About Us

Comprehensive range of market-leading expertise

Halpern is an exceptional real estate investment, operating, and advisory platform specializing in assembling and managing complex, large-scale projects from development, capital stack formation, and asset management to exit.

Our History

Established in 2011 by Jon Halpern, a visionary fourth-generation real estate investment builder, Halpern leads the industry with our game-changing hybrid/operator model. Our team of seasoned professionals boasts an extensive track record in real estate ownership, institutional investing, and capital markets expertise.

Jon Halpern's journey began in 1985, taking the helm of Halpern Enterprises, a prominent regional commercial and residential property owner and operator in New York. His passion and determination led him to explore the institutional side of real estate, culminating in a pivotal moment in 1994.

That year, Jon Halpern facilitated the partial exit of Halpern Enterprises' commercial office portfolio through a transformative UPREIT merger with Reckson Associates Realty (RA: NYSE), one of New York's leading commercial office owners. As Executive Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors at Reckson, he played a pivotal role in the company's successful public listing on the NYSE.

A true innovator, Jon Halpern co-founded the Reckson Opportunity Partners fund, driving the success of multiple real estate operating companies, including HQ Global Workplaces, the world's largest serviced office company, and American Campus Communities, the US leader in student housing (ACC: NYSE). Additionally, he skillfully served as CEO of HQ Global Investment from 2001 to 2003, successfully restructuring the business.

In 2003, Marathon Asset Management entrusted Jon Halpern with launching their Real Estate Private Equity business, a testament to his exceptional expertise. Over the next seven years, he spearheaded the firm's multi-billion-dollar real estate business, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

At Halpern, we take pride in delivering an institutional level of quality to our esteemed investors and partners. Today, we actively engage as a sponsor and operating partner in development, equity, and structured investments in major metropolitan centers and urban lifestyle cores in the Northeast, Colorado Front Range, and other high-growth markets. Our focus lies in Opportunity Zone investments, where we seek to create positive change and growth in underserved areas.

Since our inception in 2011, the Halpern platform has successfully executed 16 investments, with 11 notable realizations and five active investments, representing an impressive development value of over $1.5 billion.

The Team

Halpern Real Estate Ventures boasts a team of highly experienced professionals in real estate and private equity, each possessing extensive expertise in private and public markets. The Principals at Halpern have an impressive track record, having spearheaded notable and intricate deals within the industry and skillfully managed substantial sums of institutional and high-net-worth capital across the United States and internationally.

The firm's approach is focused on achieving excellence in project execution and delivering exceptional financial results for its investors. To achieve this, Halpern strategically scales its operations, enabling its principals to work efficiently with partners and stakeholders. This collaboration is facilitated through control investments at the co-sponsor level, which results in advantageous capital structures and provides a robust platform, comprehensive support, and strong governance.

Halpern maintains a balanced approach by being both opportunistic and selective when it comes to project selection. The company has shown its foresight by being an early mover in seizing opportunities in Opportunity Zones and embracing forward-thinking ground-up development and adaptive reuse projects. Their expertise particularly shines in urban infill development within emerging neighborhoods, making them stand out in the real estate market.

Founder, Managing Partner & CEO

Jon Halpern

Mr. Halpern is a visionary leader and driving force behind Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV), serving as Founder, Managing Partner, and Chief Executive Officer. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years in Real Estate investing, Mr. Halpern has amassed a wealth of expertise and accomplishments that have shaped the industry.

Mr. Halpern’s journey commenced in 1985 when he took the helm of Halpern Enterprises, a distinguished regional player in New York’s commercial and residential property landscape. During the challenging real estate correction in the 1990s, his adept leadership steered the franchise to success. In 1994, he masterfully orchestrated the partial exit of Halpern Enterprises’ commercial office portfolio through a UPREIT merger with Reckson Associates Realty, a leading commercial office owner in New York, joining the company as Executive Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors upon Reckson’s public listing on the NYSE.

Not just content with management and corporate governance, Mr. Halpern’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found the Reckson Opportunity Partners fund. Through this venture, he acquired and supported the development of multiple real estate operating companies, including HQ Global Workplaces, the world’s largest serviced office company, and American Campus Communities, the top US student housing provider.

A testament to his astute business acumen, the successful exit of the HQ Global investment in 2000 set the stage for Mr. Halpern to take the reins of the company as CEO in late 2001, skillfully navigating through the technology-driven economic downturn by successfully restructuring the business.

