If you’re not in commercial real estate, why should you care? Well, for starters, everyone is in commercial real estate. It’s an industry that touches all others, simply because everyone has to be somewhere. Even Google has office and server space somewhere.
But far beyond that truism, commercial real estate is one of the pillars of the Dallas-Fort Worth economy. Dallas is a proving ground for the industry. It’s a growth city, and these are the people who make it happen. Unlike any other major American city, when occupancy rates get above 80 percent, Dallas fires up the construction cranes and starts turning dirt. It’s a city that continues to reinvent itself—not hard when you double and even triple office space in the span of two decades. Three times in the last 25 years, people said Dallas was dead. And three times, Dallas brokers, developers, and builders brought her back, bigger and better. By strength of will and the power of money, Dallas is where the deals get done.
Sound a little melodramatic? Sure. But that’s the industry, and that’s why the best and the brightest young stars flock to Dallas to cut their commercial real estate teeth. So DallasCEO turned to The Real Estate Council, the voice of the industry since 1990, to help identify 30 young guns that bear watching. TREC, with its 1,500 members, represents 500 companies—fully 95 percent of the top commercial real estate businesses in North Texas. Together, TREC and DallasCEO offer you a guide to some of tomorrow’s dealmakers and doers in commercial real estate.
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Lindsay A. Allen
Age: 25
Company: Transwestern
Job title: Senior Associate, Investment Services
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The Crescent Court, because its “old-world” architecture is appealing, and its location at the entrance to the CBD and the apex of Uptown gives it great exposure and accessibility. Additionally, it was the one of the first true “mixed-use” developments in Dallas, before they came into vogue.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking?
Lucy Billingsley. I admire her work ethic, her passion for the industry, and her desire to give back to the community.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I am fortunate enough to truly love and enjoy what I do, so I would have to say that I see myself in Dallas, as a principal at Transwestern, with a team established to handle the sale of institutional-grade real estate transactions.
Ryan Aman
Age: 26
Company: JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
Job title: Real Estate Banker
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The largest pure real estate deal that I have been a part of was a $150 million financing for new construction. Many of the corporate deals that we become involved in are larger.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? In my opinion, two projects are indistinguishable in their paramount importance: one, the combined Dallas Center for the Performing Arts and the One Arts Plaza project; and two, the large expansion of the DART Rail system.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? I see Dallas competing in national and international significance with cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, while maintaining relatively low costs of living, open spaces, great diversity, and a strong sense of community.
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Marissa Anderton
Age: 29
Company: Archon Hospitality
Job title: Vice President
Why did you choose Dallas? Professionally, I chose Dallas for its strong business network with numerous job opportunities. Personally, I grew up in Dallas and have a lot of great friends and family here. I also love Dallas’ Southern hospitality, which makes it a welcoming and great place to live.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? I believe the continued revitalization of downtown and surrounding areas is key to Dallas further positioning itself for long-term success. While there are a number of planned and ongoing projects, it is hard to name one project as the most important. It will take a number of projects together to really change the face of our city. The planned Woodall Rodgers Park, Trinity River project, residential revitalization, and addition of new art and cultural venues together will have a powerful impact.
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Seth Bame
Age: 26
Company: Jones Lang LaSalle
Job title: Associate
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? Our group was hired by EDS in 2005 to conduct a $217 million sale/leaseback of 24 properties located throughout the United States and Europe. We conducted a world-wide marketing campaign and worked with three different buyers to a successful close.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? My favorite building is always the one I’m selling. It is a thrill to get to know buildings during the sales process because every building has a thousand stories. But, if forced to select one, I would choose Bank One Center in downtown Dallas. The detail and beauty of its interior finishes ranks it as one of the best office towers in the country. You really have to tour the building to understand its significance.
