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SWFL commercial market adapting to change

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Trends continue in local commercial real estate segments Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Karen P. Moore, Publisher As we closed out the fourth quarter of 2019, while still reflecting the Amazon effect, commercial real estate growth generally continued in Southwest Florida at a good pace, according to Gerald Hendry, principal at Maxwell, Hendry & Simmons, Fort Myers native and 20-year veteran of the appraisal business.

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SWFBT’s annual edition is a comprehensive overview of the SWFL market’s plans, projects and partnerships.

UPCOMING EVENT Community Expo

Get your business in front of 1,400 new clients! Call the Bonita Springs Area Chamber today to reserve your table at the Jan. 30 Community Expo at the Promenade at Bonita Bay. This signature event will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. under the covered walkways at the Promenade and will feature more than 80 area businesses. There will be live music, food samples, giveaways and more — reserve your table at (239) 992-2943 or online at bit.ly/CommunityExpo2020. Sponsors are the City of Bonita Springs, Promenade at Bonita Bay, Royal Shell Real Estate and Media Partner Southwest Florida Business Today ®. ST FLORIDA’S

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Brady Photos by Christine trade to the Southof international offices. about the importance Buqueras talks Lee County Economic Development Director Carlos the first-ever stop at Port Manatee Executive during the Port’s west Florida market

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IN THE NEWS

to Dave Gammon elevated Charlotte EDO director

in the wake of Charlotte County, joinLucienne Pears former director Partners at Babcock ing Kitson and former Business Ranch, elevated and interim Recruitment Supervisor to executive director Dave Gammon Economic Developdirector of the ment Office. face in reGammon is a familiar he development as gional economic three years with his has proven in EDO. County Charlotte continue leading He is excited to like developments several existing page 19

Florida to communities in second one of four host as part of the Lee County was from seven countries welcome companiesTrade Summit. Manatee, annual International International Trade Hub at Port Fort Lauseries visited Organized by The one day Business opportunity ota and Tampa for the 2019 Global Bradenton/Saras derdale, Fort Myers,to 29. 26 Office, Southwest each from Aug. ReEconomic Development and the Southwest The Lee County Chamber of Commerce the event, which Florida Hispanic Association co-hosted gional Manufacturers Gulf Railway. Chile, Colombia, was sponsored Seminole from Argentina, other locales International companies Spain, Peru and Mexico, goods, artisanal apparel, El Salvador, Guatemala, food, coffee, fruits, cooking systems featured wine, snack and state-of-the-art to merchandise companies Lee County industryof founded as part summit showcases during the summit. Trade Hub at Port Manatee, and An expo-style from seven nations markets in Florida and business leaders visiting Summit. The International International Trade advice as a vital link between provides expert See page 6 the second annual in 2014, serves world. The hub TRADE throughout the

ENEURS h SALUTE TO ENTREPR poised for growt and Business Intermediary Proess Advisors experi- a CertifiedMergers & Acquisitions transaction Edison Busin the IBBA ap- Certified designations from ence totaling partner and

GAMMON See

Privacy & Cyber Security d Forum announce

& Cyber SeA special Privacy held on Friwill be at curity Forum 9 a.m. to noon day, Nov. 8, fromNews Community the Naples Daily room. Companies will William C. Huff and insponsor the informational for the community. teractive forum forum is for atThe goal of the clearer undera tendees to gain keep their famito standing of how businesses private. lies, wealth and FORUM See page

in fi$170 fessional a Eric Gall, managing with a concentration proximately for Edison Avenue, won and an MBAthe University of Michigan. broker of record brokerage and lower million. Gall transactions and nance from leading business Gall in business the 2018, 2016 and acquisitions Niehaus, Bro- Assisting middle market mergers Pfeffer, Steven 2014 Business significant changes No. 1 are Michael and Phillip Reda. firm, is announcing kers of Florida Edward Valaitis Business Adto operations. Top Dollar Producer to rebrand itself Pfeffer joins Edison of business The firm has decided over 20 years Award for Southwest Advisors” to better out visors with experience, including 12 as “Edison Business service offerings, Florida, beating busi- transactionbusiness brokerage franchise communicate addedbusiness appraisals, Gall a over 90 other He is years as Southwest Florida. Pfeffer is a including certified appraisals and certiness brokers. owner in Certified certified equipment Business Brokers Board Certified Intermediary, International an and also page 6 strategies. See fied exit EDISON Chairman’s Circle mergers and acquisiBrokerage and led by Association Award winner. Eric holds continue to be tions efforts will 20 years of business Deal Maker Gall. He has over OPENING

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Hoffmann Family buys Hertz Arena, Everblades

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The Hoffmann Family of Companies has entered into an agreement to purchase the Florida Everblades and the Hertz Arena. Plans are underway for a complete renovation of the 8,284-seat, multipurpose arena. The improvements will include enhanced skyboxes, food services and installation of a state-ofthe-art scoreboard. Hertz Arena, which opened in 1998 as Everblades Arena, hosts a variety of events including concerts, Cirque du Soleil, Disney on Ice, boxing and trade shows. The venue offers

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Area companies are building a better future — one made right here in Southwest Florida.

25 suites, two additional ice rinks, a private club and a pub, Breakaway Sports Pub. The arena is also home to the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles club hockey team of the American Collegiate Hockey Association. “We are optimistic that all of the 330 employees will remain with the Hoffmann Family of Companies,” said Craig Brush, Florida Everblades President and General Manager, who signed a five-year contract and has a commitment from all his senior staff to remain in place. “We are thrilled to be acquired by

A specially focused monthly section exploring the SWFL commercial real estate marketplace.

IN THE NEWS

Fort Myers sixth Business Summit slated for Sept. 20

Holly Bell addresses citrus growers about the 25,000-plus uses for industrial hemp, which can now be grown legally in Florida

Cannabis chief promises rich stash for hemp growers Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Jacob Ogles, Editor

SUMMIT See page 7

When other states started authorizing farmers to grow hemp, it didn’t take long to realize there was no place to sell it. Because no structures had been put in place for processing and manufacturing plants, state officials found themselves rushing a regulatory structure through so farmers could offload their first harvests. Holly Bell, Florida’s first Director of Cannabis, plans to learn from that mistake. She said the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will make sure all parts of the burgeoning hemp industry can move forward as soon as new rules unroll later this fall. “When our farmers are ready for a cash flow, we want to encourage them to get going,” she said.

Applications being accepted for the 25th Blue Chip Award The 25th Annual Southwest Florida Blue Chip Community Business Award application deadline is fast approaching. The Blue Chip Community Business Award recognizes successful, small businesses in Lee, Collier or Charlotte County that have overcome adversity to achieve success. Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, Sept. 4. The independent judges select the honoree after all the applications AWARD See page 19

Bell spoke in August at the Citrus Expo and Vegetable and Specialty Crop Expo, where growers from around the region gathered to hear her discuss this new and just recently legal product to diversify their inventory. Just a few years ago, there were no legal reasons to grow cannabis in Florida. Now, medical marijuana dispensaries pop up in more shopping centers each week. Soon, farmers will grow non-narcotic hemp crops. With the 2018 federal farm bill allowing hemp to grow, a budding industry will soon emerge in Florida. The Legislature this year authorized a pilot program for growing hemp in the Sunshine State, and state officials are nearly done weeding through a stack of public suggestions.

GrowFL announced this year’s 50 Florida Companies to Watch honorees, including three from Southwest Florida. Companies to Watch is a statewide competition that identifies companies expected to see significant growth over the next several years. The GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch awards program—now in its ninth year—honors 50 select second-stage companies from throughout Florida for developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities, and broadening new industries throughout Florida. Chosen from 500 growing second-stage nominations from throughout, Florida, the 50 companies named as the 2019 Florida Companies to Watch honorees generated nearly $1 billion in revenue and added over 900 jobs between 2015 and 2018. Together, the honorees project a 35 percent increase in revenue and 37 percent increase in job growth in 2019 compared to 2018. “These stand-out companies are all led by entrepreneurs, and have demonstrated their capacity and intent to grow,” said Dr. Tom O’Neal, GrowFL executive director. “They also all have critical intellectual property or a niche position that gives them a competitive edge in their markets,” he said. Local honorees include: Cottrell Title & Escrow, Collier County; Mettauer Environmental, Lee County; and VeraData, Lee County . “This list recognizes second-stage Florida companies with passionate leaders who are making a difference in growing and diversifying our economy,” said Jennifer Barrows, GrowFL Chairman of the GrowFL Advisory Board and Business Development Executive with WithumSmith+Brown, PC. Second-stage companies are those

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The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce has announced an exciting line-up for its 2019 Business Summit, set for Sept. 20. The summit, now in its sixth year, will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers. This year’s keynote address is “Communicate Your Way to Success,” by entrepreneur, business coach and international speaker Jason Evers. Evers has traveled to more than 20 countries on five continents

such a prestigious company. Our partnership with the Hertz Corporation and now this new ownership ensures that Hertz Arena will maintain our strong community presence and continue to be the number one choice for entertainment in Southwest Florida.” The team and the arena were previously owned by Peter Karmanos, founder of Compuware Corporation and prior majority owner of the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League. “Simply put, without the support of

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IN THE NEWS Collier names Pelican as ‘Business of the Wire Month’

During the July ty Commission 9 Collier CounWire was named meeting, Pelican ty ‘Business of the Collier Counthe Month’ and recognized by was the a manufacturing Board for being County for over leader in Collier 40 years. Pelican Wire President Ted Bill, who received the are truly honored award, said “We Collier County to be named the Month’ for July.‘Business of the Since moving AWARD See page

Gov. DeSantis announces job growth grants

Gov. Ron DeSantis the Florida Departmentannounced of Economic Opportunity Florida are acceptingand Enterprise economic development project proposals for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund. $40 million is available to fund training and public job projects that support infrastructure growth and employment in Florida. “We know

the frastructure projects importance inand workforce training has on economic development,” said DeSantis. “The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund will help Florida communities ensure they GRANTS See page

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Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Noemi Y. Perez Southwest Florida tion’s business-theme students in The Immokalee Foundad summer camp entrepreneurial recently shared ideas their Tank event modeled and garnered awards during a Shark The four-week after the popular TV show. was a partnership Business Management Pathway Coast University’sbetween the foundation and Floridacamp Gulf developed businessInstitute for Entrepreneursh ip. among them: finding plans that solved problems Students common clothes on a budget; centric finances; handling ñera; and findinggetting better sleep; planning studenta quincearestaurants suitable stricted diets. for people with reStudent teams gave presentations about ences, startup costs, their target audiprojected profits, marketing other aspects of entrepreneurial plans and Dr. Sandra Kauanui, enterprises at iTECH mokalee. Judges FGCU Director spoke during the for of Entrepreneurs Smart Companies the presentations were: Brian in Imevent. hip, Rist, The Smart Companies executive chairman; Sofia Blanno, gram allows shoppers to arrange tor of corporate intern; and Matthew Turner, Hertz The through social an app, then physically to buy, sell or swap items direcFirst place awards responsibility. central location exchange those in Immokalee. items at a Shop team of Neika of $500 each went to the MentorUs, Daisy Montanez Exulus, Jessica Sales, Alondra Swap & smart financial an app that encourages students and Ailynee Ramirez. Estrada, decisions, earned interested in dressing Aimed at students for team members second place of to make fashionably on $250 each Alex Soriano, a budget, the pro- ie Etienne, Azael Simon-Quirino Je’an Espinoza, Myrlandand Simson Devesaint.

