Search Results for: Professional Services

Industries


Professional Services

Individuals and companies that provide services have unique accounting needs. Sometimes comprised of a collection of professional associations, sometimes a mix of equity owners, sometimes a highly successful individual with a complex financial scenario – each situation has its own opportunities and obstacles.

Real Estate Investment, Development and Management

Berkowitz Pollack Brant has one of the largest real estate tax practices in Florida. Long-time clients include major developers, property owners and managers, landholders and related construction entities.

Not-For-Profit

We understand the unique challenges facing not-for-profit organizations from the perspective of professionals, philanthropists and leaders.

International Trade

In today’s global economy it is imperative to work with a team with unmatched depth of experience in both inbound and outbound international trade.

Healthcare, Hospitals and Physician Practices

Berkowitz Pollack Brant has extensive experience in the healthcare field.

Articles


Lessons Your Business Can Learn from the Amazon Web Services Outage by Brandon Bowers

The recent global outage of Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) cloud platform is a powerful reminder that even the most robust IT infrastructure can experience disruptions. Whether or not your business was among the thousands taken offline, now is a good time to evaluate your organization’s reliance on technology and the resilience strategies you have in […]

Qualifying as a Real Estate Professional Can Yield Greater Tax Benefits for Property Owners, Investors by Alex Keneiby, CPA

Real estate has always been a reliable investment for diversifying one’s portfolio, hedging against inflation and creating a steady stream of passive income from an asset with potential long-term appreciation. Property ownership and management also come with an array of tax advantages that can reduce taxable income and even enable the deferral of capital gains […]

New York Rules Again Against Taxpayer’s Sales Tax Exemption from Information Services by Jeremy Katz, JD, MBA, LLM

In a recent decision by the New York State Court of Appeals, an advertising research firm is liable for $2.3 million in unpaid sales tax for information services it provided to its customers over a three-year period. According to the court, Dynamic Logic Inc. (Dynamic) had erroneously treated one of its information services products as […]

4 Important Considerations When Hiring Professional Recruiters by Mari Luque-Hanchett

It can be exceedingly difficult for companies to fill jobs that require specialized skills, such as finance and accounting, especially in a tight labor market with low unemployment. With so many job vacancies available to a limited number of qualified candidates, businesses must use all the resources available to stand out from the pack, build […]

Outsourcing CFO Services Yields Significant Benefits for Small, Mid-Size Businesses

Operating a small business comes with a wealth of opportunities and an equally abundant set of complexities, including tax reporting, regulatory compliance and meticulous financial recordkeeping. For many entrepreneurs, hiring full-time professionals to oversee these functions in-house is simply unaffordable. Instead, a growing number of businesses are turning to outsourced CFO services for on-demand assistance with […]

Podcast – BPB Knows Outsourced CFO Services

In this episode Mike Conkey shares the benefits of outsourced CFOs and finance team members to help professional services firms run more efficiently.

Legal Services of Greater Miami Celebrates Pro Bono Volunteers

Miami, Fl. — On October 29, 2020, Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. (Legal Services) recognized the volunteer services of over 340 attorneys and professional partners at its 2020 Pro Bono Celebration. The virtual event honored the pro bono volunteers who made extraordinary contributions throughout the year and during COVID-19. Pro bono volunteers took on […]

Tips for Selecting the Right Professional to Prepare your Tax Returns by Joanie Stein, CPA

You have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing someone to help you prepare your federal tax return. However, not all tax preparers are created equal. It is crucial that you carefully vet each potential preparer and choose wisely, since you, as the taxpayer, are ultimately responsible for the returns you file […]

AICPA Issues Exposure Draft of New Standard for Forensic Accounting Services by Richard A. Pollack, CPA/ABV/CFF, ASA, CBA, CFE, CAMS, CIRA, CVA

Forensic accounting services can play a pivotal role in cases involving financial fraud, breach of contract, hidden assets, lost profits and economic damages. As demand for these services continues to increase, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) has released new professional standards that CPA’s performing forensic services must adopt for new investigation and/or litigation engagements […]

