Our Team
Since founding Sage Homes Northwest in 2007, Jesse Molnick—along with co-founder Todd Leabman—has been the driving force behind the company’s vision and success. Together, they have built a company rooted in integrity, strategic decision-making, and strong industry relationships, transforming Sage Homes from a single-family infill builder into a leading real estate development firm specializing in residential and multifamily communities.
Jesse’s expertise lies in operational efficiency, financial strategy, and risk management. His straightforward, results-driven leadership ensures that each project is executed with precision, delivering long-term value for investors and residents alike. By prioritizing streamlined execution, cost-effective solutions, and scalable growth, he has helped position Sage Homes as a leader in market-driven housing development.
Both Jesse and Todd take great pride in the tangible results of their work—developing communities that not only meet market demand but also enhance the lives of those who call them home. Through their shared commitment to quality, innovation, and adaptability, they continue to propel Sage Homes forward, shaping vibrant and lasting communities across the region.
Since its humble beginnings in 2007, Sage Homes Founders Todd Leabman and Jesse Molnick have worked tirelessly to establish and maintain a thriving company whose mission is rooted firmly in their core values: to act with integrity, to assess all decisions based on the value they add, and to create positive long-term rapport with collaborators.
As an industry leader, Todd’s stellar track-record comes from nuanced insight developed over the course of 20 years' of experience in home building, multifamily construction, and real estate development. His present mission is to develop over $5 billion of well-designed, high-quality apartment communities within the next decade, which not only match market’s needs, but also helps make an impact on our nation’s housing shortage.
Propelled by an aptitude built on sound reasoning, keen analytic and critical strategizing skills, as well as a genuine passion for seeing everyone succeed, Todd’s leadership has steered the company through many economic fluctuations, including the Great Recession, always keeping it positioned ahead of the curve.
Both Todd and Jesse are proud to witness the tangible products of Sage Homes’ completed projects – communities where people love to live and call home.
Alan joined Sage Homes in 2019, where he oversees the full profit and loss responsibilities for both for-sale and commercial operations. He plays a key role in guiding the senior management team's direction. Before joining Sage, Alan was the Chief Operating Officer at The Conner Homes Group, a renowned Puget Sound builder specializing in move-up and luxury homes for over 60 years. Prior to that, he relocated from southern California to become the President of Port Blakely Communities, where he led the development of Issaquah Highlands, a 4,000-lot mixed-use master-planned community.
Earlier in his career, Alan served as the Division President of Standard Pacific Homes (now Lennar), where he established the Los Angeles division focused on high-density infill condominiums throughout LA County's urban cores. This role followed his involvement in launching the Playa Vista masterplan near Marina del Rey, where he oversaw the design and permitting of the first eleven condominium buildings and acted as the owner’s representative for a 750-unit apartment community.
Alan holds a Finance degree from the University of Nevada and an MBA in Real Estate from National University in San Diego.
Kristine Thompson is a highly skilled financial management professional with over 25 years of experience in accounting, team leadership, and process optimization. She has a proven track record of managing diverse teams, implementing effective financial controls, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting. With extensive expertise in GAAP, financial statement preparation, audits, tax compliance, and budgeting, Kristine is a strategic leader dedicated to driving efficiency and maintaining strong fiscal oversight.
Her background spans multiple industries, including homebuilding, land development, commercial construction, and security, with significant experience as a Controller and Senior Accountant in high-volume, multi-company environments. She excels in overseeing payroll, job costing, accounts payable and receivable, banking and debt management, and financial system conversions. Kristine is adept at streamlining processes, enhancing internal controls, and fostering collaborative relationships across departments, vendors, and financial institutions.
A graduate of Central Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting (Cum Laude), Kristine brings a commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation. Passionate about efficiency and continuous improvement, she thrives on implementing strategic solutions that optimize financial operations and support organizational success.
With 40 years in the real estate development industry and four years in his current role, Larry Calvin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every project he undertakes. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in shaping communities and delivering high-quality developments while working with industry leaders such as Sage Homes Northwest, Pacific Ridge Homes, OTAK, Inc., and Northwest Development Advisors.
One of Larry’s proudest accomplishments was successfully processing a Comprehensive Plan change and a Zoning Code Amendment to allow mixed-use housing development in the City of Woodinville Tourist District, a project that required strategic planning, collaboration, and a deep understanding of land use regulations.
A graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Larry applies his technical expertise and strategic vision to ensure developments are executed efficiently and to the highest standards. He firmly believes in “doing it right the first time” and lives by the motto, “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail.”
