About J

Owner/ Builder

Since 2018, J has served as both a Realtor and home renovator in the Greater Boston luxury real estate market. J established new roots in Florida’s Gulf Coast, where he has managed remodel and new construction projects in Naples, FL. In 2022, J was contracted by another prestigious gulf coast builder to manage the construction of several new luxury homes on Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island. After establishing a strong construction portfolio in the area, J remained in Manatee/ Sarasota but has since launched his own construction company, JA Builds. Outside of work, J can be found going on early morning runs, cooking up barbecue for friends and family, or out on the water, paddle boarding with his Boston Terrier, Penny.

Our Building Process

Residential Development

JA Builds take data-driven approach towards real estate analysis & development. Our research goal is to determine the most profitable residential real estate products within a target market (e.g., Short-term vacation rentals, multifamily/ mixed-use rentals, SFH spec building, etc.)

We analyze potential projects using local & proven building, financing, and operating cost data. With this information we model multiple development strategies on the subject property, ultimately identifying the best product and the parameters necessary in ensuring a profitable venture.

JA Builds also partners with other developers/investors in assisting with property analysis and collaborating on building projects. Please visit the “Contact” page to start a discussion on partnership or JV opportunities.

Custom Homes & Remodeling

“Before I entered the real estate and building world, I used to work as an anesthesia tech at Tufts Medical Center. I was a premed neuroscience major, and when I was not in class or in a research lab, I was in the hospital caring for patients before, during, and after surgery. While my career path has changed, my genuine care towards the people I serve remains.

Custom & remodeling work requires more than just someone with a contractor license, it requires someone who you can build a real relationship with based on trust, integrity, and communication.

With Buildertrend as my trusted project management platform, I offer my clients unparalleled transparency and ease of communication throughout every step of the building process. From initial concept to final walk-through, my clients have real-time access to project timelines, change orders, budget, and updates, empowering them to be active participants in the creation of their dream home.”

- J Azocar Owner/ Builder

Meet Your Building Team

Matthew Minoty

Matthew Minoty is a seasoned construction professional with a career spanning commercial, military, and high-end residential construction. He began in large-scale retail and commercial projects, building national brands such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Kmart, before serving 18 years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Chemical Corps. During four tours in Iraq, he held Operations Manager roles and worked on critical infrastructure projects including bridge repairs, airfields, and regional improvements, developing strong leadership and technical expertise in complex environments.

Director of Construction

After earning his MBA, Matthew returned to construction leadership, joining Taylor Morrison in Florida where he advanced to Senior Superintendent, overseeing a team building approximately 400 homes annually in a master-planned community. He later served as Lead Project Manager for M&J Pham Development, managing luxury coastal new construction homes and design-build remodels in flood zones. He currently brings this depth of experience to his role at JA Builds. Outside of work, Matt enjoys golfing and spending time with his family.

  • Chris Crean

    Construction Estimator

    Chris Crean joined JA Builds with a strong foundation in construction engineering technology. His first three years in the industry were spent working on large-scale municipal water treatment facilities across Florida, including projects for Palm Beach County. During that time, Chris gained extensive experience in heavy mechanical and structural systems—installing 54-inch diameter piping, constructing 5-million-gallon water tanks, and contributing to facilities capable of treating 15 million gallons of water per day. He was selected to attend the Executive Leadership Conference at PC Construction, a testament to his leadership potential early in his career. Drawn to construction by his passion for problem-solving and seeing complex systems come to life, Chris is excited to bring his technical expertise and hands-on experience to JA Builds. After nearly 15 years of knowing J, he looks forward to helping grow the company while building meaningful relationships with the team, trade partners, and clients. Outside of work, Chris enjoys traveling, staying active at the gym, and reading. He proudly claims purple as his favorite color.

  • Cole Keene

    Project Manager

    Cole began his construction career in 2019, inspired by a passion for hands-on work and the fulfillment of creating tangible results. Specializing in luxury homes, renovations, and new builds; Cole has worked extensively in Boston, MA, and Naples, FL, focusing on both residential and commercial projects. His detailed, client-centered approach has been honed through experiences with renowned companies like Midwest Developers.

    As a Project Manager for JA Builds, Cole brings leadership and expertise to every phase of a project, ensuring quality and innovation are at the forefront. Certified in Home Inspection and Insurance Adjustments, he combines technical knowledge with a commitment to excellence. Drawn to JA Builds for its strong values and collaborative culture, Cole is excited to contribute to the company’s forward-thinking approach and deliver exceptional results for clients.

    Outside of work, Cole enjoys learning new recipes, spending time with his dog, and exploring new cuisines in the area.

  • Gloria Barrett

    Project Coordinator

    Gloria brings over a decade of administrative and sales experience to the JA Builds team, beginning her career in the legal field where she advanced from receptionist to paralegal, managing over 100 active cases. She later transitioned into the building industry, supporting remodelers and new construction projects throughout the Northeast, including Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. Known for her strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to teamwork, Gloria approaches every project with a focus on collaboration and delivering exceptional results. Inspired by JA Builds’ vision and rapid growth, she is excited to contribute her skills and energy to the team’s continued success. Outside of work, Gloria enjoys kayaking, writing, yoga, visiting museums with her son, and watching sunsets on Holmes Beach.

In-House Design by The Bennett Collective

JA Builds offers an in-house design and build service, The Bennett Collective. TBC offers a seamless, end-to-end approach to coastal modern homes. Rooted in thoughtful architecture, refined material selection, and intentional detailing, our team specializes in creating spaces that feel effortless, elevated, and deeply connected to their surroundings.

By integrating design and construction under one roof, we streamline the entire process—from concept to completion—ensuring clarity, efficiency, and a cohesive vision at every stage. Our coastal modern style blends clean lines, natural textures, and timeless finishes with the relaxed sophistication of waterfront living.

Each project is approached with precision and creativity, balancing aesthetics with functionality to deliver homes that are both beautifully designed and expertly built. Whether new construction or a full-scale renovation, JA Builds brings a considered, detail-driven perspective to every space we create.

About Annabelle

Annabelle, born and raised in the suburbs of Boston, has always had a passion for real estate and a keen eye for design. After earning a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Administration from Boston University and traveling to over 20 countries, she discovered her true passion lies in creating homes and memorable living experiences. While also a licensed real estate agent, Annabelle serves as the VP of Marketing and Design at JA Builds, where she combines her expertise in real estate with her love for strategic planning, outreach, and creating art within homes.