About Ashland Capital
38 Years of Building Trust, Communities, and Lasting Value
A Legacy rooted in integrity.
For nearly four decades, Ashland has been more than a real estate firm—it's a cornerstone of Central Florida's growth story. Founded on the timeless principle that "your name is priceless... never compromise your honesty and integrity," as taught by founder Michael A. Nader's father, George, we've shaped neighborhoods, empowered families, and delivered results through every market cycle.
From humble beginnings in land development to today's strategic investment solutions, Ashland Capital carries forward a commitment to customer satisfaction, community impact, and innovative deal-making. What started as a vision for affordable, quality homes has evolved into a full-spectrum platform for buying, selling, lending, and investing—always with transparency and speed at the core.
Builders by blood.
Our story begins with George Nader, a pioneering builder in Lebanon who immigrated to America and transitioned into retail while instilling unbreakable values in his son, Michael. George constructed thousands of enduring homes in Central Florida neighborhoods like Rio Pinar, and Maitland Woods —proving that quality withstands time and recessions alike.
"Smart guys do well in bad times. Anybody can be a genius in boom-times."
— George Nader
As a young apprentice earning $1 an hour on his father's sites, Michael learned the trade hands-on: no shortcuts, zero defects, and the profound joy of a happy customer. "Buying a home is the biggest investment most people make," Michael reflects. "And it's really heartwarming to see it all come together."
Michael A. Nader
Born and raised in Orlando, Michael A. Nader embodies the grit and foresight that define Ashland. A graduate of Bishop Moore High School and Young Harris College, he honed his expertise through continuing education in real estate investments and construction laws. Formerly licensed as a Florida General Contractor, Real Estate Broker, and South Carolina General Contractor, Michael's career spans site acquisition, project management, and strategic financing.
In the early 1980s, amid recessions that tested the industry, Michael joined Nader Construction Company, absorbing lessons in resilience and customer focus. By 1986, he struck out on his own, building affordable homes in Orange and Lake Counties. His breakthrough came consulting for Canada-based Cold Springs Communities, where he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround at Bridgewater Crossing—a 221-lot Polk County community that became a model for conservation-minded development.
In 1999, Michael acquired Cold Springs' Florida assets and founded Ashland Homes, named after his daughter Ashlyn. Over the next decade, the company built more than 300 homes across Central Florida, blending upscale designs with community amenities. Today, as President of Ashland Capital, Michael guides a team dedicated to modern solutions like owner financing and off-market deals, all while upholding the family ethos.
"I just love the satisfaction of having a happy customer."
— Michael Nader
From groundbreaking to growth
Ashland's journey reflects Central Florida's boom—from post-WWII expansion to today's dynamic investment landscape. Here's a timeline of key achievements:
1987–1990s: Foundations in Development Michael launches independent projects, implementing Winter Park's first Affordable Housing Program and establishing H.A.N.D.S. construction division. Pre-2000, we developed and sold 1,109 single-family lots in Lake, Seminole, and Orange Counties.
2000–2005: Peak Homebuilding Era We delivered 1,114 lots and 500+ homes across five major communities, including the sale of Dinner Lake Estates (550 lots) to Lennar in October 2005—a strategic exit that positioned us for selective opportunities.
2000s: Community Leadership Michael served the Home Builders Association of Mid-Florida, chairs the Parade of Homes Building Sub-Committee, and was appointed to Orange and Seminole Counties' Affordable Housing Task Forces.
2010s–Present: Evolution to Investment Transitioning from builder to investor, Ashland Capital expands into owner financing, commercial syndication, and energy assets. We've funded $100M+ in deals, leveraging our network for fast closings and high-yield opportunities.
Throughout, we've contributed ~50,000 sq ft of commercial space and remained active in civic causes: Future Leaders Council, Orange County Young Republicans, American Cancer Society, and more.
Guiding every deal.
At Ashland Capital, integrity isn't a tagline—it's our blueprint. We prioritize:
Honesty & Transparency: Full disclosure, no hidden fees.
Customer First: From sellers in distress to investors seeking yields, your success is ours.
Community Impact: Active in affordable housing and local boards, giving back to the regions we serve.
Innovation with Roots: Blending 38 years of experience with modern tools like digital closings and vetted pipelines.
Michael and his partner Amy raised three children—Boyd, Ashlyn, and Michael Jr.—while balancing family, business, and passions like hunting, fishing, golf, and earning a pilot's license. Today, that same balance drives Ashland: family-owned, forward-thinking, and fiercely committed.