Known for being dedicated, loyal, and industrious, Larry approaches his work with a strong commitment to excellence and integrity, ensuring that each project is built with precision, quality, and long-term value in mind.
Jason is Vice President and head of multifamily development at Sage Homes where he is actively involved in the full lifecycle of all deals. He has a national focus on expansion and oversight, ensuring strategic growth and execution in Washington & Texas.
Prior to joining Sage Homes in 2024, he was responsible for opening and operating the Pacific Northwest region for Lincoln Property Company Residential. As the Vice President and operating partner, he was responsible for oversight of development, construction, and property management. With nineteen years of experience in real estate, and the last eleven years exclusively focused on multifamily, he has a deep knowledge of the residential and retail real estate industry for most major US markets.
Jason holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi and approaches work with a commitment to collaboration, creativity and attention to detail.
Albert Torrico is the National Development Manager at Sage Homes. He has 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, with 7 years specifically in the multifamily sector, focusing on garden-style apartments. In his current role, he provides comprehensive project leadership on new multifamily entitlement and development projects in Washington, Texas, and future markets. His responsibilities include managing projects through their full life cycle—from feasibility and entitlement to construction and disposition—while also supporting acquisition and disposition efforts.
Albert regularly monitors field operations through site visits, inspections, and collaboration with local development directors. He leads the selection and management of design teams for new projects and maintains comprehensive project budgets, schedules, and financial tracking. Before joining Sage Homes Northwest, Albert worked for D.R. Horton and Toll Brothers. One of his most significant accomplishments was overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. After being furloughed and later laid off in 2020, he relied on perseverance and industry connections to secure a new role within six weeks, demonstrating resilience and confidence in his expertise.
Albert holds a Master of Urban Planning from the University of Washington (1996) and an MBA in Business Administration & Management from the University of Phoenix (2007). His core values include innovation, seeking creative solutions to challenges; growth, constantly improving and learning; and integrity, maintaining accountability and professionalism in the real estate development community. His motto is: “It’s not what you achieve, it’s what you overcome. That is what defines your career.
With experience in both the public sector and private land development, Albert brings a wealth of knowledge in entitlement and development, allowing him to efficiently guide projects through predevelopment into construction. His ability to navigate regulatory landscapes ensures that projects progress smoothly, making him a key asset in driving successful and timely project completions.
Justin G. Nowell is a seasoned real estate development professional with over 15 years of experience, specializing in senior living, healthcare, and market-rate multifamily projects. As Vice President at Greystone Communities, he led complex developments nationwide, focusing on Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and skilled nursing expansions. His background includes the successful oversight of projects exceeding $300 million, spanning design, entitlements, financing, and construction.
In addition to his senior living expertise, Justin has directed the development of market-rate multifamily housing across Texas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee—managing site acquisition, due diligence, entitlements, and design for duplex and townhome communities. His earlier roles at Eventus Strategic Partners, Erickson Living, and CP Homes underscore his broad experience with tax-exempt bond financing, strategic budgeting, and both urban and suburban development.
Justin earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Real Estate from the University of North Texas and brings a comprehensive, hands-on approach to every stage of the development process.
Jonathan Mendoza is an accomplished real estate professional with 15 years of experience across multiple sectors of the industry. He currently serves as the VP of Multifamily Investments at Sage Homes NW, leading the company's investment strategy, finance, partner relations, deal structuring, and asset management efforts.
Before joining Sage Homes, Jonathan was at Rise Properties Trust, a multifamily REIT, managing a $1 billion portfolio comprising of 2,500 units. His expertise spans value-add renovations, financial analysis, and managing critical relationships with JV partners and stakeholders worldwide.
Jonathan’s experience also included a focus on affordable housing as an Asset Manager at Vitus Communities, where he oversaw a portfolio of tax credit-financed properties across nine states. At Investco, he further honed his skills by developing financial analyses and implementing a companywide BI dashboard to enhance investment analysis efficiency.
Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Development from Arizona State University and has completed the Commercial Real Estate Development Certification Program at the University of Washington. He is a licensed General Certified Real Estate Appraiser and Real Estate Broker in Washington State.
Jonathan's leadership approach is rooted in continuous growth and collaboration, strongly emphasizing building relationships to drive successful outcomes. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a talent for business plan implementation, investor reporting, and effective communication, consistently delivering results in dynamic market conditions.
Melissa is a seasoned real estate professional with over 24 years of experience in the industry. She joined Sage Homes in 2021 and has since played a pivotal role in managing the company’s marketing efforts and overseeing the design and staging of its multifamily and single-family projects. Her leadership ensures that every community reflects the company’s commitment to creating warm and inviting spaces for residents.