Outsourcing CFO Services Yields Significant Benefits for Small and Mid-Size Businesses by Anya Stasenko, CPA

Operating a small business in the U.S. comes with a wealth of opportunities and an equally abundant set of complexities, including tax reporting, regulatory compliance and meticulous financial recordkeeping. For many entrepreneurs, hiring full-time professionals to oversee these functions in-house is simply unaffordable. Instead, many are turning to outsourced CFO services to receive on-demand assistance with […]

OBBBA Expands Qualified Small Business Stock Tax Benefits by Richard E. Cabrera, JD, LLM, CPA

One of the many investor-friendly provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is the expansion of Internal Revenue Code Section 1202, which enables owners and early investors in domestic C corporations to permanently exclude capital gains from the sale or exchange of qualified small business stock (QSBS). The changes contained in the new […]

Today’s Businesses Need AI Governance Policies and Procedures by Brandon Bowers

Increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform businesses and how they operate. On the one hand, companies of all sizes are realizing AI’s benefits in automating repetitive tasks, improving efficiency and transforming large volumes of raw data into meaningful market intelligence. However, like many technologies, AI also has a dark side […]

What Provisions of the One Big Beautiful Tax Bill Impact Businesses? by Michael Brennan, CPA

The One Big Beautiful Tax Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, 2025, brings a myriad of tax benefits to businesses, small and large, including expanded deductions for depreciable property, research and development expenses and business interest expense. It also modifies taxes on foreign profits and sales of qualified small business stock while […]

Changing Jobs Can Affect Your Taxes by Alik MacLauchlan

Seeking out new career opportunities can have many financial implications, including taxes. When you switch jobs, your income may change along with your eligibility for certain tax deductions and credits that ultimately affect your tax liabilities today and in retirement. During these transitions, you must keep up to date with evolving laws to maintain tax […]

6 Things to Know About Estimated Tax Payments by Yovanny Hernandez, CPA

U.S. taxes are based on a pay-as-you-go system, in which individuals either have taxes withheld from their paychecks or make estimated tax payments directly to the IRS four times a year. These quarterly tax payments made every three months typically apply to business owners subject to self-employment tax and to individuals who receive income in […]

Press Releases


Berkowitz Pollack Brant Welcomes Hernando Gomez as Director of Valuation Services

MIAMI, FL – January 6, 2025 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs today announced that Hernando Gomez, CPA, has joined the firm’s Forensic and Advisory Services practice to lead the valuations group. Gomez has more than 20 years of global experience and has been involved in dozens of domestic and international transactions working closely […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Adds Outsourced IT Services Practice; Brandon Bowers joins firm to lead the effort

MIAMI, June 5, 2023 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs has announced the addition of Brandon Bowers as director of the new Managed Cyber Solutions practice.  The Managed Cyber Solutions group will offer outsourced IT, help desk and security services, as well as scalable systems for reporting, tracking and monitoring. Bowers joins the firm […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Promotes Richard Cabrera, JD, LL.M, CPA, to Director of Tax Services

MIAMI, January 2, 2023 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs has promoted Richard Cabrera, JD, LL.M., CPA, to director in the Tax Services practice. Cabrera focuses on tax and consulting services for affluent families and companies. He has specialized experience in corporate restructuring, high-net-worth tax issues, international tax consulting and compliance, mergers and acquisitions, […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Welcomes New Director of Transaction Advisory Services

BOCA RATON, FL – May 15, 2022 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs today announced that Jeff Stamm, CPA, has joined the firm as director of the Transaction Advisory Services practice. Stamm is joined by a team that will assist business owners, entrepreneurs and private equity firms with mergers and acquisitions. They primarily focus […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces Scott Bouchner as Director-in-Charge of Forensic and Advisory Services

