Never Stop Learning

Unlike residential real estate, commercial education is a bit more challenging to find (and attend).  Yes, there are so many courses and opportunities out there but many are offered only in larger cities and tend to be expensive.

Education is the BEST investment you can make In yourself.  It never depreciates and only increases in value.

So where do you find these opportunities?  If you are in a larger metro market. you may have a commercial real estate group, such as a REALTOR Association, which offers classes.  Attend them and make friends.  You'll also find offerings from commercial specialty groups such as CCIM, SIOR, RLI, ICSC, IREM, BOMA, to name a few.  Their courses typically are those offered to commercial practitioners seeking a commercial designation but anyone can attend.  Be ready for some sticker shock but where can you get a better return on investment than invest in yourself?

Where to start?  Well, what is your passion?  Retail?  Try ICSC (www.icsc.org - the international council of shopping centers).  Investment?  Try CCIM (www.ccim.com - CCIM Institute).  There are many more but let's start with these. Attend a conference, take their introductory classes.  Think of it as tuition.  Ask your instructors which classes they recommend.  Take time to meet everyone in your class and exchange cards.  Don't overlook the networking opportunities and learn from them while you're at it!

Feed your brain.  It will take care of feeding you.