The real estate investment industry in the US focuses on acquiring, developing, and managing properties for profit. Companies range from small firms to large, established entities, specializing in various asset classes like residential, commercial, and industrial. As economic trends shift, there's a growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible investing, reflecting a market that adapts to both social and environmental concerns. Innovative funding models, such as crowdfunding platforms, have gained traction, democratizing access to real estate investments. As technology changes, firms are increasingly leveraging data analytics to identify trends, ensuring they remain competitive in a fast-evolving landscape.

The companies listed are a mix of family-owned and corporate entities, primarily based in major cities like New York, Chicago, and Houston. Founded from the 1960s to 2010s, many firms like Hines and PGIM Real Estate manage substantial assets, exceeding $200 billion in total. From multimillion-dollar investment projects to specialized asset management, these firms serve institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals, showcasing a spectrum of services like development, asset management, and sustainability initiatives. Their varied workforce ranges from boutique firms with small teams to larger companies employing thousands.

Continue reading to explore the top real estate investment companies in the US.

Top 22 Real Estate Investment Companies in the US

1. Starwood Capital Group

• Website: starwoodcapital.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, United Kingdom (UK) 18%, Luxembourg 7%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: September 2016
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: starwood-capital-group

Starwood Capital Group is a private investment firm based in the United States, founded in 1991. The company specializes in real estate investments, focusing on acquiring and managing a variety of real estate assets. Starwood Capital has a particular expertise in navigating complex transactions, often dealing with properties sold by the Resolution Trust Corporation. The firm serves a clientele that includes institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals, providing tailored investment strategies and insights into the real estate market. With a workforce of approximately 696 employees, the company has a significant presence in the U.S., U.K., and Luxembourg, reflecting its international reach and commitment to the real estate sector.

2. Hines

• Website: hines.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 66%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Germany 4%, Other 24%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $84.6M, October 2023
• Founded year: 1957
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hines

Hines is a private real estate investment firm based in Houston, Texas, founded in 1957. The company specializes in investment management, acquisitions, and development services, catering to investors and businesses seeking real estate opportunities. Hines operates across various sectors, including office, retail, and industrial real estate, and has a global footprint with operations in 31 countries. As of June 2024, Hines manages approximately $93 billion in assets, showcasing its significant role in the industry. The firm has acquired around 611 projects totaling over 266 million square feet, reflecting its extensive experience and capability in sourcing and managing real estate investments. Hines also emphasizes sustainability and community impact through its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, further solidifying its commitment to responsible investment practices.

3. PGIM Real Estate

• Website: pgimrealestate.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newark, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Singapore 5%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: pgim-real-estate

PGIM Real Estate is a prominent real estate investment management firm based in Newark, New Jersey. Founded in 1970, the company has over 50 years of experience in the sector, providing a variety of investment solutions that include real estate equity, debt, and sustainable investing. PGIM Real Estate serves a wide range of clients, from institutional investors to individual investors, helping them navigate the complexities of real estate markets. The firm manages a substantial portfolio, with $206 billion in assets under management and administration. Their global footprint spans 35 cities, allowing them to leverage local market knowledge and expertise. PGIM Real Estate is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, which reflects a growing trend in the investment community towards responsible investing. The company has a strong focus on risk management and client-centric service, positioning itself as a reliable partner in real estate investment.

4. Thor Equities Group

• Website: thorequities.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, United Kingdom (UK) 23%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $37.0M, November 2024
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: thor-equities

Thor Equities Group is a private real estate investment firm based in New York City, with a significant presence in key urban markets across the Americas and Europe. Founded in 1986 by Joseph J. Sitt, the company specializes in the management and development of various property types, including logistics, life sciences, hospitality, and mixed-use assets. Thor Equities serves institutional investors and businesses, leveraging its expertise to maximize property value and deliver strong returns. The firm has a robust portfolio, boasting over $20 billion in assets under management and a pipeline of 50 million square feet of real estate. With a workforce of approximately 142 employees, Thor Equities operates in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, and has satellite offices in major cities worldwide. Their recent funding of $36.95 million in debt further underscores their active role in the market and commitment to growth.

5. Jamestown

• Website: jamestownlp.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Netherlands 6%, Germany 3%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: October 2022
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: jamestown

Jamestown L.P. is a family-owned real estate investment and management firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, founded in 1983. The company has built a reputation for specializing in commercial and mixed-use properties, catering to both institutional and individual investors. With approximately $11.7 billion in assets under management, Jamestown operates across the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Their portfolio features iconic properties such as One Times Square in New York City and Ponce City Market in Atlanta. Jamestown's strategy focuses on enhancing property value through in-house capabilities in areas like development, asset management, and creative marketing. The firm has executed transactions totaling around $40 billion, showcasing its extensive experience in the industry. Jamestown also emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility, aiming to create spaces that foster community engagement and innovation.

