Leasing Tip of the Day: My Secret to Commercial Real Estate Expertise

Dedicating one hour each week to studying your company’s leases might seem like a small commitment, but it will profoundly impact your understanding and success.

Leases, typically spanning 30-40 pages, are more than just contracts; they are the backbone of our industry. Each clause, term, and condition shapes how we navigate our landlord-tenant relationships and manage our properties. I quickly realized the importance of understanding every detail, from the nuances of tenant and owner expenses to the implications of common acronyms like CAM (Common Area Maintenance) and TI (Tenant Improvements).

This isn’t just about the technicalities of leases. It’s about sparking meaningful discussions with colleagues and mentors, leading to deeper insights and stronger professional relationships. And even when you’re studying alone, document your questions and seek answers later. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning.

Spending an hour each week studying leases is a powerful tool for professional growth. It’s helped me become more confident and knowledgeable, and I strongly encourage others in the industry to adopt this practice. It’s a small investment of time that yields significant returns in understanding and expertise.