KINGSTON, RI – Gilbane announced its collaboration with the University of Rhode Island (URI) to develop and construct up to 1,100 additional on-campus beds through a new, innovative public-private partnership. This initiative will address growing student demand for on-campus housing and underscores both URI’s and Gilbane’s commitment to enhancing the student experience at the state’s flagship research university.
Selected through a competitive proposal process, Gilbane will lease University-owned land to plan, finance, design, construct, and manage the new residence halls on URI’s Kingston Campus. With a legacy spanning 150 years, Providence-based Gilbane has a proven track record of delivering innovative housing solutions in collaboration with higher education institutions nationwide. This latest project highlights the company’s commitment to creating resource-efficient, student-focused communities that meet the evolving needs of universities and their students.
Gilbane is pleased to partner with URI on this significant project, which reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the student experience,” said Zach Tronti, development director of Gilbane Development. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to developing high-quality, accessible housing that supports academic success and fosters a vibrant campus community. It’s rewarding to be working towards a project that will have a lasting impact at URI and in our home state of Rhode Island.”
These modern apartment-style residential buildings will provide a vibrant, inclusive, and academically supportive environment for undergraduate and graduate students to thrive. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 following a feasibility and pre-development activity period, with the first occupancy planned for fall 2027.
“Gilbane is thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with URI on this innovative project,” said Mike Busam, Gilbane Building’s Rhode Island Business Leader. “This is incredibly rewarding given our long history with the University, where Gilbane has contributed to enriching the campus over the past decades, constructing multiple facilities, including the Ryan Center and Center for Bio-Life Sciences, among others. We’re looking forward to returning to campus!”
The new project aligns with URI’s strategic plan, Focus URI, and builds on a decade of campus advancements, further cementing URI’s reputation as a top-tier institution that prioritizes student success.
“This public-private partnership offers many benefits to the University and our students,” said Abby Benson, vice president for administration and finance, University of Rhode Island. “The partnership enables us to address the growing demand for on-campus housing expressed by URI students. It also enables us to develop new housing on an accelerated timeline while ensuring fiscal responsibility.”
“CannonDesign is honored to be working with two clients with whom we have a rich history, URI and Gilbane Development, in support of URI’s mission to expand and elevate student experience on campus.” said Lynne Deninger, AIA, Principal of CannonDesign.
Category Archives: Mortgage News
Benchmark Senior Living Expanding to New Jersey with Construction of Assisted Living and Memory Care Community in Scotch Plains
SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ – Benchmark Senior Living, the largest senior living provider in New England, is, once again, expanding its Northeast footprint. Last month, the company began construction on a new assisted living and memory care community located at 1814 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains, NJ.
Also under development is Benchmark at Mount Pleasant, in Thornwood, NY, Benchmark’s first Westchester County community. It will become the company’s third New York community when it opens this spring.
“We’re excited to bring the high-quality and compassionate care Benchmark has built its reputation on for almost 30 years to the residents of Scotch Plains and beyond,” said Tom Grape, founder, chairman and CEO of Benchmark. “Scotch Plains and the Mount Pleasant projects will be among several new communities to join the Benchmark family in the near future, as we concentrate on growing our footprint in the Boston-to-DC corridor.”
As the first assisted living community in Scotch Plains, which is located approximately 13 miles south of Morristown, NJ and 20 miles southwest of New York City, it will bring much-needed senior care to Western Union County.
Scotch Plains is known for its numerous recreational opportunities including the adjacent Ashbrook Reservation. The township is rich in history with many Revolutionary War sites and the first African-American Country Club in the country, which was founded in 1921 and played host to many famous Black musicians.
The location is ideally suited for seniors desiring a wide range of nearby activities as well as multi-generational families with many schools close by. Residents will be able to take in the surrounding area from a walking path that surrounds the community while visiting many neighboring sites, such as the Academy for Performing Arts, golf courses, a community pool, scenic walking trails and churches.
The community will offer residents and their loved ones 81,692 square feet of indoor and outdoor space spread out over three floors, including 86 studio and one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes and handicap-adaptable bathrooms. On the first floor, off the grand staircase adorned lobby, a bistro, club room, dining rooms, recreational room and several outdoor patios and porches, some offering outdoor dining, will beckon residents to connect and engage. For those with dementia and Alzheimer’s, the secure Mind & Memory Care neighborhood will feature Benchmark’s signature programs administered by specially trained associates in a variety of spaces as well as amenities like a dedicated outdoor patio, dining room, hair salon and recreation room. Circadian rhythm lighting will automatically adjust throughout the day to help minimize “sundowning,” a common symptom of dementia, which causes a state of confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening.
