Diversified Partners has expanded its development division to support its growing portfolio of retail, mixed-use and commercial projects across Arizona and Nevada.
The Scottsdale-based commercial real estate firm now oversees 24 active development projects across 10 jurisdictions, including 21 in Arizona and three in Nevada. Together, the projects span approximately 384 acres and represent an estimated 500,000 square feet of development.
The portfolio includes major ground-up developments such as Destination at Gateway in Mesa, along with retail and commercial projects in Phoenix, Surprise, San Tan Valley and other growing markets.
A more collaborative approach to development
As Diversified Partners' development pipeline continues to grow, the company is bringing its development leadership, financial analysis, architectural expertise and project management functions together under a centralized structure.
Previously, development activities were managed independently, with responsibilities distributed among individual team members. The expanded division introduces standardized procedures, project tracking and coordination to improve oversight, maintain schedules, minimize carrying costs and move projects toward completion more efficiently.
“As our development pipeline continues to grow, we want to make sure we have the right team in place to execute projects from start to finish,” said Stan Sanchez, managing director at Diversified Partners. “Mark, Lance, Colton and Dante each bring different strengths to the table, whether it's identifying new opportunities, evaluating investments or managing the details that keep projects moving forward. Bringing that expertise together allows us to take on more complex developments while maintaining the level of quality and attention our partners have come to expect.”
Meet the expanded development team
The expanded division brings together professionals with decades of combined experience in commercial real estate, development, investment analysis, architecture and project management.
Mark Sunkel, director of development, leads the company's development efforts across retail, mixed-use and commercial projects. He brings extensive experience in acquisitions, portfolio expansion and market strategy, overseeing projects from acquisition and entitlements through construction and delivery.
Stan Sanchez, managing director, provides strategic oversight and supports the company's broader development initiatives.
Lance von Sprecken, development coordinator, supports site analysis, underwriting, project coordination and development tracking across the company's active pipeline. Since joining Diversified Partners in 2024, he has worked across retail development, tenant requirements, market research and deal execution.
Colton Sanchez, associate broker, investment and development analysis, brings more than a decade of experience in commercial real estate and global financial markets. He specializes in financial modeling, valuation, capital sourcing and investment strategy.
Dante Cruz Ramirez, design development/project manager, brings more than 25 years of experience in architecture, including commercial retail centers, hospitality developments, office buildings and residential projects. His expertise spans planning, design, construction documentation and project coordination.
Together, the team works closely with architects, engineers, contractors, municipalities, tenants and consultants to oversee project milestones, schedules, budgets and approvals.
Supporting the next phase of growth
The expansion marks another step in Diversified Partners' continued growth as a full-service commercial real estate brokerage, development and investment firm.
With more than 12 million square feet of space leased, sold or developed and $4 billion in planned transactions for 2026-2028, Diversified Partners continues to expand its capabilities to serve tenants, investors, property owners and developers.
The expanded division strengthens the company's ability to evaluate new opportunities, coordinate complex developments and advance projects across Arizona and other growing markets while maintaining its focus on long-term relationships with tenants, investors, municipalities and project partners.