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David Kjeldgaard
Age: 29
Company: Trammell Crow Company
Job title: Vice President
Why did you choose Dallas? After finishing school at the University of Oklahoma, I wanted to work in commercial real estate, specifically development. Dallas was just three hours south of Norman, Okla., and was home to several strong development companies—including Trammell Crow Company. Besides that, it’s a lot warmer than Iowa (which is where I grew up). And Dallas is just a great place to live.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? Bob Sulentic, CEO of Trammell Crow Company. Bob’s attitude and philosophy on work have trickled down through the ranks of the company. His commitment to our clients, along with his humble yet confident demeanor, has set an example for the entire company to follow.
Culley Barragan
Age: 27
Company: Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services, Inc.
Job title: Area Vice President
Why did you choose Dallas?
I chose Dallas because I was born and raised in Dallas, graduated from UT Austin, and as a result, am passionate about my opportunity to help shape the future of our city and state. Furthermore, Dallas has always been a city of opportunity with vibrant real estate and business communities.
What is your Favorite Building in dallas, and why? The Joule. I appreciate the history of this building and admire the architecture. I am a big supporter of revitalizing historic buildings with modern touches. I like the concept of breathing new life into great architecture from the past because it creates a timeless and interesting experience for the end user and preserves the history of our cities.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I see myself still living in Dallas, working with real estate companies of all varieties. Personally, I hope to have a couple of kids and compete in amateur golf tournaments in my free time.
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Evan Beattie
Age: 28
Company: GFF Planning
Job title: Associate
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? Planning for our client, INCAP Fund, to revitalize North Oak Cliff, which includes designs for 4,000 potential new residential units in urban infill mixed-use and townhome developments.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas is easily my favorite built project here. It is a concise example of what modern architecture can and should be, with a material palette that is sensitive to regional materials and a scale that fits the site perfectly. The GFF-designed addition to the historic Old Parkland Hospital for Crow Holdings has a chance to upgrade to my new favorite once construction is complete.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? Larry Good, president of Good Fulton & Farrell and my mentor, is someone I look up to both personally and professionally. His ability to anticipate client needs and his broad knowledge of architecture, planning, and the commercial real estate industry is a frequent reminder of how much more I have to learn.
Lisa Brinser
Age: 29
Company: Courtland Development
Job title: Development Manager
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The biggest deal I’ve been a part of is the lease of 202,250 square feet of industrial space to Chef’s Neiman Marcus in Pinnacle Park. The largest project I’ve been a part of is Mountain Creek Business Center, a 450-acre industrial and mixed-use development in the southern sector of Dallas at I-20 and Mountain Creek Parkway.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? I have always loved the Fountain Place building as a part of the Dallas skyline. It is such a unique building that really stands out among the others as an amazing piece of architecture. When I was younger and my family would go on road trips, I would know we were almost home when I saw the “big emerald” in the distance.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Sitting on a beach somewhere sipping pina coladas and counting all the money I’ve made in real estate!
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Layne Court
Age: 27
Company: Constructors & Associates, Inc.
Title: Assistant Account Executive
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? I work as a construction manager for our Global Services group. I currently have 17 projects under construction with six of our national accounts in four time zones.
Why did you choose Dallas? I graduated in May of 2002 and the economy was still in decline from 9/11. Most of the better opportunities for commercial construction were in Dallas or Houston. Both of my sisters were already in Dallas, so the choice was simple. Now having lived in Dallas for more than five years, I know I made the right choice.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? David Snyder, our executive vice president of corporate business development at Constructors. David has the most energy of anyone I know. He loves what he does and it shows. He works hard while maintaining a dedication to his family and friends.
Ben Dunford
Age: 30
Company: Goldman Sachs
Job title: Associate, Real Estate Principal Investment Area
Why did you choose Dallas? I grew up in Atlanta and moved to Dallas after I graduated from BYU. I met a beautiful Texan girl, right before I moved to Philadelphia for grad school, and I was powerless not to come back to Dallas and marry her. Our little girl, Anna, is a Texan, too, so I think we’ll be here for good. Dallas also happens to be one of the best real estate towns in the country—not necessarily from an investment perspective, but by virtue of the people who make up the real estate community.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Although I don’t catch games as much as I’d like to, I think the American Airlines Center is a beautiful, energetic, urban arena, particularly with the continued development around it. We just need more championships.
