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Schottenstein Real Estate Group Becomes Largest Apartment Developer in Ohio

The Pool at Hilliard Grand!

The Schottenstein Real Estate Group, Building Industry (BIA) Developer of the Year in 2006 and 2010, is in a strong expansion mode and continuing to develop large projects. According to Columbus Business First, The Ohio and Florida based developer plans to build more than 1,100 apartments in Central Ohio this year – even as it eyes expansion into Cincinnati and Florida.

The Columbus builder’s projects include the completion of Hilliard Grand and Hilliard Summit totaling 525 units and $51 million in construction, both of which will be 100% occupied upon completion. In 2012, Schottenstein Real Estate Group will build more than 1,100 rental units in Lancaster, New Albany, Orange Township, Polaris and Mason, Ohio featuring total construction when built of $105 million.

Schottenstein Real Estate Group Chairman/CEO Gary Schottenstein

“We’re in expansion mode,” said Chairman/CEO Gary Schottenstein. “Statistics confirm that we are one of the largest residential builders in Ohio and the Midwest right now. It is amazing but at this time, Schottenstein Real Estate Group controls over 250 acres of undeveloped land in Ohio and Florida, which will keep us very busy in the future.” confirmed Schottenstein.

The Schottenstein Real Estate Group has built three condominium communities and over 500 households totaling more than $110 million in sales over the past several years. Expansion is also taking place outside of Ohio as the new $70 million Palm Beach Gardens, Florida project calls for a mix of apartments and retail on 43 acres.

“Our growth and success has been possible due to our employee-associates, including our leadership team of Chuck Evans, Gary Reitter, George Harmanis, Brian Schottenstein, Debbie Wilson, Ron Utterback, Melody Foster, and others,” said Schottenstein.

Top 10 Columbus, Ohio Restaurants

Regardless of the type of food you’re in the mood for, Columbus, Ohio has plenty to choose from. Whether you are looking for a casual spot or something more on the upscale side, Columbus has a wide range of dining options to satisfy any craving or mood.

The Schottenstein Real Estate Group has communities all over the Columbus area, so we’ve gotten to check out restaurants throughout the entire city. While the restaurants on our top 10 list below vary on cuisine, atmosphere, and price range, one thing that these restaurants have in common is that you’re sure to get a great meal at each and every one of them.

  1. Hyde Park – With a convenient location on High Street in the Short North, Hyde Park is a great Steakhouse with an exceptional wine list. The cozy yet upscale atmosphere makes this a prime spot for a great meal and a special night out.
  2. Lindey’s – Lindey’s has become a German Village staple. The unique menu, sophisticated wine list, delicious cocktails, and fun yet elegant atmosphere will have you talking about your amazing experience and keep you coming back again and again.
  3. Rigsbys – If you want a guarantee of fresh ingredients and ever-changing seasonal menus, then Rigsbys is the place for you. This delicious Italian restaurant boasts a casual atmosphere, a simple menu, and a guarantee that you will feel at home and have a wonderful meal.
  4. Giuseppe’s – Located in the heart of Bexley, Giuseppe’s specializes in Authentic Italian cuisine and is known for their friendly and knowledgeable staff. With an owner and executive chef that is native to Southern Italy, it is hardly surprising that the food is so delicious and the atmosphere so inviting.
  5. Mitchell’s Ocean Club – Since its opening at Easton Town Center in 2006, Mitchell’s Ocean Club has become one of the premiere steak and seafood restaurants in Columbus. The complex menu, prime location and the elegant atmosphere is what brings diners in, however, it is the delicious steak and seafood that keep them coming back time and time again.
  6. M – M will transport you from Columbus, Ohio to another location entirely. Think South Beach. The amazing service, one of the nations best wine lists, the beautiful outdoor terrace and the award-winning globally inspired cuisine make M one of the top Columbus restaurants and dining experiences.
  7. Mitchell’s – The award winning Mitchell’s Steak House has a wide selection of steaks, the best homemade side dishes, and a wine list featuring 200 of the world’s finest labels. Their motto really says it all: “This is not your fathers steakhouse. This is Mitchell’s. The Modern American Steakhouse.”
  8. Ruth Chris – in 2010, Ruth’s Chris celebrated its 45th anniversary and is now known as the world’s largest fine dining company. The name itself promises some of the best steaks, best atmosphere, and best service when it comes to fine dining.
  9. Brio – Located in the heart of Easton Town Center, Brio Tuscan Grille brings the pleasures of the Tuscan Country Villa right to Columbus, Ohio. With a beautiful atmosphere and some of the best Italian food that Columbus has to offer, Brio is always a winner in our book.
  10. Marcella’s – With a lively and fun atmosphere, Marcella’s is perfect for sharing a meal with friends or family or for a late night snack. Their Italian small plates, delicious pastas, and wood-fired pizzas paired with one of their 50 Italian wines always hits the spot and always seems like a good choice to us.

