Empowered Returns: Recent Episodes
CHARLESGATE
Welcome to Empowered Returns, a show that surfaces forward thinking advice that real estate investors and developers need to help them invest smarter and build better. On Empowered Returns, we share weekly conversations with real estate leaders that go so far beyond best practices and dig much deeper into the actionable advice that gives you an unfair advantage to empower market-beating returns for you and your investment partners. From pre-entitlement to long-term ownership, we break down the innovative strategies and tactics built for today’s market that help you identify, underwrite, design, build, go-to-market, and operate real estate deals in a way that other investors simply can’t.
Discover the pivotal role of brand identity in real estate on this episode of Empowered Returns. We delve into the process of crafting a resonant brand, from historical research shaping community connections, to ongoing brand refinement driving leasing and marketing success. We are joined by Chris Arnold and Bryant Hughes from Authentic.
Learn about the art of controlling your online narrative efficiently, without the need for a full-time team. While branding is often viewed as an expense, we unpack how it's an investment that fuels results—drawing residents, elevating rents, and enhancing property performance.
Explore the streamlined tool, "Amplify," designed to enhance branding and leasing experiences seamlessly. We also discuss the value of creating a brand playbook, a compass steering your brand through the dynamic real estate landscape.
Tune in to grasp how a strong brand identity isn't just integral—it's transformative, turning properties into thriving communities that underscore the prowess of strategic branding.
Hosted by Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
Discover the Future of Property Access Control! Join an eye-opening podcast interview with Cyrus Claffey, the visionary founder of Butterfly MX, a revolutionary PropTech company. Delve into the dynamic world of PropTech and its game-changing impact on the real estate industry. Uncover the secrets behind Butterfly MX's cutting-edge solution, a smart intercom and access control system that's redefining property management.
Explore the Wonders of PropTech: Gain insights into the rapid growth and transformational potential of PropTech, paving the way for unprecedented operational efficiency, heightened security, and elevated resident experiences. Unleash the Power of Butterfly MX: Unravel the magic behind this retrofittable marvel, perfectly blending modern technology with classic brownstones and heritage properties. Discover how it's streamlining access and package deliveries, making life easier for residents and property managers alike.
Revolutionize Design with AI: Be captivated by the concept of AI-powered design tools that generate stunning renderings and 3D floor plans based on mere verbal specifications, revolutionizing the way buildings are conceived and constructed. Peek into Cyrus Claffey's World: Uncover the fascinating personality behind the visionary founder of Butterfly MX as he shares his insights into the future of property management and the driving force behind PropTech innovations.
Uncover the Value of PropTech: Witness how PropTech solutions like Butterfly MX offer a lifeline during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, providing unbeatable advantages in property management and resident satisfaction. Step into the Future of Real Estate: Stay ahead of the curve by unraveling the trends, networking, and absorbing trade knowledge that propels property owners and managers towards unparalleled success.
Don't miss this captivating podcast episode, offering an exclusive glimpse into the remarkable innovations propelling the real estate industry towards a bright and promising future! Tune in and unlock the secrets of the PropTech revolution with Cyrus Claffey and Butterfly MX!
In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Rob Barresi, Senior Vice President at Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage. Rob joins us to delve into the fascinating world of insurance coverage for large-scale development projects.
In this captivating conversation, we'll explore the myriad challenges and strategies involved in securing insurance for these ambitious ventures. Rob emphasizes the vital importance of integrating insurance discussions right from the project's inception, alongside key players such as architects, subcontractors, legal teams, and lenders. We'll discover why this collaborative approach is more crucial than ever, as insurance not only impacts the project's initial stages but also plays a significant role throughout its stabilization phase.
Tune in to this enlightening episode as we explore the fascinating world of insurance coverage for large-scale development projects with our esteemed guest, Rob Barresi.
Hosted by Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
Join P.T. Vineburgh, founding partner at CHARLESGATE, as he sits down with Shant Banosian, the Executive Vice President at Guaranteed Rate, in this captivating episode.
