Miami – July 29, 2026 – Greenspoon Marder announced that Real Estate partner Manuel L. Crespo successfully represented JPWard & Associates, a leading Community Development District (CDD) management company, in connection with the sale of its book of business and related intangible assets to PFM Management Services LLC, the newly formed special district management subsidiary of PFM.
The transaction value included both the purchase price paid to the seller and a one-year post-closing consultancy arrangement under which the firm’s principal will assist the purchaser with transition, client continuity, and operational integration.
The transaction involved a comprehensive asset purchase and required navigation of nuanced regulatory, operational, and compliance considerations unique to public-facing special district management companies. Mr. Crespo led the legal team through extensive due diligence and negotiated transaction documents designed to preserve value while facilitating a seamless transition.
PFM Management Services LLC was established to provide management and administrative services to special districts and to expand its market presence throughout Florida and other key regions. The acquisition of JPWard & Associates supports the company’s continued growth and commitment to serving special districts nationwide.
Integral to the success of the transaction was Harlan A. Friedman, a veteran recruiting and advisory professional with decades of experience working with finance, asset management, and special district services firms nationwide, an introduction facilitated by partner Skip Miller. Mr. Friedman served as the industry consultant, providing strategic guidance, market intelligence, and transactional positioning based on his deep knowledge of industry participants and operational dynamics.
“Harlan brought an exceptional level of insight to this transaction, rooted in years of hands‑on experience working with the key players in this highly specialized space,” said Manuel L. Crespo, partner at Greenspoon Marder. “His understanding of how these businesses operate, how acquirers evaluate growth opportunities, and how to align interests on both sides was invaluable. He was instrumental in helping ensure that the transaction structure met the client’s financial, operational, and long‑term objectives.”
Partner Alejandro Leiva, a member of Greenspoon Marder’s Labor and Employment practice, assisted with the negotiation of the post‑closing consultancy arrangements for the firm’s principal and key personnel.
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