On February 15th, the CARW NextGen class welcomed a dynamic and diverse panel of Commercial Real Estate Developers. Big thanks to Linda Gorens-Levey (General Capital Group), Tom Irgens (Irgens), Dan McCarthy (Zilber Property Group) and Eric Nordeen (Ascendant Holdings, LLC). The panel was moderated by Tracy Johnson (CARW). They shared with the NextGen group secrets to their success, challenges they faced throughout their career and information about how they see commercial real estate evolving with the introduction of technology. A few memorable take-aways included strategies on how each developer evaluates a deal, competes for a project and defines success. Many lessons were learned from mistakes that were made or risks that were taken.
- “Even though there is a focus on urbanization, suburbs are still going to be there – and a market will exist”
- “When you’re scared to talk about it, that’s the best time to talk about it”
- “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”
Each month, the NextGen group will gather to hear from a panel representing a variety of disciplines. In March, the group will be joined by Architects.