Henry Stimler, Executive Managing Director at Newmark, has carved out a reputation as a leader in multifamily debt and equity origination and brokerage. His expertise in handling large portfolio bespoke transactions has made him a sought-after advisor in the real estate and financial sectors. With a career that spans global markets and a track record of guiding investors toward lucrative opportunities, Stimler’s insights provide valuable lessons for professionals and investors navigating the complex world of multifamily real estate finance.
Drawing from his extensive experience, Stimler shares advice on success in multifamily debt and equity, offering practical strategies for building strong portfolios and managing large-scale transactions.
1. Understand Market Diversification
One of the cornerstones of Henry Stimler’s success has been his ability to direct investors toward new and emerging markets. His work at Newmark has expanded beyond the Tri-State area to markets across the Midwest, Texas, and South Florida. Stimler advises investors to explore beyond traditional hotspots and consider the potential of growing markets.
“In today’s landscape, you can’t afford to be focused on just one region,” Stimler explains. “There’s immense value in diversifying your portfolio geographically. Markets in the Midwest, Texas, and South Florida have shown significant growth in multifamily investments, and understanding these emerging markets can unlock new opportunities.”
By looking beyond the major cities, investors can capitalize on regions that offer better returns and long-term growth potential, especially in multifamily housing where demand continues to rise.
2. Develop Relationships with Global Investors
Stimler’s career has given him insider access to high-net-worth individuals across major financial hubs, including London, Tel Aviv, and Johannesburg. He emphasizes that cultivating relationships with international investors is key to accessing diverse sources of equity and expanding one’s investment reach.
“Global markets are interconnected, and there’s no reason to limit yourself to local investors,” Stimler advises. “Developing relationships with international investors opens up opportunities for cross-border deals and access to capital that might not be available domestically.”
By leveraging connections in global markets, investors can secure funding for larger deals and develop a more diversified investment portfolio. Stimler’s fluency in multiple languages, including Hebrew and Yiddish, has allowed him to build strong relationships with investors in various parts of the world, a strategy he encourages others to adopt.
3. Focus on Bespoke Transactions
In multifamily debt and equity, Stimler has gained a reputation for handling large, bespoke transactions—deals tailored specifically to the needs of his clients. He highlights the importance of understanding each client’s unique financial goals and structuring deals that align with their long-term objectives.
“Bespoke transactions require a deep understanding of both the client’s needs and the intricacies of the market,” Stimler says. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every deal should be crafted to meet the specific goals of the investor, whether that’s cash flow, appreciation, or risk management.”
For professionals in the industry, Stimler’s advice is to prioritize customization. Taking the time to tailor transactions to the specific needs of each client builds trust and leads to long-term, successful partnerships.
4. Leverage Financing Programs like Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae
As an executive at Newmark, Stimler regularly works with government-sponsored financing programs such as Freddie Mac’s Optigo and Fannie Mae’s Delegated Underwriting and Servicing (DUS) programs. He advises investors to take advantage of these programs to secure favorable financing terms for multifamily projects.
“Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae programs offer unique benefits for multifamily financing, especially for large portfolios,” Stimler explains. “These programs provide flexibility in terms of loan structures, lower interest rates, and other advantages that can significantly improve the financial performance of your investments.”
Stimler encourages professionals in the real estate space to become familiar with these lending programs and how they can be used to optimize financing for multifamily transactions.
5. Keep an Eye on Emerging Trends in Multifamily Investments
The real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and Stimler stresses the importance of staying ahead of emerging trends. From shifting demographic preferences to changes in technology and regulation, multifamily investments are influenced by numerous factors. Stimler advises investors to remain adaptable and informed.
“Keeping up with industry trends is critical for long-term success,” Stimler notes. “Whether it’s new technology for property management, changes in tenant behavior, or evolving government regulations, being proactive about understanding the landscape ensures you stay competitive.”
By anticipating changes in the market, investors and professionals can position themselves to take advantage of new opportunities and mitigate potential risks.
6. Build a Strong Network of Industry Professionals
Stimler is a firm believer in the power of networking. Throughout his career, he has built a vast network of professionals, from investors and lenders to brokers and legal experts. He advises aspiring professionals in the real estate sector to actively cultivate their own networks.
“Success in real estate and finance is largely about the people you know,” Stimler explains. “A strong network of trusted professionals can help you source deals, secure funding, and navigate complex transactions.”
He encourages professionals to attend industry events, join associations, and actively engage with peers and mentors. Networking not only opens doors to new opportunities but also provides valuable insights and resources that can be leveraged throughout one’s career.
Conclusion
Henry Stimler’s journey in the multifamily debt and equity space offers valuable lessons for real estate professionals and investors alike. From his emphasis on market diversification and global partnerships to his focus on bespoke transactions and leveraging government financing programs, Stimler’s strategies have positioned him as a leader in the field.
For those looking to build successful careers or portfolios in multifamily real estate, Stimler’s advice is clear: stay adaptable, cultivate strong relationships, and prioritize a tailored approach to every transaction. By following these principles, investors and professionals can navigate the complexities of the real estate market and build long-lasting success.