The Hidden Gem of CRE Finance: Ina Montejo on Why More Developers Are Turning to CPACE
Release Date: 02/10/2025
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info_outlineEpisode 10: The Hidden Gem of CRE Finance: Ina Montejo on Why More Developers Are Turning to CPACE
In this episode, Ina Montejo, Assistant Vice President of Originations at PACE Loan Group, breaks down C-PACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing—a flexible, non-recourse, and fixed-rate funding option that is transforming the way real estate projects secure capital.
Ina shares how developers and investors are leveraging C-PACE financing to fill gaps in their capital stacks, reduce borrowing costs, and even unlock retroactive funding for projects completed within the last few years. She also discusses the impact of ESG and energy-efficiency mandates, how counties are adopting C-PACE programs, and real-world examples—including the $35M financing of Gateway Studios in St. Louis, a world-class music rehearsal venue.
If you’re struggling to make a deal pencil or looking for a creative way to structure your financing, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
- How C-PACE Works – The fundamentals of C-PACE financing and its eligibility criteria.
- Lowering the Cost of Capital – How developers use C-PACE to blend down their borrowing costs.
- Retroactive C-PACE – Unlocking liquidity for completed projects by reimbursing energy-efficient upgrades.
- Filling Financing Gaps – How C-PACE is stepping in as a quasi-senior lender to bridge stalled projects.
- ESG & Sustainability – Why C-PACE aligns with green building initiatives and energy mandates.
Related Topics for Further Exploration:
- How C-PACE compares to mezzanine debt and preferred equity as a financing tool.
- Expanding C-PACE adoption – The role of local governments in approving C-PACE programs.
- The future of ESG-driven financing and its impact on commercial real estate.
Guest Information:
Ina Montejo is the Assistant Vice President of Originations at PACE Loan Group, specializing in C-PACE financing solutions for commercial real estate. With prior experience at Twain Financial Partners, MG Properties, and Swift Real Estate Partners, she brings deep expertise in loan origination, underwriting, and closing. Ina also serves as Chair for CREW San Diego’s Emerging Leaders and is an active member of ULI San Diego and NAIOP San Diego.
Explore the C-PACE eligibility map mentioned in this episode: PACE Loan Group Website
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