Fort Myers Mayor

Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Karen P. Moore,

launches Divers ity Committee

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more inclusive city. Publisher Student Hailey Countryman asked her employer, Sanibel Captiva “It is never too the Mayor if he munity Bank, Comlate to give up had to FGCU’s College on diversity whom a team of advisors Education. your prejudices.” of Henry David Thoreau for guidance. Since he could rely on said, “We In a recent interview she can’t really say question was no, the answer to that ing to be representative we are tryat that moment Fort Myers Mayor derson felt Henof our city’s derson has known Randy Hen- a team. inspired to create just such residents and community if we don’t have diversity Ndiang’ui wanted Florida Gulf Coast University on the to make She sure the Mayor explained the council itself.” was prepared ter Ndiang’ui for professor Dr. Pe- road ahead committee drew about 10 years and asked him, for the its 18 members was a guest speaker and from the commu“Are in his class, “In- really able to handle the truth?” you nity, representing troduction to Diversity,” diversity project moved The ethnicity, forward. in Novemgender and sexualin race, ber. Henderson Beth Countryman, asked students Hailey’s moth- tity. “We can’t be a committee idenhe could do to what er, became make Fort Myers up of old white made involved with men and think the project, going a which led to we are a $25,000 donation to be in charge of diversity.” from DIVERSITY See page 11 Payment Plans Available • Discounted Merchandise Parking Options Discount • Presale • Private Parties & Exclusive Gifts on Hertz Arena Concerts & Family Shows Buy Any 19/20 & Get A $20 Membership Pack FORD’S GIFT & ‘BLADES TOTE CARD BAG Valid on any NEW

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The Alico Business Center, located on Interstate Commerce Drive in Fort Myers, was sold by PIP IV Alico to Friendly Village for $9 million.

SVN|KOVA sells Alico Business Center

KOVA Companies and its brokerage division, SVN|KOVA, announced the sale of the Alico Business Center, located on Interstate Commerce Drive in Fort Myers. The 48,000-square-foot mixed-use office and retail space was sold by PIP IV Alico to Friendly Village for $9 million. Bryan Flores of SVN|KOVA Naples was the listing agent on the transaction, facilitating the sale in 45 days. SVN|KOVA and KOVA Property Management took over the management and leasing of the Alico Business Center in 2016, bringing the property from 43% occupancy to 90% occupancy by summer 2018 before working with the owners to sell. While under the management of SVN|KOVA and KOVA Property Management, the property welcomed sev-

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Charlotte airport awarded $6-million federal grant

The Charlotte County Airport Authority will be receiving $6 million in funding from the Federal Aviation Administration for construction of a new General Aviation apron on the 19/20 SEASON

One definition of the Amazon effect is “the impact created by the online, ecommerce or digital marketplace on the traditional brick and mortar business model due to the change in shopping patterns, customer expectations and a new competitive landscape.” So, just as in all parts of the world, Southwest Florida commercial real estate is feeling and adapting to this impact on all levels, especially in the industrial segment.

Hendry noted that, as of the close of the year, the pendulum was swinging back a bit toward a higher average sales price per square foot in this segment in both Lee and Collier Counties, coming back from the lows we experienced in the 2012-13 timeframe, although it has dipped a bit as we finish 2019. Industrial rents have experienced a steady increase since 2014 and are now just flattening a little. Not surprisingly, vacancies in this segment are currently at low levels.

eral new tenants including KB Hair Studio, Platinum Fitness and national tenants PeopleReady, Scotlynn and Spigot while maintaining relationships with existing tenants such as AdKnowledge, Avis Car Rental and Sphinx Crossfit. “This transaction exemplifies the value SVN|KOVA can bring to property owners through our leasing efforts, coupled with property management, accounting systems and insurance,” said Todd Sabin, managing director and partner for SVN|KOVA. “We are extremely proud of Bryan’s execution in the marketing and sale of this property as well as his collaborative efforts throughout all facets of this transaction.” ALICO See page 18

IN THE NEWS north side of the Punta Gorda Airport. Airport officials were notified by the Office of U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio that the funding announcement from U.S. FDOT was imminent. “We were thrilled to receive notification of this award, and for the ongoing support GRANT See page 4

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JANUARY 2020

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COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Studio+ completes ReEmployAbility renovation Studio+, an architecture and interior design firm, has completed renovations of the headquarters for ReEmployAbility in Tampa. Construction began in May 2019 and was completed in September. The project consisted of the renovation of approximately 25,451 square feet of an existing one-story building. ReEmployAbility provides transitional employment programs for the workers’ compensation and disability industry. It was important to the client to develop a design that enhances the current culture and supports their strategic growth. With a modern and open style, the conference rooms were built out with glass partitions that allow natural light to flow into the workspace with frosted glass for privacy. The same style was used for the offices and the collaboration rooms to allow for teams to meet in a quiet space to develop projects and ideas. All of the collaboration rooms and conference rooms are named after local Tampa neighborhoods, landmarks or icons. A nod to the company logo and branding, there are purple accent walls in offices and meeting rooms

Studio+, a Southwest Florida architecture and design firm, completed renovations of the ReEmployAbility headquarters in Tampa. with green paneled systems furniture. Bright yellow was used in the café area to reflect the energy of the communal dining and social gathering space. The interior spaces are tailored to the needs of each department. “We are so excited to be able to provide this space for our team to

work in, as it represents our commitment to our staff and our clients to make a positive difference in their lives,” said ReEmployAbility CEO Debra Livingston. “Studio+ has created a beautiful space that I’m sure our employees will enjoy for many years to come as we continue to grow as a company.”

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The Florida SouthWestern State College Corporate Training Center is offering new Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operations and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations study tracks. These training certification classes prepare students for the state of Florida’s drinking water and wastewater licensing exams. Courses require a high school diploma or GED, but are of interest to a broad range of people from recent high school graduates to degreed people working in related fields who are stacking credentials atop their degrees for advancement or those in unrelated fields seeking a career change. The basic certifications in each area are attainable by coursework and a state exam. The first courses in each track include 108 clock hours of instruction, which prepare students to take state exams resulting in level C certification for entry level employment in municipal water treatment facilities and municipal wastewater treatment enterprises. Following completion of the C level certification, B level certification courses will follow for students interested in water treatment and wastewater treatment plant operations certifications. FSW’s Corporate Training Center is the only entity in Southwest Florida currently offering these classes. Classes begin January 2020 and meet twice a week for 18 weeks. Instructors are approved by the state of Florida. The cost is $700. To learn more about these classes, visit www.fsw.edu/corporatetraining/ wateroperators or call FSW’s Corporate Training Center at (239) 433-6915.

of Congressman Steube and Sen. Rick Scott,” said Robert Hancik, Charlotte County Airport Authority commissioner. “This will inject the necessary funds to jump-start our expanded GA infrastructure and aviation-related economic development projects.” As part of PGD’s Master Plan Update, management planned for continued commercial air traffic growth at its existing site and resolved to relocate GA activities to the largely undeveloped north side of PGD’s property adjacent to runway 9-27 off Challenger Boulevard. “Constructing this new GA apron, along with extending the existing taxiway and existing taxilane, are the foundations of the North Airside Development Area,” said airport CEO James W. Parish. “These improvements are essential to pave the way for construction of a new General Aviation Center and hangars, as well as attract new/expanded flight schools, avionics installation, aircraft maintenance, training programs and other economic development opportunities.” The award is part of the Federal Department of Transportation’s Airport Improvement Program’s supplemental appropriation, which included dozens of grant announcements to airports around the country. U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said in an official announcement, “The robust economy is enabling more passengers to travel by air so this Administration is investing billions of dollars in America’s airports which will address safer operations, fewer airport delays, and greater ease of travel for air travelers.”

JANUARY 2020

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

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Rural business leaders praise development grant

Habitat for Humanity built its first home in Harlem Heights in 1980. Now, the 24-acre contiguous land parcel in the community will provide homes for an estimated 140 families.

An insider’s view Special To SWFBT

Last issue, I saw that Southwest Florida Business Today® published a story on the Chico’s Heritage Heights residential development. I was actually the listing agent for the parcel of land at 7390 Concourse Drive mentioned in the story: I represented Green both the buyer and the seller. When I listed the property, I wrote to Habitat for Humanity because the organization owned a bordering parcel on Hague Drive. As luck and timing would have it, Kitty Green, then President/CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties, responded to me that the organization had actually been interested in purchasing the 22-acre parcel on Concourse Drive for quite some time! Habitat For Humanity put in an offer and the negotiations began.

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We were able to come to an agreement a few weeks after meeting and closed in May of 2016. After that, I always asked Kitty when I saw her how the project was doing. It was always near and dear to my heart, because we spent so much time with it and it was such a special Wittenauer project for all of us involved with it. It is also a really good example of how to bring affordable housing to Southwest Florida, something that is greatly needed in our region. I wish Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties the best of luck with this important local project. Sincerely, Pam Wittenauer, CCIM pamelakaym@gmail.com (239) 989-7077 lore has shown dramatic positive efficacy and scientific study results. In addition to the analgesic lotion, Synergistic Therapeutics maintains and holds patents for other products, including Felicita, Cresere and Minervo. Felicita is a sublingual ketamine lozenge to treat depression, including treatment-resistant depression. Cresere is a topical hair loss slowing and regrowth lotion. Minervo is a therapeutic neuropathic pain lotion. The company also is developing a female sexual dysfunction treatment.

Gov. Ron DeSantis released his Bolder, Brighter, Better Future budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021, which provides a more needs-oriented approach for rural communities to access funds within the Rural Regional Development Grant (RRDG) Program, administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. The Florida Rural Economic Development Association commended DeSantis for this recommendation and his support for Florida’s rural communities. “Rural Florida is still struggling to compete for good, high-wage jobs. It’s clear Governor DeSantis recognizes the needs of our rural communiDeSantis ties throughout the state and has been a champion for those areas that are still recovering,” said FREDA Chairman Antonio Jefferson, city manager of Gretna. “Increased funding thresholds within the RRDG Program, and support for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, further solidifies his commitment to rural job growth.” The RRDG Program provides funds to Governor-designated Rural Areas of Opportunity to assist their communities in the creation and expansion of high-wage, skilled jobs that can greatly impact these regions of the state. Currently, Florida’s designated RAOs include Opportunity Florida in Northwest Florida, the North Florida Economic Development Partnership in North Central Florida and the Florida Heartland in South Central Florida. Increasing the RDBG Program funding will help the RAOs better deploy services and assist their communities in a way that provides benefits across industries instead of individual companies. FREDA Board Member and Gilchrist County Commissioner Todd Gray said, “Having Governor DeSantis recognize the importance of these rural communities by providing funding in his proposed budget is a big step for all of rural Florida. If approved by the Legislature, I know the three organizations representing the Rural Areas of Opportunity in Florida will work together to ensure these funds are put to work for the people of rural Florida.” FREDA Board Member and Okeechobee County Commissioner Terry Burroughs said, “The rural regional organizations in Florida are strongly encouraged by the Governor’s focus on the rural economies of our state. Our mission to bring jobs to those that need it most will be strengthened immensely by this program.” For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

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JANUARY 2020

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

2045: North Fort Myers headed for lots of changes

North Fort Myers is changing today, but few are ready for the North Fort Myers of 2045. The Metropolitan Planning Organization recently commissioned two studies to predict what the population will be in Lee County in 2045. The results of the two studies showed: Current Population 2019: 739,506 Prediction #1 2045: 1,045,200 Prediction #2 2045: 1,154,218 According to these predictions, in 25 years the population will increase in Lee County between 41% and 56%. The Del Prado exit on I-75 will be completed in the next 10 years. The name North Fort Myers will become less known. The North Side of the Caloosahatchee River will be called “North Lee.” North Fort Myers will be that area just north of the river around Hancock Bridge, U.S. 41 and North Tamiami Trail area up to Bayshore Road. Bayshore Road will become a very busy business ar-

tery. The intersection of I-75 and Del Prado Boulevard will look like Colonial Boulevard and I-75. The intersection of Del Prado Boulevard and U.S. 41 will become a major commercial center. The question becomes, where will we put these people? In addition to these staggering numbers, Charlotte County growth will be similar. Based on my 40 years of experience, I predict the followBY RANDY ing: KRISE We will need somewhere in Guest Columnist excess of 140,000 new housing dwellings of single homes and multi-family units to accommodate this growth. They must be built somewhere. The U.S. 41 corridor will always be the heart of commercial activity simply because of our geography.

