Anatomy of the Deal | Revitalizing Lawrence: Peachtree’s $44MM Investment in The Benjamin
Revitalizing Lawrence: Peachtree’s $44MM Investment in The Benjamin
Peachtree Group’s recent $44 million financing for Keystone Group's multifamily project, The Benjamin, is not only a significant investment in a high-demand market but a testament to our strategic approach in structuring compelling, high-value deals. This transaction leverages a unique public-private partnership with the City of Lawrence, enhancing both the project’s appeal and its chances for long-term success. Here’s why this deal is exceptional and exemplifies Peachtree Group's competitive edge:
Prime Location Meets High Demand
Positioned on one of the last undeveloped parcels of the historic Fort Benjamin Harrison Army base, The Benjamin represents a rare opportunity to contribute toLawrence’s revitalization. Located just 15 miles from downtown Indianapolis, the development is set to meet the area’s increasing demand for high-quality housing. With limited new supply and a recent project nearby already fully leased, we’re addressing a critical demand gap in a thriving metropolitan area.
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Strategic Public-Private Partnership
A standout factor in our decision was the strong public-private partnership between Keystone Group and the City of Lawrence. TheCity’s involvement brings multiple benefits: it amplifies the project's local support and resources while sharing the commitment to The Benjamin’s success. With the City actively invested in the project’s development, Peachtree Group can enter with confidence knowing our partners are equally motivated to ensure its successful completion and ongoing impact on the community.
Compelling Loan Structure and Terms
Peachtree’s floating-rate loan, structured as a 36-month term with a 12-month extension, provides Keystone Group the flexibility needed to bring The Benjamin to fruition on a realistic timeline. Additionally, the project's design includes a parking garage that will serve both residents and visitors attending local events—a unique community integration that strengthens the property’s value and enhances Peachtree Group’s stake in the development’s future success.
Competitive Advantage and Market Expertise
This deal underscores Peachtree Group’s ability to close competitive transactions by identifying and maximizing high-value opportunities. Our expertise in multifamily construction and deep understanding of suburban growth markets allowed us to move quickly and align our financing structure to meet Keystone’s needs. Peachtree Group is committed to working on projects where strong sponsorship aligns with high local demand—delivering investments that are resilient, community-centered and growth-focused.
With Peachtree Group’s strategic backing and the city’s partnership, The Benjamin is set to become a keystone asset in Lawrence’s landscape, positioning Peachtree Group at the forefront of Indianapolis’s suburban expansion. This transaction exemplifies how we combine market insight, tailored financing structures and local partnerships to create long-term value for all stakeholders involved.
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Peachtree Group's Market Update w/ Greg Friedman & Mark Zandi
As we move into 2025, Peachtree Group remains optimistic about the U.S. economy. While risks persist—from policy shifts to stretched markets—the underlying fundamentals are strong. This sentiment was echoed by our recent guest speaker, Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody’s Analytics, who shared his insights on the economy’s resilience and the challenges ahead, particularly for commercial real estate.
Economic Highlights and Key Insights
Mark emphasized the exceptional performance of the U.S. economy, with GDP growth expected to range between 2.5% and 3%, driven by increased labor participation and productivity gains. The labor market remains strong, with unemployment hovering around 4%, and households—especially those in the top income tiers—benefit from strong asset values and low debt-service ratios. However, he noted the pressures on lower-income households, who are feeling the strain of inflation and high-interest debt. This contrast contributes to a gap between strong economic data and public sentiment.
Risks and Projections for 2025
He outlined several key risks that may shape the economic landscape in 2025:
- Tariffs and Immigration Policies: Anticipated increases in tariffs and stricter immigration rules could amplify inflation and disrupt labor markets, especially in industries like construction and agriculture.
- Asset Market Volatility: Stretched valuations and policy-driven fiscal deficits could heighten market instability.
- Interest Rate Outlook: The federal funds rate is projected to decline to 4% by early 2025, with a further reduction to 3% by 2026. Meanwhile, the 10-year Treasury yield, a key benchmark for CRE valuations, is expected to remain flat, between 4% and 4.5%.
Commercial Real Estate and Private Credit
Mark highlighted the explosive growth over the past decade on private credit, now standing at eight times its 2010 size. While recognizing the risks of this rapid expansion, he noted that stabilizing economic fundamentals is a significant mitigating factor.
He also addressed the current state of CRE valuations, acknowledging a significant correction since 2022. Asset prices are down 10–20% from their peaks, depending on asset type, but he expressed cautious optimism for future returns as valuations in many segments approach fair value. Challenges remain, however, as muted transaction volumes and uncertainty around intrinsic values make price discovery difficult in a higher interest rate environment. However, he concluded by emphasizing that CRE, having undergone a meaningful correction, is uniquely positioned for potentially stronger returns.
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Peachtree Group Surpasses $1.0 Billion in CPACE Financing
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ATLANTA (Dec. 9, 2024) – Peachtree Group (“Peachtree”) has reached a significant milestone in Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) financing, surpassing the $1.0 billion mark—a distinction shared by only a select few companies in the industry. In 2024 alone, Peachtree completed 22 CPACE transactions across the U.S., surpassing its previous record for CPACE originations.