In 2003, Mr. Halpern was entrusted with launching the Real Estate Private Equity business at Marathon Asset Management, a globally renowned $11 billion investment management firm. Under his guidance, the firm’s real estate business flourished, solidifying his position as Partner and Executive Management Committee member.

Recognizing the potential of a hybrid investor/operator model, Mr. Halpern’s entrepreneurial vision culminated in the establishment of HREV in 2011. With a focus on developing a scalable real estate investment, operating, and advisory platform, HREV assembled a core team of seasoned professionals committed to excellence in all aspects of their work.

Mr. Halpern’s educational foundation is grounded in a Bachelor of Science in Business with concentrations in Real Estate and Finance from the University of Colorado. With his vast experience, remarkable achievements, and commitment to making a positive impact, Mr. Halpern remains at the forefront of the real estate industry, driving growth and innovation at Halpern.

Mr. Halpern recently moved to Boulder, Colorado, from Tribeca, New York, where he and his family were actively involved in the New York Community. Mr. Halpern continues to serve on the Westchester Medical Center Foundation and the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City and previously served on the Hudson River Park Trust.

President

Joel Halpern

Joel Halpern is President at Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV). Mr. Halpern’s journey with HREV commenced in 2016 when he joined as a Development Manager, bringing a wealth of expertise in the real estate industry.

During his tenure, Mr. Halpern played a pivotal role in overseeing the construction, stabilization, and successful recapitalization of The Mason MVS apartments, showcasing his exceptional management skills and a keen eye for detail.

One of Mr. Halpern’s significant contributions to HREV was his instrumental role in creating the HREV Opportunity Zone Fund. He skillfully led the charge in investment origination, financial planning, and transaction execution for the fund’s acquisitions, proving himself an asset to the organization’s strategic endeavors.

With a keen focus on planning, management, and execution, Mr. Halpern remains at the forefront of all HREV investments and prospective opportunities, ensuring the success and growth of the company.

Before his tenure at HREV, Mr. Halpern was a project manager at JMH Development, a boutique developer based in Brooklyn, specializing in top-tier residential and hospitality projects throughout the New York Metro and South Florida markets. During his time at JMH Development, he has honed his skills and expertise in delivering high-quality projects that meet the demands of a discerning clientele.

Mr. Halpern’s academic background is rooted in a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with Finance and International Affairs concentrations from George Washington University, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and his understanding of the financial intricacies of the real estate industry.

As the President of Halpern Real Estate Ventures, Joel Halpern continues to lead with vision, passion, and a wealth of experience, driving the company forward and making a significant impact in the world of real estate.

General Counsel

Greg Simon

Greg Simon joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2019, bringing him a wealth of experience and expertise in commercial real estate investment and management.

Before his role at HREV, Mr. Simon held critical executive positions, each showcasing his exceptional skills and understanding. As the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of ACRE Realty Investors, Inc., a publicly traded commercial real estate investment and operating company on the NYSE MKT, he played a vital role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction.

Further solidifying his reputation as a seasoned professional in the industry, Mr. Simon also served as a Senior Vice President of Avenue Capital Group’s Real Estate Strategy. Avenue Capital Group is a global investment firm focusing on distressed securities and private equity. In this capacity, he contributed to the success of the firm’s real estate endeavors, demonstrating his ability to thrive in challenging and dynamic markets.

Before his tenure at Avenue Capital Group, Mr. Simon excelled as a Senior Vice President at Glenmont Capital Management LLC, a manager of closed-end opportunistic real estate funds with institutional backing. In this role, he skillfully oversaw asset management and legal activities, showcasing his multifaceted expertise in the industry.

Mr. Simon’s legal prowess has been honed through various roles in esteemed law firms. He served as Counsel in the real estate departments of Herrick Feinstein LLP and Hogan & Hartson LLP and as an associate at a predecessor firm. His legal background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in real estate transactions and investments.

Greg Simon’s academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts from Emory University in 1988 and a Juris Doctor from the Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1992. These academic pursuits have laid a solid foundation for his continued success in the real estate industry.

As a valuable member of the HREV team, Greg Simon’s extensive experience, strategic insights, and legal expertise contribute to the company’s continued growth and success in the ever-evolving world of real estate.

Chief Financial Officer

Christina Perrone

Christina Perrone joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2023, bringing with her over a decade of real estate accounting and finance.