In her time at Sage Homes, Melissa has been instrumental in the successful marketing and design of garden-style multifamily communities, bringing her creative vision and expertise to life. She prides herself on her ability to learn quickly and adapt to new challenges, having become well-versed in multifamily design and marketing in her time with Sage Homes.
Melissa’s career includes significant roles with Centex Home Equity and Pacific Ridge, a division of DR Horton, as well as running her own real estate business. She is a licensed Designated Broker in Washington State and a licensed Real Estate Agent in Arizona, certifications that underline her dedication to professional growth and excellence.
Melissa’s lifelong exposure to the industry has shaped her approach to building communities. She values honesty, loyalty, and creativity in her work, embracing a motto that reflects her determination: “No task is too big, no detail too small—I get it done.” Melissa’s leadership and vision are guided by her dedication to creating spaces that resonate with residents, ensuring Sage Homes remains a trusted name in the industry.
Kendehl Rojanasthien brings over 11 years of multifamily industry leadership experience to her role as Director of Asset Management at Sage Homes NW. She oversees the performance and optimization of the company’s multifamily and commercial assets, ensuring long-term success for investors and stakeholders. Her experience includes having served as Vice President of Asset Management at Pacific Urban Investors, Regional Director at Thrive Communities in Washington and Oregon, and actively managing a portfolio of angel and private equity investments.
Kendehl's experience spans garden-style, podium, high-rise, mid-rise, and mixed-use developments, as well as lease-ups, value-add renovations, vacation and short-term rentals, core and core-plus investments, distressed assets, acquisitions, and dispositions. She has managed portfolios of over 5000 units, over 200 associates, and properties ranging from 1 to 400+ units. Her ownership experience includes working directly with private investment firms, family offices, high-net-worth individuals, REITs, retirement funds, institutional investors, and real estate syndicates.
Her expertise in growing companies, strategic planning, marketing, and leadership enable her to optimize revenue, NOI and cash flow while encouraging and supporting the teams responsible for plan execution. By empowering confident and capable site leaders and teams, she ensures they are full of creative ideas, incredible service and positive energy. Her focus on what’s most impactful to the business allows her to identify the best strategic path forward and deliver results that matter.
She’s a four-time Emerald Award winner, most notably for Regional Manager of the Year in 2019. Kendehl earned both her MBA and Bachelor’s Degree in International Economic Development and Spanish from Seattle University. She also holds her CAPS credential with NAA, and is involved as an investor, mentor and public speaker for Seattle University, NCW Tech and the Washington Multi-Family Housing Association.
Nate brings a decade of experience in real estate investment and financial strategy, including multifamily experience. He joined Sage Homes to provide financial analysis, investment evaluation, and strategic insights for the company’s apartment development projects, playing a critical role in driving data-driven decisions and long-term success.
Before joining Sage Homes, Nate worked at Laird Norton Company, where he honed his expertise in financial modeling, investment analysis, and treasury management for a portfolio that included commercial, industrial, and multifamily properties. His work focused on evaluating investment opportunities, optimizing capital allocation, and supporting data-driven decision-making, reflecting his adaptability and strategic mindset.
Nate earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Washington and is a CFA Charterholder, underscoring his strong foundation in financial management and analysis. Known for being analytical, strategic, and adaptable, he thrives on turning complex challenges into opportunities.
Nate’s values center on collaboration, strategic financial planning, and using data to inform impactful decisions. His approach is guided by the belief that success comes from blending precision with innovation—a philosophy he applies daily in his role at Sage Homes. His contributions help ensure Sage Homes remains a leader in apartment development and investment strategy.
With over 25 years of experience in the real estate industry and 23 years dedicated to the multifamily sector, Hyrum Rigtrup has established himself as a seasoned professional. His expertise spans a variety of multifamily projects, with a focus on podium and garden developments, alongside a few high-rise projects.
For the past 10 years, Hyrum has been an established leader as a Director of Construction, playing a pivotal role in overseeing operations and driving success. His career includes working with both private developers, such as Avalon Bay Communities, Enfort Homes, Murray Franklyn, and Pryde-Johnson, as well as general contractors like Compass General Construction and E. Kent Halvorson.
Hyrum’s proudest achievements revolve around developing high-quality projects efficiently, building cohesive teams, and overcoming obstacles to achieve positive results. He holds both a Master’s Degree in Construction Management and a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Washington.
Guided by his values of quality, people, and continuous improvement, Hyrum is committed to constant growth and excellence. He describes himself as dynamic, effective, and dependable. In his free time, Hyrum enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and seeking new adventures.
