Born in Agra, India, in 1981, Swapnil grew up in a middle-class family rooted in strong religious and Vedic values. At the age of 15, he migrated to the United States with his parents, settling in Houston in 1996. With dreams of making a difference, he completed high school in 1999 and earned a degree in finance from the University of Texas.
His career began as an Investment Banking Analyst at Simmons & Company International, followed by key roles at El Paso Energy and Forum Partners in Hong Kong. Between 2003 and 2013, he gained invaluable experience in corporate finance, investment banking, and private equity, honing the skills that would later define his entrepreneurial success.
Swapnil emphasizes customer-centricity and believes effective communication is essential to ensuring business success. To that end, he pays close attention to responsive and proactive customer service. By doing so, he strengthens partnerships and fosters strong, lasting relationships with key property stakeholders
BOLD LEAP INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP
In 2013, Swapnil took a leap of faith and established Nitya Capital, a Texas-based real estate investment firm focused on revitalising neglected properties and turning them into safe, affordable housing. With just $300,000 in initial capital, he acquired his first multifamily property in Houston for $4.5 million. However, the journey was far from smooth—low occupancy rates, problematic tenants, and a struggling neighbourhood posed significant challenges.
Undeterred, Swapnil implemented a bold turnaround strategy: removing disruptive tenants, improving security, repainting buildings, and even offering free swimming lessons to prevent drowning incidents. Within six months, occupancy soared to 90%, and he successfully sold the property for $6 million—doubling his investment.
This success became a blueprint for Nitya Capital’s rapid expansion. Today, the firm boasts over 500 employees, has acquired more than 55 multifamily properties across four states, and has built a reputation for delivering strong financial returns. Notably, Nitya Capital maintains an impressive track record, generating over 22% annual returns for investors with zero losses or defaults. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to reveal the true value of standout investment prospects—ultimately paving the way for a resilient and high-yield investment strategy.
Swapnil’s ability to foster strong relationships with investors, lenders, and partners has been instrumental in the firm’s success. A testament to his financial acumen, the recent refinancing of a $218 million portfolio further solidifies Nitya Capital’s standing as a leader in real estate investment. This also demonstrates his ability to deal with complex capital markets and strengthen his company’s financial standing. Having closed over $3 billion in deals across India, China, Australia, and Korea, he has invested more than $600 million in equity. Now, he aims to further expand Nitya Capital’s presence through sustainable growth while driving greater impact through affordable housing initiatives.
REVOLUTIONISING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
In 2014, Swapnil expanded his impact by founding KPM Property Management, a company specialising in multifamily community management. Ranked among Houston’s fastest-growing private companies by Inc. 5000 in 2018, KPM exemplifies his innovative approach to property management. Through a combination of efficiency, technology, and tenant-focused initiatives, the firm has played a key role in improving housing conditions for thousands. The firm’s success exemplifies his astute understanding of property management, his innovative mindset, and his and his ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Currently, Nitya Capital owns and manages more than 20,000 housing units throughout the country, providing affordable housing to the needy while working towards improving the overall living conditions as a whole. The company also boasts of a perfect track record for its investors, acquiring over 130 assets for a value of $5bn and 81 exits producing 22% IRR with $0 losses or defaults.
GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY
Beyond business success, Swapnil is deeply committed to giving back. In 2014, he founded Karya Kares, a 501(c)(3) non profit organization dedicated to uplifting communities through free healthcare clinics, meal programs for seniors and children, back-to-school initiatives, and water safety classes. The benevolent leader sees himself as a catalyst for change. He is dedicated to creating healthier and happier communities. Through his platform, he actively promotes a safer, more inclusive and compassionate world.
His contributions extend beyond the U.S. to his home country, India. He has co-founded two major firms—Iron Pillar, a top-10 India-focused VC fund, and Itus Capital, a top-5 asset management firm based in Mumbai and Chennai. Additionally, he supports education by running two charitable schools—Ek Pahel in Agra and Astha Kiran in Lucknow—providing free education, meals, and housing to over 1,000 underprivileged children. Swapnil’s leadership shows his commitment to helping people in the U.S. and India. His contributions align with the vision of Viksit Bharat, an initiative aimed at building a developed and inclusive India.
Despite his tremendous success, Swapnil remains grounded, with his eyes set on long-term, sustainable growth. His journey—rooted in resilience, innovation, and social responsibility—continues to inspire entrepreneurs and changemakers worldwide. With Nitya Capital’s ongoing expansion and a steadfast commitment to affordable housing, Swapnil Agarwal is not just shaping the real estate industry—he is transforming lives.
GARNERING ACCOLADES
Swapnil’s philanthropic efforts have garnered global recognition. The British Parliament honoured him in 2019 with the Pride of India Bharat Gaurav Award for his contributions to Indian culture through international social programs. That same year, the Houston Business Journal named him the Most Admired CEO, and he was included in its prestigious 40 Under 40 list for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019). In 2017, he was recognised as the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, further cementing his status as a business visionary.
