Although AmeriSphere will retain its name and independence, Lopez says it will be identified on its letterhead and other company documents as "an affiliate of NorthMarq." Lopez, who with McCarthy Group will continue to have a controlling interest in AmeriSphere, will remain president and chief executive officer of AmeriSphere. McCarthy Group is an Omaha-based private equity firm. The companies declined to disclose how much money NorthMarq was investing in AmeriSphere.

Lopez says it was a part of his company's strategic plan to affiliate with a major player in the commercial real estate market. NorthMarq has offices in 28 major markets coast to coast and has originated more than $3 billion in multifamily finance in each of the past two years. As the exclusive seller of Fannie Mae products through NorthMarq, Lopez anticipates rapid growth for his company. The new partnership will increase the availability of affordable multifamily housing through financing of properties that qualify for low-income housing tax credits and tax-exempt bonds, he notes.

Edward Padilla, NorthMarq's chief executive officer, and Michael Myers, NorthMarq's chief accounting officer, will join the AmeriSphere's board of directors. Lawrence Stephenson, NorthMarq Director of Capital Markets, will join the AmeriSphere loan committee.