Yuval Shram, CEO and founder of Tay Investments, has built a portfolio of over 1,550 residential units across 22 investments in North America and Europe, with assets under management exceeding $475 million, by adhering to a principle of building as if intending to own properties forever. This long-term mindset, developed over fifteen years in the business, contrasts with short-term development strategies where the exit is the primary goal. Shram explains that when developers optimize for sale rather than the building itself, they often choose finishes that look good at closing rather than ones that last fifteen years, a shift in decision-making that can be detrimental.
At Tay Investments, every property is treated as a long-term asset, which involves investing in quality materials, maintaining details consistently, and avoiding shortcuts that compromise durability. Shram emphasizes that each decision is made with the understanding that his team will live with the consequences for the foreseeable future. This approach creates significant flexibility, as committing to hold a property allows the company to decline unfavorable offers and wait for optimal exit conditions. The strategy proved crucial during the market pressures starting in 2022, when rising interest rates and construction cost inflation tested developers industry-wide.
The build-to-hold philosophy extends beyond financial strategy to shape the resident experience in Tay's properties. When a company plans to operate a building for decades, tenant satisfaction becomes a genuine long-term priority rather than merely a leasing metric. Tay regularly surveys residents and invests in amenities designed to improve daily life and foster loyalty. For example, at AtHue Soul, a 116-unit development in East Orange, New Jersey, the company introduced the Sanctuary, a wellness-focused amenity package featuring a fully equipped gym, dry and wet saunas, and a cold plunge. This deliberate investment addresses both current resident desires and long-term retention.
Shram's straightforward philosophy centers on concentrating on known strengths, executing with integrity, and holding developments with pride. In a real estate market that often prioritizes speed over substance, Tay Investments represents a different approach, betting that the best developments are those never rushed. The company's portfolio growth and resilience during economic challenges underscore the potential advantages of this long-term orientation, suggesting that patience and quality focus can create sustainable value in an industry frequently driven by quick turnovers.
