Jon StojanMany aspiring entrepreneurs eagerly choose the real estate path, allured by the promise of lucrative financial rewards. For Haroun Cowans, the vision of a prosperous future was dimmed by a solemn desire to empower Coloradan communities and provide satisfactory housing conditions that are within average citizens’ budgets. Recently, Haroun celebrated 15 years in the commercial real estate industry, a milestone symbolizing his relentless determination and passion.
In 2016, Haroun founded Goshen Development, a privately managed real estate development company focusing on the Five Points and Downtown Denver communities. Fuelling Haroun’s life mission, the firm aspires to drive economic advancement and social enterprise, tackling the statewide issue of ‘rent-burdened’ households. As noticed by Haroun, Colorado used to offer an affordable, tranquil housing landscape, especially in the Five Points neighborhood around which he grew up. However, that situation changed drastically in recent years, with Coloradans struggling to maintain their livelihoods.
“Rent-burdened citizens who spend a third or more of their income toward housing have to compromise on other essentials. When rent burdens become too much to handle, citizens struggle with housing instability, displacement, time-consuming daily commutes, insufficient education, health neglect, and many other critical issues,” says Haroun. “These aren’t luxuries. They’re basic needs that must be fulfilled.”
Taking a multi-faceted approach, Goshen Development strives to knock down rental and housing prices and empower citizens. Haroun’s background directed him to take a solution-based approach that focuses primarily on Goshen Development’s impact on people and moves potential profits lower down the hierarchy.
“We prioritize people, solutions, and cultivation. Goshen Development is all about identifying the issue, understanding its critical aspects, setting clear priorities, and gradually implementing sustainable solutions that promptly improve the housing landscape while contributing to a long-term change,” adds Haroun.
Haroun Cowans, a renowned social, financial, and philanthropic leader, remains steadfastly committed to his mission to create a better, sustainable, and affordable Coloradan future. While holding multiple leadership positions in real estate, Haroun sharpened his meticulous skills and developed a passion for ethical business operations, inspiring him to lead Goshen Development with attention to detail, integrity, and thoughtfulness.
Currently, a successful entrepreneur, fervent philanthropist, and expert real estate professional with a profound mission, Haroun built his company from the ground up. Starting with no financial assistance and no generational wealth to support him, Haroun climbed the ranks of real estate masterfully, driven by sheer passion and devotion to improving the critical housing situation. Hoping to see Colorado and other communities thrive, Haroun encourages young entrepreneurs to follow his footsteps, extending an invitation to join him on his mission.
“As a young developer, one of the most common hindrances encountered, especially as an African American entrepreneur, is the deficit of interconnectedness. We’re all in real estate for similar reasons, and we should all help each other, offer advice on how to get capital, and persevere through the hurdles,” says Haroun. “I’m hoping to expose the younger generations to educational sources and network opportunities, ensuring the vision for more affordable housing can flourish in the future.”