Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted Real Estate Investment Partner in Santa Barbara
Founded in 1984, SIMA Corporation has established itself as a leader in real estate investment, specializing in the acquisition, asset management, and property management of diverse real estate opportunities. Our team brings over 35 years of expertise in identifying undervalued properties, implementing strategic redevelopment plans, and delivering long-term value to investors. We pride ourselves on a hands-on approach to property management, ensuring timely financial reporting, proactive maintenance, and tailored leasing solutions for commercial, retail, and multifamily properties. Our disciplined acquisition strategy and in-house expertise enable us to navigate complex transactions while maintaining a focus on sustainable growth. With a portfolio spanning 3.2 million square feet across six states, we combine local market knowledge with a commitment to operational excellence.Our affiliated entities, including Swell Athletic Clubs and boutique hospitality holdings, reflect our dedication to diversification and community impact. Backed by a management team with decades of industry experience, we prioritize transparency, innovation, and client satisfaction in every project. Our reporting systems ensure accountability and informed decision-making, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term asset goals. From resolving deferred maintenance to executing exit strategies, we deliver results that align with investor expectations. This unwavering focus on quality and value creation has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in real estate investment.
Services
Property Management
Asset Management
Commercial Leasing
Acquisitions
Hospitality Management
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of experience in real estate investment and management.
- Our full-service approach handles acquisitions, asset management, and leasing in-house.
- We implement proactive maintenance plans to maximize asset value and appearance.
- Our team includes executives with decades of industry-specific expertise.
- We provide transparent financial reporting and tailored solutions for investors.
Services
Property Management
SIMA provides industry-leading property management for commercial, retail, and multifamily properties. Our proactive approach includes timely financial reporting, preventative maintenance planning, and tenant relations to ensure long-term value. With decades of experience, we deliver tailored solutions that enhance property performance and investor returns.
Asset Management
Our asset management team implements hands-on strategies to maximize property value. This includes addressing deferred maintenance, creating rehabilitation plans, and overseeing redevelopment projects. We combine strategic planning with accurate reporting to support informed decision-making throughout the asset lifecycle.
Acquisitions
SIMA specializes in identifying and acquiring underperforming or undervalued real estate opportunities. Our full-service approach covers transaction analysis, financing solutions, and strategic redevelopment to transform assets into profitable holdings.
Commercial Leasing
We offer leasing services for commercial and retail properties, focusing on maximizing occupancy and rental income. Our team leverages market expertise to attract quality tenants and negotiate favorable lease terms.
Hospitality Management
Through boutique hospitality holdings like The Landsby Hotel, we provide specialized management for high-end accommodations. Our approach emphasizes guest experience, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation in competitive markets.
People
James P. Knell
Chairman
Founded SIMA Corporation in 1984 with over 40 years of real estate experience. He began his career acquiring residential properties in the 1970s and graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 1974 with a degree in education.
Kevin J. Burnes
President
Joined SIMA in 1996 with over 25 years of industry experience. He oversees strategic vision and growth, holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Southern California.
Janice Lesin
President of Swell Athletic Clubs
Brings over 30 years of finance and management expertise. She leads Swell Athletic Clubs and contributes to SIMA's strategic initiatives, previously working at KPMG and a Los Angeles financial institution.
Questions
What types of properties does SIMA manage?
SIMA manages commercial, retail, multifamily, hospitality, and mixed-use properties across six U.S. states.
Does SIMA offer leasing services for commercial spaces?
Yes, we provide leasing services for office, retail, and industrial properties owned by SIMA-related entities.
How long has SIMA been in business?
SIMA Corporation was founded in 1984 and has over 35 years of real estate experience.
What areas does SIMA serve?
We operate in California, Oregon, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
How does SIMA add value to properties?
Through proactive maintenance, strategic redevelopment, and hands-on asset management to maximize long-term returns.