Not only will you Live Your Dream at any of our SRE communities, you will also be right nearby some of the best food and attractions in the city. We love to let our current and prospective residents know our favorite picks around Columbus. Whether you are interested in dining at a new restaurant or checking out some of the best attractions and activities going on around you, stay tuned to our blog to read about our picks for you and to become more familiar with the best of the best of your community!

Top Columbus Ohio Activities

Cosi

Columbus, Ohio may not be the biggest tourist destination in the country. If you ask local residents, CBUS is considered a hidden gem and offers plenty of great attractions. The Schottenstein Real Estate Group has communities located throughout the city, where residents can “Live Their Dream” in beautiful homes with great amenities AND great attractions located right nearby.

The Schottenstein Real Estate Group has put together a list of the Top Ten attractions in Columbus, Ohio to keep you busy not only during the upcoming summer months, but all year round!

  1. Ohio State Football – Columbus, Ohio is the Buckeye State. We live and breathe Ohio State Football. Need we say more?
  2. Columbus Zoo – While the best time to see the Columbus Zoo’s wide selection of animals is in the warmer months, the zoo is open for exploration year round, with its special seasonal lights display during the holiday season. With the summer approaching, pack a picnic and head over to the Columbus Zoo to see your favorite animals and visit some of their great events and exhibits.
  3. Zoombeezi Bay – Also owned by the Columbus Zoo (and located right next door), Zoombeezi Bay is a water park that is great for all ages on a hot summer day. Come for some fun in the sun and to keep cool when the weather’s hot and stay into the evening for a “Dive in Movie” shown at 8pm on selected Fridays over the summer. As an added bonus, your admission to Zoombeezi Bay will also get you access to the zoo for the day!
  4. Arnold Classic – The Arnold Classic is an annual bodybuilding competition that takes place in Columbus in late February or early March. Even if you’re not a bodybuilder yourself, this is something that is always fun to watch.
  5. Blue Jackets – Head on over to Nationwide Arena to see Columbus, Ohio’s professional hockey team play. Now in their 12th season, a Blue Jackets Game is a great idea for a night out with friends or family to support the city and maybe even see a good fight or two.
  6. Crew – Show your support and come out with friends or family to enjoy a fun outdoor event that’s great for all ages! This affordable event is a great way to spend a summer evening while rocking the black and gold!
  7. Cosi – The Cosi Center of Science and Industry is a fun and interactive science museum in Columbus featuring more than 300 exhibits.  The museum features exhibit areas that provides experiences for all age levels to combine science facts and learning through play. Cosi is fun and hands-on, providing visitors with a unique museum experience that you can’t get anywhere else.
  8. Franklin Park Conservatory – The Franklin Park Conservatory is a premier horticultural and educational institution showcasing exotic plant collections and special exhibitions. The Conservatory houses 400 species of plants and is surrounded by botanical gardens and floral displays. Franklin Park Conservatory is a unique and popular destination for visitors of all ages, and now is the perfect time to see everything in bloom!
  9. Short North – From Boutiques to art galleries to restaurants, the Short North Arts District offers a wide variety of entertainment for visitors no matter what time of year you go. There are always special events and exhibits, and whether you frequent the Short North regularly or are going for your first visit, chances are you’ll always find something new and exciting on this extremely unique strip of High Street.
  10. Easton/Polaris Malls – Shopping is one area that Columbus, Ohio is certainly not lacking in. Regardless of what store and what kind of shopping experience you are looking for, you will find it at Easton or Polaris… And, chances are you might burn a hole in your pocket while you’re at it!

