C
ommercial real estate is a profession that demands constant recalibration. Markets shift, lease structures evolve, and investment assumptions change, making it essential to stay sharp through lifelong learning.

    In California, brokers are required to complete 45 hours of continuing education every four years. While this is a necessary step, the best in our business don't stop there. Designations like SIOR and CCIM demonstrate real rigor and commitment. These designations require a minimum production threshold, peer recommendations, and comprehensive educational curricula.

    Beyond formal training, specialized knowledge is key to success. Great brokers immerse themselves in industry trends, regulations, and market dynamics to deliver better outcomes for their clients. Attending workshops on supply chain trends, ESG regulations, or industrial automation is just one example of this commitment.

    Staying sharp also means doing deals. A consistent cadence of transactions forces you to stay current on market comps, landlord concessions, buyer behavior, and lender sentiment. Every negotiation teaches something new, and repetition builds instinct and reputation.

    Teaching others can also be a hidden benefit in staying sharp. When you have to explain complex concepts in simple terms, you either own it or you don't. This process exposes gaps and gives you a reason to close them.

    The truth is, commercial real estate doesn't reward the complacent. The best brokers are curious, coachable, and committed to constant improvement. Whether through formal designations, focused seminars, or the grind of getting deals done, they're sharpening their tools daily.

    In this business, the gears are always changing, making it essential to stay ahead of the curve.