Larry Hirschfield

Larry Hirschfield is the founder and principal of ELH Mgmt. LLC, a New York City-based firm dedicated to developing, managing, and preserving affordable housing across the city. With a career that spans over three decades, Hirschfield has become a respected figure in the field of community-centered real estate development, known for his hands-on approach and long-term commitment to neighborhood revitalization. Hirschfield’s journey into housing began unconventionally. A professionally trained percussionist, he performed with the New York City Opera and on Broadway in productions like Les Misérables. In the 1980s, inspired by a radio broadcast about homeownership, he purchased a vacant brownstone in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. He restored it himself, preserving its historic charm while creating rental housing—an experience that led to his career pivot into real estate. In 1995, he founded ELH Mgmt. to focus on stabilizing distressed properties and creating new opportunities for affordable living in underserved communities. His work gained recognition through his involvement in city initiatives such as the Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Program (NEP) and the Third Party Transfer (TPT) program. As a 7A Administrator appointed by the City, he helped rehabilitate buildings deemed uninhabitable, returning them to safe and sustainable use. Under his leadership, ELH has developed and manages over 4,200 multifamily apartments and has participated in more than $650 million in housing projects. The firm is also a key partner in the NYCHA PACT program, helping to modernize and preserve public housing units through public-private partnerships. Hirschfield serves on the boards of the Citizens Housing and Planning Council (CHPC) and the New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH). He holds a BA from Columbia University and an Artist Diploma from the Mannes School of Music at The New School. Larry Hirschfield remains a driving force in New York City’s efforts to create inclusive, resilient communities.