D
uring the final week of the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, I found myself reflecting on how the event’s sheer magnitude contrasts with the more relaxed atmosphere of the Orange County Fair. Both gatherings offer valuable insights for anyone involved in commercial real estate, though the lessons manifest differently.
At the Texas fair, the scale is unmistakable. Big Tex towers over acres of exhibits, food stands, and rides, inviting visitors to linger, chat, and savor the spectacle. In Southern California, the fair feels more intimate; its layout is compact, and the pace is brisk—attendees sample a few attractions, catch a show, and move on. This mirrors the real‑estate landscape: some markets thrive on expansive industrial parks and logistics hubs, while others demand ingenuity within limited space, prompting developers to repurpose and subdivide existing assets.
Pacing also diverges. Texas attendees meander, soaking in the ambiance, whereas Orange County guests move swiftly, driven by a sense of urgency. Similarly, brokerage approaches vary: some regions favor long‑term relationships and deliberate negotiations, while others require rapid decision‑making and competitive timing. Successful brokers, like fair organizers, read their audience and adjust their tempo accordingly.
Food offers another parallel. The Texas fair is a playground for deep‑fried extravagance—fried butter, bacon‑wrapped hot dogs, even cookie dough. The Orange County fair, while still offering fried treats, leans toward fresh, local, and organic options. In real‑estate terms, this underscores the importance of matching client appetite: some seek bold, high‑risk moves; others prefer steady, sustainable investments. The broker’s role is to deliver what satisfies, not merely what’s trending.
Both fairs radiate community pride. The Texas grounds showcase the state’s agricultural heritage and innovation, while the Orange County fair spotlights local artists, small businesses, and family farms. Commercial real‑estate professionals similarly weave businesses into the fabric of their communities, shaping local economies with each transaction.
What the State Fair of Texas teaches us is that scale matters, but fit is crucial; pace varies, yet focus prevails; and understanding your audience—whether they crave indulgence or nourishment—ensures satisfaction. Above all, pride in place turns deals into lasting relationships.
As Big Tex would greet, “Howdy, folks!” Whether buying, selling, or leasing, aim to make every transaction a reason to smile.
Allen C. Buchanan, SIOR
Principal, Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate Services, Orange
[email protected] | 714.564.7104
