Embrey Partners, a nationally recognized real estate investment company, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. Founded by Walter M. Embrey, Jr. in 1974, the company boasts a portfolio exceeding 50,000 residential apartments and 6 million square feet of commercial space across 11 states and 30 cities. Embrey Partners’ vertically integrated structure encompasses development, construction, management, and ownership, totaling over 50 million square feet of developed properties.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
Walter Embrey’s journey began at the University of Texas (UT) with a part-time job in homebuilding. This experience sparked a passion for real estate, leading him to become CEO of an Austin-based multifamily company where he oversaw the development of more than 6,000 units. Returning to San Antonio in 1974, he founded Embrey Partners, building it into the powerhouse it is today.
Embrey Partners: A Legacy of Quality and Design
Embrey Partners’ projects consistently receive acclaim for their design excellence, meticulous attention to detail, superior quality, and seamless integration into surrounding communities. The company’s commitment to creating exceptional living and working environments is a testament to Walter Embrey’s founding vision. Embrey Partners developments are not just buildings; they are thoughtfully designed spaces that enhance the lives of residents and contribute to the vibrancy of the communities they serve.
Investing in People and Communities
Beyond bricks and mortar, Embrey Partners invests in people. Walter Embrey’s commitment to fostering talent within the real estate industry is exemplified by his philanthropic endeavors. His significant contribution to the University of Texas – San Antonio (UTSA) led to the establishment of the EMBREY Real Estate Finance and Development graduate program.
Leadership and Industry Influence
Walter Embrey’s leadership extends beyond Embrey Partners. He has served as a Founding Member and Co-Chairman of the Real Estate Finance Center at the UT Austin McCombs School of Business, and on the Advisory Board for the UT Austin School of Architecture. He also played a pivotal role in the Real Estate Council of San Antonio (RECSA) as a Founding Member and President, and contributed to the National Multifamily Housing Council as a Board Member. His involvement in organizations like the Witte Museum, the Texas Biomedical Research Institute, and the Alamo Building Committee underscores his dedication to community development.
A Family Legacy Continues
In 2022, Walter Embrey was inducted into the San Antonio Business Hall of Fame, recognizing his remarkable achievements. He has also been honored as San Antonio’s Entrepreneur of the Year and received the RECSA Philip M. Barshop Founder’s Award. Today, his son, Trey Embrey, leads Embrey Partners as President & CEO, continuing the family’s legacy of excellence in real estate. Walter Embrey’s daughters, Stacey (Embrey) Rubin, Ph.D., and Lisa (Embrey) Nichols, have also achieved success in the healthcare and homebuilding industries, respectively.