Charlotte County is going to grow south from Punta Gorda to Lee County. This area is the easiest access for services and should become a desirable location for single-family housing developments. Tuckers Grade is already planned by Lely Development for 1,678 homes, 400,000 square feet of commercial space and 400 hotel rooms. This will spur development down toward north Lee County. I am personally investing in this area and am strongly recommending it to my clients. Waiting is costly. In 25 years, the prices of real estate will be at a level that only large corporations will be able to afford. Some parcels will sell four to five times before they reach their top-dollar price. Opportunity is knocking! Ride the wave to North Lee NOW! Randy Krise is the broker/owner of Krise Commercial Group in Fort Myers. He can be reached at (239) 633-8672 or Randy@KriseCG.com.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Connor & Gaskins named contractor for boutique condos in Naples Connor & Gaskins Unlimited has begun construction on 850 Central, a coastal modern threestory condominium residence in Midtown Naples. Five blocks from Fifth Avenue and minutes from the beach, these 22 boutique condos will also feature street-level retail and offices. For the past year, Connor & Gaskins has assisted Platinum Developments and MHK Architecture & Design with their preconstruction services to bring the project from conception to reality. Construction has now started , in Midtown Naples “From the Florida Keys to California, Connor on the 850 Central condominium development, & Gaskins specializes in luxury condos, hotels, which includes 22 units. high-rises, mid-rises and resorts, among many other project types. With a strong design in place, nity,” said Barry Connor, founder and CEO. “Our we are always prepared to take on any opportu- competitive advantage starts with creativity—our

ability to build the Naples landscape with innovative buildings that are created with the essence of the community and people in mind.” The urban-like residences will range from 1,300 to 1,800 square feet, with two to three bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and deeded parking spaces. A second-level amenity deck will feature a pool and an open area for residents to enjoy. The roof terrace will have a fire pit as well as a large social area that encompasses outdoor kitchens for the residents. For more information on Connor & Gaskins’ vision and process for construction, call (888) 302-9706. Online at CGUnlimited.com. For more information on 850 Central features and amenities, visit 850Central.com.

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Page 7

Truist announces regional presidents

Truist Financial Corporation, the result of the merger BB&T and SunTrust, announced 24 regional presidents who will champion the company’s Community Banking model in many of the most attractive, high-growth markets in the country. That includes Jim Daly in the West Florida market. “Our ability to leverage our unique Community Banking model with its decentralized, regional structure combined with deep industry and banking expertise immediately sets Truist apart from our larger competitors and allows us to operate on a more personal level with individual and business clients, providing them Daly with the kind of attention they expect from a hometown bank,” said David H. Weaver, Commercial Community Bank executive. “It also empowers our regional presidents with the authority, delivery and decision making they need to remain close to our clients along with highly visible and engaged leadership in our communities.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

CoStar Power Brokers Award “Call for Entry” period open

Most importantly, it enables us to continue building long-term relationships of trust with our clients, based on fairness, transparency and respect.” Each regional president’s team is comprised of experienced financial professionals dedicated to serving the company’s diverse mix of clients, including: business banking; commercial banking; middle market banking; not-for-profit/government banking; regional commercial real estate. Truist also allows for the opportunity to combine the heritage of BB&T’s Community Bank with the strength of SunTrust’s strategic advisory capabilities. Regional presidents will work closely with a dedicated industry and advisory team comprised of selected experts in industry verticals, specialty products, and strategic advisory solutions to provide complex capabilities for their clients. Further, the Community Banking model allows for the regional president and their team to call on the expertise of other professionals throughout Truist, including treasury, capital markets advisory, wealth and insurance, among others.

CoStar Group, the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces, is now accepting entries for this year’s Power Broker Awards, which honor the industry’s brokers, power players and deal makers who closed the highest transaction volume in commercial real estate deals and leads in their respective markets. Now in its 20th year and having recently expanded into 26 new markets, the CoStar Power Broker Award recognizes the top-performing firms and brokers operating in office leasing, retail leasing, industrial leasing and sales. This year also marks the first time building owners are eligible to enter deals for award consideration. “CoStar proudly recognizes leaders in the industry for their unmatched performance throughout the year,” said Lisa Ruggles, CoStar senior vice president of Global Research. The 2019 Annual Power Broker Awards will be determined based on all 2019 deals submitted by and completed on or before Jan. 15 at midnight. Power Broker winners are expected to be announced on March 13. For more information and to enter yourself or your firm, visit costarpowerbrokers.com.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Florida Skin Center to expand campus Florida Skin Center is expanding its campus in Fort Myers with a free-standing annex office where up to three providers and eight support staff will serve guests at one time. This 3,000-squarefoot space opened on Dec. 16 to meet increased community needs. The office extension will feature 18 parking spots, the practice’s signature spa-like amenities and never-before-seen branded programming. Beyond the front desk, guests will find seven exam rooms and a therapy room for BLU-U — a blue light treatment that kills the propionibacterium acne bacteria in skin. In the exam rooms, providers will conduct cosmetic and medical dermatology, as well as skin cancer treatment. This includes addressing common conditions through full-body skin checks under a dermascope — available for free by appointment. “This additional space is going to provide more appointments to our Fort Myers community at the convenient times that individuals have grown accustomed to, without waiting weeks to be seen,” said Aurora Badia, founder and medical director. “Any of our current providers will work in the annex, including our senior physician assistant, Shirisha Vallarapu, who will refer to this office extension as her home base. All of them cannot wait to continue exemplary dermatology services in an architecturally pleasing and beyond efficient area.” This office extension is also becoming Florida Skin Center’s second fully operational dispensary for topical compound and oral medications. Directly from Prescriber’s Choice and PD-Rx Pharmaceuticals, these 32 most-used, providerselected medications will save the average guest between 49% and 61%, with a cost that is generally less than a commercial insurance or Medicare copay. FGCU The Florida Gulf Coast University Board of Trustees has also approved Florida Skin Center as a clinical rotation site for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program at FGCU. Completed at the leading dermatology practice’s Cape Coral office, the opportunity will serve as one of 12 rotations in multiple medical disciplines that

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Florida Skin Center is expanding its Fort Myers campus to support more staff and serve more guests simultaneously. runs for four weeks. Students will obtain supervised experience in taking a guest’s history and conducting physical exams, the synthesis of assessment and treatment plans, and dermatological rounds, as well as the interpretation of lab tests, for guests of all ages. Florida Skin Center providers are also available to offer observation, performance feedback and mentoring to students during their rotation. The final rotation grade is then determined by the Director of Clinical Education, with emphasis on the practice’s end-of-rotation evaluation form. Florida Skin Center will accept one PA student per rotation, pending an agreement with FGCU. The start and end dates of the rotation are also determined by both parties. Florida Skin Center was chosen as a clinical rotation site due to extensive knowledge of the PA profession and FGCU’s program goals and curriculum objectives, as well as its employment of five PAs across all four of its locations. One of those PAs, Brooke Drew, was hired after completing one of her clinical rotations with Badia and her team. Drew is now a five-year employee. “We’ve always promoted higher education for our current medical team, so entering into affiliation agreements with colleges and universities in the State of Florida is a natural extension of our commitment to nurturing the field of dermatology,” said Badia. “Through our affiliation with FGCU, it is our hope that PA students will learn more about dermatology and consider it as a career.”

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

JANUARY 2020

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SBA loans can make purchasing commercial real estate aﬀordable For this special issue of Southwest Florida BusiThe second most important beneness Today’s ® Spotlight on Commercial Real Estate fit is the SBA allows for 25-year fully in 2020, I thought I would keep it simple and discuss amortizing loans. That means your how a Small Business Administration loan can help you payment will be the lowest it can purchase a property for your small business. The SBA is be and you will never have to worry a federal agency that guarantee’s commercial loans for about re-applying for the loan. There banks, which allows banks to offer more flexible loan are no balloon payments, loan covestructures than traditional commercial loans. As long nants, or call features allowed on this as you operate a for-profit, non-passive income (investloan with the exception of payment ment) small business, you will likely be eligible for this default. As long as you make your program. The exceptions are ineligible businesses such payment each month, you have a 25as gaming, lending institutions and adult entertainment. year commitment from the bank and The No. 1 benefit the SBA offers is the ability to lim- BY TOM the SBA. A traditional commercial it your down payment to around 10% of the total project MAIALE loan usually has a 3-, 5-, or 10-year in most cases. This project includes the purchase of the Guest Columnist balloon with a maximum amortizabuilding, renovations, moving costs, closing costs and tion of 15-20 years. This translates to even additional inventory and equipment to outfit the higher payments and risk of the bank not renewing your space (under the SBA 7a program). This allows you to loan at the balloon period. reserve your cash to help grow and operate your busiThe third most important benefit is an SBA loan alness. Traditional commercial loans often require 15- lows banks to get comfortable with higher risk indus25% of the purchase price down, plus you would need tries, transactions and single-use properties. Banks will to come out of pocket for closing costs, renovations and finance restaurants, golf courses, bowling alleys, dayall other aspects of the project. cares, ALF’s, and a ton of other higher risk transactions.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Isles of Porto Vista under construction Genesis IPV Properties announced construction has begun on The Apartments at the Isles of Porto Vista, on Pomodoro Circle in Cape Coral. The community is adjacent to the existing condominiums, and the first phase of the project will consist of 123 units in eight buildings, with another 105 units remaining to be built. The upscale luxury rentals will feature one-, two- and two-bedroom convertible units ranging from 940 square feet to 1,299 square feet and will include a master bathroom and walk-in closet, guest bathroom, generous living area, dining room and lanai. The exterior will boast Italian architecture with terracotta colors of yellow and orange. Amenities include a gated entry, existing clubhouse, resort-style pool, fitness center, sparkling lakes, walking trails, a community park with picnic area and a tot-lot. The exclusive community is conveniently located between Punta Gorda and Downtown Fort Myers, with quick access to I-75. Gates Construction, which specializes in multifamily apartments and condominium construction, was selected as the contractor for the project. “With the shortage of affordable market-

Construction has started on The Apartments at the Isles of Porto Vista in Cape Coral. The first phase consists of 123 units. priced rental communities throughout Southwest Florida, The Apartments at the Isles of Porto Vista will help fill the need by providing affordable luxury living,” said Bernie Offenberg, developer of the Isles of Porto Vista. “Cape Coral is one of the fastest growing cities in the state. In order to continue with this momentum, the city must be able to accommodate the housing demands of all its residents and we at The Apartments at the Isles of Porto Vista are ready to do our part.”

