Solutions, she is a seasoned executive with a track record of driving innovation and fostering economic growth. With expertise in government affairs, business development, and public relations, Ellie has strategically positioned Purple Label as a trusted partner for navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Through her visionary leadership and collaborative approach, Ellie continues to drive positive outcomes in economic development and government relations, leaving a lasting impact across various sectors.

  Douglas County EDC

  President and CEO

  Ellie Reynolds

  President and CEO

  Douglas County EDC

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  Shiloh Shaver

  As Vice President of Business Development, Shiloh excels at building connections, forming strategic partnerships, and fostering relationships to support the firm's objectives. Shiloh prioritizes meaningful local collaborations with consultants, contractors, and vendors, ensuring that CSHQA's work reflects the community's needs. This approach has been effective in the Colorado market, where she engages local stakeholders to enhance expertise and build lasting relationships. Shiloh envisions a vibrant future for CSHQA that honors its history while expanding its regional presence in Colorado.

  CSHQA

  VP

  Moderator

  Shiloh Shaver

  VP

  CSHQA

Cherry Creek: Denver’s Luxury and Lifestyle Engine

How high-end retail, residential and office development are shaping one of Denver’s most valuable and competitive submarkets

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  Matthew Joblon

  Matt Joblon is a founding partner and serves as Chief Executive Officer for BMC Investments. Since 2010, BMC has acquired and managed over 8,000 multifamily units in metro Denver comprising an asset value just over $1 billion. Also in that time span BMC has developed or is in the process of developing over $500 million in projects, all in Cherry Creek. Some of the projects include market leaders such as the Steele Creek luxury apartment project and the new Halcyon Hotel. Through those projects, BMC has been instrumental in bringing world class retail and restaurant concepts to Cherry Creek including Matsuhisa, Quality Italian, Le Bilboquet, Soul Cycle, CB2 and Departure. BMC currently has over 200 employees and is growing at a fast pace. Lastly, BMC has another $500 million in development projects in the pipeline in Cherry Creek, Boulder and the Fitzsimmons Medical Campus, and is in the process of sourcing thousands of multifamily units outside of Denver. Mr. Joblon received a B.B.A. in Entrepreneurship and Real Estate Finance from Babson College and is on the Board of the Blue Sky Fund.

  BMC Investments

  CEO

  Matthew Joblon

  CEO

  BMC Investments

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  Chris Frampton

  Chris Frampton is CEO of East West Partners, whose projects include Union Station, Riverfront Park, The Landmark and Buckley Row at Boulevard One. Chris is also president of the board of the Civic Center Conservancy. He and his wife, Yvette, are lucky enough to have three awesome kids and a glorious golden retriever.

  East West Partners

  CEO

  Chris Frampton

  CEO

  East West Partners

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  Nick LeMasters

  Following a six-month national search, the Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District’s (BID) board of directors is pleased to announce Nick LeMasters has been selected as CEO of the organization, beginning Nov. 1 LeMasters has been general manager of Cherry Creek Shopping Center since 1996. He began his career in the shopping center industry with The Taubman Company in 1990, managing shopping centers in the San Francisco Bay Area. Prior to his experience with Taubman, LeMasters spent 15 years with Dayton Hudson Corporation’s Mervyn’s Department Store chain. LeMasters is active in the Denver community, currently serving on the board of directors for VISIT DENVER, as a mayoral-appointed board member of the Denver Convention Center Hotel Authority, and on the executive committee for the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. He is a founding board member and past chair of the Cherry Creek Area Business Alliance and was inducted into the Colorado Tourism Hall of Fame for his efforts to promote tourism in Denver and Colorado. LeMasters is also an active participant in the Cherry Creek Steering Committee which, in partnership with city staff and neighbors, created the Cherry Creek Area Plan, a key document that guides development throughout Cherry Creek. “After an extensive search led by HRS, Inc. we are thrilled Nick LeMasters will be bringing his leadership skills and passion for the community to the Cherry Creek North BID,” said Eric Buchanan, Cherry Creek North BID chairman. “Nick’s experience in contributing to the economic development of Cherry Creek, alongside his impressive background in supporting tourism in our city and state, ensures he is the right leader to continue to advance Cherry Creek North as a premier outdoor lifestyle destination." Buchanan also expressed his appreciation to interim president, Jenny Starkey, and the staff of CCN for ensuring the continuity of the CCN program of work during the leadership transition. LeMasters is succeeding Julie Underdahl who joined the Cherry Creek North BID in 2007 and was the longest serving CEO in the BID’s history.

