Case Study – Lanning Apartments

Stewardship & Strategy, Executing a Thoughtful Exit

 

Key Deal Points

  • Address: 219 Belmont Ave E, Seattle
  • Units: 11
  • Sale Price: $2,550,000
  • Brought multiple offers in the face of a changing regulatory environment

Challenge

Our client owned a charming, turn-of-the-century apartment building in Capitol Hill and had recently assumed full management responsibilities from their partner. While the property had been well cared for over time, the day-to-day operational demands combined with deferred maintenance and an increasingly complex regulatory environment quickly became overwhelming. Initially focused on preserving the building’s long-term value, the seller ultimately needed expert guidance to assess the asset, stabilize operations, and determine the best path forward toward a successful and well-timed exit.

Action

Daniel and the Lee & Associates Multifamily Team stepped in as a trusted advisor, delivering a white-glove approach from the outset. We worked closely with the seller to define the scope and estimated costs of deferred maintenance, bringing clarity to the building’s condition and establishing confidence for both ownership and prospective buyers.

Ahead of marketing, our team assisted in preparing the asset for sale by organizing historical records and documentation inherited from the prior managing partner, identifying more competitive insurance options, and assembling a comprehensive due diligence package. During the marketing process, we also advised on value-preserving strategies, including implementing carefully timed rent increases that strengthened the building’s income profile without disrupting momentum.

During the marketing period, new regulatory requirements were introduced, adding complexity to the process. Through proactive communication, diligent coordination, and thoughtful problem solving, we navigated these challenges while remaining focused on identifying a buyer with both conviction in the asset and a clear path to closing.

Result

Despite operational, regulatory, and transactional complexities, the sale closed successfully with a qualified buyer committed to performing through to the finish line. The seller was able to step away from the demands of active management, regain valuable time, and move forward with confidence knowing their Capitol Hill asset would continue to be thoughtfully cared for under new ownership.

After years of ownership, the day-to-day management of the building became more challenging than I anticipated.  I’m grateful to have found and worked with a broker I truly trusted.  Daniel and the Lee & Associates Multifamily Team guided me through every step with clarity, patience, and professionalism.  Knowing they had a thoughtful plan and were always looking out for my best interests made the entire process feel manageable. It was hard to make the decision to let someone else become the steward of this historic piece of property, but Daniel allowed me to move forward with confidence.  He is an exceptional broker.” - Misha

For more information regarding this case study, please contact:

Daniel Lim

Senior Vice President
D  (206) 773-2692
dlim@lee-associates.com

Candice Chevaillier, CCIM

Principal
(206) 773-2694
cchevaillier@lee-associates.com

Sara Bago

Associate Vice President
D  (425) 443-0907
sbago@lee-associates.com

Dea Sumantri

Vice President
D  (206) 773-2680
dsumantri@lee-associates.com