Corporate Headquarters
735 N. Water Street, Suite 175
Milwaukee, WI 53202
800-221-9882
Corporate Headquarters
735 N. Water Street, Suite 175
Milwaukee, WI 53202
800-221-9882
Todd Walter didn’t set out to become one of the most trusted experts in reserve studies and long-range capital planning. In fact, he found the field almost by accident. After college, Todd spent a year in traditional structural engineering; a job that kept him buried in calculations but far away from people, properties, or any real-world problem solving.
When he discovered Reserve Advisors in 1999, everything clicked. The role let him use his technical background without being confined to design work. He could be out in the field, walking properties, evaluating roofs, examining facades, and seeing firsthand how buildings age. Even more importantly, he could work directly with the people who rely on those buildings every day.
Today, Todd brings more than 25 years of experience, perspective, and steady, level-headed guidance to associations throughout the Great Lakes region. His clear explanations and people-first approach help boards and managers move through difficult decisions with confidence.
Todd’s work centers on one thing: giving communities the information they need to plan responsibly and avoid costly surprises.
Over the years, he has completed thousands of reserve studies, inspected properties of every size and complexity, and supported associations through everything from routine planning to urgent repair decisions. His field experience spans historic Chicago high-rises, large-scale suburban communities, and newer developments navigating their first major projects.
Through those inspections and conversations, Todd has gained a deep understanding of the challenges boards and property managers face:
Todd’s calm, practical, and non-judgmental approach helps communities see their options clearly. He encourages proactive planning without pressure, and he meets boards where they are – whether they are highly experienced or just beginning to understand the importance of long-term capital planning.
In Chicago, home to some of the country’s most stunning but maintenance-heavy masonry structures, Todd has become a go-to expert for associations facing complex challenges. His familiarity with historic facades, embedded steel systems, and the long-term effects of freeze-thaw cycles helps communities plan ahead instead of reacting to crises.
Across his leadership roles at Reserve Advisors, including engineering management and regional oversight, Todd has consistently prioritized accuracy, transparency, and client understanding. Whether he’s guiding a board through difficult funding decisions or helping a manager navigate mortgage or insurance complications, Todd’s goal is always the same: equip people with the clearest picture of what’s coming and how to prepare.
B.S. Civil Engineering
25+ years in reserve study planning
Thousands of on-site inspections and reserve studies completed
Licensed Professional Engineer (FL, IL, IN, MI, MN, NC, OH, WI)
Professional Reserve Analyst - Association of Professional Reserve Analysts
LEED Accredited Professional
Recognized by the Community Associations Institute (CAI) as a Reserve Specialist (RS)
Former VP of Engineering, Director of Production Management, and current Regional Executive Director
As Regional Executive Director for the Great Lakes, Todd leads with a focus on clarity, collaboration, and practical planning. He works directly with communities, board members, management companies, and Reserve Advisors’ engineering and account management teams to:
In every interaction, Todd’s goal is to simplify the complex, breaking down technical material so communities can make informed decisions that protect their property values and their owners.
“A reserve study isn’t about predicting the exact year something will happen. It’s about helping communities understand what’s coming so they can plan responsibly. My job is to give people clarity – not pressure.”
-Todd Walter, Regional Executive Director, Great Lakes U.S.
Todd is known throughout the region for his deep expertise in aging infrastructure, especially the historic masonry buildings that define much of Chicago’s skyline. His insight into deterioration patterns, freeze-thaw impacts, embedded steel, and escalating repair costs has helped countless associations stay ahead of major issues.
He stays closely connected to evolving industry requirements — from lending and insurance scrutiny to emerging reserve legislation — and ensures communities understand how those changes affect them.
Todd also plays an active role in educating both board members and managers by:
While he doesn’t seek the spotlight, Todd’s steady presence and practical knowledge make him a valued voice for communities navigating complex decisions.
Todd’s approach to leadership is shaped by something simple: he doesn’t believe in overcomplicating things. He values structure, routine, and steady progress – moving projects forward one step at a time – which clients often find reassuring, especially in uncertain moments.
He genuinely enjoys the fieldwork side of his job, particularly walking through the ornate vintage buildings of downtown Chicago. The history, craftsmanship, and behind-the-scenes look at how structures age and perform over time are what keep the work interesting, even after decades in the industry.
Outside of work, Todd is known for being steady, thoughtful, and committed to doing things the right way. He prioritizes physical fitness and spending time outdoors, with cross-training and long walks or hikes (often with the family dog) among his favorite ways to recharge. He also values time with family and friends.
Professionally, Todd has built a long career with Reserve Advisors and remains genuinely enthusiastic about reserve studies. He has also contributed articles for the Community Associations Institute, reflecting his commitment to helping communities stay safe, informed, and financially prepared.
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