6. Aew

• Website: aew.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: France 36%, United States (USA) 35%, Germany 10%, Other 20%
• Latest funding: September 2024
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: aew-global

AEW is a Boston-based real estate investment management company founded in 1981. With a workforce of approximately 1,184 employees, AEW specializes in managing assets for institutional investors. The firm operates globally, with a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. AEW offers a variety of investment strategies, including core, core plus, opportunistic, and real estate securities strategies. They manage a substantial portfolio, with $84.4 billion in assets under management across various property types. AEW's approach is research-driven, integrating economic insights into their investment decision-making process. Their commitment to sustainability and responsible investment practices further enhances their profile in the industry, making them a noteworthy entity in real estate investment management.

7. Heitman

• Website: heitman.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Hong Kong S.A.R 3%, Other 9%
• Latest funding: $110.0M, January 2018
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: heitman

Heitman LLC, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent real estate investment management firm founded in 1966. The company specializes in various investment strategies, including private equity real estate, private debt, and public real estate securities. With a focus on serving institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals, Heitman leverages its extensive expertise to navigate the complexities of real estate investments. As of June 30, 2024, Heitman manages over $48 billion in assets, reflecting its significant role in the market. The firm operates globally, with a workforce that spans across the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Japan, and Germany. Heitman's commitment to research and client service is evident in its structured approach to investment, which integrates in-house research with real-time market insights. This strategic alignment aims to meet the financial objectives of its clients while adapting to changing market conditions.

8. Crescent Real Estate LLC

• Website: crescent.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: November 2018
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: crescentrealestatellc

Crescent Real Estate LLC, based in Fort Worth, Texas, is a private commercial real estate investment and development firm. Founded in 1994, the company specializes in acquiring, developing, and managing high-end properties across the United States. With a portfolio that includes office buildings, hotels, and multifamily units, Crescent caters primarily to institutional investors and high net-worth clients. The firm has a strong operational framework, employing over 230 professionals who leverage their expertise to navigate the complexities of the real estate market. Crescent has successfully executed more than 260 transactions since its inception, showcasing its ability to adapt and thrive in various economic conditions. The company emphasizes capital preservation and strategic alignment with its investors, which is reflected in its GP Invitation Fund series, designed to provide clients with direct ownership of institutional-quality real estate. As of February 2024, Crescent manages approximately $4.5 billion in assets, underscoring its significant presence in the industry.

9. Clarion Partners LLC

• Website: clarionpartners.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $585.0M, January 2016
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: clarion-partners-llc

Clarion Partners LLC is a New York-based real estate investment firm that specializes in asset management and investment strategies across multiple property types. Established in 1982, the firm has grown to manage approximately $74.2 billion in assets, catering primarily to institutional investors. Clarion Partners focuses on identifying and managing real estate assets to create long-term value, employing a performance-driven approach that emphasizes research and market insights. The company operates globally, with a strong presence in the United States and Europe, and is involved in various sectors including industrial, multifamily, office, retail, and hospitality. Clarion Partners also emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in its operations, reflecting a commitment to sustainable investment practices.

10. Gid

• Website: gid.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1960
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: gid-investment-advisers-llc

GID is a private real estate investment firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1960. With a workforce of approximately 520 employees, GID operates nationwide from multiple offices, including Atlanta, Dallas, New York City, and San Francisco. The company specializes in multifamily, industrial, and mixed-use developments, providing a range of services such as property and asset management, development, and acquisitions. GID manages a substantial portfolio, boasting $29.1 billion in assets under management and over 56,000 multifamily units. Their focus on creating sustainable communities and delivering economic value through real estate solutions positions them as a significant player in the industry. GID actively engages with both institutional investors and individual consumers, demonstrating their versatility and commitment to the real estate market.

11. Waterton

• Website: waterton.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: waterton

Waterton is a family-owned real estate investment and property management firm based in Chicago, Illinois. Established in 1995, the company specializes in multifamily and hospitality properties, managing a national portfolio for institutional investors and family offices. Waterton focuses on enhancing property value through strategic management and construction services, demonstrating a hands-on approach to real estate investment. As of June 30, 2024, their portfolio includes approximately $10 billion in real estate assets, showcasing their significant presence in the market. The company operates in over 25 markets across the United States, reflecting a broad geographic footprint. Waterton is also committed to being a positive force in the communities they serve, engaging in sustainability practices and charitable initiatives.

