Commercial Real Estate Investors, Inc (CRI) is a vertically integrated real estate company with a Commercial Real Estate Brokerage, Property Management Division, and a Real Estate Holding Company with diversified properties across its portfolio.
Meet Our Team
Utilizing our broad network and over 45 years of experience as owners and operators, we provide our clients with unparalleled services resulting in long-term success and realized value. Closing over $2.5 billion of transactions nationally, CRI is uniquely qualified to accommodate our clients in all aspects of the commercial real estate industry.
Duane Brazil | Founder & CEO
DRE #01322091 | (209) 988-6110 | Email | LinkedIn
Duane Brazil is the Founder, CEO, and Broker at CRI, where he specializes in the acquisition, disposition, brokerage, and management of Manufactured Housing Communities. As a seasoned real estate professional, Duane brings a unique perspective to every transaction through his experience as an owner, operator, investor, and broker.
With more than 45 years of industry experience, Duane has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results, strategic guidance, and long-term value for his clients. His extensive market knowledge, hands-on operational expertise, and commitment to excellence have earned him the trust of investors, owners, and industry professionals nationwide.
Throughout his career, Duane has participated in more than $2.5 billion in real estate transactions and overseen over $350 million in assets under management. His proven track record, strong industry relationships, and client-first approach have established him as a respected leader within the commercial real estate and manufactured housing sectors.
Outside of work, Duane enjoys spending time with family and friends and has a passion for offshore fishing in Mexico and international travel. As Duane often says, these pursuits provide the balance necessary to maintain perspective, gratitude, and success in both business and life.
Heather Bright | Operations Manager
DRE #02107196 | (209) 322-4005 | Email
Heather is a licensed Property Manager with over 6 years of experience in the industry, specializing in manufactured housing communities. She began her career in property management with CRI as an Administrative Assistant, where she gained valuable insights into the intricacies of property operations, tenant relations, and maintenance management. Over the years, Heather advanced to roles of increasing responsibility, demonstrating exceptional skills in budgeting, team leadership, and regulatory compliance. A dedicated professional with a strong foundation in business, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a customer-focused approach to her role as Operations Manager at CRI. When Heather is not working, she can be found traveling, going on urban explorations, visiting her favorite city of New Orleans, and homemaking fruit preserves.
Diana Bush | Account Manager & Controller
(209) 322-4011 | Email | LinkedIn
Diana is an account manager and controller at CRI. She started working at a mortgage brokerage firm in the early 1980s in Southern California. As a bookkeeper and loan processor, she dealt with various financing structures, from single-family residences to large commercial projects. Diana has worked for CRI for over 38 years as an account manager & controller, performing all aspects of office duties. Diana has been an office manager and controller during Duane Brazil's growing businesses from the beginning and has been a committed part of the CRI team since 1985.
Ashley Cardenas | Senior Management Associate
Ashley is a Senior Management Associate at CRI, bringing years of customer service experience and a strong background in interpersonal communication to her role in property management. She excels at building relationships and enjoys engaging with tenants, ensuring their needs are met while fostering a sense of community. Ashley is passionate about making a positive impact in the neighborhoods she serves, consistently striving to enhance the experience for all residents.
Sharlette Walbert | Accounts Payable & Receivable
Sharlette joined CRI as a Accounts Management (Payable & Receivable), bringing with her a wealth of experience in accounting, property management, and a strong background in AppFolio property management software. Beyond her management role, Sharlette plays an integral part in handling finances and streamlining operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Her sharp attention to detail and technical know-how make her a key asset to the team, while her friendly, approachable nature helps build strong, lasting relationships with both tenants and colleagues.
Karney Roen Brazil | “The Mobile Home Queen”
Founder of Community Home Sales | (209) 840-0118 | Email | Dealer #1505208
Karney Roen Brazil is the CEO of Community Home Sales, bringing a wealth of expertise and leadership to the mobile home industry. With a proven track record of over 250 successful home sales,
She is dedicated to helping buyers navigate the homeownership process while delivering a seamless, personalized experience from start to finish. Under Karney's leadership, Community Home Sales has facilitated more than $7 million in manufactured home sales, helping families and individuals find quality housing opportunities throughout California.
Her deep understanding of the industry, commitment to exceptional service, and client-focused approach have earned her a reputation as a trusted professional in the manufactured housing community. Karney is passionate about creating affordable homeownership opportunities and works closely with buyers, lenders, and community operators to ensure successful outcomes for every client.
Giovanna Brazil | Chief Operating Officer
DRE #02203522 | (209) 840-4120 | Email | LinkedIn
Giovanna Brazil serves as Chief Operating Officer at CRI, overseeing tenant relations, property operations, compliance, and day-to-day management across the company's portfolio of manufactured housing communities and real estate assets.
A graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition, Giovanna brings a strong background in operations, organization, and client service. She plays a key role in ensuring communities operate efficiently while maintaining a positive experience for residents, owners, and investment partners.
Known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and people-first approach, Giovanna works closely with residents, vendors, and team members to support CRI's commitment to exceptional service and long-term value creation.
Outside of work, Giovanna enjoys fitness, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.
Dylan Brazil | Head Of Investments
DRE #02177812 | (949) 996-7077 | Email | LinkedIn
Dylan Brazil is the Vice President of Investments at CRI, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping investment strategies and driving results for clients. He specializes in the acquisition, disposition, and financing of mobile home parks and apartment communities, leveraging his deep market knowledge to deliver top-tier outcomes.
Before joining CRI, Dylan was an Investment Advisor at Taylor Street Advisors, a real estate advisory firm offering services in commercial real estate investment sales, property management, financing, consulting, and distressed asset turnaround. During his tenure, Dylan participated in over $250 million of transactions on a national scale.