On the second and third floors, residents will enjoy additional amenities, including a wellness center with fitness center and rehabilitation room, hair salon, library, lounge, movie theater and multipurpose room for events and other programs. A rooftop deck will host regular social hours and other events.
For those who need it, Benchmark will provide 24/7 personalized care, including assistance with daily living activities like bathing, getting dressed and medication management.
Benchmark in Scotch Plains is being developed in partnership with Newton, Mass.-based National Development. Capitol Seniors Housing of Washington, DC, whose work has been instrumental in bringing the project to life, will continue to provide some development services. Meyer Design of Ardmore, Penn., is providing architectural and interior design services for the project. Philadelphia based IMC Construction will serve as general contractor.
Goodman Real Estate Announces $131.1 Million Arizona Acquisition of Town Deer Valley Apartment Community in Phoenix Market
PHOENIX, AZ – Goodman Real Estate announces its latest milestone, the $131.1 million acquisition of Town Deer Valley Apartments, a premier 388-unit Class A property located in Phoenix, Arizona.
This latest acquisition reflects Goodman Real Estate’s continued efforts to expand its portfolio with premium residential properties in high-growth markets. Town Deer Valley Apartments, known for its modern amenities and prime location, is a testament to the company’s focus on creating well-built, sustainable, and thriving communities that elevate the resident experience.
“Town Deer Valley Apartments aligns with our purpose of building and investing in purposeful communities,” said John Goodman, Founder of Goodman Real Estate. “The property offers not only beautiful living spaces but also a strong foundation for enhancing the lives of our residents. We are excited to play an integral role in contributing to the ongoing growth and vibrancy of Phoenix.”
The sale was facilitated by Institutional Property Advisors (IPA) Phoenix, who served as the selling broker. Their expertise and industry insight were instrumental in achieving a seamless transaction. The deal was further supported by Walker & Dunlop, who provided financing solutions to bring the project to fruition. These partnerships underscore the collaborative efforts behind this significant milestone.
Located in a highly desirable area with convenient access to employment hubs, shopping, dining, and recreational options, Town Deer Valley offers residents a thoughtful balance of comfort and convenience. The property features luxurious amenities such as resort-style pools, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Each unit is designed with high-end finishes and spacious floor plans, catering to the needs of modern living.
Goodman Real Estate looks forward to integrating Town Deer Valley Apartments into its existing portfolio and leveraging its expertise to build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.
Community Preservation Partners Completes Acquisition of Sundance Affordable Housing Community in Bakersfield, California
BAKERSFIELD, CA – CPP (Community Preservation Partners), a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, in partnership with Bettencourt Properties and The Beneficial Housing Foundation, announced the acquisition and planned renovation of Sundance Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Bakersfield, Calif. This is the first community in Bakersfield for CPP.
Sundance Apartments is located at 6000 White Lane in the Spice Tract neighborhood of Bakersfield. The convenient location allows residents easy access to multiple bus stops, as well as a nearby grocery store, shopping center and restaurants. Originally built in 1981, the property has not received any substantial rehabilitations. The property is comprised of 10, two-story buildings and an additional single-story building which contains the community room, laundry room, and leasing office. Designed to accommodate families, Sundance Apartments offers 40 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom units. CPP s total development investment is approximately $32.5M, which includes the purchase price of $20M and estimated renovation costs of approximately $80,000 per unit.
Bakersfield, like many cities in California, is experiencing an affordable housing crisis. In fact, studies indicate that nearly one-third of Bakersfield residents are spending more than 30% of their income on housing, said Belinda Lee, Director of Development at CPP. The preservation of Sundance Apartments 60 affordable units will play a part in helping to ensure that the Bakersfield affordable housing supply is maintained for years to come.
Sundance Apartments will receive significant renovations aimed at improving the property s energy efficiency and modernization. Specific improvements include the replacement of solar and electrical panels, HVAC units, water heaters and appliances. Additional interior upgrades include the modernization of bath and kitchen surrounds and fixtures, and replacement of unit flooring. Exterior improvements include roofing replacement, repairs to the property s asphalt, pavement and paths of travel, as well as upgraded landscaping. CPP also plans to upgrade the property s community room.
By preserving 60 affordable units and investing in significant upgrades, we aim to ensure that these homes remain safe, energy-efficient, and sustainable for years to come. Our partnership with Bettencourt Properties and The Beneficial Housing Foundation underscores our shared commitment to providing quality, affordable housing to the communities that need it most, said Alexis Castillo, Assistant Development Manager at CPP.
