Meet Our Visionary Leaders
Ian Checketts
Co-Founder | Construction & Execution Lead
Ian Checketts brings over 13 years of experience in residential and commercial construction, including nearly a decade with one of the largest developers in the US., where he managed over $1B in completed projects. His portfolio spans multifamily of all kinds — giving him a rare depth of field-level knowledge and high-stakes execution experience.
As co-founder of CK Development, Ian leads all pre-construction and construction operations and project delivery utilizing both his construction management degree and his commercial unlimited builders license. From site development through final walkthrough, he oversees every aspect of the build — controlling quality, cost, and timeline across the portfolio.
Ian’s ability to operate as both general contractor and developer ensures each project is executed with discipline and accountability. This vertical integration is a core strength of CK Development
Chris Cates
Co-Founder | Development & Capital Strategy
Chris Cates is a seasoned real estate entrepreneur with a track record of sourcing, structuring, and executing development deals across the Southeast. With a background that spans fix-and-flips, infill new construction, and multifamily development, Chris has built a portfolio of successful projects by pairing sharp underwriting with real-world execution.
As co-founder of CK Development, Chris leads acquisitions, capital structuring, and investor relations. He specializes in architecting deals that align risk and reward, navigating entitlement processes, and creating clear, transparent pathways for investor capital to perform.
Chris has personally overseen the acquisition, construction, and disposition of hundreds of homes and townhome communities, with a growing footprint in high-demand markets like Johns Island, North Charleston, and Moncks Corner. His ability to turn raw land into stabilized value — and to communicate that process clearly to capital partners — is a key driver behind CK Development’s growth.