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Aimee Nelson
Age: 29
Company: Wachovia Bank
Job title: Vice President, Relationship Manager
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Favorite old building: the old Power House, a power transfer station that was renovated by architect Gary Cunningham into a residence for Morton Meyerson. It is one of Dallas’ five original electrical transfer stations situated just off the Katy trail. To me it is the perfect combination of a modern concept integrated into a historical site. Favorite new building: That would have to be the new Hunt office tower.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? The Arts District. I think the development currently occurring in downtown, alongside the Woodall Rodgers Park, will give downtown the necessary finishing touch that has long been missing for the city. The concept finally integrates the already-thriving Uptown with downtown Dallas, which (combined with the remarkable art venues) should add a whole new depth to the character of our city.
David Eberstein
Age: 29
Company: Marcus & Millichap Capital Corporation
Job Title: Associate Director
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The Nasher Sculpture Center. It represents Dallas’ commitment to the arts and I enjoy spending time there.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? I admire the individuals who have built the industry we work in, such as Tramell Crow and Roger Staubach. They are the pioneers who set the precedent for what we do today. I also admire people who have built their careers making contrarian bets. Individuals like Andrew Beal who see opportunity where others are afraid to tread.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Running my own real estate company.
Jeff R. Erxleben
Age: 29
Company: NorthMarq Capital
Job title: Vice President
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? I would consider the renovation of the Hotel Palomar to be a top
building in Dallas because of the combination of original design and modern influences.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? The development in the Arts District will bring a heartbeat to downtown Dallas.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? Dallas will continue to grow with expansion to the north along major arteries. Hopefully the Trinity River project continues to gain traction and residential development will have been started.
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Dupree Scovell
Age: 26
Company: Trammell Crow Company
Job title: Senior Associate of Retail Development
Why did you choose Dallas? I’m a born-and-raised Dallasite and I did not have much say in that. But I am not going anywhere. I have worked for the Trammell Crow Company for about four years now, and I have found that the history, integrity, and reputation of this company have provided an incredible platform to not only build buildings, but communities as well. To be able to do both of those things is an answered prayer.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? No question: Hall of State in Fair Park. It’s an underrated classic. The 1930’s art-deco architecture is a tribute to the Texas centennial, and there is a “Hall of Heroes” that features Texas legends like Bowie, Houston, and Lamar. (A close second is Reunion Tower, but I am biased.)
Conor Feeney
Age: 28
Company: CB Richard Ellis
Job title: Associate, Industrial Investment Sales
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The Crow Holdings sale of its Fund III portfolio to GE. The deal involved a national portfolio of all property types, an entity sale, and traded for over $2 billion.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Chase Tower has always been a favorite building of mine in Dallas. Its unique design helps differentiate itself from the other buildings in the CBD. My favorites at any given time, though, are those that we are selling.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? From an industrial perspective, I believe the activity in and around the South Dallas intermodal is going to have the greatest impact long-term in the industrial market. The developments in South Dallas are creating national excitement and the area is logical for the next wave of development as there are few remaining close-in tracts in the North. Overall, I think Victory is going to have a huge impact on the Dallas community for years to come.
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Celeste Signor Fowden
Age: 29
Company: CB Richard Ellis
Job title: Vice President
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? While we are all in it for the biggest deal, in leasing office buildings, I try not to view them as “the ‘biggest’ deal,” but rather a collection of “best” deals for each of the buildings I lease that get us over some sort of goal line.
Why did you choose Dallas? I went to TCU, and Dallas seemed like the natural progression as the best city to get me started in commercial real estate.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Too many great buildings in Dallas to pick just one.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Wherever the next wave of real estate takes me.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? Hopefully as a great place that attracts new businesses and has about a 10 percent vacancy rate.
Holden Heil
Age: 25
Company: Chicago Title Insurance Southwest Commercial Operations
Title: Business Development
What’s the biggest deal you have ever been a part of?
