This content is adapted from a Bisnow National Opportunity Zones Digital Summit panel moderated by Greg Friedman, CEO of Peachtree Group, featuring Matt Peurach, Partner at Seyfarth Shaw, and Michael Torhan, Tax Partner at EisnerAmper.
The Opportunity Zones program is entering a transformative phase. With OZ 2.0 making the program permanent and introducing enhanced incentives for rural investments, sophisticated investors need to understand how these changes impact both existing holdings and future deployment strategies.
For investors who deployed capital into OZ 1.0 funds, December 31, 2026, deferral deadline is approaching rapidly. This creates a critical planning imperative around asset valuation.
"When the deferral period is up, you're paying tax on the lesser of the amount that you put into the OZ fund or the fair market value of your interest on December 31, 2026," explains Matt Peurach. Given commercial real estate valuations have declined approximately 20% on average since 2021, many investors may benefit from establishing current fair market values through formal appraisals.
Michael Torhan emphasizes the importance of documentation: "Fair market value throughout the tax code and throughout case law is generally what would a buyer and seller be willing to exchange for. Obviously, if the asset is still being held, you would want to get some kind of appraisal, some valuation report, really to support that number, to support the tax reporting position."
The most significant change under OZ 2.0 is permanency. Rather than a fixed endpoint, the program now offers rolling five-year deferral periods for new investments beginning in 2027.
"Under OZ 2.0, you've got a fixed five-year rolling deferral period. So, it kind of doesn't matter from that perspective when you're putting your gains into the OZ fund, you get to defer it for five years," notes Pierock. This structural change eliminates the diminishing returns problem that plagued late-stage OZ 1.0 investments.
Additionally, new Qualified Rural Opportunity Funds offer supercharged benefits. Investments in designated rural zones qualify for a 30% discount on deferred gains versus the standard 10%, along with relaxed substantial improvement requirements. The new rural zone maps will be released in July 2026, creating strategic opportunities for investors who can position assets in advance.
The transition period between OZ 1.0 and OZ 2.0 presents unique challenges. Investors realizing capital gains today face a compressed timeline, as Pierock points out: "If I'm a taxpayer that realized a capital gain and I'm interested in pursuing a tax mitigation strategy for that and I want to do an opportunity zone investment, number one, I only have one 180 day period to put my gain into an OZ fund."
Furthermore, zone redesignations every 10 years under OZ 2.0 introduce new uncertainty. Projects currently in development within existing zones may face questions about grandfathering if their zone loses designation. While guidance is expected, proactive engagement with state offices regarding zone designations becomes critical for developers with multi-year timelines.
For commercial real estate investors and developers, the message is clear: the Opportunity Zones program remains one of the most powerful tax incentives available, but maximizing benefits requires sophisticated structuring, proactive valuation planning, and close attention to the evolving regulatory framework.
Listen to the full discussion on the Peachtree Point of View podcast for deeper insights into structuring Opportunity Zone investments, navigating state-level conformity issues, and capitalizing on the permanent OZ framework. To learn more about Opportunity Zones, read the article “Opportunity Zones 2.0: What Investors Need to Know About the New Tax Law (2025 Update)”. It summarizing a conversation between Greg Friedman and Jason Watkins, partner at Novogradac & Company and chair of the national Opportunity Zones working group.
Please note, this podcast does not provide legal or tax advice. Before investing in any tax-advantaged program, consult with your CPA or a tax attorney to ensure you are eligible to benefit from the program's tax advantages.
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ATLANTA (January 20, 2025) – Peachtree Group (“Peachtree”), a leading commercial real estate investment firm with a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of equity and debt investments, announced the expansion of its Delaware Statutory Trust (“DST”) platform to include investments in multifamily properties. The announcement coincides with the hiring of Jordan Hylton as senior vice president of multifamily acquisition to lead the firm’s DST multifamily investments.
This initiative reflects the evolution of Peachtree’s approach, building on its success in lending across various commercial real estate sectors and leveraging its vertically integrated, scalable investment platform. Since launching the DST program in 2022, Peachtree has completed seven debt-free DST acquisitions and ranked as a top 15 DST sponsor in 2024.
