Urban Genesis Company Profile

Background

Overview

Urban Genesis is a privately held real estate investment and development firm headquartered in Houston, Texas. Established in 2013, the company specializes in urban-infill multifamily housing and, more recently, light industrial assets. Operating with a vertically integrated platform, Urban Genesis manages acquisitions, development, construction, and property management. Its portfolio spans major Texas metropolitan areas, including Houston, Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio.

Mission and Vision

Urban Genesis is committed to addressing housing affordability by identifying and resolving supply and demand imbalances in Texas real estate. The company aims to strengthen community living and working environments through thoughtful development and innovative solutions.

Industry Significance

As a key player in the Texas real estate market, Urban Genesis contributes to the development of diverse housing solutions, including market-rate urban apartments, mixed-income communities, and build-to-rent housing. Its focus on urban-infill projects supports sustainable growth and revitalization in densely populated areas.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Affordable Housing Development: Addressing the need for affordable housing by developing properties that cater to various income levels.

Urban Revitalization: Transforming underutilized urban spaces into vibrant communities through strategic development.

Diversification: Expanding into light industrial assets to stabilize cash flows and reduce market volatility.

Areas of Specialization

Multifamily Housing: Developing high-quality residential units in urban settings.

Mixed-Income Communities: Creating inclusive neighborhoods that offer housing options for all income levels.

Build-to-Rent Housing: Providing rental homes that offer the benefits of single-family living without the responsibilities of ownership.

Key Technologies Utilized

Urban Genesis employs advanced construction techniques and project management software to streamline development processes and ensure quality control. The company also utilizes data analytics to assess market trends and inform investment decisions.

Primary Markets Targeted

The company's developments are concentrated in major Texas metropolitan areas, including Houston, Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio, focusing on urban-infill projects that meet the housing needs of growing populations.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Urban Genesis has secured significant funding to support its development projects. In August 2023, the company received a $46 million loan from U.S. Bank to finance the Oasis at Stone Oak project in San Antonio, a build-to-rent community comprising 284 homes.

Total Funds Raised

While specific figures for total funds raised are not publicly disclosed, Urban Genesis has demonstrated the ability to secure substantial financing for its projects, indicating strong investor confidence.

Notable Investors

The company has attracted investment from various financial institutions and private equity firms, though specific investor names are not publicly disclosed.

Utilization of Capital

Funds are primarily allocated towards land acquisition, construction, and development of residential and light industrial properties, as well as operational expenses related to property management and marketing.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Oasis at Stone Oak: A build-to-rent community in San Antonio featuring 284 homes, with the first phase expected to complete in 15 months.

Highline Series: Development of Class A housing in urban areas to cater to the "missing middle" workforce.

COOP Series: Mixed-income communities developed through Public Facility Corporation partnerships.

Victory Series: Renovation of Class B/C assets to provide affordable housing options.

Stages of Development

Urban Genesis is involved in various stages of development, from initial planning and design to construction and property management, ensuring comprehensive oversight and quality control throughout the project lifecycle.

Target Conditions

The company's developments aim to address housing shortages, affordability issues, and urban revitalization needs in Texas metropolitan areas.

Anticipated Milestones

Oasis at Stone Oak: Completion of the first phase in 15 months, with subsequent phases completed in five-month increments.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Urban Genesis employs proprietary construction methods and project management systems to enhance efficiency and quality in its developments.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company utilizes data analytics and market research to inform development decisions, ensuring projects meet current and future housing demands.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Matt Shafiezadeh: Founder and CEO, leading the company's strategic direction and overseeing all operations.

Gahl Shalev: Vice President of Investments and Development, responsible for managing investment strategies and development projects.

Pouya Feizpour: Development Director, overseeing the planning and execution of development projects.

Humphrey Nkosi: Security Supervisor, ensuring the safety and security of company assets and personnel.

Jeffrey McAdory: Design Lead, responsible for the architectural and design aspects of development projects.

Veronika Jackson: Asset Manager, managing the company's property portfolio and ensuring optimal performance.

Market and Competitor Analysis

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Texas real estate market is characterized by rapid population growth, urbanization, and a strong demand for diverse housing options. This environment presents opportunities for developers to address housing shortages and affordability challenges.

Competitor Analysis

Urban Genesis faces competition from other real estate development firms operating in Texas, including:

OriginCorp: Specializes in residential and commercial developments across Texas.

Greenland USA: Focuses on large-scale mixed-use developments in urban areas.

Terracom: Engages in residential and commercial real estate development with a focus on sustainable projects.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Urban Genesis collaborates with financial institutions, private equity firms, and local government entities to secure funding and support for its development projects.

Operational Insights

The company's vertically integrated model allows for greater control over project quality and timelines, providing a competitive edge in the market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Urban Genesis plans to expand its portfolio by:

Entering New Markets: Exploring development opportunities in additional Texas cities and neighboring states.

Diversifying Asset Types: Investing in mixed-use developments and other asset classes to mitigate risk.

Enhancing Sustainability: Incorporating green building practices and sustainable design into future projects.

Future Business Directions

The company aims to strengthen its position as a leading developer of affordable and sustainable housing solutions in urban areas.

Opportunities for Expansion

Urban Genesis is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for housing in Texas metropolitan areas, particularly in urban-infill projects that address housing shortages and affordability issues.

Current Strengths

The company's integrated approach, experienced leadership team, and diverse portfolio provide a solid foundation for achieving its future objectives.