Advise RE, a Los Angeles-based real estate advisory firm, is distinguishing its construction advisory services by drawing on the firsthand development experience of its founder, Stephen Morris. Morris, a CPA, MBT, and CCIM, has developed more than 50 multifamily units in Los Angeles, giving the firm a practical perspective that is often missing from traditional advisory services. This background shapes how Advise RE guides property owners and developers through the financial and tax complexities of construction projects.
The firm's approach begins before construction starts, with a focus on the decisions that determine a project's economic viability. Advise RE reviews feasibility assumptions, construction budgets, financing structures, and projected carrying costs. By scrutinizing these elements, the firm helps owners assess whether their numbers account for realistic rents, construction timelines, and potential delays. This is particularly important for first-time developers, owners adding units or accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and investors renovating or converting existing buildings. According to Advise RE, many projects fail not because of construction issues but because of flawed initial assumptions.
During construction, Advise RE assists owners in organizing project costs and understanding their tax treatment. This includes capitalization planning and cost tracking that supports lender reporting and tax preparation. As a project nears completion, the firm advises on placed-in-service timing and the tax implications of holding or selling the property. Dealer-versus-investor treatment is also part of this planning, which can significantly affect the after-tax returns of a development. These construction accounting advisory functions are integrated directly into the firm's broader tax and development work, ensuring that tax considerations are not an afterthought.
Advise RE emphasizes that its construction advisory services are designed to support the owner's decisions and do not replace the project's general contractor. The firm reviews the financial and tax implications of budgets, schedules, and change orders, while attorneys remain responsible for legal advice and contract terms. This clear delineation of roles helps owners avoid the pitfalls of relying on a single advisor for all aspects of a project.
The firm's founder, Stephen Morris, brings a unique combination of credentials to the table. As a licensed real estate broker and the holder of a California general contractor license (CSLB #1142184) through Advise RE Developers, Morris understands both the transactional and operational sides of development. His experience as a property owner and developer means he has personally navigated the challenges that his clients face.
Advise RE is based in Los Angeles and serves real estate investors and developers across the United States. Its work connects tax planning and preparation with practical property ownership and development experience. CPA services are provided through Advise RE, PC. Owners interested in learning more can visit https://adviseretax.com to submit an inquiry. The team reviews inquiries before arranging an initial conversation, ensuring that each engagement is a good fit.
In an industry where construction costs are volatile and tax laws are complex, Advise RE's model offers a way for owners to make more informed decisions. By combining development experience with tax expertise, the firm helps owners avoid costly mistakes and maximize the financial performance of their projects. As the demand for multifamily housing continues to grow, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles, the need for this kind of integrated advisory is likely to increase.