“For years, Peachtree has provided lending solutions across a diverse range of asset classes. Expanding into equity investments in multifamily properties is a natural progression for us,”said Greg Friedman, CEO and managing principal of Peachtree. “We see tremendous opportunities in the multifamily sector and are confident we can scale this platform systematically while delivering strong risk-adjusted returns for our investors.”
Multifamily properties have proven to be a resilient and attractive asset class, making them a strong complement to Peachtree’s hotel DSTs.
“Multifamily DSTs are among the most popular asset classes in the DST space, benefiting from stable fundamentals such as a housing shortage, increased homeownership costs and strong tenant demand,” said Tim Witt, president of 1031 Exchange/DST Products of Peachtree.“Of note, multifamily financing remains accessible even during challenging economic periods due to strong agency backing.”
Peachtree’s vertically integrated platform, which encompasses investment, development, and acquisitions, continues to demonstrate adaptability, positioning the firm to capitalize one merging opportunities.
“Our ability to expand into equity investments in multifamily is a testament to the strength and flexibility of our platform,” Friedman said. “Jordan’s extensive industry knowledge and proven track record, combined with Tim’s experience leading Peachtree’s DST program, make them the ideal team to drive this initiative forward.”
Hylton, a seasoned real estate veteran with over 20 years of experience and billions of dollars in transactions, will report to Witt and lead efforts to identify and secure multifamily acquisition opportunities.
Hylton most recently served as senior director at New York Life Real Estate Investors, an institutional real estate investment firm with more than $8 billion in assets under management. He began his career at PGIM Real Estate, a global institutional real estate investment firm managing more than $60 billion in assets.
“Multifamily is a great asset class to leverage, and we’re excited to integrate it further into our DST offerings,” Hylton said. “The sector’s strong fundamentals and consistent demand, align perfectly with the DST structure and investor goals. We’re committed to creating impactful investment opportunities that deliver value.”
About Peachtree Group
Peachtree Group is a vertically integrated investment management firm specializing in identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in dislocated markets, anchored by commercial real estate. Today, the company manages billions in capital across acquisitions, development and lending, augmented by services designed to protect, support and grow its investments. For more information, visit www.peachtreegroup.com.
ATLANTA (Dec. 3,2024) - Peachtree Group (“Peachtree”), a leading commercial real estate investment firm with a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of equity and debt investments, has announced the acquisition of its sixth hotel property structured as a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) with the 90-key Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95 in the greater Jacksonville, Fla., area. This latest DST offering is the third to close this year following the completion of the Residence Inn Tampa Wesley Chapel DST in November.
Peachtree’s DST hospitality acquisitions continue to present compelling opportunities for 1031 exchange investors seeking to reinvest proceeds from the sale of appreciated real estate while enjoying tax deferral benefits and maintaining a strong allocation within the thriving hotel sector.
The Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95 benefits from its strategic location off I-95 and its proximity to St. Augustine, one of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations. Known for its historic charm and vibrant economy, St. Augustine draws millions of visitors annually, creating year-round demand for hospitality services.
“With its premier location along the I-95 corridor, strong population growth in the surrounding area and St. Augustine’s rich historical and cultural appeal, this property is a natural fit for our DST portfolio,” said Tim Witt, president of 1031 Exchange/DST Products at Peachtree. “This extended-stay hotel is well-positioned to meet the needs of leisure and business travelers alike, offering a blend of modern convenience and comfortable accommodations.”
Peachtree’s six DST acquisitions — spanning diverse, high-growth markets — demonstrate the company’s expertise in identifying strategic opportunities within the hospitality sector. These acquisitions, including the recently launched Home2Suites by Hilton St. Augustine I-95, represent approximately $175 million in debt-free real estate transactions.
“Our focus on recognized hotel brands, value-add opportunities and Peachtree’s experienced hospitality management team ensures long-term potential for investors,” Witt said.
Peachtree emphasizes its commitment to offering investors tailored solutions aligned with 1031 exchange principles, enabling the seamless transition of capital gains into passive investments in the hospitality sector.