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com They will also finance start-ups, franchises, business expansions and business acquisitions. All are traditionally higher risk deals regular commercial bank loans steer away from. So in a nutshell, the SBA helps banks get comfortable with loans that traditional commercial loans shy away from and they also provide more flexible structures to lower risk deals as well. To find out if you qualify give me a call. Or come visit me at my booth at the CCIM Real Estate Outlook Conference at the Coconut Point Hyatt on Jan. 21. I look forward to meeting you. Tom Maiale, First Federal Bank SBA Lending Vice President and Business Development Oﬃcer, is a 17-year SBA Lending veteran with SBA Training from The National Association of Government Guaranteed Lending and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Contact him at tom@sbaworks.com or at (239) 288-9966.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Cloud10 announces opening of second eco-friendly wash

Cloud10 Car Wash announced the opening of a second Premium Express location in Naples, on Tamiami Trail East. This new location joins the original Naples Cloud10 Car Wash, on Devonshire Boulevard. Cloud10’s newest location features the latest top-of-theline equipment and cleaning products to give each vehicle the best clean possible. Cloud10 Car Washes are safe for all vehicles, including luxury, hybrid, and electric. Cloud10 is an environmentally friendly car wash and a proud member of Water Savers, preventing water pollution, conserving water and using safe chemicals. At Cloud10, vehicles are bathed in eco-friendly foam and detergent. Cloud10 offers affordable and top-of-theline wash plans that help protect and keep vehicles clean. Cloud10 also offers fleet washing services to help fit the needs of businesses and municipalities, as well as gift cards available for purchase to make gift giving meaningful and easy.

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Arthrex given $1.3 million grant to train 363 new hires Florida SouthWestern State College, the state fiscal agent for Quick Response Training grants, has secured a $1.3-million grant for Arthrex to train 363 new hires. “This is a significant grant for Arthrex, FSW and our region,” said Dr. Robert R. Jones, vice president of economic development and external affairs at FSW. “The funds will be used for customized supervisory and management training.” “Arthrex is very appreciative of our partnership with FSW and the state of Florida. The grant supports Arthrex’s continued growth and investment in Southwest Florida,” said Kathy Sparrow, Arthrex senior vice president of human resources. Arthrex is an orthopedic medical device company, and a leader in product development, medical education and a pioneer in arthroscopy, having developed thousands of products and surgical procedures in orthopedic medicine worldwide. The company’s corporate headquarters is located in Naples, with global divisions in Munich, Germany and Singapore. FSW is the State Fiscal Agent for Quick Response Training grants in Southwest Florida. This is the fourth QRT grant awarded to Arthrex in the last three years. By working closely with CareerSource Florida in Tallahassee, and the local Workforce Board, FSW and Arthrex have been successful in securing $3.2 million in QRT funds to train over 1,300 new hires since July 2017. This funding not only directly benefits the companies receiving training funds but also results in a local economic benefit. The QRT grant lasts for one year and is targeted on the highly-customized training programs companies need to improve the skill base of new hires. These programs can be instructed by specialists from the company itself or by one from FSW’s extensive portfolio of subject matter experts.

Page 9

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Opportunity Zones – Carpe Potestatem! The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act resulted in many questions and changes with 2018 tax return filings. With 2019 coming to a close, one area that has seen chatter and has a time crunch for maximizing benefit for investors is in the new provision of §1400Z – Opportunity Zones.

for a 10-year period, not only will you receive the 15% permanent reduction in your deferred gain, you also would not have to pay tax on any appreciation of your investment within the fund. To truly maximize the deduction, investment will have to be completed soon so you can hold for the full 10 years prior to tax being due in 2026.

The Genesis of §1400Z Inserting capital into distressed communities throughout the country has historically been an area of consideration for lawmakers. Although attempts to address and BY JULIE incentivize investors have been made in the HELMS past, this new Opportunity Zone provision Guest Columnist How Do I Start? allows for an immediate benefit to the inIf you have or are thinkvestors, something that could do the trick to ing about generating capital gain, taking adspur the movement of capital to designated vantage of this provision and investing in low-income or economically distressed ar- Opportunity Funds could prove lucrative. To eas of the country. miss the opportunity to potentially permanently defer gain and invest in a fund that, I’ve Got Capital – What’s in It for Me? if it appreciates in value, allows you to reap If you are sitting on investments that would the benefits without paying the tax or, if it generate taxable capital gain, you may want doesn’t do as well as you’d hope, still claim to consider cashing in and reinvesting the the losses seems like a no-brainer! gain into an Opportunity Fund that is within If you think an investment in an Opportuan Opportunity Zone. If you do, the tax on nity Fund is for you, talk to your Lurie, LLP the capital gain will be deferred until 2026 or advisor. for as long as you hold the investment. If you Happy investing. hold your investment for five years, a 10% permanent reduction in the deferred gain will Julie Helms works with Lurie’s Specialty Tax be allowed. If you hold your investment for Services group, which partners with our cli-ents an additional two years, an additional 5% to offer unique tax savings and reduc-tion permanent reduction in the deferred gain strategies for their businesses and tax will be allowed. If you hold the investment concerns. Learn more: www.LurieLLP.com

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Pelican Wire is the winner of the 25th annual Southwest Florida Blue Chip Community Business Award. Chosen by a panel of judges from eight applicants, CEO Ted Bill has overcome personal and professional challenges to maintain, restructure, and expand his family business. Founded in 1969 by Larry and Theresa Bill, Pelican Wire originated in Hebron, Illinois as a small business operated out of the Bill’s basement. The couple decided on the name “Pelican Wire” to coincide with their dream of someday moving to sunny Southwest Florida. In 1976, that dream came true. The Bill’s and their young son, Ted, loaded two moving trucks and headed south for sun, fun, and opportunity. Since their move in 1976, Naples has been home to Pelican Wire’s headquarters and the company has grown rapidly becoming a globally recognized leader in the manufacture of finegauge, high temperature resistance, and thermocouple wire. Sadly, Larry Bill passed away in 2008 following a courageous battle with cancer. At this time, Ted was well into a successful career with Disney in Orlando, but as a dedicated and loving son, he left it behind to move home and help his mother fulfill his father’s wish of turning the company over to its employees. Throughout the next year, Ted, Theresa, and a team of lawyers, accountants, and advisors worked together to restructure the company into an Employee Stock Ownership Program. Since the restructure, Pelican Wire has continued to grow both organically and through acquisition, obtaining multiple companies over ten years and establishing a parent company, Pelican Holdings Group. Today, Pelican Wire and its sister company, Rubadue Wire, have more than 150 employee owners and generate annual revenues that exceed $40 million.

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Page 10

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

JANUARY 2020

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

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MICHAEL J. FRYE, CCIM

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239-659-4960 fred.kermani@creconsultants.com www.creconsultants.com/fredkermani

• GAS STATIONS • RESTAURANTS

Lee, Collier, Charlotte & Sarasota Counties

Why use a CCIM?

There are countless benefits to working with a CCIM. Commercial real estate investment requires the counsel of a qualified professional. A Certified Commercial Investment Member provides clients with the assurance that every decision will be made in the best interest of their investment objectives. When assembling a commercial real estate investment team, start with a CCIM.

SWFL CCIM Past President, Florida CCIM Membership Chair, CCIM International Committee. Hablo Español.

SPERRY COMMERCIAL GLOBAL AFFILIATES 239-265-2628 theresa@ccim.net www.sperrycga.com

The Benefits of Being a CCIM! “CCIM members can rely on CCIM as a single source for diverse solu�ons. The first one on that list is EDUCATION. Designees can take advantage of the ongoing opportuni�es so crucial to success for your clients in the commercial real estate field today, with the ‘Life A�er the Pin’ learning program. CCIM also offers its members many NETWORKING opportuni�es that may be of educa�onal benefit as well, offering more than just a mere social experience. These networking events also may provide the founda�on for building long-las�ng RELATIONSHIPS with fellow CCIMs who become invaluable RESOURCES for life.” - Adam Palmer, 2018 Florida CCIM Chapter President

CREDIBILITY

CCIM is the most prestigious designation commercial real estate professionals can achieve within the industry. Graduate-level education, coupled with industry-leading technology tools, practical proven experience, and in-depth knowledge of their local markets, gives CCIMs the ability and the credibility to conduct business confidently and successfully. By partnering with a CCIM, you effectively utilize the top-level, most reliable performers in the industry: with an average of 19 years of experience, 70% of CCIM members hold executive-level positions and 90% of members refer clients to other business services. When you use a CCIM, you choose the most credible professional in the business.

ERIC DEYOUNG, CCIM Charlotte & Sarasota Counties Vice President of Commercial Lending with more than 14 years experience. Graduate of University of Florida, MBA at FGCU. Active volunteer and community leader.

COMMUNITY

Today there are CCIMs in every state, across Canada and Mexico, and in more than 30 countries around the world. Domestically, the network encompasses more than 1,000 markets, from large metropolitan areas to small cities and towns. A truly global network, CCIMs are a powerful force in markets large and small. When you use a CCIM, you choose a trusted community of real estate professionals that are consistently sought for their dependability, intelligence, success and confidence.

941-223-3179 edeyoung@csbtﬂ.com www.charlottestatebankandtrust.com

BEV LARSON, CCIM

CCIM designees are bound to the strictest ethical guidelines and standards of practice in the industry today. In addition, each CCIM has successfully completed a graduate level program comprised of 160 hours of education. If you ask around the industry, you’ll learn that companies and other real estate professionals are more likely to seek out experts who possess the CCIM designation, as they know CCIM stands for trust, knowledge and reliability. When you use a CCIM, you choose experts with integrity. Overall, CCIM’s global network enables members to close thousands of transactions annually, representing more than $200 billion in value. But closing transactions is only part of what CCIMs can do. In addition to holding dealmaking occupations in every property sector, CCIMs are also found in’ leasing, asset management, development, lending, financing, property management, site selection and corporate real estate positions. So, whatever assistance your real estate project requires, a CCIM can help you achieve a better result. In fact, only 6 percent of all commercial real estate practitioners hold the elite CCIM designation, which reflects not only the caliber of the program, but why it is one of the most respected designations in the industry. When you use a CCIM, you choose a professional who produces measurable results.

The CCIM designation is conferred by the Chicagobased CCIM Institute, a commercial real estate aﬃliate of the National Association of REALTORS. Learn more about the value of working with a CCIM.

