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Proven leaders in real estate, affordable housing, compliance, and operations.
Jihan Newman is the President and CEO of Dwelling Place (DPP), a leading affordable housing management and development company founded in 2008. With over 25 years of experience in asset management, consulting, finance, and development, Newman is a recognized leader in affordable housing. Under her guidance, DPP has overseen affordable, mixed-use, and mixed-income real estate projects, including Year 15 re-syndication, LIHTC, RAD, and PACT deals.
Newman has positioned DPP as a key player in revitalizing and managing distressed properties in New York, with a focus on affordable housing. Her leadership centers on maximizing budgets, maintaining client portfolios’ financial health, and providing clean, safe, and well-maintained homes for residents. Equally important to Newman is fostering community and improving residents’ quality of life — engaging local community leaders and service providers to connect residents with services, create job opportunities, and develop educational and personal growth initiatives for residents and staff.
Jihan takes pride in leading an organization that makes a tangible impact on people’s lives.
Ms. Leach is the Senior Property Manager for the DPP portfolios, bringing over five years of experience in property management to her role. Before joining DPP, she managed a RAD/PACT deal in Central Harlem, which included the oversight of 40 buildings. She also handled a senior housing portfolio in Brooklyn, New York, where she developed strong customer service skills, built solid relationships with residents, and worked to enhance both the financial and physical conditions of the properties.
Jessica’s commitment and determination facilitated her rapid advancement within the firm, resulting in multiple promotions before stepping into the role of Sr. Property Manager. She has extensive expertise in housing program compliance, including LIHTC, HOME, supportive housing programs, and Section 8.
Laura Gonzalez serves as the Administrative Officer at DPP, where she oversees a range of corporate administrative tasks, making a significant impact on the firm’s growth and expansion.
Before joining DPP, Laura was the Executive Assistant to the Managing Director and CFO of a start-up property management firm in Central Harlem. She began her career supporting the executive team at a fabrication company, where she sharpened her administrative skills and played a crucial role in the organization’s daily operations. Today, she is an invaluable member of the DPP team — the glue that holds the firm together.
As the Office and Maintenance Officer, Keyly oversees administrative processes, coordinates cross-departmental communication, and supports leadership in achieving operational goals. She keeps operations running smoothly by managing maintenance requests, tracking repairs, and ensuring equipment is serviced on time.
With a knack for organization and a proactive approach, she works closely with technicians, vendors, and management to keep our properties safe, efficient, and compliant. Outside of work, Keyly enjoys exploring local parks with her dog Benji.
Basil supports the day-to-day upkeep of the DPP portfolio, with hands-on oversight of building systems, repairs, and vendor work. He is a steady, familiar point of contact for residents — making sure issues are logged, resolved promptly, and followed up on.
His practical, no-shortcuts approach helps keep our buildings safe, clean, and running the way residents deserve.
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