12. Trammell Crow Residential

• Website: crowholdings.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: trammell-crow-residential

Trammell Crow Residential, a subsidiary of Crow Holdings, specializes in the development and investment of multifamily properties. Founded in 1977 and based in Dallas, Texas, the company has built a strong portfolio that includes luxury apartment communities across key markets in the United States. With a focus on high-quality construction and design, Trammell Crow Residential has successfully launched numerous projects, such as the Alexan communities in Greater Los Angeles and Greater Boston. The firm operates with a hands-on approach, leveraging its extensive market knowledge and experience to identify and capitalize on investment opportunities. Their commitment to sustainability and community impact is evident in their development practices, which aim to enhance the living experience for residents while also addressing environmental concerns. Trammell Crow Residential is part of a larger family-owned enterprise, Crow Holdings, which emphasizes long-term partnerships and strategic investments in real estate.

13. Northwood Investors LLC

• Website: northwoodinvestors.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 66%, United Kingdom (UK) 26%, Luxembourg 6%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: northwood-investors-llc

Northwood Investors LLC is a real estate investment firm based in Denver, Colorado, founded in 2006 by John Z. Kukral, a former executive at Blackstone Real Estate Advisors. The company specializes in asset management and property management services, targeting high-quality real estate assets across multiple sectors, including office, hospitality, retail, multifamily, and urban logistics. Northwood operates with a vertically-integrated model, which means they manage their properties in-house, allowing for better control and optimization of asset performance. As of December 2023, they have deployed approximately $8.5 billion in equity and manage a total gross value of $15 billion. The firm serves both institutional and private clients, emphasizing a value-driven investment strategy that seeks attractive risk-adjusted returns while limiting downside risk. Their team of over 260 professionals brings extensive experience in sourcing, executing, and managing real estate transactions globally, further solidifying their position in the industry.

14. CrowdStreet

• Website: crowdstreet.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), October 2022
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: crowdstreet-inc-

CrowdStreet is a Portland, Oregon-based real estate investment platform founded in 2013. The company specializes in connecting accredited investors with a wide array of commercial real estate investment opportunities. Through its online marketplace, CrowdStreet allows individual and institutional investors to access projects that were traditionally available only to larger entities. The platform features various investment options, including real estate debt funds and multifamily value-add acquisitions. CrowdStreet has successfully funded over 790 projects across multiple asset classes and geographies, totaling around $4.4 billion in investments. The company emphasizes a rigorous screening and due diligence process, ensuring that investors are well-informed about the opportunities available. Additionally, CrowdStreet provides educational resources to help investors navigate the complexities of commercial real estate investing.

15. Rockpoint

• Website: rockpoint.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: January 2022
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rockpoint-group

Rockpoint is a Boston-based real estate investment firm founded in 2003. The company specializes in acquiring and managing high-quality assets across various property types, including residential, industrial, and hospitality. With a disciplined investment approach, Rockpoint aims to identify opportunities that yield strong returns for its clients, which include institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. The firm has a notable track record, having committed approximately $30 billion in capital across 504 investments, with net assets under management totaling $14 billion as of June 30, 2024. Rockpoint's strategy involves a thorough analysis of market opportunities, focusing on properties that are inefficiently priced or misunderstood by the broader market. Their commitment to responsible investment practices is evident in their consideration of environmental, social, and governance factors, which they believe can enhance long-term value. Rockpoint operates from multiple offices, including locations in San Francisco, Dallas, London, Dubai, and Seoul, showcasing their global reach in the real estate sector.

16. Rastegar Property Company

• Website: rastegarproperty.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rastegarproperty

Rastegar Property Company, based in Austin, Texas, is a private real estate investment firm that specializes in commercial real estate. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on providing investment opportunities across various asset classes, including office, industrial, and multifamily properties. Rastegar Property aims to build sustainable wealth for its clients, which include high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors. The firm has successfully invested in 38 cities across 12 states, managing a portfolio that exceeds 3.5 million square feet of real estate. Rastegar Property is known for its commitment to transparency and ethical investment practices, prioritizing wealth preservation and targeting recession-resilient asset classes. The company also offers educational resources to help investors navigate the complexities of real estate investing, further solidifying its role in the industry.