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by the end of 2025. The property s affordability was set to expire in 2027, but with CPP s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. Additionally, the property will encumber a new Land Use Restrictive Agreement (LURA) to ensure affordability for 55 years. All units will be income restricted to family households at 60% or below Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), who issued and allocated 9% LIHTC. WNC & Associates serves as the equity partner. Banner Bank is providing construction financing, while Key Bank serves as the permanent lender, using a Freddie Mac product.
Knightvest Capital Continues Dallas Expansion with Acquisition of 331-Unit SKYE of Turtle Creek Apartment Community in Uptown Market
DALLAS, TX – Knightvest Capital, a vertically integrated multifamily investment firm, announced the acquisition of the SKYE of Turtle Creek apartment community in Dallas, Texas. This successful acquisition represents the sixth investment in Knightvest’s Fund II.
Built in 1998, the 331-unit high-rise is located in the prolific submarket of Uptown Dallas, an area where Knightvest has direct experience. Knightvest will leverage its construction, management, and operational experience to seamlessly integrate the community into its portfolio. With the property largely in its original condition, Knightvest plans to renovate a considerable portion of the units and make significant updates to the exterior and common areas. These improvements will position Skye to compete with new luxury developments in the area while maintaining a compelling price advantage. As part of the renovation efforts, Knightvest has renamed the community to Remi.
“Given our knowledge and success in the submarket, we have a clear path to enhanced performance and revenue, leading to significant value creation potential with the acquisition of Skye,” said David Moore, Knightvest founder and CEO. “With a purchase price significantly below replacement cost, this acquisition perfectly aligns with our strategy, and we’re excited about our momentum in Fund II.”
With direct access to the Katy Trail, a walkable neighborhood boasting over 200 restaurants, and close proximity to vibrant areas like Victory Park, Downtown Dallas, and the Harwood District, the apartment community offers the best of urban living. Following Knightvest’s planned renovations, the modernized interiors and enhanced common areas will position the community as a top-tier living destination in the area.
Hamilton Zanze Completes Acquisition of 200-Unit Arnada Pointe Garden-Style Apartment Community Located in Portland Submarket
VANCOUVER, WA – Hamilton Zanze, a leading San Francisco-based multifamily real estate investment firm, announced it has sponsored the purchase of Arnada Pointe, a 200-home garden-style apartment community in Vancouver, Wash.
Mission Rock Residential, an affiliate of Hamilton Zanze, has assumed management of the property, which is situated 11 miles north of Portland, Ore., on the north bank of the Columbia River. The river treads the Washington and Oregon state lines and is the largest in the Pacific Northwest.
“We are excited about the sponsored acquisition of Arnada Pointe, as it represents an opportunity to acquire an asset at a significant discount to replacement costs with long-term upside potential,” said David Nelson, president and chief investment officer at Hamilton Zanze. “Vancouver has been the fastest-growing city in the Pacific Northwest, with strong population growth and apartment demand. We believe Arnada Pointe is well-positioned to capture future rent growth as supply slows down over the next 12 to 18 months.”
Located at 4820 Hazel Dell Avenue, Arnada Pointe was built in 2005 and offers one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes. Homes range in size from 700 to 1,188 square feet and include in-home washers and dryers, spacious closets, vinyl flooring and private patios or balconies. Common-area amenities at the pet-friendly community include a resident clubhouse, outdoor swimming pool, playground, barbecue/picnic areas and a 24-hour fitness center.
Located just west of key thoroughfare Interstate 5 and adjacent to a local bus line, Arnada Pointe enables residents to easily connect to the thriving employment markets of Fruit Valley and the greater Portland area. Residents are also within a quick commute to Downtown Vancouver and its variety of dining, retail and entertainment options. Additionally, the community is surrounded by an array of recreational outlets, including Vancouver Lake, Leverich Park and Kiggins Bowl.
Thompson Thrift to Develop New 255-Unit Stack at Wheat Ridge Multifamily Community Nestled in The Foothills of The Rocky Mountains
DENVER, CO – Thompson Thrift, a full-service nationally recognized real estate company and one of the nation’s leading multifamily developers, announced that it will develop Stack at Wheat Ridge, a 255-unit Class A multifamily community in the Denver suburb of Wheat Ridge. Construction is expected to be completed in winter 2026.
“Wheat Ridge stands out as the location provides convenient access to the city’s top employers and shopping venues, as well as numerous outdoor activities,” said Josh Purvis, managing partner for Thompson Thrift Residential. “Similarly, we believe that our latest Thompson Thrift community, Stack at Wheat Ridge, will deliver a unique blend of exceptional living for our residents and an attractive investment opportunity for our partners.”
