MIAMI, FL - Aztec Group, Inc., Florida’s leading real estate investment and merchant banking firm for more than 35 years, is expanding its commercial real estate talent with the addition of Peter Mekras as Managing Director. Mekras will specialize in sourcing investment sales, debt and equity transactions for investors and developers throughout Florida, with an emphasis on the multifamily and housing sector.
Mekras brings over 15 years of commercial real estate experience to the Aztec Group team. Mekras’ track record of more than $1.85 billion in closed sales and capital market transactions involving apartment communities, fractured condominiums, developed lots, land, retail and office. Recently completed and notable transactions include the $108 million debt financing of the 497-unit Melody Tower and the $36 million bulk condominium sale of 347 units in The Ellington in Miami Gardens.
“I’m excited to work with the Aztec team. Aztec Group’s boutique platform provides me with the opportunity to remain hands on and act as a trusted advisor for my clients. Our investment sales capabilities are supported by unparalleled access and a track record spanning decades in the capital markets,” Mekras said.
Mekras most recently served as senior vice president at CREC, where he grew the brokerage and capital markets practices. In this role, he originated and closed over 100 transactions, representing just under $1 billion. Before joining CREC, Mekras worked at Aztec Group for five years, where he began building his expertise in selling and financing multifamily properties.
“We are proud to have Peter return to Aztec Group after a 10-year period of continued career growth that has led him to become a top multi-family investment sales broker in South Florida. He was an important member of our team 10 years ago and now will be much more involved in expanding our investment sales capabilities,” said Ezra Katz, Chairman and CEO of Aztec Group. “Peter’s experience, discipline and credibility are the fundamental reasons we, as a team, have been in business over 35 years.”
“Peter will strengthen Aztec Group’s capabilities in investment sales and within the all-important multifamily sector from day one, opening the door to new clients, financing sources and sale opportunities,” added Charles Penan, Executive Vice President of Aztec Group.
Mekras holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Real Estate Finance from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. A Florida resident for more than 35 years, he is an active participant in the University of Miami’s Mentor Program and the Legal Services of Greater Miami Foundation’s Investment Committee. Mekras is also a licensed real estate broker-associate and mortgage originator in the state of Florida.