Mark J. Bennett

Background

About Mark J. Bennett

As a real estate developer, attorney, and keynote speaker, I bring over three decades of experience in envisioning, structuring, and executing complex, transformative multifamily, single family and mixed-use developments. My expertise spans both market-rate and affordable housing, with a strong emphasis on creating sustainable investment structures and generating long-term community benefits in urban settings. Since 2014, I've been involved in the successful development of nine major projects, encompassing over residential units and square feet of commercial space, primarily in Detroit. Through innovative tools like PACE Financing, Opportunity Zones, and Shared Ownership Models, including Community Land Trusts (CLTs), I’ve been able to foster permanent affordable housing solutions and contribute to the revitalization of urban neighborhoods. As the founder of MJBennett, PLLC, I provide integrated legal and strategic services in real estate, venture capital, economic incentives, and environmental matters. By building strong relationships with local, state, and federal agencies, along with private equity and institutional investors, I’ve helped secure over $300 million in financing for various projects. My legal background includes founding the Climate Change Practice Group at Miller Canfield, where I focused on renewable energy and public-private partnerships. At the Detroit Justice Center, my focus is on crafting solutions that foster just and sustainable urban communities with an emphasis on affordable housing. My multifaceted approach draws from over a decade of leading MJBennett, PLLC, where I've honed skills in startup law, economic development incentives, and commercial real estate acquisition. This unique blend of legal expertise and entrepreneurial insight propels my mission to drive equitable development.