    Top Private Golf Courses In Columbus

    Best Gold Courses in Columbus, OhioJack Nicklaus, the man with 18 career major championships on the PGA Tour and presumably the greatest golfer of all time, calls Columbus, Ohio his home. The Golden Bear grew up in Upper Arlington, attending college at Ohio State University and built one of the most famous courses in the country, Muirfield Village, in Dublin, Ohio.

    With the cold and grey winter weather, Columbus may not initially catch the eye as a golfing hotbed in America. However, the capital city of the Buckeye state boasts some top-notch courses that have magazines such as Golf Digest raving. Having the world’s greatest golfer, Jack Nicklaus, attest to the city’s superior courses doesn’t hurt either, of course!

    The Schottenstein Real Estate Group, a leader in the real estate industry, has apartment, condominium and multi-purpose living facilities located throughout Central Ohio. Numerous SRE Group communities are located right near some of the city’s best courses, which has turned SRE Group associates and residents into big fans of the sport!

    Below is a list of the top ten private golf courses throughout Columbus. If you have the opportunity, be sure to play one of these courses this summer or be a spectator at the course that Jack built, at the 2012 Memorial Tournament!

    1. Muirfield Village – Dublin, Ohio
    2. Scioto – Columbus, Ohio
    3. The Golf Club – New Albany, Ohio
    4. Double Eagle – Galena, Ohio
    5. Columbus Country Club – Columbus, Ohio
    6. Brookside – Worthington, Ohio
    7. Ohio State University Golf Club – Scarlet Course – Columbus, Ohio
    8. Pinnacle Golf Club – Grove City, Ohio
    9. Tartan Fields – Dublin, Ohio
    10. Jefferson Country Club – Blacklick, Ohio

    Columbus Real Estate Company, SRE Group, Excited for Social Madness!

    SRE Group is Excited to Compete in the Bracket Style Social Media Competition!

    From local businesses to local sports teams, the Schottenstein Real Estate Group is a strong supporter of the Central Ohio community. When the Ohio State basketball team made its memorable run to the 2012 Final Four, the SRE Group was rooting for the Buckeyes the entire way, just like the rest of the city. Unfortunately, the Bucks fell just short of reaching their ultimate goal, the National Championship.

    The city of Columbus certainly got caught up in March Madness during Ohio State’s magical run. Although fans felt like they were a part of the Buckeye’s team, it was the players who were ultimately in control of their own destiny.

    The Schottenstein Real Estate Group decided that they wanted to control their own fate in a bracket-style competition during the springtime. The Columbus, Ohio Real Estate Group who specializes in state-of-the-art apartments, condominiums and mixed use developments entered “Social Madness.” Social Madness is a tournament-style competition that will track participants’ social influence on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Columbus companies will test their mettle against others of similar size.

    SRE Group is Fired Up to Partake in Social Madness!

    In a recent article promoting the Social Madness competition, Columbus Business First recognized the Schottenstein Real Estate Group as one of “Columbus areas most recognizable companies.” The SRE Group is not letting the hype get to their head.

    “We have focused heavily on social media marketing over the last twelve months,” said Brian Schottenstein, Development and Marketing Director for the Schottenstein Real Estate Group.  “We essentially started from scratch last summer with all of our social accounts and have gained a tremendous following over time.”

    Giving away prizes that Columbus residents are interested in is one of the formulas that the SRE Group takes into account for social media growth. From Ohio State football and basketball tickets to Easton gift cards, the Schottenstein Real Estate Group feels it is important to reward their Central Ohio following with community related prizes.

    While social madness will certainly be a fun competition, the Schottenstein Real Estate Group wants to advance one step further than the Ohio State Men’s basketball team. “We strive to be the best at everything we do, exclaimed Schottenstein.” Whether that is building the best communities or being a leader in the social frontier, first place is always our ultimate goal.”

