Three Decades of Building In Philadelphia
Founded in 1998, Lily Development has spent nearly 30 years shaping Philadelphia's residential landscape. What began as a commitment to quality and intentional design has grown into a diverse portfolio of multifamily communities, single-family homes, and mixed-use developments that reflect our evolving city.
Why Partners Choose Lily
Unmatched Longevity
With 28 years in business, we've outlasted most competitors in the Philadelphia market. Our experience means we've navigated multiple economic cycles, regulatory changes, and market conditions. This translates to fewer surprises, stronger execution, and projects that stand the test of time. When you partner with Lily Development, you're working with a team that's seen it all—and knows how to deliver.
Proven Adaptability
Markets change. Neighborhoods evolve. Regulations shift. Tenant preferences transform. We've proven our ability to adapt while maintaining the quality and intentional design that define every Lily Development project. Our portfolio reflects our evolution—from early residential developments to contemporary multifamily communities—each project responding to its moment while remaining timeless.
Real estate development is a relationship business. Our team brings decades of combined expertise across acquisition, financing, design, construction, and property management. We understand that successful projects require collaboration, clear communication, and mutual trust. When you partner with Lily Development, you're working with people who know how to deliver—and who genuinely care about the outcome.
Meet The Team
Robert Volpe
CEO and Founder
Robert, a native Philadelphian, began his career as a pharmacist prior to starting Lily Development. He graduated from the College of Pharmacy and Science, and subsequently founded Squire Drugs Pharmacy. He served as the President of Squire for over 20 years, during which time he built and managed a chain of 12 retail pharmacies in the Greater Philadelphia area.
In 1998, he led the successful sale of his pharmacies to two major retail chains. As a second career, Robert began his real estate career rehabbing houses and started a construction company to manage the projects. Lily became known as a premier home builder in Philadelphia for its custom details and finishes, and prime locations. Robert expanded into multifamily developments in 2006 and has built exclusively in Philadelphia since that time.
Robert now oversees the construction of new projects and focuses on the acquisition and development responsibilities of Lily.
Jody Volpe
Partner and Realtor
Jody co-founded Lily Development with Robert in 1998. Jody has a degree in design from Pierce College, and for over 10 years, worked as a buyer between the international manufacturer and a prominent retail department store based out of Center City Philadelphia.
Jody is the salesperson for Lily and curates all the design selections. In this unique role, she works directly with interior designers and construction teams during the construction of the buildings to guide the curation of our properties' interiors and facades.
Jody is a licensed real estate agent at Keller Williams in Philadelphia.
Daniel Wills
CFO
Daniel brings a multitude of experience from various industries and businesses as well as his passion for accuracy and financial acumen to the Lily Development Team. He has a background in real estate development where he managed budgets for large multifamily construction projects.
Daniel studied economics and business at Benedictine College where he graduated with academic honors. He worked in the actuarial department at a major annuity and life insurance company prior to making a career change into real estate. He quickly fell in love with development and enjoys the complexity and problem-solving aspect as well as the tangible impact that beautiful structures have on the people and communities that they serve.
Currently, Daniel oversees construction budgets, global cashflow, bookkeeping, and new project underwriting for Lily Development.
Bill Barber
Director of Construction
Bill leads Lily’s construction efforts with over 25 years of experience managing high-profile projects across New York and Philadelphia. His portfolio includes high-rise developments like the W Hotel as well as complex multifamily residential projects. Bill excels in navigating all stages of construction—from permitting through delivery—and is respected for his technical knowledge, leadership, and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Lauren Auch
Operations Manager
Lauren brings deep experience in operations and executive support across the real estate industry. At Lily, she plays a key role in managing internal processes, project coordination, and administrative functions. A graduate of Temple University, she is known for her organizational skills, proactive mindset, and ability to keep complex projects moving efficiently. Outside of work, Lauren is active in her South Philadelphia neighborhood. She’s a certified Tree Tender, a committed school volunteer, and a community garden member, reflecting her passion for both people and place.
Octavian Tita
Project Manager
Octavian manages project operations at Lily, with a focus on ensuring efficient execution across fieldwork and documentation. He oversees submittals, RFIs, cost tracking, and project controls to ensure every development progresses smoothly from start to finish. Known for his diligence and process-driven approach, Octavian is a vital link between the field and office.
Our Development Philosophy
Every Lily Development project begins with the same questions: What does this neighborhood need? Who will call this place home? How can we create something that feels both contemporary and timeless?
We believe in intentional design: spaces that blend warmth with modern aesthetics, functionality with beauty. We're not interested in cookie-cutter developments or trend-chasing architecture. Instead, we focus on creating properties that enhance their surroundings and serve their residents for decades to come.
Our process is deeply collaborative. We work closely with architects, contractors, city officials, and community stakeholders to ensure every project reflects not just our vision, but the needs of the people who will interact with it daily. This approach has earned us a reputation for reliability and quality that extends across the Philadelphia market.
From initial site selection through final occupancy, we're guided by a commitment to excellence that's defined Lily Development for nearly three decades.
