Advise RE, a Los Angeles-based real estate construction advisory firm, is positioning itself as a resource for property owners and developers by drawing on its founder's firsthand experience in multifamily development. Founder Stephen Morris, CPA, MBT, CCIM, has developed more than 50 multifamily units in Los Angeles, giving the firm a practical perspective on the challenges and decisions that shape a project's success.
The firm's advisory services are designed to assist owners before construction begins, during the build, and as properties enter service or prepare for sale. According to the company, this background informs an approach that prioritizes the owner's financial and tax interests at every stage.
One key area of focus is evaluating projects before owners commit. Advise RE reviews feasibility assumptions, construction budgets, financing structure, and projected carrying costs. The goal is to help owners assess whether a project's numbers account for realistic rents, construction schedules, and potential delays. This service is aimed at first-time developers, owners adding units or accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and investors renovating or converting existing buildings.
During construction, the firm helps owners organize project costs and understand their tax treatment. This includes capitalization planning and cost tracking that supports lender reporting and tax preparation. As a project approaches completion, Advise RE advises on placed-in-service timing and the tax implications of holding or selling the property. Dealer-versus-investor treatment is also part of that planning. These construction accounting advisory functions are integrated directly into the firm's broader tax and development work.
Importantly, Advise RE's construction advisory services are designed to support the owner's decisions and do not replace the project's general contractor. The firm reviews the financial and tax implications of budgets, schedules, and change orders, while attorneys remain responsible for legal advice and contract terms. This clear delineation ensures that owners receive specialized financial guidance without overstepping into areas requiring licensed professionals.
The firm's founder brings a combination of credentials and hands-on experience. Stephen Morris is a CPA, holds a Master of Business Taxation (MBT), and is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). He is also a licensed real estate broker, and Advise RE Developers holds a California general contractor license, CSLB #1142184. This blend of tax expertise and development know-how allows the firm to offer advice grounded in real-world project execution.
For owners seeking to learn more, Advise RE provides an inquiry form on its website at https://adviseretax.com. The team reviews inquiries before arranging an initial conversation. Based in Los Angeles, the firm serves real estate investors and developers across the United States, connecting tax planning and preparation with practical property ownership and development experience. CPA services are provided through Advise RE, PC.
As construction costs and financing conditions remain volatile, the need for informed advisory services is more critical than ever. Advise RE's model, which leverages the founder's development track record, offers owners a way to navigate complex financial and tax decisions with greater confidence. By focusing on the owner's side of the table, the firm aims to help developers avoid costly missteps and maximize the value of their investments.
