A view of a troubled real estate development site representing financial struggles.
Brandon Chasen, a prominent Baltimore developer, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to overwhelming debt and ongoing legal issues. This decision affects multiple properties and projects under Chasen Cos., highlighting a significant shift in the local real estate market. Various creditors initiated the bankruptcy, citing substantial liabilities. While Chasen has been recognized for revitalizing properties, external pressures and financial missteps led to this crisis. The case raises concerns over the future of his developments and relations with tenants.
Baltimore – Local real estate developer Brandon Chasen has officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a move that signals the suspension of his company’s assets and the liquidation to satisfy outstanding debts. The decision comes amid mounting financial difficulties, legal challenges, and adverse market conditions.
The bankruptcy petition was submitted on June 16 by attorneys representing three creditors: Sandy Spring Bank, Ferguson Enterprises LLC, and Southland Insulators of Maryland Inc. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Nancy V. Alquist approved the request on the same week, allowing the process to proceed. Chasen is now required to disclose detailed information regarding his assets and liabilities by August 13.
Chasen’s attorney, Adam Freiman, stated that his client is voluntarily moving forward with the bankruptcy due to overwhelming debt. He emphasized Chasen’s commitment to creditor repayment and outlined that the decision was made to resolve ongoing financial obligations. The formal filing indicates that Chasen is prioritizing legal and financial clarity as his business faces serious economic setbacks.
Once a notable figure in Baltimore’s real estate scene, Brandon Chasen gained recognition for revitalizing neglected properties. He was responsible for a significant portfolio comprising local apartments and commercial spaces. However, recent years have seen a dramatic decline, exacerbated by external pressures such as the COVID-19 pandemic and infrastructure disruptions, including the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
Chasen’s company encountered sharp financial declines, with rising interest rates on commercial loans severely impacting cash flow. The business also faced litigation from lenders and contractors over unpaid bills and defaulted on large loans. Notably, the company defaulted on a nearly $34 million construction loan related to a luxury apartment development. Several major projects, such as the Meyer Seed Co. warehouse and One Calvert Plaza, have been stalled, and the construction arm of the business, Chasen Construction LLC, declared bankruptcy earlier this year with assets totaling zero and liabilities exceeding $39.5 million.
The business’s struggles were worsened by the economic downturns and increased costs of construction materials. Tensions also arose with lenders, including Sandy Spring Bank, especially over attempts to transfer assets like a Gulfstream G200 jet to trustees without addressing loan arrears. Additionally, the company is behind on city water bills and taxes, amounting to at least $345,000.
Tenant relations have reported difficulties, with tenants citing issues pertaining to lease renewals and rent payments. Some properties are managed by Bay Property Management, adding complexity to operations. Brandon Chasen owns multiple property types, including apartments in Baltimore, Virginia Beach, and Florida, diversifying his portfolio prior to economic downturns.
The legal proceedings and bankruptcy filings are expected to lead to a restructuring process. Freiman indicated Chasen intends to view the bankruptcy with dignity and hopes the experience will inform future business ventures. Despite setbacks, Chasen has expressed a desire to address debts responsibly and learn from these challenges.
The current developments mark a significant turning point in Brandon Chasen’s career, from a once-admired developer to a business navigating insolvency amid economic and legal hurdles. The case underscores the turbulent environment faced by real estate developers, especially those impacted by recent economic disruptions and market volatility.
The U.S. Trustee highlighted that representatives from Chasen Cos. did not attend a creditors’ conference regarding the Chasen Construction bankruptcy—an indication of ongoing legal complexities and communication challenges within the business’s current financial situation.
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