I
used to be a die‑hard baseball fan, and the peak of that passion came in 2002 when the Angels beat the Giants in Game 7 of the World Series. That season felt unbeatable, so my interest faded. Last night I watched the same Game 7 again, and it was unforgettable.

    You might ask how a baseball game relates to commercial real estate. Let me explain with six take‑aways.

    1. **Never assume the deal is finished.**

     In Game 4, the Dodgers won 2‑1 in 11 innings after a bases‑loaded, two‑outs play turned on a misplay.

     *CRE lesson:* Deals can stretch into “extra innings.” Stay engaged, stay ready, and seize the moment when it appears. A stalled look doesn’t mean the deal is dead.

    2. **One swing can change everything.**

     In Game 7, the Dodgers were down until a number‑two hitter hit a homer in the top of the 11th, then held the lead with a double play in the bottom.

     *CRE lesson:* Success isn’t always from the star performer. Sometimes the surprise player steps up, and execution under pressure matters as much as the big hits.

    3. **Depth and bench strength matter.**

     The Dodgers’ victory relied on role players beyond the starters.

     *CRE lesson:* Build a roster of backup options—alternative properties, secondary brokers, backup financing, contingency plans—so you can step in when the “regular innings” don’t finish the job.

    4. **Execution under pressure is critical.**

     The 11th inning brought fatigue, stress, and uncertainty, yet the Dodgers executed.

     *CRE lesson:* When a deal nears closing or faces unexpected hurdles (zoning, financing, tenant issues), calm, systematic execution separates winners from those who choke.

    5. **Persistence builds culture.**

     The Dodgers’ repeated success in high‑stakes, extra‑innings situations reflects a mindset of fighting to the end.

     *CRE lesson:* Over time, a team that never gives up and consistently finishes strong gains credibility. Your track record in tough, long deals becomes a differentiator.

    6. **Turn moments into stories.**

     A dramatic win becomes part of a team’s narrative.

     *CRE lesson:* When you close a deal under challenging conditions, share the story. Use it to showcase success, attract new clients, and strengthen your reputation.

    Every commercial real estate transaction has its ninth‑inning moment—where one decisive move or steady hand can change the outcome. The brokers who win are those who keep believing, keep executing, and never let pressure alter their approach.

    Allen C. Buchanan, SIOR, Principal, Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate Services, Orange, CA.

    Email: [email protected] | Phone: 714‑564‑7104