The purchase of Chase Tower, 2200 Ross Avenue, by Stream Realty; it was exciting to see all of the moving parts come together.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The Old Red Courthouse. It exudes Dallas history, a little bit of something old mixed with a little bit of something new.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? Dallas continues to be an incredible growth story, and with more corporate relocations and downtown development, Dallas will continue to move up the list as one of the largest cities in the U.S.
Lance Hill
Age: 30
Company: Fairfield Development
Job title: Interior Design Manager, Eastern Division
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? I have always had an affinity with the design of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The building stands with such prominence on the north edge of downtown.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? I admire my father, Brice Hill, who always taught me the value of hard work, honesty, and integrity, which I use when making all of my professional decisions.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? Fortunately for Dallas, we are at a time of many exciting projects; however, I believe the development initiatives throughout the Vickery Meadow Improvement District will have the greatest impact.
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Chad Jackson
Age: 27
Company: Behringer Harvard
Job title: Acquisitions Analyst
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? Billions to millions, they’re all big.
Why did you choose Dallas? I grew up in the area, went to college at SMU, and all my family and friends are here. I couldn’t think of a reason to leave.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Working hard and enjoying what I do. The rest should take care of itself.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? With careful attention to the issues that affect large cities and building on the current momentum in the market, I think Dallas will be bigger and better than ever.
Carlton T. Johnson
Age: 29
Company: ING Clarion Partners
Job title: Associate, Hospitality Investments
Why did you choose Dallas? From a professional standpoint, Dallas attracts top talent within the industry, being that so many real estate companies have offices here, and I valued being able to work with clients and associates of that caliber on a daily basis. On a personal level, I grew up here and think it’s a well-balanced and diverse city that has something to offer everyone with respect to recreational, cultural, or entertainment outlets.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? J. Frank Miller III. I had the pleasure of working at JPI Partners for five-and-a-half years out of college. His integrity and character not only permeated the culture at JPI, but was evidenced in his dedication to family and less fortunate communities around Dallas.
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Brant P. Landry
Age: 29
Company: The Staubach Company
Job title: Vice President
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? A 225,000-square-foot regional office headquarters for DirecTV, a seven-year transaction worth over $35,000,000.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? I admire anyone serving in our armed forces for their courage and dedication. I also admire our chairman for his ethics and integrity.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? Hopefully with our new leadership, Dallas will be one of the best cities to do business in, crime rate will be low, the Trinity project will be well on its way, and downtown Dallas will be revitalized and have the feel of Uptown.
Monica Libbey
Age: 27
Company: Amegy Bank National Association
Job title: Vice President, Commercial Real Estate Lending
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? In June 2007, I secured and closed a $65 million loan facility to finance the acquisition and horizontal development of the Lake Highlands Town Center.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Hunt Consolidated, Inc. global headquarters, currently under construction. In my opinion, the curves and continual glass panels of the 400,000-square-foot, 15-story building is aesthetically pleasing and will make an impressive addition to the Dallas skyline.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? The city and private investors are taking steps today to make Dallas a cleaner and more centralized place for entertainment and cultural activities, in-town housing, and employment. As a result, in 10 years, I imagine Dallas as a more pedestrian-friendly city with a common meeting place where residents and visitors can come to mingle, mix, and just be.
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Monica Shortino
Age: 28
Company: The Real Estate Council
Job title: Director of Operations/Board Relations
Why did you choose Dallas? I’ve traveled to many cities around the nation, but Dallas is home—and as far as I’m concerned, the greatest city on Earth. Dallas is booming with development and has the best people helping to make sure it is a success.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? Anyone who loves Dallas has to love Reunion Tower. It is what distinguishes Dallas’ skyline from any other. That said, one of the projects on the horizon that I am eagerly awaiting to see is the Winspear Opera House. The design is brilliant and will serve well as the heart of Dallas’ Arts District.