17. Amherst

• Website: amherst.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Costa Rica 27%, India 7%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $16.9M, August 2014
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: amherst

Amherst is a private equity firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in 1993. The company focuses on real estate investment, development, and management, particularly in fragmented markets. They serve a range of clients, including institutional investors and families seeking quality rental homes. Amherst has built a vertically integrated platform that allows them to manage every aspect of real estate transactions, from acquisition to operation. Their investment strategies are data-driven, leveraging extensive analytics to identify market patterns and opportunities. As of December 31, 2023, they manage $18.5 billion in assets and oversee more than 45,000 homes across 32 U.S. markets. Their commitment to innovation and efficiency positions them as a significant player in the real estate investment sector.

18. Nadg

• Website: nadg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Palm Beach, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 70%, United States (USA) 30%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: north-american-development-group

North American Development Group (Nadg) is a private real estate development and investment management firm based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Established in 1977, Nadg specializes in the development of retail and residential properties, managing a portfolio that includes over 250 shopping centers and a significant number of residential units. The company operates under three main strategies: retail, residential, and NNN REIT, which focuses on acquiring outparcel properties across the United States. Nadg has sponsored numerous investment vehicles, including seven private equity funds totaling over $2 billion in equity. Their investor base includes high net worth individuals, family offices, and corporate pension plans, reflecting their ability to attract substantial capital. Nadg's management team is also heavily invested in their funds, aligning their interests with those of their investors. With a strong emphasis on values and a commitment to delivering risk-adjusted returns, Nadg has built a reputation for operational excellence and strategic foresight in the real estate market.

19. Proprium Capital Partners

• Website: proprium.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 25%, United Kingdom (UK) 25%, Hong Kong S.A.R 19%, Other 31%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: proprium-capital-partners

Proprium Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Stamford, Connecticut, specializing in real estate investments. Established in 2012, the company has grown to manage over $3 billion in net equity across various investment vehicles. Proprium focuses on principal investing and collaborates with institutional investors, including pension funds, banks, and family offices. The firm’s investment strategy is centered on creating long-term, sustainable growth by partnering with established local real estate companies. Proprium has made 35 investments across 11 countries, with a notable emphasis on sectors such as residential, hospitality, and logistics. Their team boasts an average of 20 years of experience in the industry, which supports their ability to navigate complex market dynamics and deliver strong returns. With a global footprint that includes offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Australia, Proprium is well-positioned to leverage opportunities in the real estate market.

20. CEI - Cypress Equity Investments

• Website: cypressequity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, El Salvador 5%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cypress-equity-investments

Cypress Equity Investments (CEI) is a private real estate investment firm based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in multifamily and commercial property development. Since its inception in 2001, CEI has focused on creating high-quality living and working environments in key growth markets across the United States. The company has successfully executed ground-up and value-add projects across various asset classes, primarily concentrating on Class “A” and affordable multifamily developments. CEI's portfolio includes over 156 projects, amounting to more than 21,000 multifamily units and select commercial properties, with a total value exceeding $13 billion. Their strategic approach combines thorough market research, acquisition analysis, and effective asset management, allowing them to generate strong financial returns for their investors. CEI's commitment to innovative investment strategies and quality construction positions them as a significant player in the real estate investment sector.

21. DiversyFund, Inc.

• Website: diversyfund.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $4.5M, January 2020
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: diversyfund

DiversyFund, Inc. is a San Diego-based real estate investment company founded in 2016. The firm specializes in multifamily properties, offering curated investment opportunities through various funds. By targeting undervalued assets, DiversyFund aims to generate long-term appreciation for its investors. The company operates with a clear strategy of acquiring distressed properties and enhancing their value through renovations and effective management. With a team of experienced professionals, DiversyFund provides individual investors access to institutional-grade investments, which were traditionally reserved for the wealthiest. The firm has raised $4.5 million in Series A funding, reflecting its growth potential and the confidence of its investors. Through its platform, DiversyFund allows investors to build passive income and grow their wealth in a structured manner, making real estate investment more accessible than ever.

22. CA Ventures

• Website: ca-ventures.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 71%, United Kingdom (UK) 21%, Spain 3%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: caventures

CA Ventures, founded in 2004 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private real estate investment management firm. The company specializes in a variety of asset classes, including student housing, residential properties, industrial spaces, and senior living facilities. With a commitment to delivering exceptional environments and experiences, CA Ventures employs a vertically integrated model that encompasses investment management, development, and property management services. This approach allows them to maintain control and transparency throughout the investment process. The firm has made over 140 investments and operates in more than 100 markets, catering primarily to institutional investors. Their focus on sustainability and community impact reflects a modern understanding of the real estate market's demands and opportunities.

Real Estate Investment Insights: Key Companies in the US

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