Gary Cohen-Lessons from a Third-Generation Real Estate Developer (#122)
Episode description
Gary brings a third generation of the Cohen’s family leadership to the management of Willco with over 25 years of experience in many facets related to real estate. He spent the last 20+ years running Willco Residential developing more than 500 units throughout Washington, DC. In his current role, Gary works closely with the CEO setting management policy and developing the strategic business plan for the ongoing and future success of Willco with a focus on acquisitions and development. Prior to Willco Residential, Gary held positions at Axent Realty in Maryland and Newmark Companies in New York City where he was involved in property management, leasing, and construction.
Gary has also been active in charter schools in Washington, DC serving on the board of KIPP DC and was the founding Board Chair of Inspired Teaching Public Charter School. Gary received a B.S. degree from Syracuse University and a M.A. degree from Pace University in New York. He is also a member of the Economic Club and Federal City Council.
Show Notes Family History- Introduction to Gary Cohen (00:06:20)
- Gary Cohen, a third-generation member of the Cohen family, shares his family’s history with Willco Construction.
- Founding of Willco Construction (00:06:50)
- Gary discusses how his grandfather, William Cohen, founded Willco in the 1960s after starting a trash company.
- Early Life of William Cohen (00:07:00)
- Gary recounts his grandfather’s challenging upbringing and early work experiences in the trash industry.
- Transition to Capital Trash (00:08:00)
- William Cohen decided to start his own trash company, Capital Trash, after years of working for others.
- Growth of Capital Trash (00:08:15)
- Gary explains how his grandfather grew Capital Trash into a large waste disposal company through clever marketing.
- Acquisition by Wayne Huizenga (00:09:15)
- Wayne Huizenga approached Gary’s grandfather to buy Capital Trash, leading to a significant financial opportunity.
- Shift to Real Estate (00:10:00)
- After selling Capital Trash, William Cohen invested in real estate, recognizing its potential for growth.
- First Real Estate Deal (00:12:00)
- Gary describes his grandfather’s first deal involving tenement housing and the establishment of the Vanguard building (1111 20th St. NW, Washington DC).
- Growing Up in a Real Estate Family (00:14:15)
- Gary reflects on his privileged upbringing in a real estate family and the opportunities he experienced.
- Early Work Experiences (00:15:00)
- Gary shares his childhood experiences working on construction sites with his father, learning the business firsthand.
- Brother Phil’s Rol...