    “Like” SREG on Facebook
    “Follow” SREG on Twitter

    Ten Spring Activities to do in Columbus, Ohio

    The clocks sprung forward on March 11, 2012 and the days will now get brighter earlier and the sun will not set until later. This means that spring is officially right around the corner and people in Columbus have already gotten a glimpse of the warm weather! People who live in the capital city of the Buckeye state are already dreaming about all of the outdoor activities that lie ahead of them.

    The Schottenstein Real Estate Group ensures that residents will have everything they need while living inside one of their gated Columbus, Ohio communities. If the desire to leave their friendly SRE Group confine does happen to come up, there are plenty of great outdoor activities in Columbus to check out.

    10. Catch a Columbus Clippers Game!  

With one of the best minor league stadiums in the country, catching a game at Huntington Park in the Downtown Arena District is an absolute must! Additionally, the Clippers have won the Governors Cup the past two years so you are certain to see some quality baseball. Stay tuned to the Schottenstein Real Estate Group’s Facebook page, as they will be giving away tickets throughout the season, which officially begins on April 5th.

    9. Grab Lunch at the North Market. The North Market is home to dozens of unique, independent merchants and farmers who deliver personal and personable service every day of the week. With over 35 different options for food, you will be extremely pleased with a healthy meal that you can take outside while enjoying the nice weather as well.

    8. Exercise while Enjoying the Beautiful Outdoors! Walk, bike, roller blade or have a picnic at one of the sixteen outstanding natural area parks in the greater Columbus area. You will feel great after your hike and it will be a cheap date! Visit http://www.metroparks.net/ to view all of the parks in the city!

    7. Picnic With The Pops. Starting in April, Picnic with the Pops will be releasing their 2012 schedule.  A community favorite for 25 years, these casual outdoor evening performances on the lawn of Chemical Abstracts Service are a great opportunity to gather with friends, family, co-workers, or clients – bring your own picnic and take in the great weather with some classic music!

    6. Enjoy a Drink or Meal Outside! Take advantage of the longer days and step out onto the patio of your favorite bar or restaurant and socialize with friends while taking in the warm weather! There will be plenty of beautiful days to relax while taking in a cold one or enjoying a good meal, so gather up your friends and request an outdoor table. Check out this article from 614 Magazine about the best outdoor patios around town.

    5. Pick up a New Sport. Whether it’s golf, tennis, basketball, biking or rollerblading, there are dozens of great outdoor sports that will provide you with a great workout while not breaking the bank! You don’t have to be a pro to pick up one of these sports, and it’s a great opportunity to socialize with friends while taking in the great outdoors.

    4. Check out the Short North Walking Food Tour! Take a leisurely stroll through the Short North. Not just an arts district and home to the monthly Gallery Hop, the Short North also boasts a wealth of dining and shopping opportunities. The Short North is packed full of boutiques, fine dining and nightlife and this tour is designed to show off some of the best that the area has to offer. This tour starts at 11am every Saturday and tickets must be purchased in advance, but if you’re looking to do something on your own, you can also plan your own food tour of the area!

    3. Visit an Outdoor Festival! There are a ton of great festivals in Columbus throughout the Spring and Summer. Take advantage of the culture that Columbus has to offer and enjoy being outside on a nice day by visiting one of the city’s fun festivals.

    2. See a Movie Outside! Grab some friends and pack a picnic for one of the best things to do during the summer. Find a location close by that shows outdoor movies and enjoy the cool evenings and hang out on a blanket while watching a movie on the big screen outside!

    1. Check Out a Farmer’s Market.  With the Spring time and nice weather comes the start of Farmer’s Market season. The Farmer’s markets in Central Ohio usually start opening in mid-may and run through the fall. Find a market near you and pick up some fresh food for the week. Maybe you’ll even find a new favorite fruit or veggie that you’ve never tried before!

    Lancaster Midtown Rental Community

    Lancaster Midtown, Lancaster Ohio Rental Community
    The Schottenstein Real Estate Group, Central Ohio’s Developer of Year in 2006 and 2010, announces the start of Lancaster Midtown, a 240-unit class-A rental community to be built on 24 acres on Ety Rd. near Riverview Dr. – next to Giant Eagle.

