Capital Impact Partners

Valerie Sanderlin

FocusWorks Construction & Development, LLC

Valerie A. Sanderlin, founder and CEO of FocusWorks Construction & Development, LLC started her company in 2007 with a mission to invest in distressed properties to re-enter the affordable-living rental market. A native Washingtonian, she had a front-row seat to the growth and displacement occurring across the city.

When she wanted to break into the development game, she joined real estate clubs, took classes and surrounded herself with like-minded people. Picking up tips along the way, she now oversees the purchase, renovation, and management of several single and multi-family properties in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. She specializes in the acquisition, renovation, and management of properties in the short-term rental space. To date, she has overseen over $2 million dollars in residential and commercial projects.


Prior to venturing out on her own, Valerie worked as a program analyst for the District government. Her real-world knowledge has been honed for over 15 years starting with her win-win approach as a wholesaler who executes rehab projects for townhomes, single-family homes, multi-family properties, and condominium conversions.


Valerie an undergraduate degree in Sociology from Hampton University and holds a Master's in Information Technology from Southeastern University. A sought-after public speaker, she makes it her business to mentor others who are also looking for a break into the business. Valerie is a member of Capital Impact Partners Washington, D.C. area, Equitable Development Initiative 2020 cohort.


Most importantly, Valerie is a real-life exemplar of how focus works when one is committed to bringing a vision to fruition.

”In my journey, I wanted to do bigger projects. I love being around like-minded people who share my mission and want to build affordable housing that helps the community.” -- Valerie A. Sanderlin
Valerie Sanderlin