Baltimore’s long-standing vacant housing crisis will take center stage on Friday, January 31st, as local investors, developers, and housing professionals gather for a Real Estate Investor Forum focused on ethical investment and neighborhood revitalization.
Held from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Enoch Pratt Free Library – Patterson Park Branch, the forum will address the complex challenges surrounding vacant residential properties, housing affordability, and the role responsible redevelopment can play in stabilizing Baltimore’s neighborhoods.
Baltimore continues to grapple with thousands of vacant homes, a reality that contributes to public safety concerns, population displacement, and a strained housing supply amid a broader statewide shortage. While redevelopment presents opportunity, organizers stress that success depends on informed investors, ethical practices, and strong professional partnerships.
Hosted by Coby Smith with co-host Jackie Gaddis, the forum is designed to move beyond theory and provide attendees with practical, real-world insights into investing in Baltimore’s residential market.
The afternoon program will feature three moderated panel discussions:
- Funding the Deal – A deep dive into financing options, deal structuring, and navigating today’s lending landscape, featuring lenders Eric Davis and James Liverpool.
- Real Stories from the Field – Active developers Shariff Small, Len Dockins, and Shaun Marble share firsthand experiences, lessons learned, and on-the-ground realities of developing in Baltimore neighborhoods.
- Building Your Investor Support Network – A discussion on the essential role of professional partners, with insights from project manager Jennifer Wicks, property manager Ray Simms, and interior designer Sydnee Dockins.
“Baltimore’s housing challenges aren’t abstract — they’re felt block by block and family by family,” Smith said. “This event is about giving people real information, real perspectives, and real connections so they can invest responsibly while contributing to long-term neighborhood stability.”
Smith added that the goal is for attendees to leave with a clearer understanding of not only how to fund a deal, but how to assemble the right team and avoid common pitfalls that can delay projects or negatively impact communities.
The forum is presented by the Greater Baltimore Leadership Association, the young professionals auxiliary of the Greater Baltimore Urban League. GBLA engages professionals ages 21–40 in leadership development, community service, and economic empowerment aligned with the Urban League’s broader mission.
For more than a decade, GBLA has delivered dozens of programs annually, raised significant funds for community initiatives, and supported Black entrepreneurs, earning national recognition for its impact. The Greater Baltimore Urban League continues that legacy through workforce development, education, housing, entrepreneurship, and advocacy aimed at advancing economic equity and opportunity across the region.
As Baltimore looks for solutions to its vacant housing crisis, organizers say the forum represents a critical space for candid dialogue, shared learning, and building the partnerships necessary to ensure redevelopment strengthens — rather than displaces — the communities it is meant to serve.
Free registration is available here.