BH Properties, a vertically integrated real estate investment firm based in Los Angeles, has launched Haven Housing, a new platform focused on acquiring, enhancing, and operating both market-rate and affordable housing communities throughout the West.
“Investing in housing has always been part of our broader strategy, but it was never a primary focus. For nearly 32 years, BH Properties has been recognized as a value-add investor, primarily focused on commercial properties across the Western United States. We’ve traditionally been property-type agnostic, targeting opportunities where we could create value,” says Jim Brooks, president of BH Properties.
Brooks adds that after evaluating several strategic options, BH Properties decided to launch Haven Housing, a dedicated vertical with its own brand and identity. The platform is seeded with 2,500 units, targeting Class A and B communities in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
“This move allows us to pursue both market-rate and affordable housing with a focused strategy and dedicated resources,” he says. “Our decision is backed by solid fundamentals: persistent housing demand, limited supply, an aging population, and a widening affordability gap. Rather than a ‘buy, fix, and flip’ approach, our goal is to build a thoughtful, long-term portfolio of residential assets.”
Industry veteran Connor Mortland has been tapped as managing director and head of affordable housing acquisitions. He will lead the platform’s affordable housing investment strategy from the firm’s San Diego office.
With nearly eight years of multifamily acquisition and asset management experience, Mortland most recently served as senior vice president of investments at Avanath Capital Management.
“This is a chance to blend purpose with performance,” says Mortland. “BH Properties’ entrepreneurial model, long-range vision, and commitment to housing access make Haven Housing a unique platform to drive lasting impact.”
Haven Housing’s acquisition strategy will focus on garden-style communities that have over 100 units and value-add potential, particularly in high-demand metros. On the affordable housing front, it will target communities with low-income housing tax credits past their 15-year compliance periods, with an emphasis on preservation affordability and improving performance through renovations and operational upgrades.
“While market-rate and affordable housing share some similarities, we understand the operational and financial distinctions between the two. By maintaining an open focus on both, we’re positioning ourselves to capture overlapping opportunities where they exist. Rather than seeing this dual approach as a challenge, we view it as a strategic advantage,” adds Brooks.
