WHEN LEGACY MEETS PURPOSE

It doesn’t take long in conversation with Mark Schuster to understand you’re speaking with a man not merely constructing buildings, but reimagining belonging.

With the calm confidence of a seasoned leader and the humility of someone who still listens more than he speaks, Mark doesn’t tout numbers or accolades. Instead, he talks people. Culture. Dignity. The kind of values not often listed on development blueprints—but maybe, just maybe, should be.

This is the ethos behind Cypress 595, the fifth phase of Atlanta’s transformative City Lights Campaign, a 1,500-unit affordable housing development redefining the old Fourth Ward. But to tell that story, you have to go back further—to the man who believes in people first, profit second, and purpose always.

“REAL ESTATE ISN’T JUST LAND. IT’S A LIFESTYLE.”

Mark’s journey began in 1977 at his father’s firm. By 1990, he broke out on his own, fueled not by ego, but by a quiet fire for doing things differently. “I always believed in getting my hands dirty,” he shared. “Real estate gave me that.”

Over the decades, his firm Wingate expanded to 18 states—but stayed rooted in one central value: culture over clout.

At Wingate, the receptionist and the project manager have equal voice in the room. Insurance, HR, and property management all sit at the table when a new build is discussed. “We try to run as horizontal as possible,” he explained. “Because everyone touches the mission. Everyone matters.”

And when it came to City Lights—everyone was seen.

CYPRESS 595: NOT JUST AFFORDABLE. EXCEPTIONAL.

Located in Atlanta’s historic Old Fourth Ward, Cypress 595 is not a back-room add-on to a gentrification push—it’s the centerpiece.

Wingate didn’t bulldoze the past or displace the people. They honored both.

“We didn’t want to disrupt families,” Mark said. “We relocated them nearby, to properties we owned. Same schools, same bus routes, same community.” And when the buildings were ready? Those families were invited back first.

That’s what leadership with heart looks like.

Caption: Before the skyline changed, the people were prioritized. That’s the Wingate way.

THE HEARTBEAT BEYOND THE BRICK

Mark’s mission didn’t end with housing. It expanded to Operation PEACE, a nonprofit investing over $2 million into after-school education and youth development. Children from Wingate’s properties gain access to IT programs, mentorship, and a chance to dream bigger.

And when a staffer asked Mark to sponsor a teen basketball team? Not only did he say yes—Wingate employees now scrimmage the kids regularly. “We lost, of course,” he laughed. “But those games spark real conversations about college, careers, and life.”

It’s not about scoring points. It’s about creating pathways.

TECH, TRUST, AND TOMORROW

Wingate also brought smart tech into the fold—not to flex, but to serve. Residents can access online resources through in-building business centers. Security systems link with Atlanta PD. And yes, there’s even a robot named Wingate patrolling the grounds like a friendly neighborhood transformer (who unfortunately needs a few mechanical check-ups).

It’s innovation that uplifts, not intimidates.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

As Cypress 595 opens its doors, Mark’s eyes are already on what’s next: the final phases of affordable units, a major market-rate expansion, and replicating this success from Maine to Miami.

But even with national ambitions, he remains deeply local in spirit. “We love affordable housing,” he said simply. “Because it lets us provide not just homes—but hope.”

CLOSING THOUGHT

If you ever wondered what it looks like when real estate becomes a vehicle for justice, equity, and empathy, look no further than Wingate. Look no further than Mark Schuster.

Because when the foundation is built on dignity—every door opens wider.