The Best Ever CRE Show JF 3981: Public-Private Partnerships, Urban Infill, and Development Strategy ft. Katie Kim
Jul 29, 2025
Katie Kim, Founder and CEO of The Developer’s Developer, shares her inspiring journey from family fix-and-flips to leading a full-service development firm. She emphasizes the power of collaboration between business owners and municipalities in structuring innovative projects using often-overlooked economic incentives. Katie dives into the significance of urban infill and public-private partnerships in revitalizing communities, showcasing how visual storytelling can generate pre-leasing interest even before construction begins.
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Early Build-to-Suit Experience
- Katie's first active development experience was in 2012, working with a national restaurant tenant on a build-to-suit and lease-to-own arrangement.
- She loved structuring developments where an anchor tenant covers the mortgage and other tenants generate profit.
Develop with Deep Client Insight
- Begin development by deeply understanding the client's business needs, growth plans, and financial projections.
- Explore all deal structures and economic incentives to create win-win solutions for clients and investors.
Success with Pre-Leased Development
- For Dover Elevator, Katie's team bought land, built a building, and secured a day-one lease that included expansion options.
- This pre-leased approach allowed for immediate cash flow post-construction and bank confidence.