This property features institutional-quality construction, spacious suites with extended-stay amenities and strong brand recognition. Located just minutes from St. Augustine’s historic downtown, the hotel offers convenient access to top attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Premium Outlets and pristine beaches.
Recent nearby developments, including mixed-use projects, healthcare facilities and luxury apartments, further enhance the property’s appeal and position for sustained demand in the years ahead.
With the launch of its sixth DST investment, Peachtree Group continues to lead in offering innovative real estate investment solutions. By capitalizing on positive secular trends in travel, inflation-resilient pricing models and the operational complexities of the hospitality sector, Peachtree delivers strong potential for long-term success and stability in its DST portfolio.
About Peachtree Group
Peachtree Group is a vertically integrated investment management firm specializing in identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in dislocated markets, anchored by commercial real estate. Today, the company manages billions in capital across acquisitions, development and lending, augmented by services designed to protect, support and grow its investments. For more information, visit www.peachtreegroup.com.
Contact:
Charles Talbert
678-823-7683
ctalbert@peachtreegroup.com
Securities offerings are distributed by Peachtree PC Investors, LLC, member: FINRA/SIPC. This announcement does not constitute an offer to buy securities. DST Interests are illiquid, speculative and involve a high degree of risk. Prospective Investor should consult with his, her or its own tax advisor regarding an investment in DST Interests and the qualification of his, her or its transaction under Section 1031 for his, her or its specific circumstances.
ATLANTA (Sept. 23, 2024) - Peachtree Group (“Peachtree”), a leading commercial real estate investment firm with a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of equity and debt investments, has announced the launch of its fifth hotel property structured as a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) following the completed acquisition of the 128-key Residence Inn Tampa Wesley Chapel in the greater Tampa, Fla., area. This follows Peachtree’s successful closing of its Home2Suites by Hilton Atlanta Sugarloaf DST in August.
Peachtree’s DST acquisitions present a compelling opportunity for 1031 exchange investors seeking to reinvest proceeds from the sale of appreciated real estate while enjoying tax deferral benefits and maintaining a strong allocation within the thriving hotel sector.
The Residence Inn Tampa Wesley Chapel is situated in Pasco County, a rapidly growing suburban community approximately 20 miles from downtown Tampa. According to industry sources, the county's population grew by nearly 9% from 2020 to 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida, driven by both residential and commercial development.
“The hotel’s prime location in the Wiregrass Ranch master-planned community, combined with its proximity to the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, makes it a valuable addition to our growing portfolio of DST properties,” said Tim Witt, president of 1031 Exchange/DST Products at Peachtree. “With activities and tournaments at the 98,000-square-foot sports complex boosting weekend business for the hotel and Pasco County’s investment in expanding the facility, we anticipate strong demand from both leisure and business travelers.
“Further bolstering our off-market acquisition is the fact that it was recently appraised for nearly $900,000 above our purchase price,” Witt said.
Peachtree's five DST acquisitions, including the 130-key Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Sugarloaf, 100-key Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Kennesaw, 126-key Home2 Suites by Hilton Chandler in the Phoenix MSA, 98-key Hilton Garden Inn in Jackson, Tenn., and the recently acquired Residence Inn Tampa Wesley Chapel, total over $150 million in debt-free real estate transactions.
These acquisitions align with Peachtree’s core DST investment strategy, which focuses on recognized hotel brands in high-growth markets, value-add opportunities and properties managed by experienced hotel management teams, ensuring strong potential for long-term success.
“Positive secular trends in travel are fueling long-term growth in the hospitality industry. The rising middle class, a focus on experiential travel and the expansion of the work-from-anywhere culture are driving demand for unique and extended stays. These factors create a strong foundation for sustained growth and stability in the hotel sector, making it an attractive investment for the future,” Witt said.
Peachtree underscores its commitment to innovation and investor satisfaction, aligning with the core principles of the 1031 exchange and offering investors a seamless avenue to transition capital gains into a new passive investment.
About Peachtree Group
Peachtree Group is a vertically integrated investment management firm specializing in identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in dislocated markets, anchored by commercial real estate. Today, the company manages billions in capital across acquisitions, development and lending, augmented by services designed to protect, support and grow its investments. For more information, visit www.peachtreegroup.com.