Lending executive with 30+ years in residential finance, private credit, and fund management. Founded Qualfund Lending, growing the company to 80+ loan officers, $800M+ in annual originations, and $3B+ in cumulative production before its acquisition. Since 2005, has originated, funded, and serviced over $700M in residential bridge and construction loans. Founder and Principal of Cascara Capital, LLC, where he leads strategic direction, capital relationships, and credit operations.
Our Mission
At CL Asset Management Group, our mission is to bridge institutional capital with the growing demand for U.S. residential housing.
Formed through a strategic partnership between Cascara Capital and Level Capital, we acquire and manage short-term residential construction loans originated and serviced by our partners. This alignment combines Cascara’s origination expertise and builder relationships with Level’s robust servicing platform, credit oversight, and borrower network.
The result is a vertically integrated credit platform designed to deliver consistent, asset-backed performance for investors while responsibly expanding access to builder financing.
HOW WE INVEST
01
Strategic Partnerships with Proven Platforms
We work with Cascara and Level to source and service high-quality construction loans to experienced homebuilders in supply-constrained markets.
02
Disciplined Credit & Oversight
Our proprietary underwriting framework and ongoing loan monitoring are designed to mitigate risk, preserve capital, and protect investor outcomes.
03
Short Duration, Scaled Execution
By focusing on short-term, high-turn loans, we enhance liquidity and reduce exposure while meeting the financing needs of America’s builders.
Our Strategic Partnership
CL Asset Management Group was established with two leading platforms:
Cascara Capital – Origination strength and builder relationships.
Level Capital – Nationwide servicing, credit infrastructure, and borrower network.
Together, these capabilities power our asset management platform.
Our Team
Keith Tibbles
Veteran entrepreneur with 30+ years leading companies in banking, mortgage, and housing finance. Founded Keystone Mortgage (sold to First Tennessee Bank) and co-founded Pacifica Bank (sold to United Commercial Bank Holdings). Built Cobalt Mortgage into one of the largest independent mortgage companies in the U.S. ($5B+ annual, $25B+ cumulative originations) before its sale to Caliber Home Loans. Founder & CEO of Level Capital, a private lending firm originating ~$25M/month in residential construction loans, and Co-Founder of Azure Homes NW, a leading builder and developer in the Pacific Northwest. Former President of the Washington Mortgage Lenders Association and Advisory Board Member at Fannie Mae.
- Managing Partner
- 30+ Years Experience
Ernie Gehre
Seasoned executive and entrepreneur with 35+ years spanning mortgage, housing, finance, and technology. Recognized nationally as a top sales leader with expertise in building and scaling sales organizations that consistently exceed performance goals. Partner at Level Capital, where he has been instrumental in driving growth in residential construction lending. Brings a proven track record of innovation and leadership across multiple ventures in mortgage and housing finance.
- Managing Partner
- 35+ Years Experience
Smokey Burns
Business leader with 25+ years of experience in digital strategy, venture growth, and capital formation. Founding Partner and Principal at Cascara Capital, LLC, where he helps guide firm strategy, investor relations, and long-term growth initiatives. Previously founded and successfully exited multiple companies, including Epicenter Network, Lexo Media Group, and N1mble Five (acquired in 2024). Brings a track record of scaling high-growth ventures, strengthening capital partnerships, and building nationally recognized brands featured in major media outlets.
- Managing Partner
- 25+ Years Experience
Get in Touch
We are here to assist you with any questions or service requests. Visit our office at the address below or reach out by phone or email. Our team is ready to help you every step of the way.
Our Location
11250 Kirkland Way Kirkland, WA 98033
Email us
info@classetmanagement.com
Call us
(425) 406-7990