About Us
Learn about Baker 1031’s history, mission, and founder.
About Baker 1031 Investments
Baker 1031 Investments operates as a dedicated real estate securities brokerage, specializing in facilitating 1031 exchanges for investors seeking to defer capital gains taxes through strategic real estate investments. Since its establishment, Baker 1031 has focused on providing tailored solutions and expert guidance within the complex landscape of like-kind property exchanges.
With a commitment to in-depth market knowledge and a client-centric approach, Baker 1031 prioritizes understanding the unique needs of each investor. Their team offers access to a diverse range of carefully vetted real estate securities products, enabling clients to identify suitable replacement assets that align with their investment objectives and risk tolerance. Products include Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), Opportunity Zone Funds (OZ Funds), Tenant in Common Investments (TICs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Credit, and more.
Baker 1031 distinguishes itself through its dedication to seamless transaction execution and comprehensive support throughout the entire investment process. Their experienced professionals navigate the intricacies of IRS regulations and timelines, aiming to provide investors with a streamlined and efficient experience. Baker 1031 strives to be a trusted partner for investors looking to strategically invest in real estate.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE INVESTING
History of Baker 1031 Investments
Gerald F. “Jerry” Baker, Jr. (1931–2017), known as "America's Master Gardener," began his career as an undercover police officer in Detroit before becoming a celebrated horticulturist. He appeared on popular TV shows like Dinah’s Place, The Mike Douglas Show, The Merv Griffin Show, and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He authored over 50 best-selling gardening books and hosted gardening programs on PBS, as well as a national call-in radio show.
After a career at Goldman Sachs, Jeffrey Baker, Jerry’s son, co-founded American Master Products, a multinational media company, with his brother-in-law Kim Gasior, a renowned attorney. In the 1990s, Gasior and Baker established Arbor Bay Capital Partners, a family office targeting real estate investments in the Midwest, along with other ventures. By the early 2000s, they also launched Baker’s Best Health Products, specializing in cosmeceuticals, nutritional supplements, and a wide range of health products.
Gerald F. Baker, III, having grown up in the family business, led its digital expansion and managed Arbor Bay’s investments. He was instrumental in developing new products for Baker’s Best. Later, he founded Baker 1031 Investments to offer high-quality real estate investments to individual investors.
Firm Leadership
Gerald F. “Jerry” Baker, III
Founder, Managing Principal
After working in various institutional investment firms, Gerald F. "Jerry" Baker, III founded Baker 1031 Investments, an investment firm dedicated to providing individual real estate investors with tailored 1031 exchange solutions. Baker 1031 was established with the mission of offering individual investors the same opportunities as institutional investors, enabling them to enjoy the benefits large institutions typically have—without compromising what matters most to the individual investor.
Before founding Baker 1031, Jerry held key positions in the real estate private equity and hedge fund sectors. He served in various roles, including as a member of the investment committee, portfolio manager, and trading desk director. Over the course of his career, Jerry has been involved in more than $10 billion in commercial real estate transactions.
Much of Jerry’s real estate and investment expertise stems from his time spent working alongside his father and uncle in the family business. Whether underwriting potential acquisitions with his father or assisting his uncle with property maintenance, Jerry developed a hands-on understanding of real estate investing. These experiences not only equipped him with valuable skills but also gave him insight into the advantages institutional investors hold over individual investors, as well as a deep appreciation for the goals and challenges individual investors face.
Notable Past Transaction Experience Includes:
14.5MM sf Toys “R” Us real estate portfolio bankruptcy auction
Redevelopment of historic 270,000 sf office tower in the PNW
Saks Fifth Avenue $7B real estate portfolio restructuring
Numerous financings such as Canary Wharf (London, UK) and Rockefeller Center (New York, NY)