  Cherry Creek North BID

  CEO

  Nick LeMasters

  CEO

  Cherry Creek North BID

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  Doug Wells

  WITH BROE REAL ESTATE SINCE 2015 Mr. Wells leads all operational, investment, and capital market activities for Broe Real Estate Group and its affiliates. Mr. Wells also leads the Management Committee, which provides strategic direction for the company. Wells was previously Chief Investment Officer of Shelter Canadian Properties Limited, a real estate investment management company. Before that, he spent 15 years with Lazard Real Estate Partners, most recently as Managing Principal with investment management responsibility for five real estate opportunity funds, which at its peak totaled more than $3 billion of committed partner capital invested in the hospitality, office, industrial, retail, senior living and structured finance sectors. As part of his role at Lazard, Wells also served as President of InTown Suites, Inc., an Atlanta-based extended-stay hotel company with 127 locations. He was previously with The Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York/ARES Realty Capital, and started his real estate career with Shelter Corporation of Canada Limited. Mr. Wells received his B.A. from Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario, and his M.B.A. from the University of Denver.

  Broe Real Estate

  CEO

  Doug Wells

  CEO

  Broe Real Estate

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  Brent Farber

  Co-Founder and Principal of Elevation Development Group a real estate investment and development firm based in Denver, Colorado. Prior to Elevation Farber worked at CIBC’s High Yield Group in New York. Since the formation of Elevation, Farber and team have sourced some of Denver’s most high profile deals, such as 16M: 16th & Market located in LoDo and MOTO Apartments at 8th & Sherman. Farber received his BA from Tulane University and MS in real estate development from New York University.

  Elevation Development Group

  Co-Founder and Principal

  Brent Farber

  Co-Founder and Principal

  Elevation Development Group

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  David Tryba

  The Founding Principal of our multi-disciplinary studio, David’s passion for cities directs the work of Tryba Architects. He is involved in each of the firm’s projects and excels at leading talented designers towards solutions that are in the best interest of the client, the community and the project. David’s entrepreneurial spirit directs the firm’s commitment to the development and transformation of urban neighborhoods, buildings, sites and systems into active, human-scaled and successful places. David possesses a deep understanding of the evolution of cities—past, present and future—and has completed projects across North America. His design is driven by a critical awareness of the social and economic value of place making, a fundamental belief in the integration of architecture and landscape, and a firm and resolute commitment to city building and civic craft.

  Tryba Architects

  Lead Design Principal

  David Tryba

  Lead Design Principal

  Tryba Architects

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  Paul Nocco

  Paul is a Partner at CohnReznick LLP, a national public accounting firm that specializes in working with real estate investment funds and commercial/residential real estate owners, developers and operators. CohnReznick has over 30 offices, including Denver, and more than 5,000 employees nationwide that provide audit, tax, and advisory services throughout the real estate industry. Paul’s experiences include serving real estate companies across all facets of the real estate industry, in areas such as real estate investment trusts (REITs), real estate and alternative investment funds (including RIAs), office and retail, data centers, industrial properties, self-storage properties, multi-family properties, real estate developers and converters, and general contractors and sub-contract developers. Paul has been consistently and continuously serving Denver real estate companies for the past 22 years since moving to Colorado in 2003.

  CohnReznick

  Partner

  Moderator

  Paul Nocco

  Partner

  CohnReznick