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Stack at Wheat Ridge will sit on just over seven acres at the corner of Kipling Street and 44th Avenue. The community will feature 255 apartment homes in one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations.
Each apartment home will also offer luxury amenities including elegant quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, glass-top ranges, hardwood-style flooring, granite vanity tops and undermount sinks, a walk-in shower, full-size washers and dryers, multiple smart home capabilities and many other designer fixtures and finishes. Select signature units may also feature premium stainless-steel appliances and cabinetry with soft-close doors, a deluxe closet system with shelving, premium lighting, premium kitchen hardware and countertop colors, a dry bar and advanced smart home capabilities. Patio and balcony and detached garage options are also available.
Community amenities will also feature many of the high-end features that Thompson Thrift communities are known for, including a fully equipped 24-hour fitness center, a yoga and spin studio with on-demand fitness classes, a resort-style heated swimming pool, electric firepits with seating areas, a billiards area, a dog park and a pet spa with grooming station, just to name a few. Residents may also take advantage of the event suite with a full kitchen and resident conference room. An on-site service team, valet trash service and a user-friendly mobile app will also be available.
Along with Stack at Wheat Ridge’s many amenities, the community also offers excellent connectivity to I-70, which provides easy access to Denver’s Central Business District. Denver Federal Center, home to approximately 28 different federal agencies, CoorsTek, a privately owned company focused on exploration technology, and Home Advisor, a digital marketplace leader, are among the major employers in the area. Nearby retail centers, such as Kipling Ridge and Arvada Ridge Marketplace, offer residents access to many shopping and dining options, including Costco, Starbucks, Chipotle and more.
Wheat Ridge is located on the west side of the Denver metropolitan statistical area, providing access to both the city of Denver and short drive to the recreational activities in the Rocky Mountains. Denver’s west side is also home to many of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods, including Sloan’s Lake, which borders Wheat Ridge. Within five miles of Stack at Wheat Ridge, the average home value exceeds $552,000.
The company continues to expand its footprint with 11 new residential developments targeted for 2025. Stack at Wheat Ridge will be the company’s 20th Colorado location, further expanding Thompson Thrift’s presence in the area. Thompson Thrift 2024 Multifamily Development, LP will provide equity for Stack at Wheat Ridge.
Thompson Thrift is a full-service real estate development company focused on multifamily, ground-up commercial and mixed-use development across the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest. For nearly 40 years, Thompson Thrift has invested more than $6 billion into local communities and has become known as a trusted partner committed to developing high-quality, attractive multifamily, commercial and industrial projects.
Elevate Commercial Investment Group Expands Multifamily Portfolio with Acquisition of 144-Unit Camden Crossing Apartments in Texas
BURLESON, TX – Elevate Commercial Investment Group announced the acquisition of Camden Crossings, a premier 144-unit multifamily community located just 15 minutes south of Fort Worth in Burleson, Texas. This strategic acquisition aligns with Elevate’s commitment to providing high-quality, cash-flowing real estate opportunities while delivering strong, risk-adjusted returns to investors.
Built in 2023, Camden Crossings is a Class A garden-style apartment community featuring modern amenities such as a resort-style swimming pool, a pickleball court, a dog park, and stylish unit finishes including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and private balconies. The property benefits from a prime location in Burleson, a rapidly growing submarket with strong demographics, highly rated schools, and easy access to major employment hubs in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
This acquisition represents a compelling investment opportunity, with Elevate purchasing the asset at a highly favorable cost basis of $160,000 per unit and purchasing from the original developer. The property benefits from an innovative financing structure.
“Our acquisition of Camden Crossings underscores our disciplined approach to identifying high-quality assets with strong upside potential,” said Jorge Abreu, Co-Founder and CEO of Elevate Commercial Investment Group. “With a stabilized cap rate of 7.6% and projected investor returns exceeding 17% IRR, we believe this asset will generate long-term value for our investors while enhancing the residential experience in Burleson. Although it was tempting to do more deals in 2024 we stayed disciplined and positioned ourselves and our investors for a strong 2025 and beyond.”
The five-year business plan for Camden Crossings focuses on optimizing operational efficiencies through Elevate’s vertically integrated management platform. Elevate’s in-house construction and property management teams will work to streamline expenses, drive rent growth, and maximize NOI to ensure sustained asset appreciation.
With over $650 million in assets under management and a track record of successfully executing value-add strategies, Elevate Commercial Investment Group continues to strategically expand its presence in target markets including Dallas and its submarkets.
