In a world where luxury often comes with sky-high price tags, Chasen Companies is proving that high-end living doesn’t have to be out of reach.
By transforming Baltimore’s historic but overlooked buildings into modern, affordable luxury apartments, Chasen Companies is not only reshaping the city’s real estate market but also reviving entire neighborhoods with their innovative approach.
Under the leadership of Brandon Chasen, the company is taking old, underutilized properties—referred to as Class C buildings—and transforming them into vibrant Class A communities. These upgraded spaces retain the charm of Baltimore’s architectural heritage while offering modern amenities at more accessible rents.
The result? Affordable luxury that honors the city’s history while providing fresh, upscale living for a diverse range of residents.
This transformation is happening in some of Baltimore’s most iconic neighborhoods, like Fells Point, once a bustling shipbuilding port, and Federal Hill, home to Fort McHenry, a site steeped in American history. As Chasen Companies infuses new life to these areas, residents are enjoying a renaissance of their communities as well —where modern comforts meet historic charm.
Breathing New Life Into Historic Properties
The heart of Chasen Companies’ mission is revitalization, and it’s rooted in a deep commitment to preserving Baltimore’s unique character. The company focuses on purchasing Class C properties in historic areas—buildings that other developers may have overlooked or deemed beyond repair. But where others see challenges, Chasen Companies sees potential.
Through careful restoration and thoughtful modernization, these old buildings are transformed into high-quality, boutique apartments that offer more affordable rents than the towering luxury high-rises found in other parts of the city.
It’s a win-win: residents get to enjoy upscale living at a more reasonable price, while Baltimore’s historic architecture is preserved for future generations.
This philosophy guides every project Chasen Companies takes on, from smaller five-unit buildings to large-scale developments like the renovation of One Calvert Plaza, Baltimore’s iconic first skyscraper, into luxury apartments. But what makes their approach truly special is their focus on the people who live in these spaces. Chasen Companies doesn’t just restore buildings—they create homes that meet the needs of the residents and provide lasting benefits to the neighborhoods they serve.
Brandon Chasen: A Visionary With His Heart in Baltimore
At the center of this mission is Brandon Chasen, a self-taught entrepreneur with a deep love for the city of Baltimore. His journey into real estate began nearly a decade ago when he co-founded CrossFit gyms and flipped single-family homes in the city. It was this hands-on experience that gave Brandon a unique understanding of the local housing market—and ignited his passion for making a difference.
In 2017, armed with a modest $300,000 capital raise from friends and family, Brandon founded Chasen Companies. His initial focus was on smaller buildings in historic Baltimore neighborhoods—many of which had been neglected for years.
Through his innovative approach, these properties were transformed into boutique apartments complete with co-working spaces, modern designs, and luxury amenities—all while remaining affordable for local residents.
Fast forward to today, and Chasen Companies has experienced remarkable growth. With over 75 properties and more than 2,000 residences worldwide, the company has become a leading force in Baltimore’s housing market. And despite their rapid expansion and securing more than $500 million in institutional investments, Brandon’s core philosophy hasn’t changed: “True success in real estate is measured not by the deals you close, but by the lives you improve.”
A Leader Who Leads by Example
What truly sets Brandon apart as a leader is his ability to inspire those around him. His leadership style is grounded in collaboration, transparency, and a strong work ethic. He never asks his employees to do something he wouldn’t do himself, and this approach has earned him the respect of his entire team.
As one colleague puts it, “He sets a high standard for himself and everyone around him. He’s always thinking of ways to improve—not just in terms of business, but in how we can make a bigger impact on the communities we serve.”
Brandon’s leadership is characterized by regular company-wide meetings, where employees at every level are encouraged to participate and share their ideas. By fostering a culture of teamwork, Chasen Companies has developed a fully integrated business structure. From acquisitions and finance to construction, marketing, and leasing, each department works seamlessly together to ensure the success of every project.
This full-service approach allows Chasen Companies to maintain complete control over the development process, ensuring quality and efficiency at every stage. It also enables them to quickly adapt to new opportunities—like during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they were able to acquire properties at lower price points and continue their mission of transforming Class C buildings into Class A spaces.
Building a Better Future for Baltimore
For Brandon Chasen, real estate is not just a business; it’s a way to give back to the city he loves. And as Chasen Companies expands into new markets, their dedication to Baltimore’s people and places will continue to guide their work—bringing affordable luxury and lasting value to communities for years to come.