Together, they dive into the ever-evolving landscape for investors, exploring the intriguing differences in interest rates between primary and investment properties. Banosian, a seasoned expert, also reveals valuable strategies for delivering exceptional products that enhance affordability in projects, all while harnessing the power of technology to revolutionize service within the mortgage industry. Prepare to gain valuable insights that can shape your investment journey.
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join P.T. Vineburgh, founding partner at CHARLESGATE, for an exciting interview with Troy Crema, co-founder, and CEO of Grata. Grata's smart technology app for multi-residential and condo buildings offers comprehensive solutions from sale to customer support, including implementation and adoption of the technology. With features such as access control, work orders, payment processing, rent payment, marketplace payments, booking of amenities, and parking management, Grata truly revolutionizes resident living.
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join P.T. Vineburgh, founding partner at CHARLESGATE as he interviews Jay Hirsh, the managing partner of Jumbo Capital Incorporated. In their conversation, they delve into the current challenges facing the real estate industry, examining the pandemic's impact on assets and the necessity for government intervention to bail out those in need. They touch upon Jumbo's mixed-use development projects, with a particular focus on Ham Shipyard's challenging transaction. Finally, they look to the future, discussing Jay's thoughts on the importance of effective design and development in order to create value for the end user.
This promises to be an informative and inspiring conversation about how professionals are managing during these times of uncertainty.
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Learn about the power of home staging! Melissa Morrissey, Founder and Design Director at Boston Modern Staging & Design joins us for a conversation on Empowered Returns. In this episode, we discuss the significance of real estate staging in home sales, balancing renderings against reality, and the future growth of Boston Modern Staging as a top-tier stager in the Boston real estate market.
Melissa also shares her top tips for making your home stand out in a crowded market during any time of year. Tune in to get all the details on how staging can make a big difference in enhancing your return on investment!
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join us for an engaging conversation with Chris Sower, Executive Managing Director at Cushman and Wakefield, as we delve into the profound impact of COVID-19 on the real estate market. Explore the contrasting experiences of properties navigating the new normal, some successfully adapting while others grapple with inherent structural limitations.
Discover the crucial role of research and data in optimizing business operations, particularly within the multifamily sector. Chris and his team keenly examine the desires and needs of individuals, focusing on multifamily properties and even uncovering opportunities to repurpose offices into residential spaces. Nevertheless, economic and political influences can pose challenges, dissuading potential investors in certain regions.
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join us as P.T. Vineburgh, Founding Partner at CHARLESGATE, sits down with Caleb Manchester, President of Gansett Ventures, a dynamic real estate investment and development firm in Boston.
In this captivating conversation, they dive into the crucial topic of investing in quality products for long-term ownership and why avoiding frequent replacements is key in the development industry. Discover the challenges they've faced while striking the delicate balance between working "in and on the business," and gain invaluable insights from their rich careers in the vibrant city of Boston.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to uncover the secrets of navigating the real estate development industry and learn how to create successful projects in the dynamic landscape of Greater Boston.
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join us for the latest episode of Empowered Returns, where we chat with Brian Sheehan, Principal at Capital Stack Commercial Real Estate Finance. Get ready for a deep dive into the captivating realm of the lending market as we explore its current challenges and their profound impact on development clients both in and out of Boston.
In this episode, we uncover key insights and notable developments shaping the lending market landscape. Join us as Brian shares his expertise and sheds light on the ever-changing dynamics of this unpredictable market. Discover why Boston offers a competitive advantage over other locations and gain valuable strategies to navigate the turbulent waters of the lending market.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
Join us on the next episode of Empowered Returns as we sit down with Mike Procopio, CEO of the Procopio Companies. In this episode, we'll delve into Procopio's transition from single-family to multifamily development and institutional-sized deals in the Greater Boston real estate market. Discover the keys to their success and how they leveraged it to gain access to institutional capital and partners. Throughout our conversation, Procopio emphasizes the importance of aligning expectations, accountabilities, and goal setting within a framework, and shares how his company's success in the market has led to significant growth. While continuing to build boutique multi-family projects, we'll also explore their strategy for entering new markets, with a focus on Raleigh, North Carolina. Beyond his insights on the real estate market, Procopio candidly discusses the challenges of dealing with interest rate expansions that affect development programs, as well as the importance of fostering a positive company culture to align expectations and accountabilities.
