Dornin Investment Group: Comprehensive Company Profile
Background
Dornin Investment Group (DIG) is a fully integrated real estate investment firm with offices in Laguna Beach, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada. Founded by Chris Dornin, the company specializes in distressed, opportunistic, and value-add investments across various property types, including office, industrial, multifamily, and hospitality sectors. DIG's mission is to identify and capitalize on real estate opportunities that offer significant value creation through strategic acquisition, development, and management.
Key Strategic Focus
DIG's strategic focus centers on acquiring and managing distressed and value-add real estate assets. The firm targets non-performing loans (NPLs) secured by well-collateralized properties, aiming to unlock value through restructuring and repositioning. DIG's primary markets include major metropolitan areas across the United States, with a particular emphasis on regions demonstrating strong economic fundamentals and growth potential.
Financials and Funding
Since its inception, DIG has completed over $1.9 billion in investments across 81 transactions. The firm collaborates with a broad base of institutional and private investors to fund its acquisitions and development projects. Notable financial activities include the acquisition of a $185.6 million non-performing loan secured by Campanile Plaza in Atlanta in 2021 and a $60 million non-performing loan secured by a San Diego industrial park in 2024.
Pipeline Development
DIG maintains a robust pipeline of projects, focusing on the acquisition of non-performing loans and value-add properties. In 2024, the firm acquired a 20-building, 413,172-square-foot light industrial portfolio in Reno/Sparks, Nevada, for $70 million. Additionally, DIG has plans to deploy another $100 million in non-performing loan purchases within a 45-day period, with an overall pipeline exceeding $400 million.
Technological Platform and Innovation
DIG leverages a comprehensive, vertically integrated platform that encompasses asset and property management, leasing, design services, construction management, and capital markets advisory. This integrated approach enables the firm to efficiently manage complex real estate investments and execute value-add strategies effectively.
Leadership Team
- Chris Dornin: Founder and CEO, Chris Dornin has led DIG since its inception, overseeing the firm's strategic direction and investment activities.
- Marcella Dornin: Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Marcella Dornin manages the firm's operational functions, ensuring seamless execution of investment strategies.
Leadership Changes
As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within DIG's leadership team.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The real estate investment sector, particularly in distressed and value-add assets, has experienced increased activity due to economic cycles and market fluctuations. Investors are seeking opportunities to acquire underperforming assets with potential for repositioning and value creation.
Competitor Analysis
Key competitors in the distressed and value-add real estate investment space include firms such as Blackstone Group, Starwood Capital Group, and Oaktree Capital Management. These firms focus on acquiring underperforming assets and implementing strategies to enhance value through operational improvements and market repositioning.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
DIG has established significant partnerships to support its investment activities. In 2025, the firm secured a $41 million bridge loan from Southern Realty Trust for a mixed-use asset in South Florida. Additionally, DIG has collaborated with Calmwater Capital for note-on-note financing, including a $41.9 million facility for a San Diego industrial park acquisition in 2024.
Operational Insights
DIG's vertically integrated platform provides a competitive advantage by enabling comprehensive management of the investment lifecycle, from acquisition to disposition. This approach allows for greater control over asset performance and the ability to implement value-add strategies effectively.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, DIG plans to continue expanding its portfolio through the acquisition of non-performing loans and value-add properties. The firm aims to deploy significant capital in the near term, with a focus on markets demonstrating strong economic fundamentals and growth potential.
Contact Information
For more information about Dornin Investment Group, please visit their official website: www.dorningroup.com
Note: Specific contact details such as address, phone number, and email have been omitted as per the provided instructions.
