Advise RE, a Los Angeles-based firm, is offering real estate construction advisory services that draw directly on the experience of its founder, Stephen Morris, CPA, MBT, CCIM, who has developed more than 50 multifamily units in Los Angeles. The firm's approach is shaped by that hands-on development background, providing owners with guidance that spans the entire construction lifecycle—from pre-construction feasibility through to placing a property in service or preparing it for sale.
The significance of this announcement lies in the firm's owner-side perspective. Unlike traditional construction consultants who may focus solely on building execution, Advise RE positions itself as an advisor to the owner, helping to evaluate the financial and tax implications of key decisions. This is particularly important in Los Angeles, where multifamily development is subject to complex regulations, high construction costs, and volatile market conditions. By integrating tax planning with construction advisory, the firm aims to prevent costly mistakes that can erode project returns.
Before an owner commits to a project, Advise RE reviews feasibility assumptions, construction budgets, financing structure, and projected carrying costs. The goal is to ensure that a project's numbers reflect realistic rents, construction schedules, and potential delays. This service is designed for first-time developers, owners adding units or accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and investors renovating or converting existing buildings. Given the persistent housing shortage in California and the growing popularity of ADUs as a solution, this advisory could help more owners successfully navigate the development process.
During construction, the firm helps owners organize project costs and understand their tax treatment, including capitalization planning and cost tracking that supports lender reporting and tax preparation. As a project nears completion, Advise RE advises on placed-in-service timing and the tax implications of holding versus selling the property, including dealer-versus-investor treatment. These construction accounting advisory functions are integrated into the firm's broader tax and development work, ensuring that tax considerations are not an afterthought.
Advise RE emphasizes that its construction advisory services support the owner's decisions but do 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 of roles helps owners assemble a professional team without overlap.
Owners interested in learning more can visit https://adviseretax.com to submit an inquiry. The firm reviews inquiries before arranging an initial conversation. Advise RE Developers holds a California general contractor license, CSLB #1142184, and CPA services are provided through Advise RE, PC.
With its founder's development track record, Advise RE brings practical experience to an area where many owners lack expertise. As construction costs and interest rates remain elevated, the need for informed, owner-focused advisory is more critical than ever. This launch could signal a growing trend of tax and accounting firms expanding into construction advisory, blending financial and building expertise to better serve real estate investors.
