vi. Key Industry Roles & Stakeholders

Real estate assets are developed, operated, financed, and transacted by a network of specialized stakeholders. Understanding these roles clarifies how decisions are made, responsibilities are assigned, and value is created and managed throughout a property’s lifecycle.

Appraiser

A licensed professional who provides an independent opinion of a property’s value based on market data and analysis.

Asset Manager

The party responsible for overseeing a property’s performance, strategy, and long-term value on behalf of ownership.

Broker

An intermediary who facilitates the leasing, purchase, or sale of real estate assets.

Capital Partner

An investor or institution that provides equity or debt capital for real estate projects.

Developer

The party responsible for planning, entitling, financing, and delivering new real estate projects or major redevelopments.

Equity Investor

An individual or entity that contributes capital in exchange for an ownership interest and participation in returns.

Facility Manager

A professional responsible for maintaining building systems, physical assets, and operational efficiency.

General Contractor (GC)

The firm responsible for managing construction activities and subcontractors during a project.

Lender

A financial institution or investor that provides debt financing secured by real estate assets.

Operator

The party responsible for day-to-day execution of a property’s business model, particularly in specialized assets like hospitality.

Owner

The individual or entity holding legal or beneficial ownership of a property.

Property Manager

The party responsible for daily property operations, tenant relations, and routine maintenance.

Regulatory Authority

A government or municipal body that oversees zoning, permitting, compliance, and enforcement.

Service Provider

Third-party firms that support real estate operations, such as engineers, inspectors, consultants, or maintenance vendors.

Sponsor

The party that originates, structures, and manages a real estate investment on behalf of investors.

Tenant

An individual or business that occupies space within a property under a lease agreement.