Urban American Management

Urban American Management

David Schwartz launched Urban American Management in 2003, initially focusing on value-add apartment acquisitions in the New York City suburbs. The firm's wealth origins are not publicly disclosed, but Schwartz has been the sole named principal throughout its history. Urban American pursues a direct-investment strategy concentrated in three asset classes: multifamily residential, office, and healthcare real estate. The firm sources deals through its own network of brokers and local operators, often targeting underperforming or distressed properties. Confirmed holdings include The Madison at White Plains, a multifamily complex; the 770 Broadway office building in New York; and a portfolio of skilled nursing facilities. Investments span the New York metropolitan area, New Jersey, and Connecticut, with a smaller presence in Florida. Total AUM is not publicly audited; Altss estimates the figure falls between $1B and $5B based on historical portfolio disclosures. The firm maintains one primary office in New York City and employs a lean operations team. Urban American does not operate any publicly registered philanthropic foundation. A recent development: in late 2024, Urban American completed the renovation of a 200-unit apartment complex in Westchester County (per local news reports). Urban American's structure differentiates it from many real estate firms: it acts as a single-family-office-style investment vehicle for the Schwartz family, deploying capital entirely from its own balance sheet rather than raising third-party funds. This structure enables patient, long-term hold periods and avoids the pressure of institutional investor timelines.