Property owners and developers navigating the complexities of real estate construction now have a new resource that combines hands-on development experience with tax and accounting expertise. Advise RE, a Los Angeles-based firm, is offering construction advisory services that draw directly from its founder's track record of developing more than 50 multifamily units in the Los Angeles area.
Founder Stephen Morris, CPA, MBT, CCIM, brings a unique blend of credentials to the advisory role. As a property owner, developer, and licensed real estate broker, Morris also holds a California general contractor license through Advise RE Developers (CSLB #1142184). This combination allows the firm to advise owners from a perspective grounded in actual project execution.
The firm's construction advisory services are designed to help owners make informed decisions before committing to a project. Advise RE reviews feasibility assumptions, construction budgets, financing structures, and projected carrying costs. By assessing whether a project's numbers account for realistic rents, construction schedules, and potential delays, the firm aims to prevent costly oversights. The service caters to 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. 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, including dealer-versus-investor treatment. These construction accounting advisory functions are integrated into the firm's broader tax and development work.
Importantly, Advise RE's services are designed to support the owner's decisions, 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 ensures that owners receive specialized financial guidance without overstepping into areas requiring other professionals.
The launch of these services comes at a time when real estate development, particularly in high-cost markets like Los Angeles, demands careful financial planning. With construction costs volatile and financing conditions shifting, owners need to evaluate projects with realistic assumptions. Advise RE's approach—rooted in practical experience—offers a way to bridge the gap between construction execution and tax strategy, potentially reducing risks and improving outcomes for developers.
Owners interested in learning more can describe their project 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, connecting tax planning and preparation with practical property ownership and development experience. CPA services are provided through Advise RE, PC.
For more information, visit https://adviseretax.com.
