How I got involved with the HUD VASH program
My career has always been about building things — from serving as a decorated U.S. Air Force officer to founding a technology company and managing hundreds of millions in real-estate development. I’ve always believed in creating value, honoring commitments, and seeing projects through.
That foundation was tested by a series of life-changing events. The Wall Street financial crash and two devastating hurricanes wiped out years of investment tied up in new developments. In the aftermath, I focused on keeping a lifelong promise — putting my three children through college. It took everything I had, but it remains one of my proudest achievements.
Just as that chapter closed, a car accident left me with severe spinal injuries that eventually confined me to a wheelchair. With the support of the VA and a remarkable team at Baylor, I underwent four major spinal surgeries. The road to recovery was long, but with faith and determination — and what I call a touch of “Baylor magic” — I was able to walk again.
After fighting so hard to regain my health, I hoped to finally focus on recovery. Instead, a new battle found me — this time, against a Wall Street–backed corporate landlord.
Ironically, my background in technology and real estate gave me the tools to uncover the deceptive practices I encountered. My landlord likely saw a disabled veteran and assumed I would be an easy target. They miscalculated.
Wall Street–backed landlord abuse is now a national issue — recognized by courts, regulators, and even bipartisan voices in Congress. My potentially landmark case against Brookfield Properties is not about tearing down corporate landlords but about holding them to the same standards of fairness, transparency, and legality expected of everyone.
When government programs and corporate landlords function as true partners, everyone benefits — tenants, investors, and communities alike.
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Advocacy
Through HomePit.com, I’m advocating for city-led recruitment of local development and landlord teams, coupled with effective government oversight that ensures transparency and enforcement of existing laws. See SafetyNet 2.0
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