History & Mission

Nelnet has been an active real estate investor for more than a decade, committing over $400 million to real estate assets. Our mission is simple: partner with experienced sponsors to unlock potential in middle-market transactions.

With in-house resources for closing, legal, accounting, and asset management, we provide certainty of execution and flexibility that sets us apart. Our approach is grounded in collaboration, creativity, and speed—helping our partners achieve their goals.

$ 0 M+

Invested in Real Estate Assets

0 +

Years of Active Real Estate Investing

$2-$15M

Typical Equity Commitment Per Transaction

What We're Looking For

Nelnet seeks opportunities that demonstrate strength, scalability, and long-term potential:

Sponsorship

Experienced sponsors with proven track records and the ability to execute agreed upon business plan

Transaction Profile

Middle-market deals with positive leverage at close or through straightforward execution

Asset Types

Multifamily, industrial, office, retail, self-storage, and specialty assets in U.S. markets with strong demographics and long-term growth potential

Returns

Targeted returns in the mid- to high-teens net to our capital

Our Investments in Real Estate

We focus on value-add and opportunistic strategies, including:

  • Repositioning and operational improvements.
  • Select new construction with unmet demand or high barriers to entry.
  • Opportunity zone investments for tax efficiency.

Why Partner With Nelnet?

All-in-One Expertise

Our integrated team manages legal and assets in-house for our investments—ensuring faster decisions and consistent partner relationships.

Speed & Certainty

We make decisions quickly and execute with precision, giving you peace of mind.

Flexibility That Fits

We shape each investment around your strategic goals and the deal—not around a preset timeline.

Creative, Consistent Partner

You work with the same small team from sourcing to post‑close involvement, ensuring consistent insights and creative deal structuring throughout.

Contact Us

We’d love to learn more about your goals. Fill out the following form and we’ll be in touch soon.