Knoxville, Tn Sept 15: PWA Properties has named longtime Knoxville entrepreneur, developer and commercial real estate professional Jeffrey Dealejandro Senior Advisor, strengthening the firm’s expertise in historic redevelopment, mixed-use development, multifamily and retail as Knoxville and East Tennessee continue to experience significant growth.
Dealejandro brings a perspective to commercial real estate shaped by years of building businesses, investing in properties and contributing to the Knoxville neighborhoods where he has lived and worked. Before moving into real estate and development, he spent years as a small-business owner in Knoxville’s restaurant and hospitality industry, including as a partner in The Crown & Goose and as chef and owner of OliBea and HenHoc Butcher Shop. This experience gave him a firsthand understanding of the role that the right property, location and surrounding neighborhood can play in a business’s success, as well as the impact local businesses can have on their communities.
“Jeffrey’s ability to see opportunities as a developer, broker, property owner and business operator gives him an understanding of what makes a property successful beyond the transaction itself,” said Jay Benson, CEO of PWA Properties. “As PWA continues to grow, Jeffrey’s experience and connection to this community will be incredibly valuable to our clients and the projects we’re advancing throughout the region.”
As Knoxville continues to attract new businesses, residents and investment, Dealejandro has also focused on preserving and reinvesting in the historic properties that contribute to the city’s identity. Through his work as a partner in The Courtland Group, he has helped bring new life to historic properties while preserving the character and history that make Knoxville’s neighborhoods distinct. The Courtland Group was named the 2026 Preservationist of the Year by Knox Heritage in recognition of its contributions to historic preservation in Knoxville.
“Knoxville has given me the opportunity to build businesses, invest in properties and become part of a community I deeply care about,” said Dealejandro. “I’ve spent much of my career working alongside the people and businesses that make this city what it is, and I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful development can strengthen a community while preserving what makes it special. I’m excited to bring that experience and perspective to PWA Properties and continue contributing to Knoxville’s future.”
As Senior Advisor, Dealejandro will advise clients on commercial real estate opportunities throughout East Tennessee, drawing on his experience in historic preservation and redevelopment, multifamily, retail leasing and mixed-use properties. He will also work across PWA Properties’ brokerage, development and design capabilities to help clients identify opportunities and navigate East Tennessee’s growing and evolving real estate market.