Advise RE, a Los Angeles-based firm, is providing real estate construction advisory services for property owners and developers, drawing on its founder's experience developing more than 50 multifamily units in Los Angeles. The firm's founder, Stephen Morris, CPA, MBT, CCIM, brings a background as a property owner, developer, and licensed real estate broker. Advise RE Developers holds a California general contractor license, CSLB #1142184.
This move matters because it addresses a critical gap in real estate development: the disconnect between construction decisions and their tax and financial consequences. By integrating construction accounting advisory directly into broader tax and development work, Advise RE offers owners a comprehensive approach that can prevent costly missteps.
The advisory services begin before construction, reviewing feasibility assumptions, construction budgets, financing structure, and projected carrying costs. This helps owners assess whether a project's numbers account for realistic rents, construction schedules, and potential delays. The service targets first-time developers, owners adding units or ADUs, and investors renovating or converting existing buildings.
During construction, Advise RE helps owners organize project costs and understand their tax treatment, including capitalization planning and cost tracking that supports lender reporting and tax preparation. As a project approaches completion, the firm advises on placed-in-service timing and the tax implications of holding or selling the property. Dealer-versus-investor treatment is part of that planning.
It is important to note that Advise RE's construction advisory services 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 delineation ensures that owners receive specialized financial and tax guidance without overstepping into areas requiring other professionals.
For industry leaders, this approach signals a trend toward more integrated advisory services in real estate, where tax planning and construction management converge. It reflects a recognition that successful projects require not only physical construction but also strategic financial planning.
Owners can describe their project and learn more through the inquiry form on the Advise RE website. The team reviews inquiries before arranging an initial conversation.
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. Advise RE Developers holds California general contractor license #1142184.