Before her journey with HREV, Christina was associated with Etkin Johnson Real Estate Partners in the significant role of Portfolio Controller. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in the company’s initiative to liquidate its assets starting from 2021. A notable highlight of this phase was the sale of Colorado’s largest industrial space at the time, a sprawling 1.7M SF for a staggering $392.9M.

Her prior tenure with Western Development Group saw her as their VP of Finance. Under her leadership, Christina pioneered the establishment of the company’s maiden in-house, full-fledged accounting squad. Furthermore, she was instrumental in introducing a novel accounting platform for streamlined operations.

Denver has been home to Christina for a significant portion of her career. During her initial days in the city, she collaborated with DCT Industrial Trust, a renowned public REIT. Here, she efficiently handled her SEC Reporting and Technical Accounting Manager responsibilities. Notably, DCT Industrial Trust later became a part of Prologis under a business acquisition.

Before settling in Denver, Christina made considerable contributions to the financial service industry. She served esteemed organizations such as Fannie Mae and BTMU, which later transitioned to MUFG Bank. Her roots in public auditing and accounting trace back to her time at a boutique CPA firm located in the vicinity of Boston.

SVP of Development

Eric Deuser

Eric Deuser joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2023. As a seasoned professional in the real estate industry, Mr. Deuser plays a crucial role in leading the firm’s development endeavors through all phases of the development cycle.

Before joining HREV, Eric honed his expertise at The Durst Organization, where he served as a Senior Project Manager. In this capacity, he showcased his exceptional leadership skills by overseeing the ground-up development of various residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects. Among his impressive portfolio were multiple phases of the sprawling 2+ million square foot Halletts Point development, the iconic VIA West 57th Street, and the impressive EOS at 855 6th Avenue, among others. His hands-on involvement in these significant ventures underscores his comprehensive understanding of the development process.

Before his tenure with The Durst Organization, Mr. Deuser managed the implementation of crucial energy and sustainability projects. His notable accomplishments include leading the LEED certification of the iconic Empire State Building and overseeing the construction of the renowned Bank of America Tower at One Bryant Park as part of Jones Lang LaSalle. Moreover, his expertise was recognized when he served as an independent consultant to The Durst Organization, further solidifying his reputation as a trusted authority in the industry.

Eric’s academic background is a strong foundation for his achievements in the field. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Johns Hopkins University, where he specialized in Structural Engineering. Additionally, he holds a minor in Entrepreneurship and Management, further exemplifying his holistic approach to real estate development.

As a key member of the HREV team, Eric Deuser’s vast experience, exceptional project management skills, and unwavering dedication to excellence contribute significantly to the successful execution of the firm’s development projects. His passion for innovation and commitment to delivering top-tier results make him invaluable in navigating the ever-evolving real estate development landscape.

Senior Associate

Kent Tor

Kent Tor joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2023, bringing him a strong commercial real estate finance background and a dedication to delivering top-notch results.

Before becoming part of HREV, Mr. Tor made significant contributions as a Senior Associate at Verus Commercial Real Estate Finance. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role as a key member of their credit team, where he expertly handled underwriting and asset management for various commercial real estate debt transactions. His keen analytical skills and attention to detail allowed him to excel in this critical role, contributing to the success of the firm’s finance operations.

Kent’s academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his successful career. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from New York University and pursued a minor in Computer Science and Business Studies. This diverse academic background showcases his holistic approach to problem-solving and his ability to navigate the complexities of the real estate finance landscape.

As an essential member of the Halpern team, Kent Tor’s extensive experience in commercial real estate finance and his dedication to excellence make him a valuable asset in ensuring the success of the firm’s real estate ventures. His passion for the industry and commitment to delivering exceptional results contribute to Halpern’s continued growth and success in the ever-evolving world of real estate.

Financial Controller

Vadym Mogylevskyy

Vadym Mogylevskyy joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise in various aspects of the real estate industry.

Before becoming a part of HREV, Mr. Mogylevskyy made significant contributions at several real estate firms, specializing in property management, investment, and project management and development. His diverse experience includes handling reporting at all levels, successfully establishing and running several accounting departments, and providing strong leadership for accounting and finance functions on various projects. Vadym was key in successfully managing projects such as The Art Hotel in Denver, CO, and The Hyatt at Fitzsimmons in Aurora, CO.