• FINANCING • COMMERCIAL

CHARLOTTE STATE BANK & TRUST

INTEGRITY

MEASUREMENT

• INVESTMENT • RETAIL • OFFICE • INDUSTRIAL

Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry & Glades Counties Larson has over 39 years of diversified experience in the SWFL market. She is a Certified International Property Specialist. 2018 Florida CCIM Chapter Southwest District President.

LAHAINA REALTY 239-281-1290 bev1314@aol.com

• • • • • •

COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT RETAIL OFFICE LAND-ACREAGE DEVELOPMENT

RON WELEBNY, CCIM

Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry & DeSoto Counties

Qualifying Broker / Managing Director Licensed Real Estate Instructor Director Royal Palm Coast Realtor Association Director, CCIM-SWFL District Past President Commercial Investment Professionals of Southwest Florida Past President SWFL Commercial Alliance Vice-Chair Laguna Estates CDD

COMMERCIAL REALTY ASSOCIATES of SWFL 239-677-2381 Ron@CRA.us www.CRA.us

• • • •

BROKERS ANALYSTS ADVISORS CONSULTANTS

JANUARY 2020

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

Page 11

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Choose the right commercial professional for you ADAM PALMER, CCIM

MARYANN MIZE, CCIM

Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, Tampa & Orlando

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Senior Vice President and Senior Credit Officer. More than 30 years of commercial lending experience. CCIM Senior Instructor and 2019 Florida CCIM Chapter Southwest District Treasurer. • FINANCING OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

CHARLOTTE STATE BANK & TRUST

941-624-1916 mmize@csbtfl.com www.charlottestatebankandtrust.com

2020 Commercial Real Estate Outlook Conference

JEFF FORSYTHE, CCIM Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties 40+ years of retail, distribution, and warehouse management experience. 20+ years of commercial real estate investmentexperience. Specializing in first-time CRE investment advising and deal representation. • • • • 239-210-7611 jforsythe@lee-associates.com • • www.lee-fl.com

LEE & ASSOCIATES

INVESTMENT SALES & LEASING OFFICE INDUSTRIAL MULTI-FAMILY URBAN MIXED-USE

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Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Broker/owner of Krise Commercial Group and 2016 Florida CCIM Regional Vice President and Institute Board Member.

239-633-8672 randy@krisecg.com www.krisecg.com

• • • • •

Mark your calendars! The Southwest Florida CCIM District announces the 20th Annual Southwest Florida Real Estate Outlook Conference on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020 from 7:30 a.m. – noon at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, 5001 Coconut Road in Bonita Springs. This meeting is an ideal networking and educational opportunity for any individual or company that deals with or wants to learn more about Commercial Real Estate transactions. The SWFL Real Estate Outlook Conference features business leaders from the local community who will discuss where the economy and market is today, what the expectations are for 2020, and what business leaders need to prepare for in the future. The internationally acclaimed economist Elliot F. Eisenberg, Phd. is serving as the guest speaker for the event and there will also be panel discussion groups whose participants will share their views on the retail, industrial, residential, raw land, and office space segments of the local economy. This event is open to the public. Vendor and Sponsorship opportunities are currently available. Contact Bev Larson (239)281-1290 or bev1314@ aol.com for more information. This conference is ideal for any individual or company that is involved with commercial real estate transactions, including brokers, investors, buyers, sellers, bankers, lawyers, insurance agencies, and title insurance companies. The conference offers an occasion for attendees to network and discuss the upcoming year, while also offering an opportunity to gain an enriched understanding of the economy, especially in Southwest Florida. Those who attend the Conference also receive a booklet that contains valuable data about Commercial Real Estate transactions.

239-898-8686 adam@adampalmer.com www.adampalmer.com

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties A partner with CRE Consultants and 15-year commercial real estate veteran, he specializes in the medical and professional office market.

CRE CONSULTANTS

239-994-3703 enn.luthringer@creconsultants.com www.creconsultants.com

• COMMERCIAL • OFFICE • INVESTMENT

CCIM

COMMERCIAL VACANT LAND INVESTMENT RETAIL INDUSTRIAL

The Southwest Florida CCIM District is a chapter of the CCIM Institute, Commercial Real Estate’s Global Standard for Professional Development. The CCIM Institute was established in 1954 to give practitioners of Commercial Real Estate the valuable opportunity to further their business practices through focused education and networking opportunities. Today, with the addition of advanced technology resources, CCIM is the Global leader in Commercial and Investment Real Estate education and services. The Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation is recognized as the hallmark of professional competency. Belonging to CCIM means being part of an ethical and knowledgeable network that fosters lasting relationships based on mutual respect.

BOB WHITE, CCIM Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties Active Southwest Florida Commercial broker for over 25 years. Specializing in industrial, office and investment properties. Past president SWFL CCIM and REIS.

BOB WHITE, INC. 239-850-2217

bob@bobwhiteinc.com

What does having the CCIM designation mean DAVE WALLACE, CCIM, SIOR to me? An office, industrial and investment property specialist with more than 30 years of commercial real estate experience in successfully assisting clients with acquisitions, dispositions and leasing.

Naples Office 239-649-7755 dave.wallace@creconsultants.com

OFFICE INVESTMENT LAND RETAIL INDUSTRIAL

ENN LUTHRINGER, CCIM

• • • •

OFFICE INDUSTRIAL SALES & LEASES INVESTMENT

INDUSTRIAL OFFICE LEASE OR SALE INVESTMENT

Lee, Charlotte, Collier & Sarasota Counties

ENN LUTHRINGER, CRE Consultants

CCIM is a network of professionals that is bigger than any single corporation, company or flag in the commercial real estate industry. Too many times commercial agents believe that being associated with a large company will give them business, recognition or credibility. That little pin is recognized around the world as identifying the person wearing it as a professional who speaks a language that is recognized on a universal basis.

• • • •

CARLOS ACOSTA, CCIM

Collier County

CRE CONSULTANTS

• • • • •

LANDQWEST COMMERCIAL

About Southwest Florida CCIM District

RANDY KRISE, CCIM

KRISE COMMERCIAL GROUP

Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020: 20th Annual Southwest Florida CCIM Conference

Principal & Managing Director LandQwest Commercial, President - Florida CCIM Chapter, 12-time CoStar Power Broker Award Winner

Managing Principal/Qualifying Broker. Specializing in acquisitions and disposition of retail, office, industrial, land and investment sales. 5-time CoStar Powerbroker.

CRES of SWFL 239-823-0115

cacosta@ccim.net www.cresswfl.com

• • • • •

RETAIL OFFICE INDUSTRIAL LAND INVESTMENT SALES & LEASING

Page 12

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

JANUARY 2020

Suncoast Credit Union acquires Apollo Bank

Suncoast Credit Union announced the signing of a definitive agreement to purchase Miami-based Apollo Bank, making it the largest bank acquisition by a credit union in U.S. history and the 12th acquisition of its kind in Florida. The move brings a large financial cooperative to consumers in the most populous market in the state, with South Florida being home to 6 million residents and one of the country’s most active business communities. Apollo Bank is a leading community bank in South Florida that is locally operated and owned by shareholders with $746 million in assets and approximately 100 employees. The bank launched in 2010 and today operates five branches in Miami’s Brickell Financial District, Doral, Coral Gables, Kendall and Hialeah. The bank is deeply rooted in the business community with a strong emphasis on commercial banking. This agreement supports the credit union’s mission and strategic growth goals, expanding the foot-

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com print into an important region of Florida. The area is home to the fastest growing market for small businesses and an established and growing Hispanic community. The acquisition allows Suncoast to provide the value of credit union membership to a large, underserved population. According to Suncoast Credit Union CEO Kevin Johnson, the acquisition provides Suncoast with an exciting opportunity. “We are pleased and enthusiastic to bring the value of Suncoast Credit Union to this important community. Our excellent rates, low fees and community service will have a positive impact in South Florida,” he said. “We look forward to the Apollo team joining our organization and continuing to serve their commercial customer base. Bringing the benefits of membership offered by Florida’s largest credit union

Applications open for Impact SWFL

Lake Michigan Credit Union Commercial Banking announces the following loans: Loan Size ......... $4,500,000 Type of Loan ...... Refinance of a retail center Business............ Developer Loan Size ......... $18,000,000 Type of Loan ...... Construction/Perm ........................ Owner Occupied Business............ 10th Street Collective (various businesses)

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Lee Commissioners award contract for roundabout The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted to award a contract for the realignment and widening of Littleton Road at Kismet Parkway and the installation of a roundabout at Littleton Road and Corbett Road. The project also includes associated improvements including sidewalks, bike lanes and drainage improvements. The contract awarded to Lee County-based Thompkins Contracting is for $2.06 million. The project is jointly funded with the City of Cape Coral; total project costs including design,

right-of-way, construction engineering and construction are estimated to cost $5.2 million. The Board adopted the new alignment for the intersection of Kismet Parkway and Littleton Road on March 20. The project includes widening the existing two-lane roadway section on Littleton Road to four lanes, on-road bike lanes and 6-foot sidewalks on both sides. Construction is expected to begin in early 2020 and be completed in about 10 months.

January 30

COMMUNITY

EXPO

FREE

Applications are open now for community project. Impact SWFL, an innovative pro“This program creates wellfessional development program rounded, engaged leaders,” said for emerging leaders in Southwest Tiffany Esposito, president & CEO Florida. Applications are available of the Bonita Springs Area Chamat BonitaSpringsChamber.com/ ber of Commerce. “Participants in Impact-SWFL and must be submit- Impact SWFL are investing in their ted by 5 p.m. on Jan. 15 for consid- own leadership development and in eration. the future our community.” Impact SWFL is a program that Alissa Russo of Harbour Insurfocuses on the leadership styles ance is the Class of 2020 Chair of of each individual participant and Impact SWFL and said companies helps hone those styles to maxi- that send employees through the mize the individual’s effectiveness program receive the benefit of a as a leader. more productive and effective emEach class meets with local ployee. leaders and influencers to widen Contact Christleen Knaub for Tombstone5x8 BA Group 2.pdf 2 2/11/19 12:04 PM their understanding of community more information at Christleen@ issues, and works together on a BonitaSpringsChamber.com.

to the diverse cultural population in Miami is a privilege that we take great pride in sharing.” “Apollo Bank has thrived by meeting the needs of South Florida businesses, delivering exceptional service, investing in our communities, and nurturing talent,” said Apollo Bank CEO and Chairman Eddy Arriola, who will serve as Suncoast’s South Florida Market President. “Nearly a decade after launching, we realized that partnering with a larger institution would put our team in position to offer even more products and services to clients while allowing our bank to scale. After considering a range of options, it became clear that Suncoast Credit Union was the right partner. Suncoast is a Florida market leader that shares Apollo Bank’s deep-rooted commitment to client service and community involvement.” The transaction is expected to close in 2020, subject to customary closing conditions and shareholder and regulatory approvals. The Boards of both financial institutions previously approved the purchase.

