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He said YES to a Career in Commercial Real Estate
Heather Ewing • April 30, 2024
In a recent episode of “Heather Ewing: The CRE Rundown," I had the pleasure of interviewing Young Lee, a dynamic commercial real estate sales associate at CBI Commercial in Los Angeles. Young’s journey is nothing short of inspiring for anyone considering a career in commercial real estate.
Originally from Korea, he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area at the age of five and eventually settled in LA after college. Initially a business major, Young saw an opportunity to pivot to commercial real estate during the COVID-19 pandemic. With guidance from industry veterans George Pino and Joe Killinger, he has been making significant strides, focusing on single tenant net lease (STNL) properties and gaining experience in leasing retail and office spaces.
Young’s story highlights the importance of adaptability and long-term vision. During the pandemic, he reassessed his career goals and decided to invest in his future by entering commercial real estate. This field offers immense potential for growth and stability, provided you have the patience and dedication to navigate its complexities. Young’s experience underlines that success in this industry often comes from learning the intricacies of each deal, maintaining open communication, and building a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
One of the most compelling aspects of commercial real estate, as Young emphasized, is the significance of personal interactions and relationship-building. Unlike many careers that are becoming increasingly automated, commercial real estate thrives on understanding clients' needs and forging strong connections. This people-centric nature of the business makes it particularly rewarding for those who enjoy interpersonal interactions and creating lasting professional relationships. Young’s passion for real estate, sparked by early experiences of exploring properties with his mother, shows that a genuine interest in the field can lead to a fulfilling career.
Technology, especially AI, is revolutionizing many industries, but Young believes the human element in commercial real estate remains irreplaceable. While AI can streamline certain tasks and generate innovative ideas, the essence of commercial real estate lies in personal interactions and professional guidance. This industry offers a unique blend of technological advancements and the irreplaceable value of human expertise, making it an exciting and dynamic field for new entrants.
Looking ahead, Young sees great potential in specializing in STNL properties, which offer minimal landlord responsibilities and strong tenant credibility. These investments are often attractive to clients seeking long-term stability and security. For anyone considering a career in commercial real estate, Young’s advice is to maximize your time, put in full effort, and enjoy every moment. The field offers not only the potential for financial success but also the satisfaction of helping clients achieve their investment goals. His journey demonstrates that with passion, patience, and strategic thinking, a career in commercial real estate can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.
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