Meet Jim Hakeem – Partner

Did you ever wonder if the guy that is always calm, always collected and always the voice of reason, comes out on top?  We’ve all heard stories about those who claw their way to the top, leaving a trail of carnage behind them, but there are also tales to be told of the good guys who just do their job, represent their clients, figure out the solutions and work until the job is finished.  One of those guys is our very own Jim Hakeem, Land and Industrial advisor.  Jim has built his entire business on relationships, caring and trust.  He works, not only for his client’s best interest, he works for win-win outcomes and best possible solutions.  This business built on trust, honor and personal relationships has earned Jim the advancement from Senior Director to Partner status with our company.

We wanted to properly congratulate Jim on a job well done by sitting down for a conversation to learn more about him. 

What did you do before your career in Commercial Real Estate began? 

I ran a bakery with my brother and my dad, it was a successful bagel and Pita Bread manufacturing company which we actually sold to open my own real estate investment partnership.

What made you take that leap and transition into commercial real estate? 

It’s funny because I have always felt like the old adage of “a rolling stone gathers no moss” was me. I was always interested in finding the next career, the next thing that would challenge me and bring success to all I worked with.  I took an interest in the investment side of commercial real estate, the art of the deal, and I was hooked! The rest of commercial real estate took on its own form from those first interactions.

What changes have you seen arise in Commercial Real Estate since you began?

The fundamentals of working with buyers and sellers as well as working the deal remain the same. Put in the hard work and you will see the efforts pay off. The added abilities of social media and technology to have access to another set of clients and making our jobs more efficient is exciting to see.

What trends are you noticing in the land/industrial markets that you’re either excited for?

Prior to 2020 the industrial/land market had moderate demand and plenty of supply. Toda, due to numerous factors we are experiencing high demand with depleted supply, which makes our jobs exciting and really makes us work for that deal for our clients. It’s putting our expertise and knowledge to the test, which is always a win-win for our clients!

What is the most fulfilling aspect of being a Commercial Real Estate Advisor?

The real estate industry is all about relationships, that’s what drew me to the industry. Commercial real estate is even better in that acquiring not only a working relationship with my clients but friendships thereafter. The sense of accomplishment is closing transactions that become a win/win for Buyer/Seller is what makes keeps me coming back every day.

What would you say has led you to success in Commercial Real Estate?

Building trust is definitely one of the first things I try to do with my clients. I provide them with every degree of courtesy, respect and knowledge of commercial Real Estate and service, knowing I can get them what they need. This mutual trust between parties is what builds confidence and therefore leads to future business.

What would you say has been the highlight of your career to date?

I’ve been lucky enough to have had many highlights along with a few….not so highlighted times during my career. You cherish the good and move on from the bad. That’s my outlook on life!  

What parts of the job do you find most challenging?

I’d definitely say balancing several transactions in the que and staying on top of each and every one of them so my clients never feel the pull in my time and energy.

Commercial Real Estate can involve risk, how do you approach it?

While we all take risks to obtain a potential gain, but I try I focus a little more on my down

side consequences than my upside potential.

Who has influenced you the most?

That’s easy! My entire family! I’ve had many business associates influence my life and I make the effort and let them know how much they’re made an impression on my life. 

Where can we find Jim on the weekends?

You won’t find me in the office for sure! Typically I can be found on the golf course or with my grandkids and of course always with my lovely wife Jackie by my side!