Promenade at Bonita Bay | 3 to 6 p.m. Free to attend Meet 80+ businesses

Learn more, contact William M. Blevins | EVP Commercial Lending West Florida Region (239) 314-0550 | William.Blevins@LMCU.org

face-to-face Product samples, food, giveaways, live music and more

7920 Summerlin Lakes Dr. Fort Myers, FL 33907 LMCU.org | NMLS ID# 1283480

Businesses: CallCall (239)(239) 992-2943 for a table! Questions? 992-2943

JANUARY 2020

It’s the banker, not the bank By Tom Matthews Guest Columnist We care about banks the most when we need to borrow money. Now that we are in that position, we have to find the right bank. Right? Surprisingly, the answer is no. We, as business owners, do not deal with banks. We deal with the bankers that work there. Our efforts should go to finding that right person. With very few exceptions, banks follow the same set of rules when making loans. They are all conservative. They all care about preserving capital more than they care about making money. The difference comes with your loan officer’s presentation to the decision-makers (the loan committee, the boss, etc.). How good is she at presenting your case? How good is he at gathering all the facts so an informed decision can be made? The decision-maker (the loan committee) does not meet with you. Their only access to you is through the loan officer’s presentation of your case. While banks do have a very similar set of rules in making loans, loan officers come in all variety of shapes and sizes. We all know about the 80/20 rule. I believe that rule applies to the banker you are doing business with: 80% of bankers are not very good and you are at risk. 20% of bankers are good and will present your case in the best way possible. How do you find a good banker? What are the qualities that you are looking for? The best way to find a good banker is through your referral network. You have business friends that have dealt with the good bankers. Reach out to them and get their names. Your CPA should also be a good referral partner. CPAs understand bankers and know the good ones from the bad ones. Anytime we need to make a decision on someone, we want proof of concept that they can and will perform. In this case, we need to know that the banker has made loans on tough but good deals. It’s surprising to me that the literature a banker gives you is always about the bank. How big they are, how many branches they have. We, as business owners, don’t care about that. We would rather have a series of case studies. Tough deals where the loans were made. Maybe even tougher deals where the loans weren’t made. We need that proof of concept. The qualities of a good banker are the same qualities that we want to see in anyone we do business with: • They do what they say they will do. • No smoke and mirrors. Authenticity. • You like them. • They give you an honest picture of deals they can get done and deals they cannot get done. • Their approach to sales is consultative. They work with you to improve the quality of the loan request. • Velocity is important to them. They work fast. I know many good bankers. Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to meet one. Tom Matthews is the managing member for Gem Payroll Services. Contact him at tom@gempayroll.com or (239) 676-0551. Learn more at gempayroll.com

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

Page 13

Strategic planning for your business

The process of strategic planning or determining managerial and marketing strategy and goal setting can be broken into five major components: 1. Identifying what the organization might do. This can be determined from the environment, largely in terms of the market opportunity. 2. Appraising what the organization can do in terms of its resources and competencies. 3. Deciding what the organization wants to do in terms of the personal values and aspirations of its key executives. 4. Determining what the organization should do in terms of its acknowledged obligations to segments of society other than stockholders. 5. Matching the opportunities, capabilities, values and obligations to society at an acceptable level of risk in the pursuit of organizational goals. The first four components of strategy are much easier than reconciling their implications in a final choice of purpose. The limitations of strategy principally involve the inherent difficulties of conceiving a viable pattern of goals and policies and implementing them wisely. The strategic decision is concerned with the long-term development of the enterprise. Organizational objectives, strategies and policies are not mutually exclusive components on the managerial process but are highly interdependent and inseparable. One can’t talk about attaining objectives

without hearing the policy guidelines to follow. Similarly, a program strategy can’t be determined without first knowing the objectives to be pursued and the policies to be followed. Unfortunately, many semantic differences exist with reference to the meanings of the terms “objective, strategy and policy.” BY PAT The managerial process MONTANA should begin at the top with a Guest Columnist clear statement of the organization’s purpose and should cascade through the hierarchy. The management by objectives process is an example of such a system at work and represents a practical way of implementing strategy through operational objectives. The Montana AIMS Group conducts halfday workshops to assist businessmen in developing a strategic plan. It’ll be done in conjunction with a talk on ways to improve your health and wealth simultaneously. Dr. Patrick Montana is founder of the National Center for Career Life Planning and former president of the Professional Institute of the American Management Association and the director of strategic planning of the Sperry and Hutchinson Company. He is president of the Montana AIMS Group (patmontana17@gmail. com).

Support for Windows 7 coming to an end If you have computers running Windows 7 or servers on Server 2008,you must take action now. Support for Windows 7 and Server 2008 is ending! After Jan. 14, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for PCs running Windows 7 and servers running Server 2008. And you can be sure hackers are working right now on tactics to compromise the security holes that will result. 1. Can I upgrade my existing PC to Windows 10? Yes, you can upgrade compatible Windows 7 PCs based on requirements with a full license. To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, we recommend moving to a new PC with Windows 10. 2. What happens if I continue to use Windows 7? You can continue to use Windows 7, but once support ends, your PC will become more vulnerable to security risks. Windows will operate but you will stop receiving security and feature updates. 3. Can Windows 7 still be activated after Jan. 14? Windows 7 can still be installed and activated

We Care About SWFL Commercial Realtors With dedicated space for informa�on: • On our website with a Commercial Real Estate sec�on & directory • In our quarterly Commercial RE Market pullout in both the print & digital versions of SWFBT • With zoned and full-run inserts • With guest column opportuni�es • With digital marke�ng op�ons For more informa�on, call Karen at (239) 770-7527

after support has ended. However, to avoid security risks and viruses, Microsoft recommends that you consider upgrading to Windows 10.

4. Will Internet Explorer still be supported on Windows 7? Support for Internet Explorer on Windows 7 devices will be discontinued on Jan. 14. As a component of Windows operating system, Internet Explorer follows the same support lifecycle. 5. Can I get a free upgrade to Windows 10? Microsoft 365 Business comes with a free upgrade for users with a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 Pro license on their device. By purchasing Microsoft 365 Business, your users can upgrade all of their old Windows Pro licensed devices at no additional cost. Need help implementing the right technologies in your business? We’re happy to help. Contact Genesis Global Technologies to discuss real solutions for your business. Contact Genesis Global Technologies at (239) 337-2667 or www.GenesisGT.com.

CAPE CORAL - FOR SALE REMODELED STAND ALONE OFFICE / RETAIL BUILDING

ADDRESS: 2826 SANTA BARBARA BLVD. BUILDING SIZE: 2,000 SF PRICE: $389,000 (OFFERS CONSIDERED) Pristine property in prime location must be seen to be appreciated.

FEATURES • ADA Compliant • Two New Parking Lots • Many Permitted Uses • Fully Fenced • Hospital Grade UV Air Filtration System • Plus Many More Upgrades

JACK BRITTON, CCIM

www.swﬂoridabusinesstoday.com

PROFESSIONAL REALTY CONSULTANTS OFFICE: (239) 573-5318 CELL: (239) 851-2090

Page 14

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

JANUARY 2020

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Project Design returns as Ronald McDonald House continues growth Ronald McDonald House Charities Southwest Florida, Kravet and Home & Design magazine announced Project Design Phase II Southwest Florida. In 2016, the original six bedrooms of the Ronald McDonald House, as well as the kitchen, dining room, common areas, restrooms, laundry room and the original flooring, were revamped entirely by 20 leaders in the interior design industry, in celebration of the organization’s 20th Anniversary. In the three years following the

opening of Golisano Children’s Hospital, the facility is bursting at the seams, officials said. By providing a temporary haven in a secure and comfortable environment among other families sharing a similar burden, RMHC gives families the ability to focus on the healing of their child. However, a consistently full House with a waiting list has made it imperative to add six bedrooms to the existing House, doubling its occupancy.

• Selling Your Business? • Buying a Business? • What’s the Value of Your Business? We Can Help! Contact: Jim Bolinger, MBA, CPA (retired) Truforte Business Group BUSINESS SALES - MERGERS - ACQUISITIONS

8270 College Pkwy ▪ Suite 105 ▪ Fort Myers, FL 33919

Phone: 239.284.1317 Ext 101 Cell: 239.220.2017 email: jim@truforte.com www.TruforteBusinessGroup.com

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“We are overjoyed to have this incredible opportunity once again,” said Laura Ragain, executive director of RMHC SWFL. “We are so grateful to have half of these amazing designers return for Phase II, and we welcome those that were unable to participate in 2016.” Project Design 2016 Chair Suzanne Costa of Suzanne Costa Interiors and Jeffrey Fisher of Jeffrey Fisher Home will lead as design co-chairs of Project Design Phase II. “I’m thrilled to be

a part of Project Design Phase II and delighted to have the talented Jeffrey Fisher as my co-chair,” said Costa. “We were excited to learn about the expansion of the Fort Myers House and jumped at the opportunity to sponsor,” said Ellen Kravet. “At Kravet, we believe in the transformative power of design. We are honored to support the Ronald McDonald House in the best way we know how: by making it better for the families who will stay there.”

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Good PR reaches buyers, sellers and target market The commercial real estate market continues to moting their listings. For developers, we help them be a booming industry in Southwest Florida. CONfind land, sell their developments RIC PR & Marketing understands the economic sigto end users and potentially govnificance for businesses wanting to grow their brand ernment officials who have to apin this region and provides the tools necessary to amprove the developments. plify productivity. Commercial builders are alIn business for 12 years, CONRIC PR & Marketways looking for their next projing has established itself as an industry leader for ect so we can help connect them clients wanting to improve their footprint through to landowners, developers, agents, enhanced website design, stronger social media presetc., that have the connections they ence, targeted advertising and informative press reneed. Their target audience are leases. When chief marketing officer Connie Ramosthe landowners or potential landWilliams started this agency, her vision was to build BY TOM HAYDEN owners that want to improve their on the firm principles of integrity, creativity, respect properties. and attention to detail. She wanted her first clients to Guest Columnist As with all marketing, it’s about know that what she offered was personal attention to craft a public relations and marketing plan tailored putting the right message in front of the right people to their needs. Since then, the company has grown at the right time. The right moments not only happen at the beginto 12 employees dedicated to Ramos-Williams’ misning but throughout the commercial process as mession. Those same strong beliefs apply today as she and saging is structured and massaged to deliver the right her team of 12 marketing and public relations ex- impact depending on the target audience. Southwest Florida is built on its tourism, people, perts work with a diverse group of clients, many of whom are in the commercial real estate industry. It is environment and smart commercial and residential an industry that can ebb and flow depending on the growth. CONRIC PR & Marketing provides the economy and one that needs strong and progressive right solutions for the right economy as the region PR and marketing techniques to create a portfolio of balances and builds on all of its treasures. success. For all our clients, we help define their message, Tom Hayden is Communications Editor at CONRIC find their target audience and put them in front of PR & Marketing. For more information, go to ConricPR.com. Contact him at (239) 690-9840. Learn potential clients at just the right time. For commercial real estate agents and brokers, more at conricpr.com. we help them find buyers, sellers and tenants by pro-

Florida DEO posts draft CDBG action plan

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity announced an initial draft of the State Action Plan for the $633 million in federal funding available to Florida through the Community Development Block Grant – Mitigation program has been posted. The State Action Plan provides a high-level strategy for how the funding will be used to address eligible communities’ disaster mitigation needs. Development of the State Action Plan has involved significant input from state agency partners and local governments, as well as the public through seven public workshops hosted across the state, statewide webinars and an online survey of community priorities. DEO now seeks input on the draft State Action Plan with a 45-day public comment period. “The Community Development Block Grant - Mitigation program is a once in a lifetime opportunity to provide Florida the resources it needs to make important and necessary investments in our communities,” said Ken

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com Lawson, executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Governor [Ron] DeSantis has charged us to bring ideas to the table that will make Florida more resilient for the future. Together, with our community partners across the state, we have developed the first step in making this a reality.” The State Action Plan has been posted on the Rebuild Florida mitigation page.Floridians are encouraged to review the State Action Plan. Comments on the State Action Plan may be submitted to DEO until January 20 at 5 p.m. Comments may be submitted by email to CDBG-MIT@deo.myflorida.com or by mail to: Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Office of Disaster Recovery, Attention: CDBG-Mitigation Program, The Caldwell Building, 107 East Madison Street, MSC400, Tallahassee.

