Our Story

Setting the Scene for Exceptional Living in St. Louis

College roommates at Augsburg College, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Sean Lassen and Aaron Spitzberg-Smith co-founded Spitzberg-Lassen Holdings in 2012. SLH was created to purchase and renovate a two-family apartment building in Milwaukee, WI. After the successful renovation and sale of the property, they decided to consolidate their efforts as apartment developers in Aaron’s hometown of St. Louis, MO.

2003

Aaron and Sean meet at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, MN.

2012

Purchased first property in Milwaukee, WI.

2013

Moved to St. Louis. Purchased 2858 Michigan and started a real estate management company.

2013-2016

Purchased and renovated properties throughout South St. Louis City and grew property management business.

2017-2019

Purchased and renovated The Square on Lindenwood.

2020-2023

Redeveloped The Square on Delmar and The Square on McKnight.

2024

Anticipated ground breaking for Tower Grove and Vista.

2026

Completed Tower Grove & Vista. Began the historic redevelopment of 4515 & 4525 Lindell.

Sean Lassen Headshot

Sean Lassen

Co-founder | Owner

Sean is a Minnesota native and a 2008 graduate of Augsburg College, holding a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Prior to forming SLH, Lassen worked for a private contractor administering health assessments for the United States Military. Sean started his career in real estate with Aaron purchasing small multifamily properties that stood to benefit from upgrades.

Lassen has been integral in the continued growth and success of Spitzberg-Lassen Holdings. He identifies potential real estate projects, determines market feasibility, and works with local community members and stakeholders in project acquisition and apartment development. Sean also works with our lenders to secure financing for our projects and our team of architects, engineers, and contractors in project planning.

Aaron Spitzberg-Smith headshot

Aaron Spitzberg-Smith

Co-founder | Owner

Aaron is an alumni of Augsburg College, majoring in Business Management.  Prior to forming SLH, Spitzberg-Smith worked in the senior housing industry for 14 years, taking part in management operations, and leasing across numerous communities around the country.  In 2012, Aaron’s career in real estate began with Sean purchasing small value add multifamily properties.

Aaron has been vital in the continued growth and success of Spitzberg-Lassen Holdings. He oversees the management of its portfolio ensuring that it is effectively managed and maintained. Reviewing the operations of its in-service portfolio, project level operating budgets, and office operations. Additionally, with new real estate development projects, Aaron is responsible for ensuring the apartment tenant experience through elements of design and amenities.

Leah Gambino

Leah Gambino

Operations manager

A graduate of Truman State University, Leah brings her background in commercial real estate and custom home building to Spitzberg Lassen. Prior to joining the team, Leah gained experience in commercial real estate and residential construction, developing a strong understanding of project coordination, financial oversight, and property operations.

At Spitzberg Lassen, Leah serves as Operations Manager, overseeing the company’s financial administration while supporting the operational coordination of the property management. Drawing on a background in construction, Leah helps organize projects, track property improvements and maintenance initiatives, and work closely with property managers to ensure the company’s assets are well managed. This combination of financial expertise and operational experience supports the successful execution and long-term performance of Spitzberg Lassen’s investment portfolio.

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