Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Corliss
Hi Eric, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m Eric Corliss, the fifth-generation Co-Managing Partner of Corliss Management Group (CMG) and Principal at 1892 Capital Partners.
Initially drawn to computer science, I shifted my focus to the Corliss Family business in 2003, starting in the IT department of Corliss Resources, INC (CRI), a 1919-founded sand, gravel, and concrete supplier. Over time, I transitioned into accounting and finance before dedicating myself to the family’s real estate holdings in 2006.
My efforts led to the creation of CMG in 2010. By 2019, my brother Steve and I acquired my uncle’s shares in CRI and CMG, demonstrating our commitment to expanding the family enterprise. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, CMG has continued to grow and evolve under my and Steve’s leadership, executing over $400 million in real estate, business, and financing transactions since 2020. In 2021, we sold CRI to focus on real estate investments and planning for the family’s future.
Overall, I am extremely passionate about building a family business and succession planning. As I aim to continue our family’s legacy, I greatly appreciate my active participation in NAIOP. This helps me stay informed and connected within the industry, ensuring the ongoing evolution of the family business’s real estate investment success.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, running, and mountain biking on the mountain trails of Draper.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building a multi-generational family business has been a true test of passion, resilience, and determination. While the idea of a smooth succession may be appealing, reality often presents more complex challenges. Our family faced internal conflicts, especially during the transition from the third to fourth and fourth to fifth generations. However, our small family size and shared commitment to the business helped us overcome these issues and become stronger.
The transition to the fifth generation, with my brother Steve and I taking over from our father, was a more intentional process. We sought guidance from mentors who had successfully navigated similar challenges. Embracing the invaluable perspectives of each generation and maintaining open dialogue allowed us to create a unified vision for the company’s future.
Our focus is on building a lasting legacy, not just short-term gains. The concept of “modernize” has become our guiding principle, balancing innovation with our family’s pioneering roots. Each generational shift brings new perspectives and challenges aimed at advancing the company’s mission and supporting our stakeholders. We’ve faced economic downturns, but strategic, conservative financial management and a commitment to our employees have helped us stay resilient.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about 1892 Capital Partners & Corliss Ventures?
Corliss Ventures is a five-generation family-owned company specializing in real estate development, investment, and management. We aim to grow a portfolio of stable, cash-flowing properties that create lasting value. We believe real estate is a powerful tool for financial growth and community development. By investing locally, we aim to create meaningful economic impact and contribute to the well-being of the neighborhoods where we operate in Washington and Utah.
As stewards of over 2,000 acres of land in Pierce and King County, Washington, we have transformed raw land into cash-flowing real estate assets. Like a much smaller version of Utah’s Daybreak Community, our flagship project, the Sunrise Master-Planned Community, offers residential, commercial, and community spaces. It supports the growing housing needs outside of Seattle and addresses the housing affordability crisis by creating well-priced, accessible spaces for businesses and individuals.
We’re the ideal partner for real estate buyers and sellers looking for a reliable, financially sound company committed to long-term success. With that said, expanding our footprint to Utah in 2024-26, we aim to actively develop and invest in the state’s growing real estate market through acquisitions and development projects. Through our business entity 1892 Capital Partners, we offer real estate investors capital through direct hard money lending. Our team at 1892 Capital Partners specializes in providing tailored financing solutions to real estate builders, brokers, and investors.
Unlike traditional lenders with rigid structures, we offer flexible financing options to meet each client’s unique needs. We are committed to accelerating lending during economic uncertainty and bridging the gap left by regional banks and more institutional lenders. Our focus on clear exit strategies and strong partnerships empowers our clients to achieve long-term success. Our deep understanding of the Washington, Utah, and Hawaiian markets allows us to offer practical investment strategies and navigate complex real estate challenges in these areas.
Collectively, with both business organizations, we want people to see and feel our family boutique approach to services and our long-term perspective. We believe in building enduring relationships within our organization and with our community. Our success is built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and a shared commitment to excellence, and we are dedicated to developing these relationships for the long term.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Simply put, the key to our business lies in our people. By providing them with the autonomy, trust, and resources they need, we empower them to drive our business forward. Our success is built on the belief that when individuals are empowered, they can achieve remarkable results and find deep fulfillment in their work.
On top of having a fantastic team, financial stewardship is also a core value for our family. We believe in building a solid financial foundation based on hard work and responsible management. It’s about making sound financial decisions while also embracing innovation and change, a commitment that allows us to adapt to the evolving financial landscape while staying true to our core values.
Perseverance, grit, and humility aren’t just words; they’re the values that steer our family culture and our company. These values have helped us weather storms, overcome obstacles, and stay true to our mission, to make a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1892capital.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1892capitalpartners/
- Twitter: https://x.com/1892CapPartners
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@1892CapitalPartners/featured
