Tim Foley: A Visionary Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Real Estate Titan
Tim Foley is the embodiment of the American success story—a self-made entrepreneur whose journey from humble beginnings to industry leader and philanthropist is marked by perseverance, strategic brilliance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Born and raised in Southeast Los Angeles to an Irish father and a Japanese mother, Tim was instilled with a relentless work ethic, resilience, and a deep appreciation for balance. Even as a child, his entrepreneurial instincts were evident—by middle
school, he had launched his first business mowing lawns, which he rapidly expanded into a series of profitable ventures throughout high school and college.
Tim also excelled athletically, proving himself in martial arts, baseball, water polo, and swimming. His exceptional discipline and dedication earned him multiple scholarships, and he ultimately accepted a full-ride scholarship to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), where he double-majored in Business Economics/Real Estate and Psychology. Even while carrying a demanding academic workload, he worked full-time, buying and selling cars and mastering high-level sales at Atlas Van Lines—a testament to his ambition and drive.
Pioneering Business Ventures and Real Estate Success
Tim’s entrepreneurial instincts extended far beyond the classroom. Early in his career, he founded and operated Coty Broiler Restaurant and Jazz Club, Inc., a sophisticated dining and entertainment destination with multiple locations in Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Ventura, California.
However, it was in real estate where Tim found his true calling. Armed with vision and boldness, he maxed out several student credit cards to purchase his first piece of real estate—an 800 sq. ft. condominium—where he and his roommates lived until he sold it for a substantial profit. That first successful transaction ignited his passion for real estate, reinforcing the belief that “buying and selling real estate certainly beats working.”
From that point forward, Tim fearlessly scaled his ambitions, doubling and tripling his real estate acquisitions year after year. His first major sale netted him over $100,000, and he quickly established himself as a leading real estate investor, developer, and innovator. Over the next three decades, Tim orchestrated over $500 million in real estate transactions, developing and managing a diverse, high-value portfolio that spans:
- Apartment buildings and residential housing
- Luxury hotels and hospitality ventures
- Premier shopping centers and office developments
- Industrial properties and commercial real estate
Currently, he owns and operates over 60 properties across Bel Air, California; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Austin, Texas, overseeing an ever-expanding empire of highly successful investments.
Corporate Leadership and Executive Excellence
Tim’s career began with a meteoric rise in the corporate world. Upon graduating from UCSB, he was recruited by Xerox, where he quickly shattered expectations—earning the prestigious title of “Rookie of the Year” and ranking among the top ten salespeople nationwide. His mastery of sales, negotiation, and strategy caught the attention of top executives, leading to his appointment as National Sales Manager for Cogenic, Inc. in New York.
Despite his corporate success, Tim’s entrepreneurial spirit could not be contained. He made the bold decision to leave the security of a high-powered corporate career to fully commit to real estate—a move that would cement his legacy as one of the most influential real estate investors in the country.
Today, he is the Founder and CEO of Foley Property Assets, LLC, as well as San Diego Land & Cattle, LLC. His business empire also includes:
- Foley Development
- Asano Bankers Hill
- Foley Parking Complex
- California Opportunity Fund I
- Colorado Land & Cattle
Through these ventures, Tim has revolutionized real estate development, ensuring that every property fits the style, character, and needs of the community it serves. His sharp business instincts, coupled with his commitment to quality and innovation, have made him a pillar of the real estate industry.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Community Leadership
Despite his staggering professional success, Tim remains deeply committed to giving back to his community. His generosity and dedication to mentorship and development have led him to serve on numerous boards and organizations, including:
- San Diego Economic Development Commission Board
- San Diego Business Chapter
- Fairbanks Ranch ECC Board
- Big Brothers of America
- Junior Golf Association of America
Through his leadership, he has championed countless initiatives that foster economic growth, mentorship, and community development, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of entrepreneurs and real estate professionals.
A Partnership Built on Trust, Innovation, and Shared Vision
Tim Foley’s entrepreneurial drive and sharp business acumen have led to impactful partnerships with industry leaders. Over 20 years ago, he met Randy Goodson, a renowned real estate developer and visionary, through the Indian Princesses program, when their daughters—now adults—were still in kindergarten.
What began as a friendship rooted in mutual respect and shared ambition quickly evolved into a powerful business alliance. Over the past 15 years, Tim and Randy have collaborated on multiple high-profile real estate projects, combining Tim’s financial expertise and strategic vision with Randy’s deep industry knowledge and proven leadership in large-scale development. Together, they have pioneered innovative real estate strategies, redefined communities, and set new benchmarks for quality and excellence in the industry.
A Life of Passion, Purpose, and Excellence
Despite his high-powered career and extensive business ventures, Tim remains deeply devoted to his family, passions, and personal growth.
Now residing in Rancho Santa Fe, California, he has never lost his enthusiasm for real estate, investing, and entrepreneurship—so much so that he has come out of retirement twice to pursue new, game-changing opportunities.
Beyond business, Tim is an avid golfer and world traveler, always seeking out new challenges, experiences, and opportunities to connect with and inspire others. He treasures time with his three children, passing down the same values of hard work, resilience, and ambition that have shaped his extraordinary career.
With unmatched drive, a keen eye for opportunity, and a heart dedicated to service, Tim Foley is not just a real estate titan—he is a visionary leader, a community champion, and a true embodiment of success.
A Legacy That Will Inspire Generations to Come
Tim’s career and life story stand as a testament to the power of bold decision-making, tireless dedication, and an unwavering belief in one’s ability to create success. Whether through real estate, business leadership, or philanthropy, he continues to shape industries, transform communities, and empower future generations.
With no signs of slowing down, Tim’s influence will continue to shape San Diego and beyond for generations to come.