About Hornet Capital
At Hornet Capital, we live by the motto “Enjoy Success Together,” uniting rehabbers, developers, newcomers, seasoned professionals, cash investors, and private money lenders. Our offerings encompass hard money loans, partnerships in Austin rehabs and developments, and discounted Realtor services.
We welcome cash investors and private money lenders seeking passive income. We are not your everyday real-estate investment firm. At Hornet Capital transparency reigns and we prioritize investor communication. Through real-time dashboards, quarterly investor meetings, and open-door policy we ensure our esteemed investors stay informed on the latest information within Hornet as well as the market dynamics that we face.
Management Team
Brian Whitten, CEO/Founder
With over 15 years of active engagement in real estate investment, Brian Whitten’s journey is nothing short of impressive. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, Brian traveled the world as a fighter pilot. Amidst launching his F/A-18 Super Hornet from aircraft carriers in pursuit of protecting this country’s freedoms, his passionate pursuit of real estate took root. In 2008, he embraced a new title, by becoming a licensed Realtor, and promptly recognized the hidden potential of the housing market while serving his clients.
Brian’s fix-and-flip projects proved so successful that by 2012, he made the decision to step back from active duty and fully dedicate himself to the realm of real estate. His relocation to Austin marked the commencement of a vigorous networking effort, connecting with fellow local investors to provide above-market returns for his investors while flipping properties, providing hard money loans, and partnering with other real estate investors.
Residing in Austin with his wife and two sons, Brian’s household relishes moments by the lake, perfecting the art of BBQ smoking, and supporting their cherished Longhorn football team. His laser-focused drive ensures triumph not only for his individual aspirations but also for the prosperity of his esteemed investors, aligning perfectly with the motto of Hornet Capital: “Enjoy Success Together”
Dimitri Hammond, COO
Dimitri Hammond, Hornet Capital’s COO, joined the team equipped with valuable real estate experience he has gained over the years since he started his Real Estate journey in 2011. As a native from Austin, Dimitri achieved a Magna Cum Laude distinction while earning his BS in Mathematics and Computer Science from Texas State University.
Prior to his role at Hornet Capital, Dimitri dedicated a decade to working with emerging technology companies in Austin, where he also ventured into entrepreneurship by establishing two tech startups. This entrepreneurial journey eventually led him to the real estate sector, where he applied his keen analysis, systems management, and operational expertise by launching his own development firm in 2014.
Over the years, Dimitri’s entrepreneurial spirit guided him through the successful renovation and construction of more than 50 houses. This hands-on experience allowed him to navigate the intricacies of the business while learning invaluable lessons from the challenges he encountered. Dimitri’s decision to join Hornet Capital in 2020 marked a strategic shift from the development realm to the investment side of the real estate industry. This transition enabled him to capitalize on his strengths, infusing his perceptive insights, meticulous scrutiny, and analytical wit into the domains of operations, deals, and borrower relationships. These qualities were honed through his lived experiences and the profound lessons learned from overcoming adversity.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Dimitri finds solace and joy in the natural beauty of Texas. He relishes moments of hiking, camping, and swimming alongside his wife and children. In addition to his love for the outdoors, Dimitri shares his artistic talents by performing live music at local venues, showcasing a well-rounded and creative aspect of his persona.
Rachael Holladay, President of Lending
Rachael brings a wealth of industry expertise, with her influential presence starting in 2011. Rachael boasts an impressive track record of originating loans exceeding $600 million. She takes pride in having served more than 350 borrowers throughout her career.
Prior to joining Hornet Capital, Rachael held the position of Vice President of Lending at Stallion Funding. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in the company’s remarkable growth, elevating its assets under management from $10 million to well over $150 million.
Beyond her professional achievements, Rachael enjoys spending quality time with her four children, often found relaxing at the beach. Rachael holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.
Eddie Hart, VP of Lending
Eddie is a seasoned real estate professional with over 14 years of diverse experience spanning underwriting, financial modeling, valuation, risk management, client engagement, and real estate brokerage. His extensive career includes a license as a realtor, and he has been an active participant in the private lending sector since 2012. Eddie has worked with both national loan aggregators and local/regional private lenders, where he applied his expertise in managing underwriting and loan operations teams, as well as nurturing strong investor and lender relationships.
Eddie’s approach to business emphasizes personalization, stewardship, and transparency, viewing these qualities as essential pillars of successful business relationships.
Beyond his real estate endeavors, Eddie is a passionate traveler, fitness enthusiast, avid supporter of UT athletics, and an outdoor explorer who enjoys spending quality time with his family.
Matt Milks, Accounting & Finance
Heading Hornet Capital’s accounting department, Matt oversees the management of our loan portfolio. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Georgia Tech, he brings valuable expertise. Before joining Hornet Capital, Matt spent 12 years as an entrepreneur, involved in the acquisition and sale of diverse small enterprises. He finds joy in quality time with his children and exploring new destinations when he’s not at the office.
Tammy Oberto, Loan Processor
As our Loan Processor at Hornet Capital, Tammy is renowned for her acute attention to detail and proficiency with numbers. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Advertising from the University of Texas in Austin, she brings a unique blend of creativity and analytical skills to her role.
Outside the world of finance, Tammy’s heart is captured by her love for animals, particularly dogs. Through volunteering at animal sanctuaries, she has demonstrated her commitment to giving back to the creatures she holds dear. Her mastery of the piano and flute has graced published albums, a testament to her harmonious blend of talents.
John Strawn, VP of Borrower Success
For over 10 years, John has been actively involved in the realm of private lending, gaining invaluable expertise across various facets of the field. Currently, his role entails overseeing Hornet Capital’s borrowers, ensuring their triumph through exceptional construction management and top-notch customer service, all the while safeguarding Hornet’s mission statement “Enjoy Success Together.” John serves as our dependable frontline representative. Situated in Central Texas, he finds joy in staying physically active, tending to his canine companions, and indulging in all things related to science fiction.
Mary Ashton
Mary Ashton has been an integral part of the Hornet Capital family since its inception. Over the years, she has taken on various roles within the organization, and today, she focuses on guiding investors through the intricacies of the investment process. Additionally, Mary plays a crucial role in the development of Hornet Capital’s Human Resources department, aligning it with the company’s rapid growth in recent years.
Outside of her professional commitments, Mary is an accomplished performer, lending her vocal talents to classical ensembles in Central Texas. She cherishes moments spent with her family at their residence in Bastrop, TX during her leisure time.
