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50+ Years
experience
Whitson Properties: Leading Real Estate Development in Ohio & Kentucky
Whitson Properties is a family-owned real estate investment and development company rooted in Findlay, Ohio, with over five decades of experience shaping commercial landscapes. Since our founding in 1965, we have specialized in developing land along the Interstate 75 corridor, spanning from Toledo, Ohio, to Florence, Kentucky, while also expanding into diverse markets across both states. Our portfolio includes shopping plazas, hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and gas stations, reflecting our adaptability and commitment to meeting evolving market demands. We pride ourselves on our financial strength and flexibility, enabling us to engage in projects through direct sales, build-to-suit leases, or partnerships. Our leadership team, spanning three generations of the Whitson family, brings deep industry expertise and a legacy of innovation to every project.

We focus on creating first-class commercial developments that enhance communities and deliver long-term value. Our strategic investments in high-visibility locations, such as the interchange of I-75 and U.S. Route 224 in Findlay, underscore our ability to identify and capitalize on growth opportunities. We maintain ownership and management of key assets, including four hotels and a shopping plaza, while fostering relationships with tenants across retail, hospitality, and dining sectors. Our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has earned recognition from industry leaders, including top performance rankings from Hilton Corporation. As we continue to evolve, we remain committed to our founding principles of integrity, vision, and community impact.
Services
Land Development Property Management Commercial Leasing Hotel Operations Build-to-Suit Projects Retail Space Development Hospitality Investments Site Acquisition Portfolio Management Partnership Development
Details
  • Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
  • We have over 50 years of experience in commercial real estate development along the I-75 corridor.
  • Our family-owned business combines generational expertise with a commitment to long-term community impact.
  • We offer flexible project involvement through direct sales, build-to-suit leases, or partnerships.
  • Our portfolio includes high-visibility properties at major interchanges like I-75 and U.S. Route 224.
  • We maintain ownership of four hotels and a shopping plaza, ensuring hands-on management expertise.
Services
Land Development
We specialize in transforming commercial land into high-value properties along major transportation corridors. Our expertise spans zoning, infrastructure planning, and market-driven design to maximize property potential. Clients benefit from strategic location selection and long-term value creation through our hands-on approach.
Property Management
Our team oversees day-to-day operations of commercial properties including shopping plazas, hotels, and retail spaces. We ensure optimal performance through tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and financial oversight. This service provides investors with reliable returns and operational efficiency.
Commercial Leasing
We facilitate leasing arrangements for retail, office, and hospitality spaces across our portfolio. Our approach focuses on matching tenants with high-traffic locations while maintaining property value. Clients gain access to prime commercial real estate in established markets.
Hotel Operations
We own and operate four hotels in Findlay, Ohio, including branded properties like Hilton Garden Inn and Country Inn & Suites. Our management emphasizes guest satisfaction, modern amenities, and event hosting capabilities. This service delivers consistent performance through strategic brand partnerships.
Build-to-Suit Projects
We create tailored real estate solutions for businesses requiring specific facility requirements. This includes site selection, construction oversight, and lease structuring. Clients receive purpose-built spaces that align with operational needs and growth objectives.
People
George Whitson
Co-Founder
George Whitson co-founded Whitson Properties in 1965 after observing commercial development needs along Interstate 75 during his tenure at Marathon Oil Company. His vision established the company's foundation in real estate investment and development.
Shirlee Whitson
Co-Founder
Shirlee Whitson co-founded the company alongside her husband George, supporting its growth from a family venture into a multi-generational enterprise. Her leadership helped shape the company's community-focused development approach.
John Whitson
Family Member
John Whitson, son of George and Shirlee, has been instrumental in managing daily operations since the 1990s. His leadership continues the family legacy through strategic property acquisitions and development projects in Findlay, Ohio.
Kyle Hite
Family Member
Kyle Hite joined Whitson Properties in 2021, representing the third generation of family involvement. He contributes to project management and development initiatives while maintaining the company's long-term vision for commercial real estate growth.
Questions
What areas does Whitson Properties develop?
We focus on commercial real estate along the Interstate 75 corridor from Toledo, Ohio to Florence, Kentucky, with primary operations in Findlay, Ohio.
What types of properties do you manage?
Our portfolio includes shopping plazas, hotels, restaurants, retail stores, gas stations, and undeveloped land parcels for future projects.
How long has your company been in business?
Whitson Properties has operated as a family-owned business since 1965, with over 50 years of real estate development experience.
Can I lease commercial space from your company?
Yes, we offer leasing opportunities for retail, office, and hospitality spaces across our managed properties in Ohio and Kentucky.
Do you work with outside development partners?
We collaborate through direct sales, build-to-suit leases, or partnership arrangements to accommodate various project requirements and investor interests.
What makes your company unique?
Three generations of family leadership combined with strategic investments in high-traffic commercial corridors distinguish our approach to real estate development.
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