Chris Marsh Launches an Investment Firm Post-Irvine Company

The executive responsible for adding 22,000 homes to Irvine Company’s apartment portfolio as its president and oversaw the development of The Resort at Pelican Hill has launched a multifamily-focused investment company of his own. Chris Marsh has assembled a team of industry professionals targeting multifamily acquisitions in the Midwest and Sunbelt markets.

The company, Cherry Tree Capital Partners, is also pursuing ground-up development opportunities in California and neighboring states. The firm’s near-term goal is scaling to 1,000-plus units per market in the next 18 months.

“There’s a tremendous opportunity for strategic renovation and repositioning of existing apartment communities in the Sunbelt markets today,” says Marsh.

Having overseen the renovation of more than 10,000 apartment homes during his time with Irvine Company, Marsh is no stranger to successful strategic repositioning and operational management at scale. When it comes to investing in existing Midwest workforce housing, however, Marsh is more reflective.

“We have a social responsibility to provide housing that meets the needs of the middle class,” he says. “Active preservation of affordable housing options is very much a part of our long-term strategy and mission.”    Marsh served at Irvine Company for 18 years. He reported to Chairman Donald Bren.