This week, our 5 for Friday features Walt Arnold, CCIM, SIOR, Managing Director at SVN | Walt Arnold Commercial Brokerage, Inc. in Albuquerque, New Mexico, specializing in the industrial and office property sector.
1. What advice would you provide to an aspiring advisor who is new to the industry?
Immerse yourself in commercial real estate and use the tools at SVN to jumpstart your business. Complete the System for Growth (S4G), go to Jumpstart, and study My.SVN.com. Get involved in Product Councils, join your local CRE board, learn from the brokers in your office, meet regularly with a mentor, build a database- this list could go on and on. This business is about relationships. A new-to-business broker must build relationships fast, ask the right questions, and use SVN as a resource to gain reputation and exposure.
2. What inspired you to open or join an SVN franchise?
I joined SVN to be a part of a national (now international) company with a platform. SVN has the ability, tools and resources to compete for and win assignments. I am thankful to be a part of an organization that continues to improve and pursue excellence.
3. What learning tools would you recommend to your colleagues to further their knowledge and enhance their careers?
Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation is definitely worth pursuing. The websites of NAIOP, CCIM, SIOR, ULI, and IREM are helpful. Read blogs and books within your product specialty. Google alerts are excellent. Audiobooks on CRE and selling also offer a convenient approach to learning in our busy worlds.
4. What was your most memorable deal and why?
Whether it’s a client buying an investment property or purchasing an asset for their business, our success as CRE Brokers is helping people with CRE transactions and providing “Best in Class” service and advice. That’s always memorable.
5. What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I had a career in the NFL for eight years and I was a two-sport athlete in college. I played football and baseball all four years at the University of New Mexico. Oh, and “Breaking Bad” used my home several times while filming in Albuquerque!
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