Tune in for a thoughtful discussion with host, P.T. Vineburgh. CHARLESGATE
Joe Hanley is a Partner and Director at the firm, specializing in land use, zoning, licensing and administrative law. His practice includes 25 years of experience in the State and Municipal regulatory process for large to mid-scale real estate development ventures in mixed-use, residential, commercial, hospitality, biotechnology/life sciences and institutional sectors, with specific expertise and extensive experience in the Boston Planning and Development Agency’s Article 80 Large Project Review process, Planned Development Area adoptions by the Boston Zoning Commission and Board of Appeal cases for Special Permits and Variances under the Boston Zoning Code. Joe’s land use practice also extends to client ventures in the cities of Somerville and Cambridge, where he has successfully entitled large-scale Master Plan Developments and secured Special Permits and Variances under their respective Zoning Ordinances and regulatory approvals process.
Joe is a member of the Board of Directors of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation, the former President and current Board member of Heading Home, Inc. and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Back Bay Association. As an original member of the New England Steering Committee for the 2008 Presidential Campaign of Barack Obama, he also served as an Obama Victory Trustee, National Finance Committee member and At-Large Delegate to the 2012 Democratic National Convention. From 1992 to 1994, Joe was an aide to then US Senator William S. Cohen. He graduated Cum Laude with his J.D. from Suffolk University Law School in Boston, Massachusetts and received his B.A. from the University of Maine.
In this quick hit episode, we are joined by Jared Clement, Director of Leasing at CHARLESGATE to discuss early marketing strategies for preleasing multifamily buildings.
Marketing and leasing a property much earlier than developers typically think yields significant benefits, including faster absorption, higher rents, and a better return on investment. Early marketing opens up multiple pre-leasing opportunities before the certificate of occupancy is granted, allowing the property to generate instant cash flow from the get-go. Tune in for a sneak peek at CHARLSGATE's playbook for lease-up marketing and how it is driving success in Boston's multifamily projects.
Hosted by Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
In this quick hit episode, we are joined by Jared Clement, Director of Leasing at CHARLESGATE to discuss the importance of convenient and well-planned amenities in apartment buildings. “While flashy amenities like pools and gyms are important, it's equally crucial to invest in smaller amenities that make residents' lives easier.” - Jared Clement. These might include smart locks, a well-designed package room with built-in recycling, and thoughtful interior design. Adding to this, Jared emphasizes the importance of having a high-quality leasing team that can effectively communicate these amenities to potential residents. By focusing on these core amenities and smaller details, apartment buildings can create a more functional and appealing community that will attract and retain tenants. Hosted by Michael DiMella CHARLESGATE
In this podcast episode, the Mike and Jared of CHARLESGATE discusses the concept of centralized leasing in the multifamily industry. They explain that their centralized leasing model involves three key parts: marketing, property management, and specialize on-demand leasing professionals who work in sync. They emphasize the importance of having a professional sales team for leasing rather than burdening assistant property managers with additional tasks. They also discuss the benefits of centralization, including cost savings and better revenue. The hosts share their experiences with implementing centralized leasing in their company and how it has led to remarkable results. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into how centralization can improve the leasing process in multifamily properties.
Hosted By P.T. Vineburgh and Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
We are joined by Ralph Parent, Managing Partner at Parent + Diamond for a discussion on minority inclusion in real estate development. Ralph works with established white construction and development companies to bridge gaps and build a better Boston.
Throughout this episode, Ralph emphasizes his focus on creating wealth and investing in the community, rather than simply developing more buildings or units in Boston. He believes that investing in minority-owned businesses is crucial for the city's economic growth and prosperity.