    The project will feature popular new designs of 1 and 2 bedroom garden, and 2 and 3 bedroom townhome units with garage. A large clubhouse with state-of-the-art fitness center, WiFi business center, meeting rooms, resort swimming pool, terrace areas and many other site amenities will be offered.

    “We are pleased to be constructing the first, large rental community in Lancaster in many years, and the Mayor and city administration have been very encouraging and welcoming for this exciting project,” said developer Gary L. Schottenstein. “We are committed to making Lancaster very attractive to residents wanting to locate and relocate here. The company has recently built new communities in Hilliard, Dublin, Polaris, Pickerington, Grove City, and Westerville areas.”

    “The extra large interior size, beautiful exteriors, kitchens, bathrooms, closets, attached garages, are similar to the top plans in the best Columbus communities,” said Chuck Evans, Sr. V.P. of Development and Construction.

    The Lancaster Midtown clubhouse, models and first households should be completed by late summer. The rental rates are proposed to be in the $600’s – 1200’s range. The community will offer over 10 leasing options, and a unique 100% satisfaction guarantee warranty. Brian Schottenstein, director of development and marketing, states “We value our customer service for residents and strive to adhere to the high standards featured on our website: reputation…integrity…trust!

    Additional leasing information will be available at lancastermidtown.com

    Best Columbus, Ohio Apartments

    Confidence is a key component to successfully running a business. The Schottenstein Real Estate Group puts a tremendous amount of attention into the development, management and marketing of their real estate communities in Central Ohio. Over the years the SRE Group has established a reputation of being one of the leaders in the real estate industry. Their meticulous detailing over each community has given the Schottenstein Real Estate Group the confidence to say that their apartment and rental communities are the best that Columbus, Ohio has to offer!

    Prime locations throughout Central Ohio are one of the many reasons why the Schottentein Real Estate Group’s apartment and rental communities are in such high demand. Thriving and growing cities such as Dublin, Hilliard, Lancaster, Grove City, Pickerington, Gahanna, and Columbus makes these apartments a triple threat! Not only do residents get to live in the best areas in greater Columbus, they are also treated to the ultimate apartment living staffed by people who care.

    “We truly believe that we have the best apartments in Columbus,” stated Brian Schottenstein, Development and Marketing Director at the Schottenstein Real Estate Group. “All of our employees work hard every day as a team to make sure we continue to be number one in customer satisfaction.”

    Residents of the Schottenstein Real Estate Group communities can also attest to how much they enjoy their apartments “I really love the community at BriceGrove Park,” said Latonda McKee on Facebook. “Hilliard Grand is a must-see fairy tail property,” exclaimed Mindee Lape.

    “Live Your Dream” is the slogan that the Schottenstein Real Estate Group established with the confidence that their residents would be doing just that while living at their respective communities. With high occupancy rates and satisfied residents, the SRE Group is certainly the one to look for when looking for an apartment in Columbus, Ohio.

    View all of The Schottenstein Real Esate Group’s Best Columbus, Ohio Apartments!

    SREG Embraces ‘Buffett Style’ Investing thru New Affiliate

    Schottenstein Capital Partners, LP was established in December, 2011 as an affiliate of Schottenstein Real Estate Group, LLC.  SCP operates as a Buy-Side Institutional Investment Firm specializing in DIRECT INVESTING in public Equity.

    The Portfolio Manager of Schottenstein Capital Partners is Corey M. Schottenstein, who is coming over from Forefront Capital, a Multi-Strategy Manhattan Hedge Fund.

    SCP’s style of Direct Investing for Public companies is very niche and one that not many people in the industry were familiar with prior to a $5 Billion PIPE Deal Warren Buffett made with Bank of America that got the whole Street talking about “Only the deal that Buffett can get.”  The difference between Buffett’s investment in Bank of America and the average Stock trader is Buffett was not purchasing the NYSE symbol BAC, but rather giving the company direct working capital in exchange for a newly formed, exclusive and separate security.  This security included preferred shares at a discounted price from what (NYSE: BAC) was trading at, a 6% annual dividend, and an additional 700 million FREE warrants that can be exercised at $7.14 for as long as 10 years.  The Warrants act similar to a call option, meaning for the next 10 years, Buffett has the option to buy BAC stock at $7.14 even if (NYSE: BAC) is trading at $50.

