Desmond Dunn

Developer | Community Development Leader | Housing and Neighborhood Advocate

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Desmond Dunn is a dynamic force in equitable neighborhood development, blending real estate expertise with a deep commitment to social impact. As the founder of The Emerging Developer, Desmond empowers aspiring developers and community leaders to navigate the complex worlds of zoning, land use, and economic development with clarity and confidence.

With a belief that neighborhoods should be built with the people who live in them—not in spite of them—Desmond has become a sought-after speaker and educator. His talks span topics like anti-displacement strategies, zoning justice, and community wealth-building, delivered to audiences ranging from city planners and government staff to students and funders.

Desmond’s work bridges policy and people, translating the mechanics of development into tools everyday folks can actually use. Whether he’s in city council chambers or community forums, his message is clear: better is possible—and it starts with empowering the next generation of developers.

Speaking Topics

  • Zoning, Coffee Shops & Community Wealth: Reimagining development from the block up
  • How to Make Development Work for Everyone: Practical anti-displacement strategies
  • The Emerging Developer: Tools and insights for first-time developers

Professional Experience & Projects

  • Grace Leigh Development – Managing Developer (2025–Present)
    Leads a Small-scale Development firm that focus on Community Driven developments in underserved communities. Focusing on Housing affordability, community engagement, and economic stability.
  • F7 Development – Assistant Developer (2020–2025)
    Desmond plays a hands-on role in real estate development projects in Raleigh, NC, focusing on inclusive growth and community-centered planning.
  • Project REAP Alumni Fellow (2025–Present)
    Selected for a prestigious national program advancing diversity in commercial real estate, Desmond completed a rigorous curriculum in finance, valuation, and property management, joining a network of over 2,000 professionals.
  • New Haus Agency – Business Development Manager & Licensed Agent (2020–2024)
    Led strategic growth initiatives and supported clients in navigating the real estate market across the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area.

Education

North Carolina Central University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology