Colby Swartz is a real estate executive and investor with extensive experience in capital markets, large-scale development, and operational leadership across multifamily, hospitality, and mixed-use assets. He has originated and executed more than $3 billion in combined debt, equity, and development transactions over his career.
He currently serves as family office vice president and head of Capital Markets & Investment Strategy at Burkentine Real Estate Group, where he leads strategy, growth, and investment relations for a six-year, 11,000-unit development pipeline valued at over $1.9 billion. His work includes $1.12 billion in debt originations, $40 million in preferred equity, a $200+ million permanent finance credit facility, and the creation of a $100 million mezzanine lending platform. He oversees $775 million in assets under management, more than $250 million in annual equity allocation, and a team of more than 20 across key business units.
Previously, he served as Principal at Lafayette Street Capital, raising $50 million through international family office partnerships and expanding the firm’s portfolio by more than 850 units. He also held leadership roles at Howard Real Estate, where he partnered with institutions such as Fortress Investment Group, Goldman Sachs, MetLife, and Trammell Crow, adding more than 2,100 keys to the operating platform.
Earlier in his career, he was senior managing director at Suzuki Capital, advising on more than 25 hospitality projects with brands including Virgin Hotels, Dream Hotel Group, and The Mandarin Oriental. He originated and financed multiple developments totaling more than $500 million and executed $580 million in advisory transactions.
Education
- MS, Global Real Estate Development, New York University
- BA, Education, Arizona State University
Courses
Current
- Real Estate Capital Market Analysis
- Real Estate Investment and Development
Impact and engagement
Business
- Real estate finance and development, $400-$500 million average market value per year
Community
- YMCA Board of Directors, Hanover Charter
In the media
- The Power List, Central Penn Business Journal
- Family Office vs. Syndicator
- Old 21st Precinct Station House in Gramercy Area Sells