Measured Growth and
Thoughtful Expansion

Argonaut started as a small-scale local private real estate investment firm and has steadily expanded into a leading regional owner-operator of necessity-based retail centers. Our success is driven by our expertise combined with three consistently applied principles: target the right assets, hands-on asset management, and patience to drive increased asset value.

Driving Strong Returns for Over
30 Years

For over three decades, Argonaut has invested in and operated retail real estate through multiple market cycles—building a track record grounded in discipline, consistency, and reliable execution.

Founding Date

TEAM MEMBERS

REALIZED NET IRR

ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT

1992

Stephen Jaeger and Preston Cook form Argonaut and purchase its first asset in Beaverton, Oregon, Progress Square Shopping Center, which was owned until 2025.

2010

Argonaut’s portfolio grows to nine retail properties in three states: California, Oregon, and Washington. Jon Lefferts joins Argonaut as Partner & CFO, and the operations team continues to expand.

Portrait
2017

Argonaut raises $55M in first discretionary private fund to facilitate a more active expansion strategy. Dayna Desmond joins Argonaut, and the fund purchases an additional 10 assets over the following three-year period.

Portrait (1)
2026

Our portfolio has grown to 41 assets in seven states, valued at approximately $800M. Argonaut approaches next phase of growth with formation of Argonaut REIT.

meet the team

Experience. Professionalism. Results.

Our executive team is comprised of real estate professionals with proven track records of success. Get to know the team at Argonaut and see what sets us apart from every other private real estate investment firm.

Argonaut REIT

Argonaut REIT: Diversification and Efficiency in Retail Real Estate Investing

As our portfolio continues to expand, we’ve entered our next phase with the launch of Argonaut REIT, a private real estate investment trust designed to bring greater efficiency and scale to our operations. This structure allows investors to access a curated, diversified portfolio while enabling us to manage and operate our retail centers with greater flexibility and improved capital structure.

Our strategy remains unchanged. We take a selective, hands-on approach to asset management, grounded in decades of experience investing in necessity-based retail.

Explore the Strategy in Action 
CONTACT ARGONAUT

With Deep Experience and Perspective, Argonaut Is a Leader in the Retail Space