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Matt Wieser
Age: 29
Company: Pillar Commercial
Job title: Director of Leasing
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The White Swan Building. I’ve always had a passion for music. The House of Blues was the perfect fit for this building.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? I admire my parents for the real estate business they have developed over the last 12 years. Growing up, my father worked in the “Corporate America” world, which caused our family to relocate many times. Making our ninth move to Texas during my junior year in high school, my parents made the firm commitment to launch a residential real estate business so our family could indefinitely call Texas home. Their determination, persistence, and no-failure attitude made that commitment a reality. I try to emulate those same attributes in my professional career every day.
Kevin MacKenzie
Age: 29
Company: Holliday Fenoglio Fowler
Job title: Director
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The capitalization of a 31-asset retail portfolio for a joint-venture between Equity One and Investcorp. The deal was comprised of various shopping centers throughout Texas and totaled over 2.5 million square feet with a total value in excess of $400 million.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? Victory, which I am not personally involved in, but have had the opportunity to witness from an inside perspective through the team at HFF working on the deal. In my opinion, Victory is one of the most innovative projects in recent history, creating a city within a city through a brownfield development.
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Elizabeth Malone
Age: 25
Company: Holliday Fenoglio Fowler
Job title: Senior Analyst
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The sale of JP Morgan International Plaza ($275,000,000).
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? One of my favorite buildings is Premier Place because it is in a great mixed-use location and has unbelievable views and amenities.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? I think the Woodall Rodgers Park is definitely one of the most important projects going on in Dallas. Once the park is completed, it will have such a great impact on the area because it will carry the momentum of Uptown to the CBD and the Arts District.
Neal Morris
Age: 27
Company: Charter Holdings
Job title: Asset Manager
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? The renovation and lease-up of a 330,000-square-foot Las Colinas office building. The property was taken from 30 to 92 percent leased and then sold for a substantial profit.
Why did you choose Dallas? I originally came to Dallas to attend SMU, but I stayed for the opportunities.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? My favorite building is Highland Park Village. It has an enduring competitive advantage over other properties.
Will Mundinger
Age: 27
Company: Cousins Properties
Job title: Vice President
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? I am currently working with Hicks Holdings and Steiner + Associates on Glorypark, a $600 million mixed-use entertainment destination adjacent to Rangers Ballpark and the new Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
Whom do you admire, professionally speaking? My dad, who has built a successful career while always putting his professional life behinds the needs of his family.
In your opinion, what is the most important project going on in Dallas? The continued expansion of the DART Rail system. Getting cars off the road will improve air quality, reduce traffic, and allow Dallas to grow without increasing urban sprawl.
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Clay Roby
Age: 27
Company: Crow Holdings
Job title: Real Estate Analyst
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? Crow Holdings recently completed a national portfolio disposition to GE. With multiple product types, complex deal structures, coast-to-coast diversification, and a value of more than $2.2 billion, everyone had to pitch in.
Why did you choose Dallas? Dallas is unique in that it maintains a commitment to economic development without losing sight of the importance of faith, family, and friends. Once you add in the quality of life and a little Southern hospitality, there is no other place like it.
What is your favorite building in Dallas, and why? The Old Parkland Hospital in Oak Lawn is a timeless structure that will soon become the headquarters for Crow Holdings. As the renaissance of our urban core continues, the revitalization of key historical buildings is crucial to preserving the past while preparing for the future.
Nathan Schubert
Age: 26
Company: JPI
Job title: Development Associate
What’s the biggest deal you’ve ever been a part of? JPI now controls roughly 100 acres in the Trinity River Corridor, and I’ve had the chance to be part of the team working on that assemblage for the last year. It’s given me the chance to work on something that I think will have a positive impact on an area of the city that’s been neglected for a long time.
Where do you see Dallas in 10 years? I think that Dallas, specifically downtown and the areas that surround it, will be a dramatically different place in 10 years. When you consider all of the activity in the Arts District, the Woodall Rodgers Park, and the Trinity River
project, Dallas will really have one of the most unique downtown areas in the country.