Towards the end of our discussion, we touch upon the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which has been a major focal point for Ralph and his company, Parent + Diamond. We dive into why DEI is so important, and how it can lead to a brighter future for everyone.
Listeners will gain invaluable insight into the importance of investing in minority-owned businesses and the role they play in building stronger communities.
CHARLESGATE
Hosted by Michael DiMella & P.T. Vineburgh
In this episode, we’re joined by Christine Mulvey, Director of Marketing & Communications at CHARLESGATE, as she discusses the importance of developing a go-to-market strategy for marketing new developments in the real estate industry.
During this insightful conversation with CHARLESGATE’s Founder Michael DiMella, Mulvey reveals some of the key differentiators in CHARLESGATE’s strategy when working with developers to bring new buildings to market in the competitive Boston real estate market.
Mulvey emphasizes the need for strong content campaigns that target specific audiences, building a brand that truly resonates with prospective buyers and renters, consistency in branding and messaging, as well as the need for real-time marketing and iteration to be effective.
If you're interested in the real estate industry, or looking to market your own property, you won't want to miss this thought-provoking episode with two of CHARLESGATE's leaders.
Hosted by Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
We are excited to be joined by Patrick Callahan, President at Callahan Construction in Boston. Patrick brings with him a wealth of experience in the construction industry and will be sharing his insights on the challenges and opportunities in this constantly evolving field.
As President of Callahan Construction, Patrick is no stranger to the difficulties that come with running a business in the construction industry. From the high cost and limited availability of labor to the challenge of finding qualified workers, navigating ever-changing regulations and laws, and the need to manage a tight budget, there are numerous hurdles to overcome.
However, despite these challenges, Patrick sees plenty of opportunities for businesses in the construction industry to succeed.
Tune in on March 22, 2023 for the full episode!
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh and Michael DiMella
CHARLESGATE
The next Episode of Empowered Returns features special guest, Eric Shinrock, Executive Vice President at The Mount Vernon Company.
Eric joins P.T. Vineburgh for an insightful conversation on Eric’s transition from the world of large institutional development to starting his own successful firm in Boston. Learn Eric’s current approach to finding and entitling great projects at The Mount Vernon Company and the importance of great design in real estate development.
CHARLESGATE
Hosted by P.T. Vineburgh
On the next Episode of Empowered Returns we are joined by Eric Robinson, Co-Founder and Principal, RODE Architects to discuss a range of topics in the architecture and design industry in Boston.
Hear details about Eric’s background and how RODE has differentiated itself through their community engagement process and unique design work - bringing the most value to their clients. From multifamily, to hospitality and life science projects, RODE has a wide range of design expertise. Their forward thinking approach to the design process as a whole truly stands out in the Boston real estate community. Tune in for this fascinating episode that highlights the importance of having a great architectural partner in the real estate development process.
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CHARLESGATE
Hosted by Michael DiMella & P.T. Vineburgh
In this episode of Empowered Returns, we are joined by Ricky Beliveau, owner of Volnay Capital, Volnay Management, V10 Development, EVO Real Estate Group and EVO Origin Funding in Boston.
This jammed-packed episode covers various real estate development topics including acquiring and entitlements, structuring deals with contingencies, succeeding in new markets and lessons learned growing several successful businesses.
All of this paired with Ricky’s interesting backstory from flipper to real estate developer make for a must-listen episode.
EmpoweredReturns
CHARLESGATE
Hosted by Michael DiMella and P.T. Vineburgh
Chapters:
0:35 Ricky’s Background & Intro to Real Estate
4:51 Moving to Development
6:02 Rick’s Flywheel of Busineses
7:18 Building the Right Team
9:50 Starting @KitchensofInstagram Account: Power of Social Media
11:24 Pivoting to New Development in East Boston
13:31 Entitlements, Approach & Execution
17:55 Contingencies & Entitlements
23:12 Succeeding in New Markets
29:20 Learning About New Markets
31:05 Building Your Capital Stack
37:31 Lessons Learned
40:05 Growing the Business
41:38 The Importance of Communication
43:50 Working With the Right Partners
48:52: Looking Ahead
50:08 Branding & GTM Strategy for New Buildings
54:44 Model Units & Pricing
On this episode of Empowered Returns, we are excited to welcome Rens Hayes, Founding Partner at H + O Structural Engineering.
