OZ MAGAZINE 2022 Top 25 Influencers issue 2.2 | Page 99

Q & A : ED RYMER , WINNER OF AMERICA ’ S TOP PROJECT WITH FLORIDA LAKES RV RESORT
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WHAT IS YOUR PROJECT ’ S TIMELINE FOR DEVELOPMENT AND COMPLETION ?
Construction is planned to start 1st quarter of 2022 and to be completed in 12 months .
WHEN AND WHY DID YOUR COMPANY GET INVOLVED IN THE OZ INDUSTRY ?
The land was purchased based on the economics of an RV resort development without the knowledge of being in an opportunity zone . The opportunity zone turned out to be an additional benefit for the investors .
WHERE IS YOUR COMPANY BASED AND HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COMPANY , INCLUDING WHAT SERVICES YOU OFFER ?
Rymer Companies is based in the amazing city of Sarasota , Florida . Rymer Companies is a diversified , privately held real estate and business investment company .
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND ?
I am the owner or Rymer Companies . I am disciplined and a man of his word . I have more than 35 years of broadbased experience in development , owning and managing of investment real estate . I have numerous other companies and businesses with a focus and expertise primarily in Florida and Minnesota . I am also the past President of the Minnesota / Dakotas CCIM Chapter .
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU RAISED TO DATE IN YOUR OZ FUND ?
$ 4,500,000
HOW DID THE PANDEMIC IMPACT YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY ?
It has enhanced the demand in the state of Florida . The pandemic spurred a demographic shift among RV park users with more families and remote workers in addition to the traditional retirees .
WHAT ARE SOME CURRENT TRENDS YOU ARE SEEING IN THE OZ MARKET THAT MIGHT HAVE AN IMPACT ON YOUR PROJECT ?
Investors first want to make sure the OZ opportunity investment makes economic sense and secondarily offers tax benefits .
WHAT DO YOU THINK OPPORTUNITY ZONES CAN ACCOMPLISH FOR DISTRESSED AREAS ?
Florida Lakes RV development will provide millions of dollars into the community via the RV site renters spending money in the community .
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP BUSINESS GOALS THIS YEAR ?
Continue to develop RV Resorts in the state of Florida .
WHAT ’ S NEXT FOR YOUR COMPANY ?
We currently have two more RV developments in the due diligence stage .
OPPORTUNITYZONE . COM