MIAMI, February 1, 2022 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs today announced that Scott Bouchner, CMA, CVA, CFE, CIRA, has been named director-in-charge of the firm’s Forensic and Advisory Services practice. Berkowitz Pollack Brant’s CEO Joseph L. Saka commented, “Our forensic practice has grown tremendously due to Rich Pollack’s leadership. With Scott’s knowledge and […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces Scott Bouchner as Director-in-Charge of Forensic and Advisory Services

MIAMI, Jan 2, 2022– Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs today announced that Scott Bouchner, CMA, CVA, CFE, CIRA, has been named director-in-charge of the firm’s Forensic and Advisory Services practice. Berkowitz Pollack Brant’s CEO Joseph L. Saka commented, “Our forensic practice has grown tremendously due its leadership. With Scott’s knowledge and expertise, we look […]

LEGAL SERVICES OF GREATER MIAMI, INC., CELEBRATES PRO BONO VOLUNTEERS EXTRAORDINARY CONTRIBUTION DURING COVID-19

Miami, Fl. — On October 29, 2020, Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. (Legal Services) recognized the volunteer services of over 340 attorneys and professional partners at its 2020 Pro Bono Celebration. The virtual event honored the pro bono volunteers who made extraordinary contributions throughout the year and during COVID-19. Pro bono volunteers took on […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces Addition of Director of Tax Services in New York City Office

New York, July 18, 2018 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants today announced that Lewis Taub, CPA, has joined the firm as director of Tax Services in the New York City office. Most recently, Taub was managing director and the tax partner for CBIZ MHN, LLC, offering tax and business advice to sophisticated tax […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces Addition of Associate Director of Consulting Services

MIAMI, FL, Oct. 9, 2017 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants today announced that Gregory J. Gagné, CPA, CGMA, has rejoined the firm as an associate director in the Consulting Services practice. He worked for Berkowitz Pollack Brant in the 1990s as an auditor. He has Big 4 experience and most recently worked for […]

David E. Kolan CPA Joins Berkowitz Pollack Brant as a Director in the Audit and Attest Services Practice

MIAMI, March 24, 2014 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants announced the addition of David E. Kolan CPA, as a director in the firm’s Audit and Attest Services practice. He will focus his practice on serving the consulting and audit needs of domestic and international companies, partnerships and entrepreneurs. Kolan has more than 30 […]

Whitney Schiffer CPA Promoted to Director of Audit and Attest Services

MIAMI, Nov. 15, 2013 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants announced the promotion of Whitney Schiffer to the role of director in the Audit and Attest Services practice. An experienced auditor with more than 20 years of experience, Schiffer serves clients in the hospital, healthcare, non-profit and governmental sectors. “We are thrilled to promote […]

Baker Tilly to Acquire Berkowitz Pollack Brant, Strengthening Southeast Presence and East Coast Reach

MIAMI (Dec. 15, 2025) – Advisory, tax and assurance firm Baker Tilly plans to acquire Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs (Berkowitz Pollack Brant), one of Florida’s largest and most respected accounting and advisory firms. The planned acquisition will establish Baker Tilly’s presence in South Florida, one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most internationally connected […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Promotes 8 to Associate Director

July 15, 2022 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs today announced the promotion of eight professionals to associate directors within the firm’s Tax Services and Assurance and Advisory Services practices. “Our firm was founded on the principle of creating a life-long learning environment, where every firm member receives the tools to cultivate knowledge, enhance […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces New Director

MIAMI, October 1, 2020 – Chet Cotter has joined Berkowitz Pollack Brant as a director and leader of its Managed Solutions and Technology practice. The Managed Solutions and Technology team provides enterprise application recommendations and integration, full-service outsourced accounting solutions and systems management, and data analytics and e-discovery. Berkowitz Pollack Brant CEO Joseph L. Saka […]

Berkowitz Pollack Brant Announces Hiring of New Chief Financial Officer

MIAMI, FL, December 8, 2016 – Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants today announced that Mark Guthrie, MSF, CISA, has joined the firm as chief financial officer. Guthrie succeeds Dave Kekich, who served as CFO for more than 20 years and will be taking a consulting role for firm clients. Guthrie joins Berkowitz Pollack Brant […]

