CSM Corporation

Business Details

50 Years

experience

Trusted Property Management Solutions in Minneapolis

CSM Corporation has been a leader in real estate development, ownership, and management since 1976. Our journey began with a young entrepreneur selling light bulbs door-to-door, evolving into one of the nation's most respected diversified property-management firms. We specialize in commercial, residential, and hotel properties, combining decades of industry expertise with a commitment to delivering exceptional business results for our clients. Our approach emphasizes long-term investments, in-house expertise, and a focus on creating vibrant communities through volunteerism and corporate giving. With a nationwide portfolio spanning over 30 hotels, 1.4 million square feet of commercial space, and more than 2,500 residential units, we maintain a culture of collaboration and innovation. Our team of seasoned professionals provides strategic solutions for property development, management, and maintenance, prioritizing quality workmanship and client satisfaction.

We have earned industry recognition for our environmental stewardship, design excellence, and customer service, including multiple Marriott awards and sustainable development certifications. Our integrated project team model ensures agility and efficiency, from architectural design to construction and legal compliance. Through initiatives like the CSM Cares program, we contribute over 1,500 volunteer hours annually to organizations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities. Our legacy of growth, from a small Minneapolis-based operation to a national leader, reflects our founder's entrepreneurial spirit and belief in the power of teamwork.

Services

Commercial Property Management Hotel Development Residential Property Management Maintenance Services Community Giving Programs

Details

Year established: 1976

Highlights and features

We combine 40+ years of real estate expertise with in-house development and management teams.
Our long-term investment approach ensures stable, sustainable property growth and community benefits.
We maintain a nationwide portfolio of 30+ hotels and 1.4 million sq ft of commercial space.
Our integrated project team model streamlines development from design to construction.
We've earned industry recognition including multiple Marriott Hotel of the Year awards.

What people say

Exceptional property management Strong community focus Proven expertise Award-winning service Integrated team approach

Website

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Services

Commercial Property Management

We provide comprehensive management for retail, office, and industrial properties. Our services include site selection, architectural design, construction oversight, and ongoing maintenance. With a nationwide portfolio spanning over 1.4 million square feet, we combine local market knowledge with national resources to maximize property value and tenant satisfaction.

Hotel Development

Our hotel division develops, acquires, and operates properties for major brands like Marriott and Hilton. We specialize in new construction, historic renovations, and operational optimization. With over 40 hotels and 4,700 rooms managed nationwide, we deliver strategic solutions that enhance guest experiences while improving property performance and profitability.

Residential Property Management

We manage over 2,500 residential units with a focus on maintaining property value and resident satisfaction. Our services include property maintenance, rent collection, and community development initiatives. We approach apartment communities as both investments and homes, balancing financial performance with quality living environments.

Maintenance Services

ProTech Property Maintenance Solutions offers comprehensive repair and maintenance for residential and commercial properties. Our services cover everything from routine upkeep to major renovations, ensuring properties remain functional, safe, and visually appealing. We prioritize quick response times and quality workmanship to minimize disruptions for tenants.

Community Giving Programs

Through CSM Cares and the Holmes Family Foundation, we support local and national charities. Our initiatives include annual fundraising events, volunteer programs, and partnerships with organizations like Ronald McDonald House Charities. We've contributed over $1 million to community causes while encouraging employee involvement in service activities.

People

Gary Holmes

President

Founded CSM Corporation at age 12 by selling light bulbs door-to-door. Transformed the business into a national property management leader with over 30 hotels and 1.4 million sq ft of commercial space. Committed to community service through the Holmes Family Foundation.

Brad Kittleson

Vice President, Commercial Properties

Leads commercial property initiatives with deep expertise in real estate development and management. Brings strategic insight to property acquisitions, portfolio growth, and client relationships. Plays key role in maintaining CSM's position as Minnesota's leading commercial property developer.

Peter Kilbourne

Senior Vice President, Lodging Operations

Oversees hotel operations for major brands including Marriott and Hilton. Brings extensive experience in hospitality management to optimize guest experiences and property performance. Instrumental in CSM's recognition as one of the top 50 hotel management companies in the US.

Sandra Finnegan

Senior Vice President, Revenue Generation

Drives revenue optimization strategies across CSM's diverse property portfolio. Focuses on maximizing returns through data-driven pricing models and market analysis. Plays critical role in maintaining high tenant retention rates and long-term client relationships.

Joel Rietz

General Counsel

Manages all legal aspects of CSM's real estate and corporate activities. Provides comprehensive legal expertise in property transactions, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. Ensures strategic alignment between legal frameworks and business objectives.

Questions

What types of properties does CSM Corporation manage?

CSM manages commercial, residential, and hotel properties nationwide, including over 30 hotels, 1.4 million sq ft of commercial space, and 2,500+ residential units.

How long has CSM Corporation been in business?

Since 1976, when founder Gary Holmes started with door-to-door light bulb sales at age 12, evolving into a national property management leader.

What makes CSM's hotel management different?

We own and operate most hotels directly, offering in-house expertise from development to daily operations. Our team has earned multiple Marriott awards and manages 40+ hotels nationwide.

How does CSM support local communities?

Through CSM Cares and the Holmes Family Foundation, we contribute over $1 million annually to charities like Ronald McDonald House, plus 1,500+ volunteer hours yearly.

Can I request property maintenance services?

Yes, ProTech Property Maintenance Solutions provides full-service repair and maintenance for residential and commercial properties managed by CSM Corporation.

What commercial services does CSM offer?

We provide complete commercial property services including site selection, design, construction, leasing, and ongoing management with a focus on long-term value creation.

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Reviews (4)

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Mr. Vanecko

Apr 24, 2022 Report

Rivergreens is a nice clean quiet property. The staff and maintenance crew are lovely but definitely need more training with ADA laws and end of lease follow up. A safety and a maintenance issue caused me to leave early. I would have stayed for many more years. Please reach out to waltvanec @ MSN.COM. PS I was a good and financially responsible tenant.

K. R.

Mar 18, 2022 Report

My boyfriend did a job for CSM as an independent contractor several months ago and still has not been paid and is getting no response when he inquires about being paid. He did a deck job at one of CSM's hotels. This was a hard labor job which was completed with approval and satisfaction of his contract and no issues with the work he did. Yet he was told by insiders that CSM is currently not paying its contractors because CSM has had a difficult last couple of years and many changes in its business structure. So now the guys who are doing the hard labor for CSM as their bread and butter to support themselves and their families are suffering as owner Gary remains a millionaire.

Dave Schiavolin

Feb 23, 2021 Report

I have been a loyal tenant for 3 years. Always tried to be respectful and considerate. Our lease was up in 2 months and I was surprised at the monthly increase in rent as compared to last year, so I emailed our manager (Lisa Schultz) to voice my opinion. We should have the right to be vocal anytime we want but instead of talking to me about it Lisa emailed me 3 days later and said she was kicking us out in 2 months.

She said that decision was made at the corporate level by CSM. I have a little 3 year old girl and am worried about where we will be able to live now. I guess this how the company treats their 'valued' tenants. My advice, stay away from any rentals they represent. I don't want anyone else to face the unfortunate fate that we are.

Thrane Equipment

Jan 04, 2021 Report

Critical: Professionalism We were a warehouse tenant for close to 7 years. If they gave me free rent now I would not take it from this company. That should say enough.