"In 2019, we launched CPACE, and today we've surpassed our first billion—a testament to the exceptional team and the strength of Peachtree’s vision,” said Jared Schlosser, Peachtree’s Executive Vice President of Hotel Lending and Head of CPACE. “Our strong foundation has not only fueled Peachtree’s success in CPACE financing but also solidified its position as a leader in the broader commercial real estate lending market.”
In the most recent loan origination rankings by the Mortgage Bankers Association, Peachtree was ranked as the seventh-largest commercial real estate investor-driven lender in the U.S.
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The firm’s $1.0 billion in CPACE financing is rooted in hospitality, which remains its largest segment comprising approximately 45% of its total. However, Peachtree has successfully expanded into other sectors, particularly residential communities (including multifamily, student housing and senior living), which now represent 22% of the portfolio or $220 million. Additionally, the firm has executed numerous CPACE transactions across industrial, mixed-use and office sectors, showcasing its versatility.
“In this challenging lending market, CPACE financing has emerged as a crucial source of liquidity for all commercial real estate sectors. This financing option is becoming increasingly essential as owners grapple with looming debt maturities and limited refinancing opportunities,” Schlosser said.
Commercial real estate remains in a turbulent period with trillions of dollars in debt maturing and refinancing becoming increasingly difficult due to tighter lending standards from traditional lenders. These challenges are reshaping the industry and forcing property owners to seek alternative financing solutions.
“CPACE has been a game-changer, offering long-term fixed-rate financing that lowers the cost of capital while enabling property owners to pursue energy-efficient upgrades with reduced financial strain,” Schlosser said. “Peachtree is proud to lead the way in expanding access to this innovative solution, helping owners across all commercial real estate sectors.”
In just over a decade, CPACE has reached a cumulative $7.2 billion in U.S. commercial real estate financings, according to PACE Nation, confirming the growing market adoption and acceptance of this financing tool.
About Peachtree Group
Peachtree Group is a vertically integrated investment management firm specializing in identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in dislocated markets, anchored by commercial real estate. Today, the company manages billions in capital across acquisitions, development and lending, augmented by services designed to protect, support and grow its investments.For more information, visit www.peachtreegroup.com.
Peachtree Group Expands Hospitality Portfolio with Launch of New DST Investment in Iconic St. Augustine
ATLANTA (Dec. 3,2024) - Peachtree Group (“Peachtree”), a leading commercial real estate investment firm with a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of equity and debt investments, has announced the acquisition of its sixth hotel property structured as a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) with the 90-key Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95 in the greater Jacksonville, Fla., area. This latest DST offering is the third to close this year following the completion of the Residence Inn Tampa Wesley Chapel DST in November.
Peachtree’s DST hospitality acquisitions continue to present compelling opportunities for 1031 exchange investors seeking to reinvest proceeds from the sale of appreciated real estate while enjoying tax deferral benefits and maintaining a strong allocation within the thriving hotel sector.
The Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95 benefits from its strategic location off I-95 and its proximity to St. Augustine, one of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations. Known for its historic charm and vibrant economy, St. Augustine draws millions of visitors annually, creating year-round demand for hospitality services.
“With its premier location along the I-95 corridor, strong population growth in the surrounding area and St. Augustine’s rich historical and cultural appeal, this property is a natural fit for our DST portfolio,” said Tim Witt, president of 1031 Exchange/DST Products at Peachtree. “This extended-stay hotel is well-positioned to meet the needs of leisure and business travelers alike, offering a blend of modern convenience and comfortable accommodations.”
Peachtree’s six DST acquisitions — spanning diverse, high-growth markets — demonstrate the company’s expertise in identifying strategic opportunities within the hospitality sector. These acquisitions, including the recently launched Home2Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95, represent approximately $175 million in debt-free real estate transactions.
“Our focus on recognized hotel brands, value-add opportunities and Peachtree’s experienced hospitality management team ensures long-term potential for investors,” Witt said.
Peachtree emphasizes its commitment to offering investors tailored solutions aligned with 1031 exchange principles, enabling the seamless transition of capital gains into passive investments in the hospitality sector.
This property features institutional-quality construction, spacious suites with extended-stay amenities and strong brand recognition. Located just minutes from St. Augustine’s historic downtown, the hotel offers convenient access to top attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Premium Outlets and pristine beaches.
Recent nearby developments, including mixed-use projects, healthcare facilities and luxury apartments, further enhance the property’s appeal and position for sustained demand in the years ahead.
With the launch of its sixth DST investment, Peachtree Group continues to lead in offering innovative real estate investment solutions. By capitalizing on positive secular trends in travel, inflation-resilient pricing models and the operational complexities of the hospitality sector, Peachtree delivers strong potential for long-term success and stability in its DST portfolio.
About Peachtree Group
Peachtree Group is a vertically integrated investment management firm specializing in identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in dislocated markets, anchored by commercial real estate. Today, the company manages billions in capital across acquisitions, development and lending, augmented by services designed to protect, support and grow its investments. For more information, visit www.peachtreegroup.com.
Contact:
Charles Talbert
678-823-7683
ctalbert@peachtreegroup.com
Securities offerings are distributed by Peachtree PC Investors, LLC, member: FINRA/SIPC. This announcement does not constitute an offer to buy securities. DST Interests are illiquid, speculative and involve a high degree of risk. Prospective Investor should consult with his, her or its own tax advisor regarding an investment in DST Interests and the qualification of his, her or its transaction under Section 1031 for his, her or its specific circumstances.