Over 1,000 developers, brokers, owners, and lenders came together on September 2, 2015 at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Dallas to talk shop, network, and find the next deal at the NTCAR Commercial Expo.
A couple takeaways for me:
1) The growth of Dallas continues NORTH
Frisco is on the forefront of the northern growth. I spoke with President of the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) for Frisco, James Gandy, and his goal in the next couple years is to bring a Fortune 100 company and a 4 year university to the city. There is already huge momentum around the $5B mile, and of all the economic development corporations of different cities at the event Frisco's definitely had the most buzz as everyone wants to be a part of the growth.
2) You have to build your team
If you are going to have success in this industry, you have to build your team of vendors. At the event, there were bankers, brokers, title companies, property management firms, and insurance agents. All these team members are vital if you plan on investing in real estate and can make all the difference in your success.
3) You have to stand out
There were over 100 booths at the event. The Allen Economic Development Corporation spotlighted one of their businesses by bringing in a animated dinosaur that was created by one of the companies headquartered in the city. It was a great way to build press for the company and bring visitors to their booth.
http://www.billingsproductions.com/
Overall, a great event to hear about new developments before they hit the local papers, catch up with old friends, and meet the people behind the deals getting done in DFW. This was the 31st year for the annual event and I'm sure next year's event will be even bigger.
If you are in need of financing for a commercial property, please contact me at jeng@oldcapitallending.com or 214-300-5035.