Harbor Group International Acquires Newly Built 300-Unit Livano Canyon Falls Multifamily Community in Fast Growing Dallas Submarket
DALLAS, TX – Affiliates of Harbor Group International, a privately owned international real estate investment and management firm, announced the acquisition of Livano Canyon Falls, a newly constructed multifamily property comprised of 300 units in Northlake, Texas. Built in 2024, the property is part of the larger Canyon Falls master-planned community, which covers 1,199 acres across Northlake, Argyle, and Flower Mound.
“We view this as an exceptional opportunity to acquire a newly developed asset in a dynamic and highly desirable submarket of the Dallas-Fort Worth area,” said Yisroel Berg, Chief Investment Officer of Multifamily at HGI. “Leveraging our extensive management expertise in Texas, we are confident in our ability to drive a successful lease-up and fully capitalize on potential for revenue growth as the property reaches stabilization.”
The property’s Northwest Dallas location has experienced rapid growth, experiencing a 513% increase in population since 2010. As the area continues to expand, new multifamily development remains constrained, with only one project currently under construction. Livano Canyon Falls benefits from direct access to AllianceTexas, a 27,000-acre master-planned community that serves as one of the region’s largest economic catalysts. Spanning 58 million feet, AllianceTexas offers Livano Canyon Falls residents proximity to the area’s major employers, including Deloitte, Charles Schwab, Fidelity, Amazon and Facebook.
Livano Canyon Falls features a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom floor plans, with an average floor plan of 1,015 square feet. Unit interiors include high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, private balconies or patios, and private backyards in select units. Community amenities include a designer clubhouse, an entertainment kitchen, private offices, a business center with conference rooms, a resort-style pool with a sun deck and electric vehicle charging stations, among other features.
The investment adds to HGI’s deep footprint in the Dallas-Fort Worth MSA, owning nearly 40 properties in this submarket throughout its history.
Flournoy Development Group Breaks Ground on 377-Unit Ellison Nona Multifamily Community in Orlando’s Thriving Lake Nona Submarket
LAKE NONA, FL – Flournoy Development Group and JR West announced the groundbreaking of Ellison Nona, the newest addition to Ellison, Flournoy’s premier multifamily brand. Located in the thriving Lake Nona submarket of Orlando, Florida, the development spans approximately 14.2 acres and features 377 thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences tailored to a variety of lifestyle needs.
The “Class A” community embodies luxury, convenience, and connectivity, offering a distinguished living experience with a range of premium amenities. The free-standing clubhouse will include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a yoga and spin studio, a virtual golf simulator, and a resort-style pool overlooking Lake Whippoorwill. Outdoor amenities include a dog park, pickleball court, grilling pavilion, and multiple lakefront docks. The community incorporates modern work-from-home conveniences, including coworking spaces and dedicated conference rooms. An integrated leasing and mailroom facility with a grab-and-go mini-market adds further convenience. Secure, gated access, tuck-under garages, and surface parking for 593 vehicles round out the thoughtful design.
“We are thrilled to commence construction on Ellison Nona, a transformative project that reflects our commitment to creating vibrant, elevated communities,” said Blake Breimann, President and CEO for Flournoy Development Group. “This unique location in Lake Nona provides unparalleled access to major employment centers, world-class healthcare, and exceptional lifestyle amenities.”
Situated along the dynamic Narcoossee Road corridor, Ellison Nona offers residents immediate access to FL-417, the Lake Nona Town Center, and Orlando International Airport (MCO). The site features stunning views and direct access to Lake Whippoorwill, including a public walking trail connecting adjacent properties and a two-story clubhouse with lakefront amenities. Key transportation options include proximity to major highways and the recently expanded Brightline high-speed rail system at MCO, enhancing connectivity to Miami, West Palm Beach, and future destinations such as Tampa and Walt Disney World.
Lake Nona’s vibrant economy, driven by healthcare, corporate campuses, and educational institutions, supports a rapidly growing employment base. The project is only 20 miles from Walt Disney World Resort, the state’s largest employer, and 7 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO). Other major employers near the community include Lake Nona Medical City, which houses Nemours Children’s Hospital, the VA Medical Center, and the UCF College of Medicine. Corporate campuses for industry leaders such as KPMG, Amazon Robotics Distribution Center, and Verizon further bolster the local job market.
This project represents a highly competitive addition to the market, with its proximity to FL-417 making it the most accessible apartment community on Narcoossee Road. The luxury development also offers conditioned corridors, expansive lake views, and a public walking trail, providing an elevated living experience unmatched by other properties in the area.
The Ellison Nona project team includes architect Forum Architecture & Interior Design, contractor FaverGray, Civil Engineer Kimley-Horn, and the community will be managed by Flournoy Properties Group.