From Broadway to Building Communities: The Inspiring Journey of Larry Hirschfield

In the bustling, ever-changing landscape of New York City, stories of transformation and reinvention are not uncommon. But few are as compelling as that of Larry Hirschfield, a man who transitioned from the rhythm of percussion to the pulse of real estate, building not just structures but stronger communities. As the Founder & CEO of ELH Mgmt., Larry has spent decades shaping the future of affordable housing in New York, demonstrating that passion, vision, and dedication can turn even the most unexpected career shifts into impactful legacies.

A Musical Beginning Before he ever laid the foundation for a building, Larry Hirschfield laid down the beat for Broadway’s Les Misérables and performed with the prestigious New York City Opera. As a professional percussionist, his career was filled with the artistry and precision required to master one of music’s most dynamic crafts. However, the late 1980s ushered in dramatic shifts in the music industry, with new technologies changing the landscape of professional performance opportunities. Faced with an uncertain future, Larry did what true artists do — he adapted.

The First Steps into Real Estate In 1987, a chance radio program about homeownership piqued Larry’s interest. Acting on a bold impulse, he secured a loan and purchased a dilapidated townhouse on Adelphi Street in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. With no formal background in real estate but an artist’s commitment to craftsmanship, he personally renovated the building, transforming it into a livable space that retained its historical charm. This experience ignited a new passion, one that would soon eclipse his musical career.

Founding ELH Mgmt. By the mid-1990s, Larry’s focus had shifted entirely to real estate. Seeing an opportunity to contribute to New York City’s housing landscape, he founded ELH Mgmt. in 1995. The company quickly earned recognition for its commitment to rehabilitating distressed properties and creating high-quality affordable housing.

Through the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development’s (HPD) Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Program, Larry gained invaluable experience revitalizing tax-foreclosed properties. His ability to restore and manage buildings with integrity and efficiency soon established ELH as a leader in the sector.

Building More Than Housing Over the years, ELH Mgmt. has expanded its scope, incorporating general contracting and property management under its umbrella. Today, the company boasts a portfolio of projects that not only provide safe and sustainable homes but also enhance the communities they serve.

Among ELH’s landmark achievements:

• Coney Island Commons (2013): A $79.5 million project featuring 195 affordable rental units and a state-of-the-art YMCA.
• Stanley Commons (2018): A $72.4 million development providing 204 affordable housing units in Brooklyn.
• La Central (2021): A Bronx-based housing development that became a lifeline for families displaced by a devastating fire.

Each of these projects underscores Larry’s commitment to addressing the city’s pressing housing needs while fostering community development.

A Vision for the Future As ELH moves into its new headquarters at 1675 Broadway in Manhattan, Larry Hirschfield continues to look forward. His approach remains deeply rooted in the values that guided him from the very start — quality, integrity, and a belief that everyone deserves access to safe and affordable housing.

In a city that never stops evolving, Larry’s journey serves as a testament to the power of reinvention. From the concert halls of Broadway to the neighborhoods of New York, his impact resonates far beyond the buildings he’s constructed. Through ELH Mgmt., he has not only transformed real estate but also enriched the lives of countless residents who now call his developments home.

Connect with Larry Hirschfield & ELH Mgmt.

Website: https://www.larryhirschfield.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-hirschfield-6ba55870

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