Pages


Recruiting Services and Talent Acquisition

Berkowitz Pollack Brant’s Talent Acquisition and Recruitment Team has more than 35 years of experience in global recruiting and talent sourcing for companies of all sizes.  Our professionals are dedicated to helping clients build successful teams and promote growth within their organizations. Services include: Compensation studies Contract and project-based positions Direct hire placement and retention […]

Managed Cyber Solutions – Master Services Agreement

Thank you for trusting Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs (“BPB,” the “Firm,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) to provide you with professional information technology services. This Master Services Agreement (this “Agreement”) governs our business relationship with you, so please read this document carefully and keep a copy for your records. SCOPE Throughout this Agreement, references […]

Managed Cyber Solutions – Services Guide

Services Guide This Services Guide contains provisions that define, clarify, and govern the scope of the services described in the quote that has been provided to you (the “Quote”), as well as the policies and procedures that we follow (and to which you agree) when we provide a service to you or facilitate a service […]

Privacy Policy

Baker Tilly – Online Privacy Policy Legal and privacy notices Last updated: June 2025 Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP, Baker Tilly US, LLP and their affiliated entities provide professional services, including tax, financial advisory, consulting, and assurance services to private and publicly-traded businesses, non-profit and governmental organizations, and individuals. This Privacy Policy applies to information […]

Disclaimers

Effective Jan. 1, 2026, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs has combined with Baker Tilly. Baker Tilly US, LLP and Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP and its subsidiary entities provide professional services through an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable laws, regulations and professional standards. Baker Tilly […]

Firm Overview

Established in 1980, Berkowitz Pollack Brant (BPB) is a certified public accounting firm with offices in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton, Florida.
With more than 170 accountants, tax specialists and consultants, we are one of the largest accounting firms in South Florida and one of the top 100 firms in the United States.

CCPA Consumer Privacy Notice

CCPA Consumer Privacy Notice California Privacy Notice Effective date: June 2025 This California Privacy Notice (“Notice”) applies to “Consumers” as defined by the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”).  The CCPA requires us to provide you with the following additional information about: (1) the purpose for which we use each category of “Personal Information” (as defined […]

Cybersecurity Risk Assessment – Boise (ID)

Risk Assessments Cybersecurity – Boise (ID) Many Boise and Idaho businesses face various challenges when managing cybersecurity programs. These include ever-evolving threats, human errors, misconfigurations, poor maintenance, and a lack of a formal cybersecurity plan. An organization is exposed to reputational damage, intellectual property theft, stolen data, and financial loss without adequate and updated protections. In […]

Cybersecurity Risk Assessment – Santa Fe (NM)

Risk Assessments Cybersecurity – Santa Fe (NM) Many Santa Fe and New Mexico businesses face various challenges when managing cybersecurity programs. This includes ever-evolving threats, human errors, misconfigurations, poor maintenance, and a lack of a formal cybersecurity plan. An organization is exposed to reputational damage, intellectual property theft, stolen data, and financial loss without adequate […]

Lateral Hires

Work / Life Balance Alternative work arrangements Dress for your day Employee-centric approach Firm culture that has won nearly a dozen Best Companies to Work For honors Hybrid office/remote policy Strong team of up-and-comers who can handle sophisticated client work Supportive teammates Wellness programs, both educational and reimbursement Testimonials Benefits 401(k) plan with generous match […]

Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Investigations

Multi-national companies with subsidiaries or agents who have control over purchasing or acquisition of goods and services must be proactive to properly comply with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Non-compliance with the FCPA can result in criminal charges, fines and penalties, reputational harm and civil liabilities. Our firm works with attorneys and government agencies […]

Industries

Our professionals deliver high-quality services with the ongoing involvement of experienced senior firm members. We have cultivated a diverse client base that requires creative and strategic planning at all stages of their life cycles. From early-stage start-ups to sophisticated multi-national entities with complex structures, the services and guidance we provide grows with out clients’ evolving […]