A Team of Trusted Professional Business Owners, for all your commercial needs. Top Industry Specialists work together on your projects and goals.

B R O KE R S ~ A N A L Y S T S ~ A D V I S O R S ~ C O N S U L TA N T S

For more info, go to www.PreferredCommercialAlliance.com or call (239) 234-1792

4632 Vincennes Blvd., Ste. 102 ~ Cape Coral, FL 33904 ~ 239 -677-2380 ~ www.cra.us

JANUARY 2020

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

Page 15

AIA presents Design and Honor Awards

TRENDS PAGE 1

American Institute Of Architects Florida Southwest Chapter presents Design And Honor Awards For 2019 The AIA’s local chapter presented its Design and Honor Awards for 2019 at a event held at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers on Nov. 14. Twelve Design and Six Honor Awards were bestowed prior to the guest presentation by Alan Schulman, AIA, founder of Miami-based Shulman & Associates.

While there is virtually no land availability in Collier County, it also remains low in Lee County. Because of the lack of land in Collier, however, Hendry noted, the price per square foot is almost four times higher than in Lee, so companies headquartered in Collier, such as EHC, Conditioned Air and My Shower Door, among others, are expanding or moving to the cheaper land in Lee County. On top of that, impact fees in Collier are just about double what they are in Lee. Not surprisingly, land values in Collier are triple those in Lee. Hendry shared, “Regarding new industrial construction, larger space is leasing at a moderate rate but small space leasing is doing really well!” While developers are still building large space, 57% of what is being leased is under 10,000 square feet. Reflecting our market demographics, Hendry stated, “Self-storage unit sales are still booming, and in office space leasing, the psf-per-employee continues to decline.” Office space currently under construction in the two counties includes Gartner, Arthrex, Family Health Centers and Seagate Development. Perhaps not surprisingly, Hendry indicated, “Collier County is doing a great job of organically growing its business segment. “While Lee County is doing a little of this, many more companies from outside the area are coming to Lee County.” While Lee is not currently overbuilt, he noted rising construction costs, lengthy permitting and impact fees will all continue to have an impact on the county and the region’s economic development.

Honor Awards presented were: • Firm of the Year BSSW Architects, Inc. • Contractor of the Year Envirostruct, LLC • Allied Member of the Year TLC Engineering Solutions • Associate of the Year Natali Garcia, Associate AIA • President’s Award Dr. Tyler F. Patak, AIA • Frizzell Medal of Honor Dr. Tyler F. Patak, AIA

The American Institute of Architects Florida Southwest Chapter presented Design and Honor Awards at a ceremony November in Fort Myers.

Design Awards presented were: New Work - Commercial • Honor Award Corban Architects, LLC for Celebration Park • Merit Award Corban Architects, LLC for Grace Place for Children and Families New Work - Residential Honor Award David Poorman Architect, LLC for Hacienda Gomez New Residential Merit Award HLevel for Courtyard Residence

Interior Architecture Honor Award Architecture Joyce Owens for Villa Captiva Interior Architecture Merit Award RG Architects, PA for Shell Point Crystal Dining Additions and Restorations • Honor Award Architecture Joyce Owens for Captiva Peace • Merit Award HLevel for Ankrolab Brewing

Unbuilt Honor Award HLevel for Chesapeake Townhouses Interior Architecture Merit Award RG Architects, PA for Heights Foundation Charter School Test of Time • Honor Award Dwight Oakley, AIA for Soderberg Residence • Merit Award Victor Latavish Architect, PA for Iona Hope Episcopal Church

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

JANUARY 2020

Why good things take time For years, sailors had to calculate time. It’s a slow longitude and latitude manually. One process. I tell method to determine longitude was teams it’s our obto measure the sun’s angle at noon. session over the However, to find their longitude, they mundane tasks needed a time standard that would and processes over work aboard a ship. time that creates The first dependable chronometer big wins. EOS was the life work of one man, John takes a minimum Harrison, spanning 31 years of perof two years or sistent experimentation that revolumore. It’s a space tionized naval (and later aerial) navilearning process gation, which accelerated the Age of BY ROSS that requires many Discovery and Colonialism. Until the GIBBS tweaks—failures, mid-1750s, accurate navigation at sea Guest Columnist successes and was an unsolved problem due to the little steps. Soon, difficulty in calculating longitude. however, it becomes a way of life, Good things (and sea-change where your worst days are better than concepts) don’t always happen over- your best days when you began the night. But instead, our obsession with process. the small wins over time is what leads In a vacuum, most companies are us to greatness and breakthroughs. In good at delivering their “thing” they the book, “Where Good Ideas Come do for customers. But most busiFrom,” Steven Johnson explores the nesses struggle with how to properslow hunch—the premise that ideas ly balance the factors that drive the slowly form over time, not during company’s direction—people, data, lightning bolt “aha” moments. issues, processes and accountability, Yes, aha moments do happen — for instance. but because of the instant-gratificaTwo years is a short timespan for tion world we live in today, people any company to get what they want expect them to be the norm. Why? from the business. Stay the course, Because we can get—and are used and play the small-win game. Soon, to getting—almost anything we want things will come together and you’ll every day. This idea has leaked into find your latitude and longitude. all parts of our lives: physical fitness, Are you staying the course in your diets, business and learning, to name game? a few. The reality, however, is slow Ross Gibbs is a certified EOS Impleleads to progress, success and break- menter with over 15 years’ experithroughs. ence growing and building profitable The EOS (Entrepreneurial Oper- businesses. Contact him at (612)760ating System) Proven Process takes 6866 or rossgibbs@heitraction.com.

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Senior Conservation Analyst at Southwest Florida Water Management District Robert Wanvestraut (left), Florida Green Building Coalition Executive Director C.J. Davila, Florida Lifestyle Homes President Bill Ennen, and Babcock Ranch developer Syd Kitson, Chairman and CEO of Kitson Partners.

Babcock home double certified

Another milestone was observed at Babcock Ranch, as Florida Lifestyle Homes unveiled the first home in Southwest Florida to be certified both Florida Green Building Coalition Platinum and Gold by Florida Water Star. FGBC Executive Director C.J. Davila made the presentation to Florida Lifestyle Homes for the highest-level of “Florida Green” certification for building the three-bedroom, two-anda-half bath, 3,685-square-foot Lily Rose model. “Energy efficiency, water conservation and construction based on building science play an important role when it comes to our health, the environment and quality of life. FGBC ‘Florida Green’ certified homes provide healthier, more sustainable, comfortable living spaces, create cleaner indoor air and have been shown to have a sale, and re-sales, premium,” said Davila. In 2000, the non-profit FGBC brought together industry professionals from the construction, government, academic and research communities to create green standards tailored specifically to Florida. Robert Wanvestraut, senior conservation analyst at Southwest Florida Water Management District, awarded the builder the Florida Water Star Gold certification for the model on Bluestem Lane in Babcock Ranch Estates. Florida Lifestyle Homes was recognized for working hard to design their home and landscape to meet the high bar of Florida Water Star Gold. It is the first home in Charlotte County to reach the Gold level and the certifications mean added savings for the homebuyer. “We’ve built homes that have

been certified to meet both programs’ standards. Many green construction practices of today will become standard building code requirements in the future. And it’s not because the practices are green. It’s because they just make more sense and are better for our homeowners, period,” noted Florida Lifestyle Homes President Bill Ennen. Babcock Ranch, with sustainability designed into the entire fabric of the community, has been certified a Platinum “Florida Green” community by FGBC. Babcock Ranch developer Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of Kitson Partners, was also part of the ribbon cutting ceremony. Babcock Ranch’s key design and development strategies support these initiatives including solar energy, water efficiency, native plants and materials, sustainable local materials, tree preservation and relocation. FGBC certification provides a pathway to build green homes. FGBC is by far the largest certifier of green homes and developments in Florida. Unlike national and international standards like USGBC LEED and Green Globes, “Florida Green” standards take a scientific approach and are developed with state-specific criteria. They address Florida’s hot-humid environment, distinctive topography, unique geology, resiliency and natural disasters. Like FGBC standards, Florida Water Star certification provides assurance that a house or building meets a suite of efficiency practices that focus on water use specific to Florida. Since 1993, Florida Lifestyle Homes has been creating high-quality custom new homes of exceptional value in Southwest Florida.

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JANUARY 2020

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

Page 17

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Five myths your landlord wants you to believe It can be difficult to discern fact from fiction when dealing with landlords. A misunderstanding of these key issues can have serious consequences for your practice. The following information should help dispel some common myths and prevent costly mistakes in your next lease negotiation.

Myth #1: The landlord is on your side Many landlords attempt to befriend their tenants, making it difficult for tenants to remember the landlord’s primary goal is financial gain. They are seeking to secure a lease with the tenant paying as much as possible. Even the friendliest landlord wants to make the maximum profit on his space, just like the nicest tenant seeks the lowest possible lease rate so his business can thrive. Financial burdens quickly arise for tenants who place undue trust in their landlord and fail to properly negotiate their lease. By having representation, you can learn how your lease compares to the market and ensure you are getting the best possible terms. Myth #2: You are not entitled to representation Some landlords employ intimidation, instead of friendliness, to achieve their goal. The intimidation tactics may include telling tenants they are not allowed to have representation. This is not true. Lease negotiations are different than negotiating the price of a car or trying to haggle for a better price at a flea market. They are complex transactions, layered with hidden opportunities for landlords to take advantage of anyone not represented by an expert. Landlords are professionals who are aware of these complexities. If a landlord says you are not allowed to have representation, that is a clear signal they do not respect your desire to be treated fairly.

Myth #3: You are already getting the best possible rate for your space There are many conditions that factor into lease rates for a commercial space. Things such as current building vacancy, length of the lease, amount of tenant improvement allowance, building conditions and many other considerations impact the appropriate rate for a parBY JARED ticular space. Several of these VANDERSLUIS considerations are specific to Guest Columnist spaces for healthcare tenants, highlighting the need for a real estate professional who has expertise in healthcare. Healthcare practices are often told they are getting the best possible rate for their space, yet they can receive a much better offer from the landlord when an expert assesses these mitigating factors. Myth #4: Your renewal is not negotiable Most leases provide an option for the tenant to renew their lease when it expires, and may even detail the exact terms of the renewal. However, it is important to understand that your renewal is negotiable, even if you have renewal terms specified in your current lease. A landlord who says you cannot renegotiate the terms for your renewal is usually doing so because they can get you to pay more by exercising the option to renew instead of negotiating new terms. The only way to be certain you have the best possible terms for your renewal is to compare those terms with current market rates in the area, a vital step often missed by healthcare professionals entering this process alone.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

CCIM presents real estate conference The Southwest Florida CCIM District presents the 20th Annual Commercial Real Estate Outlook Conference, where industry experts will discuss the economic and commercial trends for the coming year and what possible opportunities and challenges lie ahead. This dynamic conference benefits brokers, owners, investors, buyers, sellers, banking professionals, lawyers, insurance agencies and title insurance companies. The event will feature keynote speaker economist Elliot Eisenberg, John Burns Real Estate Consulting principal Lesley Deutch and Colliers International managing director

Danny Rice. In addition to three speakers, the Economic Development Panel consists of: John Talmage, director of Lee County Economic Development; Jace Kenter, director of Collier County Office of Business & Economic Development; Dave Gammon, director of Charlotte County Economic Development Office, and Michael Swindle, Hendry County Commissioner. The event will be held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs on Tuesday, Jan. 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Discounted room rates are available at https:// w w w. h y a t t . c o m / e n - U S / g r o u p booking/NAPRN/G-SCIM.

