Real Estate Development Analyst

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Real Estate Development Analyst reports directly to the VP/Director of Real Estate and is responsible for overseeing the Real Estate activities of J29:7. As a Real Estate Analyst, you will provide critical financial analysis and modeling support for commercial real estate projects, with a focus on securing financing through tools like LIHTC and other incentives. You will work closely with internal teams and clients to evaluate development opportunities, create proformas, and develop financing strategies for complex, high-impact urban projects. Your role is essential in ensuring the financial viability of projects that align with our mission of advancing housing and economic justice. We work all across the country with an emphasis on Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), but not exclusively.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Real Estate Analyst with a strong background in commercial real estate finance and development, including LIHTC and incentive-driven projects. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced environments, has advanced financial modeling skills, and can handle multiple complex projects under tight deadlines. You will collaborate with clients to create financing scenarios, secure project funding, and provide strategic analysis for urban development initiatives. If you’re passionate about housing justice, possess strong communication skills, and want to contribute to projects that drive social impact, we’d love to hear from you! You will have an opportunity to work with our urban planning team to create comprehensive plans with real estate projects that will have transformative effects on communities across the country.

ABOUT J29:7

At J29:7, we are a diverse and passionate team of professionals dedicated to making a significant difference in underserved communities through our expertise in urban planning, architecture, construction, real estate development, and community engagement. We firmly believe in the power of inclusive neighborhood development and addressing systemic issues to create equitable and thriving communities.

Our firm takes a holistic approach to community master planning, recognizing that successful development extends beyond physical infrastructure. We understand that sustainable and transformative change requires a comprehensive understanding of social, economic, and environmental factors that shape communities. By integrating the expertise of architects, construction-oriented professionals, real estate developers, and community specialists, we bring a multidisciplinary perspective to our projects. We rise early and stay late because we are passionately driven by the work that we do. But make no mistake about it, we all left “jobs” when we stepped into our roles at J29:7 to pursue purpose in the communities that we’ve been called to serve and you couldn’t pay us enough to be doing what we have fun doing daily.

We currently have an active and growing pipeline of more than 600 multi-family units and $200M in investment activity. Our planning and design studio is currently engaged in developing 3 community plans that have the potential to produce an additional $300M of real estate development activities over the next 5 years. 

JOB SUMMARY

The Real Estate Analyst will be responsible for providing comprehensive financial analysis and support to the real estate team. The role includes conducting market research, evaluating investment opportunities, preparing financial models, and assisting in the acquisition, development, and disposition of real estate assets. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of real estate market trends, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Modeling & Analysis:

• Develop detailed financial models, pro formas, and cash flow analyses for potential and active real estate projects.

• Create various financing scenarios tailored to client needs, evaluating potential risks and returns.

• Analyze different financing structures, including traditional loans, equity partnerships, and public/private funding sources.

• Analyze market data, investment returns, and financial risks to support decision-making.

• Perform sensitivity analyses to assess project risks under various scenarios.

Project Financing & Client Engagement:

• Collaborate directly with clients to assess their project goals and develop comprehensive financing strategies.

• Identify and secure sources of financing, including construction loans, permanent financing, and tax credit equity.

• Leverage expertise in LIHTC, New Market Tax Credits (NMTC), and other development incentives to create financially viable projects.

Market & Project Feasibility:

• Conduct in-depth market research to assess the financial feasibility of potential real estate developments.

• Perform sensitivity analyses to test the impact of various financial scenarios on project outcomes.

• Evaluate and apply available development incentives at the local, state, and federal levels.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare financing packages, investment summaries, and other required documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

• Monitor project progress to ensure compliance with financing agreements, timelines, and budget.

• Present financial models and analysis to senior management, clients, and potential lenders or investors.

Project Support & Coordination:

• Assist in the due diligence process for property acquisitions, including coordinating with legal, financial, and technical consultants.

• Work with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure project goals are met.

• Assist in preparing presentations and materials for internal stakeholders, investors, and partners.

Acquisition & Development:

• Assist in the acquisition of properties, including site identification, due diligence, financial analysis, and negotiation of terms.

• Work with investors, lenders, and joint-venture partners, ensuring that financing is secured for new projects.

Asset & Portfolio Management:

• Assist in the development of strategies for optimizing asset performance, including repositioning, renovation, and disposition of underperforming assets.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in real estate, finance, business, economics or a related field is required.

• 2 years of experience in real estate analysis, finance, or a related field. Experience with real estate investment, development, or acquisitions is preferred.

• Real Estate Finance and Investment Certification, CFA, or other relevant certifications are a plus.

• Proficiency in financial modeling and Excel.

• Strong analytical skills with an understanding of real estate markets, finance, and development processes.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Understanding of financial incentives, Brownfield, Tax Increment Financing, Low Income Housing Tax Credits, Tax Abatements, Tax Credits and other gap financing programs is highly desired

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in large-scale commercial real estate or mixed-use developments.

• Familiarity with Argus or other real estate financial modeling software.

• Experience in urban planning or architecture is a plus.

• Advanced understanding of legal, regulatory, and compliance issues related to real estate transactions and portfolio management.

• Strong interest in sustainability and community development initiatives.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office-based role with some travel required for site visits, investor meetings, and real estate conferences.

• Flexible work hours as needed to meet project deadlines and executive responsibilities.

SKILLS AND TOOLS

• Understands complex real estate proforma and financial models

• Proficient with spreadsheets (i.e. Excel, Google Sheets, Microsoft Access)

• Proficient in modeling programs such as Argus Enterprise

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously

• Familiarity with market research tools and techniques

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Commensurate with experience

• Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance offered

• 401(k) Offered

• Generous PTO & Paid Holiday Policy