We’re proud to support borrowers who take on the challenge of revitalizing neighborhoods

In our series, “Developing Stories,” read about these borrowers and their experiences.

Usman and Ali are brothers. Usman owns 8 restaurants and has three children, and Ali is an engineer with a major ecommerce company.  In their spare time they are “full time” real estate developers in Fairfax County, Virginia.

Usman says he has a “cool” story to tell. His family is from Pakistan and settled in Fairfax County when he was six months old. Ali was born here. Growing up they shared a fascination with their surroundings and how they could enhance and improve communities, and they’ve since turned that fascination into a career. (Or, at least, one of their many careers!)

Their real estate journey began 2020 when COVID hit and the restaurant business slowed.  The timing was fortuitous; just as they were ramping up their development work, Greg Goldstein was opening Spring Garden Capital Group’s Metro office.  “Greg was our catalyst; our inspiration; he gave us the impetus and confidence we needed to build our business” says Usman.

And build they did. Their home market is Fairfax County. They know the neighborhoods and are committed to the area’s growth.  They buy old structurally strong houses that need updating and transform them into turnkey projects for growing families, serving as their own contractor to manage costs and maintain quality control.  And people recognize the value of their work; their properties are often sold even before they’re complete!

Usman and Ali have done two deals with Greg and are closing late September on their first Spring Garden Equity deal. With Spring Garden Equity helping them stretch their own capital further, they can meet their goal of always having one project in the works with their next project in their back pocket!