2021 Year in Review: Shahid Jafri, Jafri Group

Name: Shahid Jafri

Job Title: Founding Principal

Company Name: Jafri Group

What was the biggest lesson you learned while working during the pandemic?
The pandemic changed the world forever and during that time our firm came together and understood the importance of adjustments. We initiated and transitioned into developing a property technology platform, JafCap, with human expertise managing allowing for a true competitive edge. Furthermore, the platform includes its very own Jafri Journal with real time daily news, daily insights, property data, investment sale data, commercial loan data, leasing data, full scope analytics, and more.

What was your greatest professional accomplishment or most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2021?
In 2021, holding company, Jafri Group, was formed as we successfully raised and deployed LP capital. Through lead portfolio company Jafri Capital, we established two strategic partnerships with Lynx Mortgage Bank’s Commercial Division & Cornerstone Group, founded and led by John Hale III.

What are your predictions for your industry in 2022?
In my opinion, the real estate industry in 2022 will see a tremendous amount consolidation through Mergers & Acquisitions. Furthermore, we anticipate a continued substantial amount of growth within the property technology space, with a focus on artificial Intelligence and machine learning.

What is the best advice you received in 2021, and who was it from?
John Lee Holder is one of the founding members of the Foxwoods Integrated Resort & Casino. Mr. Holder is one of few to reverse a United States Supreme Court decision which led to him overseeing the development of 9 million s/f for the Mashantucket Tribe. He told me to “never stop persevering, never give up” – I am fortunate to have gained access to Mr. Holder as he is also an American hero, earning silver star honors in Vietnam. I look up to Mr. Holder and continue to learn each day.