BUILDINGup
BLDG UP helps property owners and investors turn real estate potential into completed projects.
We step in to lead development and construction management, taking clear ownership of execution so projects move forward with structure and accountability. From early evaluation through completion, we coordinate the team, align decisions, and keep work progressing toward a finished asset.
Our focus is simple: disciplined planning, clear responsibility, and experienced oversight across residential, commercial, mixed use, and adaptive reuse projects.
The BLDG-UP Story
BLDG-UP was founded in 1998 by Ben LoPiccolo and grew out of hands-on real estate work in Jersey City and the surrounding region. Ben started his career in the trades, working directly in the field as a painter and later across multiple areas of construction. That early, ground-level experience shaped how BLDG-UP operates today. We focus on what actually happens on projects, not just what looks good on paper. Over the years, BLDG-UP grew from smaller renovation work into larger and more complex development projects. Along the way, we worked through different market cycles and learned where projects tend to break down. That experience reinforced the importance of structure, accountability, and clear decision-making, especially when capital, risk, and regulations intersect. In 2016, Kevin Kansagra joined the firm after investing in Boniface Lofts, a historic redevelopment led by BLDG-UP. With a background in finance, Kevin added strength in capital planning, financial oversight, and coordination with lenders and investors. His partnership with Ben helped strengthen how execution and financing work together on complex projects. Today, BLDG-UP focuses on leading execution. We work alongside owners and capital partners to manage development and construction, coordinate teams, and keep projects aligned from early planning through completion. We do not advise from the sidelines. We step in and take responsibility. We are selective about the projects we take on. We focus on situations where experienced leadership and clear accountability make a real difference in reducing risk and getting projects finished the right way.
Meet the Team
CEO
Ben LoPiccolo
Ben LoPiccolo, has more than 25 years of experience in real estate development and construction. He began his career renovating high-end residential properties in Manhattan before expanding into Jersey City in 1998, where he built a multi-million-dollar development platform. His experience spans multiple market cycles and includes residential, mixed-use, and adaptive-reuse projects. Ben’s work has been recognized through industry awards and media coverage. He currently serves as President of the Jersey City Apartment Owners Association, where he works closely with property owners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders on housing and development issues. He is also a board member, founder, and volunteer with the Jersey City Theater Center. Outside of work, Ben values time with his family and enjoys travel and exploring nature.
CFO
Kevin Kansagra
Kevin Kansagra brings more than 20 years of experience across real estate investment banking, brokerage, construction, and engineering. As CFO of BLDG-UP, he is responsible for underwriting and evaluating acquisitions, financial modeling, legal and capital structuring, debt and equity coordination, and overall financial oversight. Kevin plays a central role in aligning project economics with delivery realities, lender requirements, and partner expectations. His background supports disciplined decision-making across development strategy, capital planning, and risk management throughout the project lifecycle. Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his two young sons, family, and friends. When time permits, he enjoys watching New Orleans Saints football and playing tennis.
Project Manager
Rahid Cornejo
A graduate of NJIT with a degree in architecture, Rahid has honed his skills in design, planning, and execution over the course of his career. Currently serving as a project manager at his company, Rahid oversees the successful completion of each project, ensuring that all aspects are delivered to the highest standards.
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Marketing Director
Justin Kral
Justin is a dynamic marketing director with a passion for music and photography. In his role, Justin is responsible for managing website builds, building brand identity, and producing engaging content for social media. With a keen eye for detail and a creative approach, Justin ensures that every aspect of the company's marketing strategy is executed to perfection.
Project Supervisor
Francisco "Frankie" De La Noval
Francisco De La Noval is a construction professional with over 20 years of hands-on industry experience, beginning as a woodworker apprentice and advancing into senior estimating, project management, and superintendent roles. He brings more than a decade of experience managing and estimating complex, multimillion-dollar projects, including highly regulated healthcare and VA hospital facilities. Francisco has led projects across a wide range of trades, coordinated closely with architects, engineers, and government agencies, and maintained rigorous documentation, safety, and scheduling standards. OSHA 30–certified and highly computer-proficient, he is known for his ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, solve complex field challenges, and deliver work safely, efficiently, and to exacting specifications.
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