About The Firm
GFB Real Estate Investments
GFB Real Estate Investments operates as a dedicated real estate securities brokerage, specializing in facilitating 1031 exchanges for investors seeking to defer capital gains taxes through strategic real estate investments. Since its establishment, GFB has focused on providing tailored solutions and expert guidance within the complex landscape of like-kind property exchanges.
With a commitment to in-depth market knowledge and a client-centric approach, GFB prioritizes understanding the unique needs of each investor. Their team offers access to a diverse range of carefully vetted real estate securities products, enabling clients to identify suitable replacement assets that align with their investment objectives and risk tolerance. Products include Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), Opportunity Zone Funds (OZ Funds), Tenant in Common Investments (TICs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Credit, and more.
GFB distinguishes itself through its dedication to seamless transaction execution and comprehensive support throughout the entire investment process. Their experienced professionals navigate the intricacies of IRS regulations and timelines, aiming to provide investors with a streamlined and efficient experience. GFB strives to be a trusted partner for investors looking to strategically invest in real estate.
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Celebrating 60 Years of Real Estate
History of GFB Real Estate Investments
Gerald F. “Jerry” Baker, Jr. (1931–2017), known as "America's Master Gardener," began his career as an undercover police officer in Detroit before becoming a celebrated horticulturist. He appeared on popular TV shows like Dinah’s Place, The Mike Douglas Show, The Merv Griffin Show, and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He authored over 50 best-selling gardening books and hosted gardening programs on PBS, as well as a national call-in radio show.
After a career at Goldman Sachs, Jeffrey Baker, Jerry’s son, co-founded American Master Products, a multinational media company, with his brother-in-law Kim Gasior, a renowned attorney. In the 1990s, Gasior and Jeffrey established Arbor Bay Capital Partners, a family office targeting real estate investments in the Midwest, along with other ventures. By the early 2000s, they also launched Baker’s Best Health Products, specializing in cosmeceuticals, nutritional supplements, and a wide range of health products.
Gerald F. Baker, III, having grown up in the family business, led its digital expansion and managed Arbor Bay’s investments. He was instrumental in developing new products for Baker’s Best. Later, he founded GFB Real Estate Investments to offer high-quality real estate investments to individual investors.
Meet Firm's Founder
Gerald F. "Jerry" Baker, III
After working in various institutional investment firms, Gerald F. "Jerry" Baker, III founded GFB Real Estate Investments, an investment firm dedicated to providing individual real estate investors with tailored 1031 exchange solutions. GFB was established with the mission of offering individual investors the same opportunities as institutional investors, enabling them to enjoy the benefits large institutions typically have—without compromising what matters most to the individual investor.
Before founding GFB, Jerry held key positions in the real estate private equity and hedge fund sectors. He served in various roles, including as a member of the investment committee, portfolio manager, and trading desk director. Over the course of his career, Jerry has been involved in more than $10 billion in commercial real estate transactions.
Much of Jerry’s real estate and investment expertise stems from his time spent working alongside his father and uncle in the family business. Whether underwriting potential acquisitions with his father or assisting his uncle with property maintenance, Jerry developed a hands-on understanding of real estate investing. These experiences not only equipped him with valuable skills but also gave him insight into the advantages institutional investors hold over individual investors, as well as a deep appreciation for the goals and challenges individual investors face.
Jerry is dedicated to supporting children's organizations in Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York. He is also an active contributor to the Babson College Alumni Association, focusing on student finance and real estate initiatives.
Notable Past Transaction Experience:
14.5MM sf Toys “R” Us real estate portfolio bankruptcy auction
Redevelopment of historic 270,000 sf office tower in the Pacific Northwest
Revitalization of 230,000 sf southern Californian outdoor mall
Saks Fifth Avenue $7B real estate portfolio restructuring
Numerous credit fund placements such as Canary Wharf (London, UK) and Rockefeller Center (New York, NY)
Contact Jerry Baker
Gerald F. "Jerry" Baker, III
Founder, Managing Principal
Mobile: +1 646 389 1810
Email: [email protected]
Education
Dual degree in Computational and Mathematical Finance (Applied Mathematics) and Business Analytics (Applied Statistics) from Babson College in Wellesley, MA
The information herein has been prepared for educational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or sell securitized real estate investments. Such offers are only made through the Sponsor’s Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) which is solely available to accredited investors and accredited entities. DST 1031 properties are only available to accredited investors (generally described as having a net worth of over $1 million dollars exclusive of primary residence) and accredited entities only. If you are unsure if you are an accredited investor and/or an accredited entity, please verify with your CPA and Attorney.
There are material risks associated with investing in DST properties and real estate securities including liquidity, tenant vacancies, general market conditions and competition, lack of operating history, interest rate risks, the risk of new supply coming to market and softening rental rates, general risks of owning/operating commercial and multifamily properties, short term leases associated with multi-family properties, financing risks, potentially adverse tax consequences, general economic risks, development risks, long hold periods, and potential loss of the entire investment principal. Potential cash flows/returns/appreciation are not guaranteed and could be lower than anticipated. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market. It is a method used to help manage investment risk. Because investor situations and objectives vary this information is not intended to indicate suitability for any particular investor. This material is not to be interpreted as tax or legal advice. Please speak with your own tax and legal advisors for advice/guidance regarding your particular situation.
Securities offered through Aurora Securities, Inc. (ASI), member FINRA / SIPC. GFB Real Estate Investments is independent of ASI. To access Aurora Securities’ Form Customer Relationship Summary (CRS), please click HERE. GFB Real Estate Investments and ASI do not offer legal or tax advice. Please consult the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstances.
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