Randy has led personnel and managed complex operational budgets throughout the nation and abroad; he brings nearly three decades of construction experience to the firm, including 18 years specializing in multifamily leadership.
A highly decorated former military officer, Randy honed his professional skills through 10 years of service in U.S. Air Force Civil Engineering and another 10 years in U.S. Air Force Services and Personnel Management. His distinguished 20-year military career instilled a mission-first discipline that defines his extensive and diverse professional background.
Since entering the private sector, Randy has delivered high-profile, production-driven multifamily communities across Atlanta, Georgia, and all five major markets in Texas. He has successfully led both third-party general contracting enterprises and fully integrated owner/developer/management firms. His portfolio spans market-rate, HUD, and LIHTC assets, positioning him to capitalize on growth opportunities across multiple tiers of the multifamily housing market.
Randy’s exceptional communication skills enable him to convey information concisely, clearly, and persuasively to a wide range of professional audiences across diverse cultural backgrounds. A polished executive with a personal approach and steadfast demeanor, he is known as an excellent listener and active contributor in conversations, earning him a reputation as the “go-to guy" for solving complex challenges.
Randy holds degrees in Architectural Design & Construction, Criminal Justice, and Construction Technology. His alma mater is the University of West Florida in Pensacola, where he served as Cadet Commander of the university’s 82-member U.S. Air Force ROTC program and earned both his undergraduate degree and military commission.
Randy channels his military precision, vast construction knowledge, and unwavering commitment to team success into expanding the firm’s construction footprint throughout the Texas market and beyond, delivering world-class communities and outsized returns.
John joined Sage Homes in 2015, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the construction industry. Over the past 25 years, he has gained invaluable insights by working alongside some of the best in the field, providing Sage Homes with a competitive advantage. Throughout his career, John has managed and delivered over $1 billion worth of new construction projects in the single-family and multifamily markets across Texas and Washington.
Before joining Sage Homes, John played a key role in the Texas market, where he oversaw the construction of more than 6,000 apartment units in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with projects totaling over $500 million. His extensive experience spans single-family homes, multifamily developments, hotels, and government-related projects across various jurisdictions in the Dallas Metroplex. John holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and has completed numerous certifications in the field.
At Sage Homes, John has been instrumental in managing and producing over 1,000 apartment and townhome units across Western Washington. He leads his purchasing team in estimating and evaluating new and potential projects, ensuring that Sage Homes moves forward with the most viable opportunities. John is responsible for creating clear and accurate budgets for vertical costs and general conditions, negotiating the best prices for each scope of work, and ensuring that selected vendors are qualified, insured, and meet Sage Homes' high standards for quality, cleanliness, and timeliness.
With 22 years in the construction industry and a decade as a Construction Manager, Justin Burns has showcased remarkable expertise and commitment. His contributions have notably influenced esteemed firms such as Exxel Pacific, BYK Construction, and Sage Homes. At Sage Homes, Justin has played a crucial role in managing major multi-family projects, including Four Pines, Markwood East, Walnut Trail, and Trailhead.
During the Covid pandemic, Justin was pivotal in delivering Sage Homes' first multi-family project, 'Four Pines Apartments' on time and under budget. Additionally, he led a team that successfully completed the 214-unit, 'Markwood East' project several weeks ahead of schedule and well under budget, despite numerous obstacles. Justin’s 'Team First' and detail-oriented approach has been an integral part of Sage Homes and leading a growing construction team. He earned a degree in Business Administration from Central Washington University and approaches his work with a strong sense of integrity, emphasizing teamwork, transparency, and proactive problem-solving. Recognized for his honesty, fairness, and clarity, Justin is committed to high performance and ongoing personal and team development.
Jon brings 28 years of experience to the construction industry, with 20 of those years spent in leadership roles as a Superintendent and Project Manager. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to his craft, successfully managing a wide range of projects with precision and excellence. Jon's professional journey includes significant roles at renowned companies like Clark Construction, where he specialized in Multi-Family and Residential projects, as well as Sealevel Bulkhead and Terhune Custom Homes.
Jon's career began with an apprenticeship at Terhune Custom Homes, where he gained comprehensive hands-on training in every phase of construction, working closely with skilled crews. This foundational experience has been key to his professional success. Over the years, Jon has focused on building strong relationships with subcontractors, ensuring a solid foundation for each project and consistently delivering at the highest level.
His diverse experience in both residential and multi-family construction is further enhanced by his passion for math and numbers. Jon's ability to anticipate outcomes and navigate challenges is a testament to his extensive experience and sound judgment.
