In late 2006, Mueller and Paladino began discussing the possibility of forming a real estate investment company to purchase and manage real estate. The company was founded in early 2007. They both agreed the name of the company should have a shared significance. They decided on 22520 Holdings in reference, of course, to the Mount’s address. The name is fitting as it refers to the piece of real estate that is Douglas County’s highest point and honors the proud institution where the partners first met as freshmen in the Fall of 1992. Mueller and Paladino’s shared experiences from their time at the Mount has served the company well when tough decisions needed to be made.

      Owning real estate can be challenging at times and Paladino and Mueller have seen their fair share after acquiring their first properties in February 2007. The record breaking rains in the Spring of 2007 coincided with a non-functioning sump pump to create a small pond in the basement of one property. In addition, Paladino and Mueller have had a crash course in real estate finance and property management.

      Overall, however, Paladino and Mueller are happy with the experience so far and are excited about the current economic environment and real estate market which are ideal for acquiring more property. Based on economic theory and the current state of the market in combination with low interest rates, the difficulty in the sub-prime lending market will create more opportunities and demand on the rental side. The company is also considering acquiring an equity stake in a commercial real estate development.

      This partnership is based on values impressed upon Mueller and Paladino during their years at the Mount. The Mount will always be a special place for these alumni and they are proud to have named their real estate investment company after the real estate where it all started.