In celebration of Father’s Day, Multi-Housing News highlights four father-child teams making significant contributions to South Florida’s multifamily real estate sector. These duos share insights into their professional journeys, family values, and the unique dynamics of building a legacy together in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Mentorship and shared passion are driving forces behind successful family businesses in real estate.
- Early exposure to the industry cultivates a deep understanding and passion for multifamily development and investment.
- Balancing professional collaboration with personal connection is crucial for long-term success and strong family bonds.
- Harnessing diverse skills and perspectives, from investment strategy to creative storytelling, enriches business outcomes.
The Nissley Family: A Legacy in Manufactured Housing
Michael Nissley, a founding member of Colliers’ Manufactured Housing & RV Group, instilled a love for real estate in his children, David and Kristen. Their childhood was filled with tours of manufactured housing communities and dinner table discussions about market trends. This early immersion fostered a genuine passion, leading both David and Kristen to join their father in expanding the family’s influence in the manufactured housing investment niche. David emphasizes his father’s unwavering support, likening his mentorship in business to his guidance in sports. The siblings value learning from their father while also cultivating their relationship outside of work, recognizing the importance of meaningful connection beyond professional endeavors.
The Lebensohn Family: Vision and Resilience at BH3
Daniel Lebensohn, Co-CEO of BH3 Management, draws inspiration from his father, Walter Lebensohn. A Holocaust survivor and retired math professor, Walter’s journey as an immigrant investor laid the foundation for the firm. Even in his 90s, Walter remains actively involved, influencing Daniel with his sharp investment instinct, vision, and patience. Daniel credits his father’s modeling of creative structuring and bold decision-making for BH3’s success. He views his father as a confidant, mentor, and best friend, whose wisdom is integral to the company’s DNA. Daniel stresses the importance of humility, respect, and mutual learning in professional relationships, acknowledging that both father and son can learn from each other.
The Martin Family: Building Terra Together
Pedro and David Martin founded Terra over two decades ago, building a development company renowned for revitalizing South Florida neighborhoods. David’s early exposure to the industry, including participating in their first project launch, solidified his career path. He cherishes the shared purpose and excitement of those early days. While acknowledging that combining family and business can present challenges, their mutual respect and trust have strengthened their partnership. For them, working together to grow Terra is a transformative experience and the foundation of a shared legacy.
The Ojeda Family: Artistry and Tangibility at Rilea Group
Alan Ojeda, founder of Rilea Group, convinced his son Diego to join the company in 2008. Diego, with a background in film, brought an innovative perspective to Rilea’s projects. Alan effectively translated the complexities of real estate into terms Diego understood, comparing property acquisition to finding a script and development to filmmaking. This analogy resonated with Diego, highlighting the tangible art of real estate. Respect has been key in navigating difficult moments, enabling them to separate emotion from execution. Their synergy was crucial in securing a significant project for Banco Santander, demonstrating their ability to work in sync under pressure. For Diego, the enduring bond built along the way is the true legacy.
Sources
- 4 Father-Child Duos Leaving a Mark on Florida’s Multifamily Scene, Multi-Housing News.