Dylan holds real estate licenses in both California and Arizona. His authenticity, consistency, and dedication to client success set him apart in the industry, ensuring exceptional value and market-leading results.
Dimitre Petrov | Executive Vice President of Investments
DRE #02071423 | (949) 996-7096 | Email | LinkedIn
Dimitre is the Executive Vice President at CRI, where he drives investment strategy and leads the acquisition and disposition of manufactured housing communities, RV resorts, and multifamily properties nationwide for private and institutional clients. Backed by an extensive track record in transactions and value-add investments, he offers deep expertise in market analysis, underwriting, and long-term portfolio growth.
Recognized for going above and beyond for his clients, Dimitre provides strategic direction throughout the investment process and delivers innovative solutions tailored to each client’s financial goals. His client-first philosophy and market insight have earned the trust of owners, operators, and investors across the country.
Before joining CRI, he was a leading agent at the Los Angeles - Long Beach office of Lee & Associates, where he represented Jamison Services - one of Los Angeles’ largest private landlords - overseeing a diverse portfolio of commercial, office, multifamily, and mixed-use properties.
Dimitre earned his bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business and remains committed to delivering exceptional value, long-term results, and trusted advisory to his clients.
Thomas Beniamen | Vice President of Investments
DRE #02206360 | AZ DRE #SA689485000 (949) 996-7679 | Email | LinkedIn
Thomas is the Vice President of Investments at CRI, where he plays a key role in guiding clients through the acquisition and disposition of multifamily properties. His strategic approach and deep understanding of the apartment market allow him to deliver exceptional results tailored to each client’s unique goals.
Prior to joining CRI, Thomas was the Head Investment Strategist at Taylor Street Advisors' Multifamily Division in Phoenix, Arizona. With a focus on acquiring and disposing of multi-family properties. Thomas sets himself apart from others in the brokerage industry with his genuine approach, relentless drive, and unwavering commitment to serving his clients with excellence.
His extensive knowledge of the apartment market and proven track record of successful transactions, totaling over $85+ million, make him a valuable asset to his clients. Thomas, who hails from Brooklyn, New York, was raised in Laguna Beach, California, which has since become his true home.
Katherine(Katie) Cuilty | Investment Associate
DRE #02113729 | Email | LinkedIn
Katie is an experienced real estate professional based in Los Angeles with a strong track record of success. She started her career as an intern at CBRE in Newport Beach, which sparked her decision to get her real estate license and pursue the industry full-time.
Initially specializing in retail tenant representation, Katie and her partner focused on representing high-end restaurant groups. Over time, she expanded her portfolio to include a diverse range of retail and residential projects.
Passionate about helping clients find their ideal spaces, Katie works across both Los Angeles and Orange County, offering tailored solutions for retail and residential needs. She is excited to join CRI and continue to serve her clients!
Nolan Rockwell | Senior Investment Associate
DRE #0219918 | (209) 481 8724 | Email | LinkedIn
Nolan Rockwell is a Senior Investment Associate at CRI, specializing in investment sales, acquisitions, and advisory services across the manufactured housing, RV resort, and commercial real estate sectors. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Chico, Nolan joined CRI to pursue his passion for real estate and helping clients achieve their investment goals.
Nolan works closely with owners, investors, and operators to identify opportunities, maximize asset value, and develop long-term wealth-building strategies. Known for his strong work ethic, market knowledge, and relationship-driven approach, he is committed to delivering exceptional service and results for his clients.
Nolan enjoys golfing, traveling, exploring the mountains with his dog, and spending time with family and friends.
Pierce Brazil | Senior Investment Associate
DRE #02247759 | (949) 335 5921 | Email | LinkedIn
Pierce Brazil is a Senior Associate at CRI, where he plays a key role in the acquisition, disposition of manufactured housing communities, RV resorts nationwide. Combining hands-on experience with a modern approach, Pierce helps clients identify opportunities and execute successful strategies across a diverse range of markets.
Pierce developed a deep understanding of how this asset class provides both stability and long-term growth potential. His background in property management, operations, and investment sales gives him a unique perspective that bridges the gap between on-the-ground management and strategic deal-making.
Focused on building lasting relationships and delivering exceptional results, Pierce continues to expand CRI's national presence by connecting buyers, sellers, and capital partners with opportunities that align with their investment goals. His commitment to hard work, market knowledge, and client service reflects CRI's mission of creating long-term value for owners and investors nationwide.
Kevin Koski | Vice President of Agricultural Land Sales
BRE #01321973 | (209) 581-2159 | Email
Kevin Koski serves as Vice President of Agricultural Land Sales at CRI Brokerage, bringing more than two decades of experience in California agriculture and real estate. Since obtaining his California Real Estate License in 2001, Kevin has specialized in the sale of agricultural properties throughout the Central Valley and across California.
Before transitioning into real estate, Kevin worked for E. & J. Gallo Winery and Gallo Family, Inc., where he gained firsthand experience in viticulture, vineyards, soils, irrigation, and agricultural operations across the Central Valley. His agricultural background, combined with decades of brokerage experience, allows him to provide valuable insight and trusted guidance to landowners, growers, and investors throughout California.
Jesse Erickson | Tenant Relations
Jesse Erickson joined CRI in 2022 and brings more than 25 years of experience in the banking industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Stanislaus with concentrations in Marketing and Human Resource Management.
Prior to CRI, Jesse worked with several of Northern California's leading banks, gaining extensive experience in customer service, lending, operations, branch management, and financial administration. Today, he oversees Tenant Relations and many of CRI's operational functions, including resident services, compliance, fiscal controls, titles, registrations, and back-office administration.
In addition to his role at CRI, Jesse assists with tiny home sales through THS, helping guide buyers through the purchasing, titling, and registration process.