My Story

During my early teens, living in Ocean City MD, I happened to land a job with a local builder building custom homes, most of which were Spec Homes. It was during this time that I learned the ins and outs of construction. We did everything for this small custom builder, from digging the foundation to planting the landscaping. Looking back, this experience was invaluable.

Fast forward and I entered the real estate industry myself and it wasn't long before I started to target builders. I could see that since I knew the complexities of building codes, zoning, and density, I could show builders how to assemble land, and successfully build a condominium project. Not only would I get the sale on the land, I would also pick up the listing on the units they were building.

Over that 20 year period and roughly 40 condo projects later I started to tweak plans for my developer clients. I assisted with layouts and gave real insight to the buyers’ true wants and needs. However, in the back of my mind, I was always thinking to myself ‘I can do this better.’

Once again, fast forward — and the market slowed, I started searching for new ideas. The idea of being the Developer always intrigued me. I knew how to build a house from my construction days. I felt confident and comfortable with the development process from my 20 years of experience working with developers visiting and discussing construction projects and talking to subcontractors. So one day, I grabbed a piece of paper and sketched out a design, hired an architect, and that very sketch became The Dorado Model and that was the beginning of Dan Clayland, Properties.