About Costello Property Management
In the 1920s and early 1930s, a Sioux Falls furniture store owner named John Costello ventured from his business into a small real estate investment at 515 W. 13th Street. He built seven more houses after this one. That’s how it began. It was a decision that influences the lives of even his great-grandchildren 80 years later.
John’s son, Tom, eventually became the first approved FHA loan broker in the state of South Dakota. His son, Thomas P., became one of the first developers in the area to offer much needed subsidized housing in the 1960s. Today, his sons, Dan and Tom Costello continue Costello Companies in Sioux Falls, as they have expanded into Land Development, Housing Compliance and Multi Family Construction.
Founded on decades of experience, Costello Companies makes long-range investment decisions, long-term commitments, and to establish relationships to last perhaps a few more generations.
Our Mission Statement is that Costello Companies is committed to making a difference in the affordable housing industry by exemplifying the highest standards of knowledge, experience, ability and professionalism. We offer the best management, training, maintenance and marketing the industry has to offer. We value the contributions from our team members, industry partners, clients and residents. Our team members are invaluable assets that enable us to provide the highest quality residential housing units, ensuring solid, long-term tenant relationships; thus in turn, creating solid, stable cash flow and maximizing the Owner’s capital investment.
We Offer a Variety of Services
Our Executive Staff
Joan Franken
Owner/Costello Property Management;
Managing Director, Costello Companies
Joan is the Managing Director of Costello Companies and an owner of Costello Property Management and Costello Compliance. She has been with Costello for 22 years. She has been involved in and overseen the development of over 40 affordable housing complexes in South Dakota, Nebraska and Wyoming.
Jeff Brooks
Director of Business Development and Management
Jeff Brooks, AHM, holds the role of Director of Business Development and Management at Costello Property Management, where he orchestrates strategic leadership and vision. In this capacity, he drives the establishment of operational controls, administrative frameworks, compliance protocols, and robust personnel systems, fostering the company’s growth, financial robustness, and operational efficiency.
With an extensive background spanning over two decades in multifamily property management, commercial real estate brokerage, and real estate development, Jeff brings unparalleled expertise to his role. His wealth of experience contributes significantly to the organization’s success and operational excellence.
Mr. Brooks earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Dakota and remains an active participant on the Board of Directors for the South Dakota Multi-Housing Association (SDHDA), showcasing his commitment to the industry and its professional advancement.
Laura Mausbach, CPA
Director of Finance, Costello Companies
Laura Mausbach, CPA serves as the Director of Finance for Costello Companies. She oversees all aspects of finance and accounting and is responsible for the overall financial management, operational efficiency, and long-term financial health of the company. Laura is a seasoned finance leader with over 25 years of experience in the banking, finance, construction and healthcare industries. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and is a licensed CPA in South Dakota. She has been active in several organizations, including the AICPA, CFMA Local Chapter, and the Sioux Falls Chapter of the National American Payroll Association (past President).
Scott Michael Dunn
Owner/Chief Executive Officer, Costello Compliance;
Director of Policy, Costello Companies
Scott Michael is the CEO of Costello Compliance and the Director of Policy for Costello Property Management. He brings three decades of direct experience in affordable housing management, auditing, and training. He has worked with over 75% of the state LIHTC agencies, many HOME participating jurisdictions, and HUD and Rural Development agencies. A recognized expert in the industry, Scott Michael has been published in numerous trade periodicals and is the author of several textbooks and regulatory manuals on various affordable housing programs. Besides his expertise, he also has a proven track record of providing excellent regulatory results and training.
Joan Christopherson
Human Resource Manager
Joan is the Human Resource Manager for Costello Companies. She has approximately 10 years of experience in Human Resource Management and handles all aspects related to personnel. Joan’s work experience consists of seven years in Healthcare Administration, three years as a legal secretary specializing in Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury law, as well as her Human Resource experience in manufacturing and Property Management. She is certified in the OSHA 10-hour General Industry safety and is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management. Joan earned her SHRM-CP Certification in February of 2021.
Jim Schaefer
Director of Maintenance
Jim is the Director of Maintenance for Costello Property Management. Jim manages the team of maintenance technicians across the Costello Property Management Portfolio. Jim is responsible for the supervision of all capital improvement projects for each property. Jim brings 20 years of management experience to the Costello team.