Join us as Rens takes us on a journey through the establishment and growth of his company, sharing valuable insights on organization building, leadership, and company culture. We delve into the challenges of developing client relationships, balancing scale with return, and the importance of employee productivity and development.
In addition to exploring the inner workings of H + O Structural Engineering, this episode also provides a broader look at the development industry as a whole. Rens shares his perspective as a true partner in the industry, discussing current trends and ongoing projects. Tune in to learn how H + O Structural Engineering has made a name for itself in just a few years at a national scale.
EmpoweredReturns. Subscribe for new episodes every Wednesday!
Hosted by Michael DiMella & P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
On this episode, we are excited to welcome Bryan Lee, Principal at Transom, a Boston-based real estate development firm.
Bryan shares his journey from working in large institutional real estate development to starting his own successful firm. He discusses the challenges he faced along the way and the lessons he learned from his experiences.
We dive deep into Bryan's current approach to finding and entitling great projects at Transom and the importance of great design in real estate development. He shares his thoughts on how design can enhance the livability and sustainability of development, as well as its economic potential.
Tune in to this episode to learn how Transom is setting itself apart in the competitive Boston market.
EmpoweredReturns. Subscribe for new episodes every Wednesday!
Hosted by Michael DiMella & P.T. Vineburgh
CHARLESGATE
In this episode of Empowered Returns, we delve into the complex world of political influences in real estate development. Our special guest, David Goldman of New Boston Ventures, shares his unique perspective on the changes to the built environment in many Boston neighborhoods and how his background in politics has shaped his approach to real estate development.
David will discuss the power of community partnerships in creating successful development opportunities and the current state of the affordable housing conversation in Boston. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities for supporting the city's economic growth and shaping its future.
Subscribe now to Empowered Returns and be sure to tune in every Wednesday.
On this episode of Empowered Returns, join us as we explore creating a people-centered workplace culture and elevating women's roles in commercial real estate.
We'll talk about designing employee programs that promote work-life balance and wellness, how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted operations at many organizations, and discuss the importance of implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in commercial real estate. Our special guest, Leslie Cohen, Chief Operating Officer at The Davis Companies, shares her insights.
Tune in for this insightful conversation and don't forget to subscribe for new episodes every Wednesday!
Overall Themes: Workplace Culture, Focus on People, Work-Life Balance, Community Engagement, Enhancement of Women’s roles in the real estate industry.
Guest Bio: As Chief Operating Officer, Leslie Cohen is a key contributor to Davis’ business strategy and is responsible for driving its successful implementation and financial performance.
Leslie serves as the Chairperson of the Company’s Executive Committee and as a voting member of its Investment Committee. She is also responsible for fostering and maintaining an inclusive corporate culture, one that ensures employee engagement and retention, and for overseeing the successful implementation of that strategy.
Leslie most recently served as the COO and Head of Asset Management for Samuels & Associates where she was responsible for executing the strategic vision of the firm across numerous multi-million dollar developments in Boston and the surrounding communities.
An active leader in the region’s real estate community, Leslie served as the President of CREW Boston (formerly NEWiRE); she is currently on the NAIOP MA Board Management Committee and was 2020 President of NAIOP MA. She has co-chaired the Heading Home Housewarming event for several years and is now a member of their Board. The combination of professional success and civic engagement has resulted in numerous honors, including recognition as a Bisnow’s Power Women in Commercial Real Estate, a Woman who Means Business by Boston Business Journal and multiple awards from CREW Boston.
A resident of Brookline, Cohen has a BCSE in Engineering from Tufts University and a MBA from Babson University.