By: Harrison Gault
From the moment I stepped foot into Commercial Partners Realty as an intern, I knew I’d face diverse daily challenges and experiences. As a finance major at Florida State University, I had little background knowledge in commercial real estate. I didn’t entirely know what to expect. However, I quickly became immersed in the complexity of the industry, absorbing knowledge from the experienced professionals who generously shared their expertise in the office.
By the third week, I had acquired a wealth of knowledge surpassing anything that any class at FSU could have possibly imparted. This was an education in real-life, firsthand experience. For instance, I was quizzed on new terminology every day and sat in on meetings where million-dollar deals were discussed. As a result I felt fortunate to intern at a company known for its collaborative environment.
What it takes to be an “expert”
One of the key lessons I’ve learned as an intern is the significance of research in the CRE domain. I have only scratched the surface on market analysis, property evaluations and cold calling. By experimenting with CoStar, I was able to thoroughly explore Tampa Bay’s submarkets and their diverse properties. Scott Clendening expressed the importance of focusing on a specific property type and location as he has exceled as an industrial specialist in Pinellas. During this internship, Scott’s invaluable insight fuels my excitement to start my career in commercial real estate.
Why Relationships are important
In the commercial real estate industry, relationships play a crucial role in driving success. From networking events to client meetings, I observed how genuine connections pave the way for mutually beneficial partnerships. Therefore, I aim to attend initial networking events to gain valuable insights and connect with professionals. Commercial Partners Realty takes pride in fostering relationships with clients, tenants, and industry professionals, understanding the importance of trust and communication in this field. They listen to customer needs, deliver exceptional products or services, and provide great customer support, which keeps customers coming back.
An Ever Evolving Business
In the ever-evolving world or commercial real estate, staying up to date with industry trends is crucial. As an Intern, I’ve witnessed the increasing influence of technology and evolving tenant and landlord preferences. Overall, Commercial Partners Realty works hard to stay on top of the trends by delivering innovative solutions that align with the needs of modern businesses.
To summarize, the value of a collaborative work culture has been immeasurable throughout my internship. Professionals have generously shared their wisdom, guiding me through tasks and sharing invaluable insight. Moreover, The supportive environment at this firm has fostered personal and professional growth, allowing interns like me to thrive. Every aspect of this journey, from research to networking, has deepened my passion for the CRE industry. Overall, this experience has transformed me, equipping me with the knowledge and skills for a successful career in commercial real estate.