Services


Outsourced IT Services

Staying ahead of technology can be one of the biggest challenges a company faces. We enable management to focus on core business strategies and avoid worrying about technology issues. With a goal of supporting business objectives, we help companies use technology as a strategic tool rather than a necessary evil. Our team provides responsiveness, problem […]

Outsourced Accounting Services

It’s often difficult and expensive to find experienced personnel who can handle complicated institutional reporting functions. We pride ourselves on offering these types of sophisticated accounting services to clients on an outsourced basis. Our team has many years of experience and offers the focus and attention that in-house teams with competing priorities often cannot. As […]

International Tax Services

Our firm’s international tax practitioners are widely recognized as thoughtful advisors, strategic thinkers and valuable business partners. Many of our multi-national clients have worked with us for many years as their companies have grown and evolved. Tax Planning and Compliance Assessing the tax impact of currency fluctuations Branch terminations Federal, state and local tax compliance […]

Cloud-Based Accounting Services

Flat fee outsourced accounting plans for entrepreneurs, small and medium business, and family offices. By assigning financial services to the professionals, you can focus on tasks that add to your bottom line. Clear and predictable pricing Confidence and peace of mind that your accounting is being handled by professionals. Deep advisory expertise on demand. Modern […]

Capital and Financial Services

BayBridge Capital Advisors Transaction and Capital Advisory Services Maximizing value to the shareholders.  Executing liquidity objectives and exit strategies.  Accomplishing growth strategies.  Raising capital.  These objectives require trusted advisors with the right experience.  BayBridge Capital Advisors, an affiliate of  Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants, provides value to clients by assisting throughout the transaction process […]

Outsourced CFO Services

It’s often difficult and expensive to find experienced personnel who can handle complicated institutional reporting functions. We pride ourselves on offering these types of sophisticated accounting services to clients on an outsourced basis. Our team has many years of experience and offers the focus and attention that in-house teams with competing priorities often cannot. As […]

Real Estate Tax and Advisory Services

Berkowitz Pollack Brant has one of the largest real estate tax practices in Florida. Long-time clients include major developers, property owners and managers, landholders and related construction entities.

Cyber Security Risk Mitigation and Crisis Response

The dangers and threats of the online world are always near and ever changing. It takes skill, diligence and experience to protect families and businesses, information and privacy online. Our team of highly experienced IT professionals and cybersecurity specialists apply its skills to help clients protect themselves, understand their cyber insurance needs and react immediately […]

Mergers and Acquisitions Diligence

M&A Due Diligence Experience has taught us that an intense due diligence process contributes to the success of any transaction. By leveraging the talents of auditors, valuation experts and quality of earnings assessment professionals, we can create a comprehensive overview of a target’s financial, HR, technology, operations and tax risks and opportunities. This also includes […]

Bankruptcy and Receiverships

Our team has been engaged by trustees, receivers, examiners, debtors, creditor committees and their counsel to provide financial forensic assistance in complex litigation matters as well as advisory services.  We specialize in conducting financial investigations and assisting with asset recovery in Chapter 7 and 11 matters, as well as providing other forensic accounting services involving […]

State and Local Tax Planning

Individuals and companies with operations in multiple states face a complex tax environment. With careful planning, the overall tax burden can be managed. Our professionals have experience handling the challenges of a multi-state operation. They know the questions to ask, the advice to provide and the traps to watch for in tailoring multi-state plans. Their […]

Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Investigations

Multi-national companies with subsidiaries or agents who have control over purchasing or acquisition of goods and services must be proactive to properly comply with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Non-compliance with the FCPA can result in criminal charges, fines and penalties, reputational harm and civil liabilities. Our firm works with attorneys and government agencies […]

Family Law Forensics

Family Law Forensics Our Family Law Forensics practice provides the technical expertise and specialized experience required to simplify complex financial information prior to, during and after divorce.  With a keen understanding of both the legal and financial intricacies of these matters, we are able to partner with attorneys and apply our tax, accounting and audit skills […]

Tax Planning and Compliance for US Companies

With one of the largest tax practices in Florida our team advises on compliance, tax liability, mergers and acquisitions, specialized transactions and strategic tax planning.