Vadym’s academic achievements reflect his commitment to excellence in finance and real estate. He earned his Bachelor of Finance from the Metropolitan State University of Denver. He later pursued his MBA from the University of Colorado at Denver, concentrating on Financial Analysis. This comprehensive educational background equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic world of real estate finance and project management.

In 1998, Vadym moved significantly, relocating from Ukraine to Denver, CO. This international background and experience further enriched his perspective and understanding of the global real estate landscape.

As an essential member of the HREV team, Vadym Mogylevskyy’s extensive experience, strong financial acumen, and unwavering dedication to excellence make him an asset in driving the success of the firm’s real estate projects. His passion for the industry and commitment to delivering top-tier results contribute to HREV’s continued growth and success in the competitive real estate investments and development world.

Executive Administrator

Aimee Reese

Aimee Reese joined Halpern Real Estate Ventures (HREV) in 2023. With a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years as an administrative professional, Mrs. Reese brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to her role.

Before joining HREV, Aimee’s career path led her through various industries, where she provided essential support to C-Suite executives and their teams. Her extensive background in this capacity has honed her ability to excel in dynamic and demanding environments, making her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Mrs. Reese’s dedication to her field is evident not only in her professional accomplishments but also in her contributions to industry organizations. As an advisory council member for the American Society of Administrative Professionals, she actively shapes and influences best practices within the administrative community. Moreover, she has shared her insights and knowledge as a contributing author for The Huffington Post, further establishing herself as an authoritative voice in her field.

Aimee’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in her pursuit of coaching certification from the Coach Training Alliance and the World Coaching Institute. This training equips her with the tools to guide and support individuals, making her an efficient resource for colleagues and clients.

As a testament to her passion for sharing knowledge, Aimee has also embraced her role as a LinkedIn Author, where she offers a specialized course tailored to administrative professionals. Through this platform, she empowers others in the field, helping them achieve their fullest potential.

Aimee Reese’s dedication, experience, and genuine passion for empowering others make her an integral part of the HREV team and a key player in advancing the organization’s vision and goals.

Sustainability Consultant

Sarah Currie-Halpern

Sarah is a dedicated advocate for environmental preservation with a lifelong passion for sustainability. Her career journey reflects her unwavering commitment to positively impacting the environment.

Sarah’s career began in marketing, focusing primarily on real estate and environmentally focused companies. This early experience allowed her to gain insights into the intersection of business and environmental responsibility, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

Driven by her passion for environmental conservation, Sarah took on a crucial role in the NYC Mayor’s Office, where she spearheaded the Solid Waste and Zero Waste Programs. Her work centered on implementing the Zero Waste Plan, increasing commercial, school, and NYCHA composting and recycling. She actively promoted waste reduction, reuse, and donation while striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from waste. Sarah was integral in developing waste policies, including the Zero Waste section of OneNYC and the Waste section of Mayor de Blasio’s 80×50 plan.

As a testament to her leadership and dedication, Sarah led the multi-agency Zero Waste Steering Committee, co-led the OneNYC Water Fountain and Bottle Refiller Task Force, and developed and led the Mayor’s Zero Waste Challenge. Her innovative work extended to addressing light pollution, showcasing her ability to tackle multifaceted environmental challenges.

Sarah’s unwavering commitment to environmental causes led her to co-found Think Zero LLC, where she continues to drive forward groundbreaking initiatives in the field of sustainability.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sarah remains actively involved in various environmental organizations and boards. As the Chair of the Manhattan Solid Waste Advisory Board (SWAB), a Board Member of Earth Day New York, and a member of the Board of Trustees of the College of the Atlantic—one of the leading sustainability colleges in the U.S.—she actively contributes to shaping sustainable practices and policies.

Sarah’s academic background includes a B.S. from the Boston University School of Management, where she likely honed her business acumen, and a certificate from New York University. She has also obtained certification as a TRUE Zero Waste Business Associate by GBCI, further demonstrating her commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the business world.

Sarah’s lifelong dedication to environmental preservation, combined with her innovative approaches and leadership, make her an invaluable champion for sustainability and a driving force in creating positive environmental change.

Environment

Halpern is committed to sustainable development and innovative solutions to achieve aggressive sustainability goals. Through a strategic partnership with Think Zero–the leading waste reduction & diversion consultancy–Halpern proactively integrates materials management into its portfolio.

Strategically Located

Halpern has strategically located offices in New York City, NY, and Denver, CO for close proximity to high-growth, metropolitan markets.

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