From Crisis to Opportunity: How Moshe Popack Built a Real Estate Empire on Bold Decisions
Moshe Popack, Co-Founder & Chairmain at YMP Real Estate Management
In this new episode of the Break Free Podcast with host David Mansilla, we hear the incredible story of Moshe Popack—a third-generation real estate investor whose journey is a masterclass in resilience, vision, and bold decision-making.
Moshe began his career working in the offices of his father and grandfather in Brooklyn, NY. After earning both his M.B.A. and J.D., he launched an insurance company before moving to Miami to work as a risk consultant for top luxury real estate developers in South Florida.
When the market crashed in 2009, Moshe began acquiring multi-family properties in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina—ultimately owning more than 5,000 units. By 2013, he expanded into commercial real estate, now holding over 1.3 million square feet of office space across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and New Jersey. Guided by his grandfather’s mantra, “The numbers don’t lie,” Moshe focuses on acquisitions, insurance, and financing—transforming distressed properties into prized assets.
Through his YMP Family Foundation, he has spearheaded impactful projects like founding the synagogue on Fisher Island, opening a Kosher supermarket in North Miami, and creating community gardens across his residential portfolio. His career is a testament to spotting opportunities where others see obstacles—and turning them into long-term value.
Seeing Opportunity Where Others See Risk
When the 2008–2009 real estate crash rattled the U.S. economy, most investors pulled back. Moshe Popack did the opposite. Losing his job and with only his wedding savings available, he started buying foreclosed properties at steep discounts—some apartments in Miami for less than $50,000.
While others hesitated, Moshe understood a crucial truth: housing is a fundamental need. Governments will always support it, and demand would return. By identifying undervalued assets and focusing on long-term holds, he set the foundation for exponential growth. His strategy was simple—buy when fear dominates the market.
Outworking the Challenge
Moshe’s early days as an investor were defined by relentless effort. Occupancy rates were as low as 65%, and profits were nonexistent at first. But through cutting expenses, increasing rents modestly, and personally knocking on doors to collect payments, he transformed struggling properties into cash-flowing assets.
Within six months, he turned his first investment profitable. That momentum built confidence—and opened the door to acquiring more properties. By reinvesting profits into new deals, Moshe created a snowball effect that accelerated his portfolio growth.
Timing, Patience, and the Power of Buying Right
For Moshe, success in real estate isn’t about guessing the market’s next move—it’s about buying smart and holding patiently. He often makes low-ball offers on distressed properties, betting on a 10-year horizon for appreciation.
He sees today’s market—where some office buildings sell for half their past value—as another prime buying opportunity. While headlines focus on uncertainty, Moshe believes scarcity, population growth, and inflation will continue to drive long-term value in real estate.
Investing in Business-Friendly Environments
Location isn’t just about geography—it’s about policy. Moshe strategically invests in states like Florida and Texas that foster business growth, offering tax incentives, financing programs, and economic development support.
As a board member for the state of Florida’s economic development initiatives, he understands the direct link between thriving businesses and community prosperity. His advice to aspiring investors: go where your investments are welcomed, not hindered by restrictive regulations.
From Real Estate to Community Impact
While building his real estate empire, Moshe has never lost sight of giving back. Through the YMP Family Foundation, he has addressed community needs—from religious and cultural spaces to food accessibility and environmental education.
His philosophy extends beyond financial returns: true success is measured by the positive impact you create. For Moshe, that means revitalizing neighborhoods, improving living conditions, and fostering environments where both businesses and families can thrive.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“Of all fears, there has to be something on the other side that pushes you forward—because if you have no choice but to move ahead, you’ll find the courage you didn’t know you had.”
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