Meet SLM Development: A Contractor You Can Count On

SLM Development Logo

If you’ve been in this business long enough, you know: trust is everything. Construction projects are complicated enough without worrying about flaky crews or missed deadlines. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight SLM Development, a general contractor with whom our Founder, Serina, has worked for years and whom we recommend without hesitation.

With over two decades of experience, SLM Development has completed a wide range of projects, including government buildings, ground-up construction, restaurants, commercial tenant improvements, schools, soft-story retrofits, ADUs, residential remodels, and more. For their long-time clients, they’ll even take on smaller jobs, like resolving a Notice of Violation or converting units, because, for them, relationships come first.

Founded 23 years ago by Sid Ladan, SLM is yet another great Bay Area immigrant success story. Sid, originally from Iran, came to the U.S. to study at Bowling Green University and eventually made his way to San Francisco after a career pivot from tech to construction (ask him to tell you the full story sometime - it’s wild).

SLM Development at work

One of the things that sets SLM apart is their in-house team of over 20 tradespeople. They self-perform nearly everything from excavation to foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, and finish work. Sid points out: “We only sub out fire sprinklers, fire alarms, and roofing. Everything else is done in-house.”

That level of control means fewer delays, better quality, and smoother communication throughout the project.

Another thing we love about SLM? Their planning. They look ahead - way ahead - on every project. They’re constantly asking questions about future phases months in advance, preventing the kinds of surprises that derail construction timelines.

Unlike many similarly sized firms, SLM runs formal project management processes, including weekly site meetings, detailed meeting minutes, real-time scheduling updates and clear, consistent communication with clients.

Senior Project Manager Kam Ameri, also originally from Iran, brings a civil engineering background to the team, offering specialized insight into grading, foundations, and structural systems. He shows up to every site meeting prepared, professional, and ready with a detailed list of questions in hand.

SLM has long-standing relationships with some of San Francisco’s largest property management firms, including Veritas, Mosser, and MB Property Group, and they understand the unique needs and challenges of working in occupied buildings, tight spaces, and urban environments.

If you’re planning a renovation, remodel, or larger construction project, from San Francisco to Santa Rosa, Walnut Creek to San Jose, SLM Development is a contractor worth knowing.

Contact Them Now!