Mark Scarola
Real Estate with a Social Impact
Armed with both a Master's degree in Real Estate and a Master's degree in Social Work, I have a unique background whose intersection is affordable and supportive housing. I have managed and structured over $200M in capital, gaining experience in both public and private finance.
My work includes financial modeling, creating funding strategies, investor relations, regulatory compliance, and coordination with development teams throughout entitlement and pre-development.
What ties my career together is a focus on turning complexity into clarity. This is evidenced in my roles as both a university professor and a consultant assisting developers and housing authorities to make sense of complicated concepts.
My background in counseling has help to lay a of trust, active listening, and problem solving. I bring these skills directly into the investment world by building long-term relationships and ensuring that strategic developments deliver both financially viable and community-focused results.
Read a research report I wrote about what the missing middle is and how middle-class wage earners are often squeezed out of affordable housing options.
I've lived in seven states and three time zones. Can you guess how many states I've traveled to? Click here for the answer.
Professional Accomplishments
Presented real estate development plans to City Council members and the public.
Established a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a focus on emotional well-being and community service.
Raised $1.2 million from private investors through two private placement funds (Reg D and Reg A+ syndications).
Organized a cultural sensitivity training emphasizing institutional racism, white privilege, and prejudice.
Designed a community resource workshop for the Latino population of Greater Boston.
Negotiated conflict between an executive and project architect who refused to work together.
Created a new real estate investment networking and education group of over 100 members.
Presented investment opportunities at nationwide real estate conferences.
Assumed leadership role in and developed strong presentation skills.
Received CoStar certification in December 2022
Presented on feasibility of a 22.5 acre multi-use project at
Naval Base Point Loma (NAVWAR) for a class project
Education
Master's of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) from the University of San Diego
GPA: 4.0
Master's in Social Work (MSW) from Smith College School for Social Work
GPA: N/A
Bachelors of Arts
in Psychology from
Syracuse University
GPA: 3.9
Educational Highlights
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4.0 GPA at The University of San Diego
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3.9 GPA at Syracuse University
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Selected as Senior Class Marshall (similar to valedictorian)
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Completed two theses
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Member of the Honor's Program
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Elected to Dean's List four years straight
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Elected Outstanding Psychology Student of the Year
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Gave a commencement speech to approximately 5000 people