PENLER, the Atlanta-based multifamily investment and development firm, has announced a significant milestone as its portfolio surpasses USD 1 billion in value, highlighting accelerated growth across the Sunbelt region.

The firm’s expansion has been driven by three major acquisitions, two new development projects, and the addition of six senior and mid-level professionals to its team. Over the past six months, PENLER has increased its portfolio to nearly USD 1 billion, while total transaction volume now stands at more than USD 1.64 billion, including six successful property dispositions totalling over USD 430 million.

“These investments reflect our continued commitment to thoughtful expansion in high-growth Sunbelt markets,” said Brian Metzler, managing partner at PENLER. “Eclipsing the $1 billion mark in just six years is a testament to the strength of our platform, the conviction of our capital partners and the talent of our dedicated team. We are optimistic operations and capital flows will improve and see tremendous opportunity ahead.”

Acquisitions and Developments

In partnership with a real estate fund advised by Crow Holdings Capital, PENLER has acquired three properties in prime Sunbelt locations. Plans are underway to enhance each site through unit renovations and community amenity upgrades. The properties include:

• Botanic Waterside, a 320-unit Class A community in Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch, Florida
  
• Trace Midtown, a 290-unit high-rise apartment complex in Atlanta, Georgia
  
• Eleven85, a 288-unit garden-style property in Atlanta, Georgia
  

Complementing these acquisitions, PENLER has broken ground on two new projects in Florida. Construction has begun on a 20-acre development in Lakewood Ranch, which will deliver 294 garden-style units, alongside a seven-acre site in Clermont, an affluent suburb west of Orlando, set to introduce 262 new rental homes.

Strengthening the Leadership Team

To support this momentum, PENLER has bolstered its leadership with six new hires in 2025. Key appointments include:

• Chris Doscher, managing director of construction and development, bringing 25 years of industry experience.
  
• Jon Gilliam, chief financial officer, with over 15 years of institutional real estate expertise.
  
• Mark Hinshaw, stepping into the role of chief operating officer after serving as CFO.
  

Further strengthening the team are Daniel Harari (vice president, leading development site sourcing), Wyatt Smith (asset management), Mason Valk (accounting and finance), and Riley Haynie (investment analyst, focused on acquisitions).

“After a prolonged period of depressed transactional volumes and downward rent pressure, we are excited about the future. Having the right leaders in place is essential as we prepare for continued growth,” said Graham Carpenter, managing partner at PENLER. “Chris and Jon bring a superb combination of experience, leadership and strategy. Their guidance will be critical as we expand our portfolio and drive long-term value across our properties.”

Looking Ahead

With a clear focus on high-growth metropolitan areas across the Southeast, PENLER intends to continue executing a disciplined growth strategy, leveraging strong partnerships, experienced leadership, and targeted acquisitions to build long-term value.