Cullen Davis, CEO, launched UPA to resolve severe operational difficulties at a 400-unit portfolio of mismanaged, dilapidated multi-family and senior residential buildings. Working closely with the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the property’s owners, the UPA team developed a plan to rescue the properties fiscally and financially. Through sophisticated management strategies and solid accounting practices, UPA assisted these troubled buildings in turning the corner. In less than a year, the properties stabilized occupancy, revenue and began implementing revenue growth strategies. Shortly, the buildings were exceeding revenue projections and consistently maintaining 95% occupancy rates. These improved performance indicators led to a 70% reduction of portfolio debt and a 15% rise in cash flow resulting from improved operations.

Based on that achievement, UPA expanded into third-party services experiencing a 300% growth in just two years. Today, UPA manages more than 2,000 units for the Chicago Housing Authority, HUD, and several private ownership entities. These contracts generate significant revenue and support more than 95 employees and a large number of local vendors.

The firm’s dramatic growth demonstrates its ability to produce income and compliance for owners in a highly regulated field. Just as importantly, UPA provides high-quality living experiences through responsive management services that address tenant needs and neighborhood concerns, ultimately weaving the properties into the fabric of their communities.

In the field of property management, UPA stands out for its strong specialization in tax-credit management and skillful management of mixed-income developments. 60% of UPA’s portfolio is tax-credit, which is why all managers for UPA are certified in tax-credit compliance. Matching qualified tenants with tax-credit rents and income limits is crucial to owners remaining compliant. UPA’s unparalleled combination of fiscal acuity, management expertise and community commitment continues to make a difference for Chicago property owners, tenants and neighborhoods.