Steve is responsible for the strategic direction and execution of the ContraVest group of companies, overseeing three affiliated operating entities. Since joining the company in 2001, Steve has held diverse roles, initially serving as an assistant superintendent in the field. Through dedication and expertise, he ascended to become a partner and assumed the pivotal role of President in the general contracting company. Steve's leadership extends across multiple states, where he serves as the license qualifier and successfully passed the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCALA) exam, showcasing his commitment to regulatory compliance and industry standards. Simultaneously, he has played a key role in steering real estate development, acquisition, and capital markets/formation activities for over 45 ground-up multifamily projects, totaling more than 13,000 units. Before his tenure at ContraVest, Steve accumulated five years of invaluable experience in direct sales with the global surgical sales company KLS-Martin. Additionally, he served as a wholesaler for Principal Financial Group, specializing in institutional defined contribution and pension plans as a registered representative. Steve held multiple financial securities licenses, including Series 7, 6, 63, and achieved the CCIM designation underscoring his comprehensive understanding of financial markets and investing. Steve's professional journey began after graduating from The Citadel, where he went on to dedicate a decade to the United States Army. Serving both actively and in the Florida National Guard for five years each, he held the rank of Captain and specialized as an Airborne, Ranger, Air Assault, and Scout-qualified Cavalry officer in Germany. His military service included distinguished assignments with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and the 1st Armored Division.

Schaffer’s background encompasses nearly 44 years of experience working in the real estate field covering development, investment, operations, finance/accounting, and workouts. In 1997 became a partner and now is intimately involved in the analysis, structuring, and closing of all real estate developments, joint ventures/partnerships, and property dispositions. In addition, he is responsible for securing construction and permanent loan financing and in 2013 became the Partner in charge of ContraVest Management Company. John is a Partner in ContraVest Development Partners, ContraVest Management Company and ContraVest Builders. Schaffer previously worked for Prudential Life Insurance Co. in its Real Estate Investment Office, as well as BJF Development, Inc.(Condo Converter/RE workout firm), Cardinal Industries (RE Developer), Arlen Realty Co. (National RE Investment Co.) and the FDIC (liquidating failed banks). His responsibilities included asset management, financial/acquisition analysis, workouts, and other various accounting duties. Schaffer received his Bachelors Degree in Accounting in 1976 from the University of Florida, and a Masters Degree in Accounting from Florida International University, Miami, in 1980 and his CPA designation in 1980. John has been a member of the University of Florida’s Real Estate Advisory Board since 2006 and sits on his Church’s Finance Committee since 2004.