CRE Simplified

I wanted to understand what it’s really like to sell industrial properties in California… So I sat down with Allen Buchanan, an alumni from The University of Arkansas who works at Lee & Associates, to learn more about his business and advice for new brokers. Here’s what I learned: How to strategically network Ways to prioritize time as a broker Opportunities to think creatively How to find you...

I wanted to learn how CRE professionals improvise while working on difficult deals...   So, I interviewed Katy Lincoln & Charlie Norton    We discussed 2 things   -            Difficult deals and how they responded  -            Their experience navigating career changes    Biggest takeaway? People and persistence are the keys to being successful in this career.   

I wanted to learn how deals are structured…           So I sat down with Michael Holshouser, who works at Linville Team Partners, to break down the intricacies of deal structure and how it works.      We covered:  1. How to gain ownership in CRE  2. Sourcing debt  3. Deal structure  

I wanted to learn what asset managers actually do… So I sat down with Michael Eves, a University of Alabama alum who works in asset management, to break down the role and what it takes to manage and create value in real estate investments. We covered: The pre and post closing role asset managers play in acquisitions Forecasting performance and capital budgeting decisions Creating value while keepi...

I wanted to learn how retailers decide where to put new stores…. So, I sat down with Matthew Jaeger, a University of Alabama alum, to break down retail strategy and site selection. We covered: The retail site selection process How retail strategies shape communities What metrics retailers prioritize How cities attract the right retail tenants Advice for students breaking into the industry

I wanted to learn what it takes to succeed as a CRE financial analyst… So, I sat down with Sara Butler, a University of Alabama alumna and a financial analyst.  My biggest takeaway: preparation creates confidence, and confidence wins business We also covered: • Investment management • Choosing an asset class • Why Argus matters • Building relationships

I wanted to learn what it’s actually like to work in healthcare real estate. So, I interviewed Carleton Compton, President & CEO of Healthcare Realty Group to hear about his path and what the medical real estate space looks like.  What I learned: What due diligence really looks like in the medical office world The key growth drivers pushing healthcare real estate in Tampa How density shapes wh...

Ever wonder how private investors and companies actually raise millions for commercial real estate deals? I did too. That’s why I sat down with Jacob Schurman, a University of Alabama grad and analyst at BMC Capital in Dallas, Texas. In this episode we break down:  What capital markets really means  How to understand the capital stack  The financing process from a capital markets perspective  The...

Commercial real estate isn’t just about deals, it’s about the grit required to keep them alive. Scott McLain shares why persistence is the real advantage young professionals can’t afford to overlook.  Why “every good deal dies three deaths” in CRE The role of persistence, creativity, and confidence in closing deals Why showing up and staying curious creates real opportunity How young professionals...

I wanted to know what it’s really like to sell apartment buildings in NYC So I sat down with Mike Weinstein, a University of Alabama alum at Marcus & Millichap, to learn about his journey in multifamily brokerage. Here’s what I took away: • The timeline of a multifamily deal, from start to finish • How brokers get paid • Why it’s important to find your “why” before starting out  Links Linkedin...

In this episode, I sit down with Justin F. Brown, CPM®, Regional Manager at Arlington Properties, to dive into the realities of property management. Justin shares lessons from his early career, including the importance of preparation and accountability, and how small details can shape big outcomes. We discuss the pros and cons of working in multifamily real estate, entry level roles that fit diffe...

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Student Edition , I sit down with Dan McGowan to talk about what it really takes to build a career in CRE. We dive into the importance of internal drive, showing up every day to move your business forward, and how being bold in your outreach can open doors. Dan also shares why patience is just as important, understanding that success in commercial real est...

Ever wondered how commercial real estate investors actually evaluate deals?  In this episode, I sit down with Frank Gallinelli—author, professor, and founder of RealData—to break down the essential financial metrics and key terms every student should understand. Whether you're just starting out or looking to build a solid foundation, this is the perfect intro to how professionals think throug...