Growth and Profitability Consulting

Our consulting expertise is relied upon by individuals who recognize the benefits of diversifying business interests. Each engagement is customized and includes some or all of our specialty areas and focuses on enhancing the profitability of our clients’ businesses. Accounting financial data analysis Business plans, forecasts and financial projections CFO services, including governance, special projects […]

People


Yovanny Hernandez, CPA

Yovanny Hernandez has nearly ten years of experience providing federal and state tax compliance, as well as consulting services to business owners and high-net-worth individuals. A CPA in Florida, Hernandez serves clients in the commercial real estate and professional services sectors. He has specialized experience with partnerships and mergers and acquisitions. He practices in both […]

Michael Greenwald, CPA

Michael Greenwald has more than 40 years of experience in public accounting. He provides consulting expertise to clients in the financial services, technology and media, manufacturing, wholesale distribution, private equity, real estate, construction and professional services industries. By approaching client challenges with a long-range view, he brings a unique perspective and identifies opportunities. His guidance […]

Michael Brennan, CPA

For nearly 15 years Michael Brennan has provided tax consulting and outsourced CFO services to clients in a wide range of industries, including professional services firms, hedge funds and manufacturers. He has an added focus on the complex needs of high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs and families. In 2023 Brennan was recognized by Crain’s New York Business […]

Joanie B. Stein, CPA

For more than 20 years Joanie Stein has provided tax accounting and consulting services to real estate management and investment companies, high-net-worth individuals and closely owned businesses. Stein concentrates her practice on professional services, retail and real estate industries. Her experience includes the review and approval of federal and state income, property, and other tax […]

Alik MacLauchlan

Alik MacLauchlan is a tax and business consultant with experience providing advice and guidance to corporations and partnerships across a broad spectrum of industries. His clients include manufacturers, professional service firms and retailers. He also has a specialized focus on high-net-worth family groups and entrepreneurs. MacLauchlan has prior experience at a Big Four firm, where […]

Mark B. Leaheey, CPA, CGMA, MSA

Mark B. Leaheey has more than 15 years of professional experience providing tax and consulting services to clients in the U.S. and abroad. He focuses on self-procurement tax, as well as state and local income franchise tax compliance and consulting. A focus area is research and development credits for a wide range of industries. Leaheey […]

Jonathan Kraes, CPA

For more than ten years, Jonathan Kraes has provided accounting and consulting services to high-net-worth individuals and organizations, including hedge and private equity fund investment managers, corporate executives and technology entrepreneurs. Kraes holds experience from a Big Four accounting firm and specializes in tax advisory services, complex multi-state tax returns with foreign filings, charitable planning […]

Joel G. Young, JD, LLM, TEP

Joel G. Young provides tax consulting, income and estate tax planning and compliance services for high-net-worth families and closely held businesses that have international operations. Young has experience with pre-immigration and expatriation planning, international and domestic trusts, cross-border investments and international business restructuring.  A talented speaker, he is an adjunct professor of international tax at […]

Richard A. Pollack, CPA, ABV, CFF, ASA, CBA, CFE, CAMS, CIRA, CVA

Rich Pollack has served as a litigation consultant, expert witness, court-appointed expert, forensic accountant and forensic investigator for more than 30 years.

Cherry Laufenberg, CPA

Cherry Laufenberg is a talented tax professional with experience in the taxation of corporations, pass through entities, trusts and foreign entities. With diversified skills, she has proven knowledge of construction, real estate investment and manufacturing industries. Laufenberg has nearly 15 years of experience providing various accounting and tax preparation services for a number of publicly […]

John G. Ebenger, CPA

John Ebenger provides planning and compliance to high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs, especially those with complex real estate holdings and development projects.