Jake Kyser, a lifelong Montgomery resident, serves as President of Jerry Kyser Builder, Inc., and as the Owner and Qualifying Broker for Kyser Property Management Co., Inc. Kyser also owns several popular establishments in downtown Montgomery’s Alley Entertainment District, including Central Restaurant, Tower Taproom and Lower Lounge. His extensive involvement spans organizations like the Montgomery Home Builders Association, the Associated General Contractors of Alabama, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100 and the Wright Flyers. As a charter member of River Bank & Trust’s Board of Directors, Kyser continues to shape the city’s development, including co-owning the Staybridge Suites Hotel in the heart of downtown Montgomery.
Who started Jerry Kyser Builders and Kyser Property Management, and why?
My father, Jerry Kyser, began his construction career in the mid-1960s while employed by the railroad. Recognizing his entrepreneurial spirit, he transitioned to full- time homebuilding within a few years. While establishing himself as a residential builder, my father expanded his focus to commercial construction, developing and leasing small warehouses and office buildings. To effectively manage our growing portfolio, we established Kyser Property Management Company, Inc. This in-house entity oversees all leasing and property maintenance activities.
What sets Kyser apart from other real estate and development companies?
Our unique structure distinguishes us from traditional developers. As a licensed general contractor, commercial real estate company and property management company all within a single organization, we possess a comprehensive understanding of the entire development lifecycle.
What are your main duties and responsibilities?
Currently, I oversee all aspects of our company’s operations. As President of Jerry Kyser Builder, Inc. and Qualifying Broker for Kyser Property Management Company, Inc., I actively participate in all business decisions. I am grateful for the contributions of our exceptional team and the unwavering support of my father.
What first drew you to development and real estate?
Growing up with a father in the construction business provided me with early exposure to the industry. My father frequently brought me to work sites before I was old enough to contribute and during summer breaks as I got older. I gradually developed a genuine interest in construction and real estate development.
What’s on the horizon for Kyser?
One of the biggest changes lately has been our move into the Auburn market. We’ve finished two shopping centers and have a third one in the works. It’s been really energizing to develop real estate in a new market, and we’re excited about what’s ahead for us in Lee County.
How did you transition into the hospitality industry?
Our entry into the hospitality sector stemmed from our existing real estate holdings. Central Restaurant marked our initial venture into hospitality in 2011. Since then, we have expanded our portfolio to include three additional venues and a Staybridge Suites Hotel, all located in downtown Montgomery.
What else do you want our readers to know about?
My parents worked extremely hard and sacrificed a lot for our family growing up, and their sacrifice made everything we now do possible. When I’m asked what kind of business I’m in, it’s difficult to provide a simple answer. What I enjoy most is that we’re involved in a variety of different things. It’s this variety that keeps every day exciting and makes it enjoyable to come to work.
Personal Matters:
Favorite Business Book: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Who Would You Invite to Dinner? My paternal grandmother, Doris Kyser. We affectionately called her “Gran”, and she profoundly influenced my life. Sadly, she passed away before I reached an age where I could fully appreciate her significance. I often find myself pondering the numerous questions I never had the opportunity to ask her about her life and experiences.
What do you do in your downtime? My wife, Anna, and I, along with our dogs, Daisy and Charlie, cherish our time at Lake Martin. Weekends are filled with enjoying sunsets from the dock, boating and entertaining friends. In the fall, we enthusiastically attend Auburn football games.