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Myth #5: You have no other options; the landlord has many This common myth might be the most important to address, because it is fundamental to how landlords operate. The landlord wants you to believe that his property is the only suitable location for your practice. The truth is there are likely several other properties that would fit the needs of your practice, and the landlord should be competing to keep you in his building. The landlord also wants you to believe he has several potential tenants ready to occupy your space if you don’t take it. This position is used to force a tenant to rush into signing an unfavorable lease, when, in fact, it usually takes months or years to fill a commercial space. Each leasing situation is unique, and a healthcare real estate professional who knows your strengths as a tenant can help you understand what type of leverage you have. This information represents a few of the many misconceptions involving landlords in healthcare real estate transactions. Using a real estate professional with expertise in healthcare will help protect you from falling victim to these and other common landlord myths. Jared Vandersluis is an agent CARR Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of commercial real estate services for healthcare tenants and buyers. Contact him at (417) 693-2303 or Jared.vandersluis@carr.us. Visit CARR.US to learn more and find an expert agent representing healthcare practices in your area.

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Page 18

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY ®

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Tips to stay safe while showing properties

Real estate agents have unique workspaces. You can find them navigating the terrain of a vacant lot, providing tours of model homes, hosting open houses and showing prospective buyers occupied residences. If you are a Lee County realtor, Sheriff Carmine Marceno encourages you to practice these crime prevention tips as you carry out your daily activities. 1. Screen the Prospect. Ask questions. Check the sex offender registry. Google their name. Email or text them back. The next time you talk bring up some of the information they previously gave in your conBY CARMINE versation to test its authenticMARCENO ity. Guest Columnist 2. Introductions. Meet in your office if possible. Introduce the person to coworkers so now there are witnesses, which may discourage thoughts of criminal activity. Make it a policy to meet in public, not at the house or the buyer’s hotel room. 3. Before You Go. Give your schedule to your office so they know where you will be going. Remove showy jewelry that may be attractive to robbers. Keep your vehicle description and tag on file with your office. 4. Vehicle Considerations. Drive separately to the property. Park in the street, not the driveway, for faster escape. 5. Location Awareness. Do a windshield survey ahead of time and drive around where you will be showing the client. This will give you an indication of situations to be aware of. Know how to get to the location quickly and safely. Look around before unlocking and getting out of your car. 6. Entering the Property. Angle your body when opening the door keeping the client in view. Direct the person instead of leading so your back is not turned. Remain by open doors so you have a clear exit. Have your keys and cell phone in hand to use if needed. If you would like to have a free REALTOR safety training call (239) 477-1278 or CRU@sheriffleefl.org. Sheriff Carmine Marceno was appointed Lee County’s 13th Sheriff by Gov. Rick Scott in September 2018. Marceno joined the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in 2013, most recently serving as Undersheriff. Prior to his role as Undersheriff, he was a Captain, serving as the Executive Officer to Sheriff Mike Scott. Contact him at (239) 477-1234.

JANUARY 2020

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE KOVA Companies acquires two appraisal ﬁrms

KOVA Companies is expanding its appraisal service offerings with the acquisition of two appraisal firms, Carlson, Norris and Associates, Inc. and MPJ Real Estate Services. Operating as Carlson, Norris and Associates, the acquisition under the KOVA Appraisal & Consulting Services division will expand KOVA’s portfolio of valuation and advisory services. “Lee Norris and Bill Carlson of Carlson, Norris and Associates and Michael Jonas of MPJ Real Estate Services are three successful, seasoned professionals that understand the market and bring extensive knowledge to KOVA Companies,” said Anthony Emma, CEO and managing partner of KOVA KOVA Companies CEO Anthony Emma, center, Companies. “By bringing together these well-known with Carlson, Norris and Associates managing names and their established reputations as market director Michael Jonas and partner Lee Norris. experts, KOVA can better serve clients statewide as tablished appraisal professionals and industry exa trusted appraisal partner.” perts for this new venture.” KOVA Companies was founded in 1990 as a priJonas has been appraising commercial real estate vately owned, full-service commercial real estate since 1999 and has worked with many prestigious firm. Its Appraisal & Consulting Services division firms over his career in roles as a bank review approvides a host of appraisal services, including real praiser and eminent domain expert witness. Jonas estate property appraisals, feasibility studies, market has completed valuation and review assignments for studies, investment analyses, tax appeals, probate commercial properties throughout Florida and foappraisals, bank appraisals and litigation including cuses on investments ranging from owner-user propexpert testimony. The acquisition will enable KOVA erties to complex multi-tenant, income-producing to serve a diverse range of commercial and residen- properties. He is a licensed real estate broker and has tial property types, including freestanding commer- served several years on the board of directors for the cial buildings, industrial buildings, shopping cen- Appraisal Institute, and was 2015 president of the ters, office buildings, commercial condominiums, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. He earned a bachelor’s residential developments, vacant land, marinas, self degree in Business Administration at the University storage facilities, hotels, car washes, wetland and en- of Central Florida. vironmentally sensitive lands, special purpose propJonas is joined by Bill Carlson and Lee Norris, the erties and single-family residences. founding partners of Carlson, Norris and Associates. KOVA’s Carlson, Norris and Associates team is Carlson serves as state-certified general real estate led by three Florida natives with over 100 combined appraiser for the newly merged company. Carlson years of real estate appraisal experience. The team is a native Floridian, born in Miami, and has lived includes five MAI-designated professionals, six staff in Fort Myers since 1963. He has been an appraiser appraisers and an office manager. since 1975 and is now semi-retired. Carlson earned Former MPJ Real Estate Services Principal Mi- his Bachelor of Science degree from the University chael Jonas has been appointed managing director of of Southern Mississippi, and also earned MAI and Carlson, Norris and Associates and is responsible for SRA designations from the Appraisal Institute. managing, reviewing and helping produce all work Norris has been appointed director of residential for clients. operations and state-certified general real estate ap“This move takes the familiarity and longevity praiser. Born and raised in Fort Myers, Norris has of the Carlson, Norris and Associates and MPJ Real served as an appraiser within the Southwest Florida Estate Services names, and the diversity of KOVA market for more than 40 years. He earned a bacheCompanies’ services, to create a truly comprehen- lor’s degree from Florida State University and holds sive experience under the KOVA umbrella,” Jonas the MRA and SRA designations from the Appraisal said. “We’re thrilled to bring together a team of es- Institute.

ALICO PAGE 1 The Alico Business Center is located on Alico Road in Fort Myers, conveniently located next to I-75, steps away from dining, retail and hotel accommodations, across from Gulf Coast Town Center and approximately two miles from Southwest Florida International Airport and FGCU.

“It’s a prime location with a lot of potential, and we worked with ownership to develop a strategic plan for the center’s growth,” said Anthony Emma, CEO and managing partner of KOVA Companies. “The implementation of this plan utilizing all of KOVA Companies’ verticals demonstrates how KOVA’s effective growth and income strategy can be implemented to facilitate a successful sale.”

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Do you have what it takes to start your own business?

Question: I have dreamed about starting my own business but am unsure of the best way to go about it. Can you offer any insights? Answer: The first steps for creating a successful business involve planning, research and more planning. Running a business is different from working for one. Ask yourself, “Can I be my own boss?” Try to objectively assess the pros and cons. Every responsibility—sales, marketing, bookkeeping, taxes, insurance, locating office space, etc.—falls on your shoulders. To begin, construct a written Business Plan. This a living document that enables you to conceptualize your dream, chart your course of action, and set short and intermediate terms goals, all without spending a dime. You will need a clear idea of how much money you need to get started and how much you will be able to make, after expenses. The business plan includes cash flow and sales projections, as well as a projected profit and loss statement for your first year of operation. There is no substitute for experience, so talk to other small business owners who are in the same line

of business you are considering. Find out how they got started, what mistakes they made, and what they would do differently if they could start over again. Here are some areas of inquiry to help you explore the marketability of your product or service: • Consider whether the business offers a new solution to an old problem or complements an emerging trend. • Have a clear picture of your target market. These are people or companies that are likely to want or need what your business

BY GRAY POEHLER Guest Columnist

has to offer. • Identify the percentage of market share that is possible for you to capture. The more competition you have, the lower your margins will be. • Consider how realistic is your pricing model. Can you present your product or service to potential customers so that it appears to be a good value, while still affording you a reasonable profit?

• Make planning an ongoing effort. Refer to and update your business plan as market conditions change. In today’s fast-paced business climate, your entrepreneurial plans may have to take a back seat to other developments in your life. Always put your family’s financial security first. If a good job opportunity arises, it may be best to take it and put your dreams aside for a while, but don’t abandon them completely. Many successful small businesses have started as part-time ventures, enabling their owners to eventually shed the worries of working for someone else, with no guarantee of job security. Gray Poehler is a volunteer with the Naples Chapter of SCORE. To learn more about management issues facing your small business, contact SCORE Naples. Counseling is provided FREE of charge to all U.S. citizens and legal aliens. To register call (239) 4300081 or visit our web site http://naples.score.org/ mentors. A counselor will contact you within 48 hours. Please include your name, email address and a contact phone number.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Waters Edge Motel gets new owner, name and facelift The iconic Waters Edge Motel in St. James City is about to get a fresh look with its new owner, Eric Zeisloft. The 20-unit waterfront motel on Sanibel Boulevard was originally built in 1959. Its former owner, the Donkersloot family, sold the Pine Island property for $1.2 million. The new ownership immediately began work on significant enhancements to the property, including upgraded appliances and cabinetry, new

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com furniture and a new name: Off the Charts Inn & Out Island Eco Resort. It offers rentable boat slips, and is positioned in the heart of Florida’s largest island. Plans to update the slips, dock and outdoor amenities are also in play. “This is a major improvement for St. James

City,” said LandQwest Broker Associate Frank Kupiec. “While Waters Edge was known for its island charm and fisherman’s dream destination, the new ownership will embrace area ecology and work with local guides to bring ‘new’ life to this ‘old’ Florida favorite while greatly enhancing the guest experience with the new look and all of the upgrades.” Kupiec represented both parties in the transaction.

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OUR INDUSTRY EXPERTS “Economics 20/20”

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PANEL “Emerging Trends”

John Talmage, Director

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Jace Kentner, Director

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Elliott F. Eisenberg, