At LRE & Companies, we are experiencing a period of exciting growth — expanding our footprint, diversifying our project pipeline, and strengthening our team with fresh talent and expertise. As we continue to scale across new and existing markets, we know that our success is driven not only by visionary leadership and strategic partnerships but also by the exceptional individuals who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to everything we do.
This month, we’re proud to introduce one of the newest members of our growing team: Jacob Sena, Development Acquisition Associate.
Jacob attended the University of Oregon, where he majored in Business Administration. During college, he completed internships in marketing and sales, initially considering those fields for his career. However, after graduating, Jacob realized they weren’t the right fit. Through conversations with professionals in different industries, he decided to pursue real estate, beginning his career in the leasing office for an affordable housing development and property management company. While that experience was valuable, Jacob always knew he wanted to focus on commercial real estate — so when the opportunity at LRE & Companies arose, he was determined to take it.
Currently, Jacob serves as a Development Acquisition Associate, supporting various tasks throughout the development timeline. What excites him most is contributing to the growth of LRE’s project pipeline and helping expand the company’s presence in both new and existing markets.
Jacob’s previous work in affordable housing shaped his understanding of how a thriving environment can positively impact individuals. He recognizes the importance of providing quality housing near essential services and destinations — a perspective that now guides him in making informed decisions about land acquisition and tenant mix for each project.
During the hiring process, Jacob was especially drawn to the chance to learn from experienced professionals like Akki Patel and Victor Chiang, both of whom bring valuable knowledge and insight. Since joining the team, Jacob has already learned a lot from working with them and is eager to continue growing under their guidance.
One thing Jacob has noticed about LRE’s company culture is how willing everyone is to offer help and support. He describes it as refreshing to be in an environment where asking questions is encouraged, and where colleagues generously share advice and insights they wish they’d had when starting out — support that Jacob has already found incredibly valuable.
Outside of work, Jacob enjoys golfing with his brother and dad, trying to surf when the weather permits, and spending time with family, friends, and his girlfriend. He’s also always up for fun weekend trips to interesting places. Something his colleagues might be surprised to learn? Jacob was homeschooled for a year in middle school while traveling the world with his family, visiting over 30 countries — and he has a twin brother, though they don’t look anything alike.
Jacob’s favorite quote is from Albert Einstein: “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.” For Jacob, this quote is about humility and openness — a mindset that reminds him that expertise isn’t about having every answer but about the willingness to keep asking questions.
If he could develop or invest in any project, Jacob would choose to develop a residential community in a popular holiday destination, such as Mexico or Hawaii. This type of project would let him express his creativity, explore new concepts, collaborate with diverse people, and gain fresh perspectives — all while enhancing his skills and contributing meaningfully to his personal and professional journey.
To Jacob, community means a group of people who offer connection, support, and a shared sense of purpose — a space where he feels seen, understood, and valued. He hopes his work at LRE will help create communities where people can give and receive help, encouragement, and inspiration, making challenges feel lighter and successes more meaningful.
We are proud to have Jacob as part of the LRE & Companies team and look forward to the many ways he will help shape the future of our developments and communities.