Helix Capital initially worked with Johns when it acquired mortgages on 10 of Barness’ shopping centers. The company has since foreclosed upon those properties, bringing them into its own portfolio, says Ryan Spiekerman, principal of Helix Capital.

Spiekerman tells GlobeSt. that he and Helix Asset Management principal, Adam Feldman, liked the way Jones managed Barness’ portfolio and that it made sense for her to follow the foreclosed shopping centers to Helix Capital. Under Johns’ leadership, the firm expects to bring on additional property and asset management staff.

“As the portfolio grows, we will continue to staff up to make sure we continue the same level of service,” Feldman tells GlobeSt., adding that Helix Capital has a consultative approach to asset management that is particularly beneficial to owners that are having a difficult time repositioning and refinancing their assets. “One thing that differentiates us is that we help owners with workouts and facilitate with banks and other lenders.”

Ryan says Helix Capital will continue to acquire distressed assets and debt, drawing upon its own capital to fund the investments. He expects most of the firm’s near-term opportunities will emerge from REO properties.