    In summary, the key advantages of Buffett investing Directly into BAC VS buying the stock on the open market are:

    1. He gets Discounted Preferred stock so in case Bank of America continued to struggle, the option to re-negotiate or lower his cost basis by increasing the principal is always open.
    2. He gets the upside “Kicker” in the warrants which make the deal Home-run capable.
    3. He gets “paid while he waits” with a dividend 12X greater than the regular NYSE: BAC.

    Portfolio Manager, Corey Schottenstein, takes this same strategy and executes Direct investments in Public companies with valuations between $100-500 million, whereby market inefficiencies are the greatest.  Schottenstein explains that because of this Direct investing style, SCP is not too correlated to volatile market movements or macroeconomic pressures like an accredited investor would be using the old fashioned way of having a Financial Advisor allocate them into a handful of common stock-picks.

    “Most investors’ strategy thru a Financial Advisor is that of a “Buy & Hold” for large cap, dividend-paying stocks.  2008 proved that no mega Multi-national is “Recession-Proof,” says Schottenstein.

    One of the main reasons the Industry of Financial Advisors is fading out is due to the erratic behavior of equity markets and high correlation among individual stocks. In 2011, the correlation in the S&P500 eclipsed 85%, an all-time high. Put another way, stocks moved with the daily direction of the market more than ever before, offering very few opportunities for “Stock picking.”

    Schottenstein explains, “A lot of Financial Advisors try to sell their firm, service, & lower-risk styles, but the reality is all of the tools in the world can’t save you from a recession or allow you to outperform during a prosperity, but the investing style can.” Corey adds, “Our Goal is to alleviate Risk, but still maintain the upside potential of an asset.  I execute this by scaling out of the majority of the position at the time of effectiveness, and hold onto the warrants as a free gift.  By utilizing this strategy, we can then re-deploy the same cash into another deal, looking to build a “Treasure chest of warrants.”

    SRE Happy Hour at BBR

    Schottenstein Real Estate Group Columbus Ohio apartments and condosThe Schottenstein Real Estate Group of Central Ohio always strives to give back to its residents and employees. This past Friday, they did just that by hosting a SRE Group happy hour at BBR Bar in the Columbus Ohio Arena District. The Schottenstein Real Estate Group reserved the whole back of the bar, which was filled with employees wearing SRE Group t-shirts and having a great time!

    In addition to giving away drink tickets after a hard week of work, a $100 Easton gift card was also up for grabs for anyone at the bar who “Liked” the Schottenstein Real Estate Group on Facebook. Lucky employees also got to play bartender for their residents. There was constant chatter happening at the happy hour, all focused on how much the residents love living in their SRE Group community homes and employees enjoy working there. “We moved in to Hilliard Grand in December and it has been phenomenal,” remarked Hilliard Grand resident, Sue Skinner. “The staff is so lovely and we just can’t wait for the pool to open in the summertime.”

    Employees and residents from all of the SRE communities made an appearance at the Happy hour. “Tonight was an absolute blast,” exclaimed Carly Buresti, Hilliard Grand Leasing Manager. “I got to serve as a guest bartender and really mix it up with my co-workers and residents.”

    “The Resident Happy Hour at BBR was a great time for everyone!! It was nice to see our residents out for a fun evening,” remarked Debbie Wilson, VP of Rental Operations for the Schottentein Real Estate Group. “Our employees were great hosts for the event and some of them even had a good time behind the bar serving us drinks. We look forward to having similar events for our residents in the future. Check out our Facebook page for pictures of the event!”

    Kicking it back on a Friday night with food, laughs and drinks was certainly something SRE Group residents and employees greatly appreciated. To keep up-to-date on other SRE community events, “Like” the Schottenstein Real Estate Group on Facebook and check out our website.

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