Business Details
1st Advantage Mortgage | Trusted Real Estate Services in Chicago
Established in 1893, we are a family-owned, privately held real estate services firm with a legacy of shaping communities and delivering exceptional client experiences. Our expertise spans property management, investment management, development, and commercial finance, supported by $1.3 billion in assets under management and $2.5 billion in annual commercial loan production. With a national reach and deep Chicago roots, we prioritize people, service, excellence, and integrity in every project. Our 132-year history reflects a commitment to innovation, from pioneering urban renewal initiatives to modern mixed-use developments. We manage over 4,400 multifamily units and have invested $500 million in the past five years, demonstrating sustained growth and market leadership.Our team combines generational knowledge with forward-thinking strategies to create value for investors and residents. As industry pioneers, we introduced apartment-to-condo conversions and developed iconic properties like Lake Meadows and Prairie Shores. Today, we continue to build on our heritage with ground-up residential projects and a focus on sustainable, community-centric development. Our commercial finance group leverages extensive networks to guide clients through complex transactions. Recognized as one of CREs Best Places to Work, we maintain a culture of excellence while adapting to evolving real estate landscapes.
Services
Property Management
Investment Management
Development
Commercial Finance
Residential Mortgage Services
Multifamily Unit Management
Urban Development
Mixed-Use Developments
Office Building Development
Apartment-to-Condo Conversions
Highlights and features
- We offer over 130 years of experience in real estate services.
- Our team manages $1.3 billion in assets for proven results.
- We provide a personalized approach to property management.
- Our commercial finance group offers extensive resources and insights.
- We are family-owned with a legacy of excellence.
What people say
Great place to live
Great mix of people
Great community
Services
Property Management
We create exceptional living experiences through strategic operations and personalized service. Our approach ensures resident satisfaction while maximizing property value. With decades of expertise, we manage over 4,400 multifamily units nationwide, combining hands-on attention with industry-leading practices.
Investment Management
Leveraging 132 years of market insights, we deliver proven results through tailored investment strategies. Our team manages $1.3 billion in assets, focusing on value-add opportunities and long-term growth. Clients benefit from data-driven decisions and a deep understanding of real estate cycles.
Development
We specialize in ground-up residential and mixed-use developments that redefine urban living. From concept to completion, our projects prioritize sustainability, functionality, and community impact. Historical expertise includes iconic developments like Lake Meadows and Prairie Shores.
Commercial Finance
Our commercial finance group provides tailored solutions for property transactions, with $2.5 billion in annual loan production. We combine industry networks with localized market knowledge to help clients secure optimal financing for diverse projects.
Residential Mortgage Services
Through 1st Advantage Mortgage Corp., we offer comprehensive residential mortgage solutions. Our services include loan origination, refinancing, and specialized programs for first-time homebuyers, supporting homeownership across diverse markets.
People
Todd Bancroft
President and Chief Executive Officer
Todd Bancroft leads 1st Advantage Mortgages strategic vision, overseeing operations across all business lines. With decades of real estate experience, he drives innovation while maintaining the firms legacy of excellence and community focus.
Ed Polich
Executive Vice President of Real Estate
Ed Polich directs real estate initiatives, leveraging market expertise to enhance investment performance. He focuses on expanding the firms development portfolio and strengthening relationships with institutional partners and stakeholders.
Blas Puzon
Chief Investment Officer
Blas Puzon oversees investment strategy, managing $1.3 billion in assets. His expertise in value-add acquisitions and portfolio optimization ensures sustained growth while aligning with the firms long-term vision.
James Hayes
Chief Financial Officer
James Hayes manages financial operations, ensuring fiscal discipline across all divisions. He plays a key role in capital formation and strategic planning, supporting the firms expansion and investment activities.
Christine Ramsey
Chief Administrative Officer
Christine Ramsey leads administrative operations, fostering a culture of excellence and efficiency. She oversees human resources, compliance, and internal processes that support the firms growth and employee development.
Questions
What services does Draper and Kramer offer?
We provide property management, investment management, development, commercial finance, and residential mortgage services.
How long has Draper and Kramer been in business?
We’ve operated continuously since 1893, making us one of Chicago’s oldest real estate firms.
Do you offer financing options for property purchases?
Yes, through Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp., we provide residential and commercial financing solutions.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Chicago, we operate nationally with projects across the United States.
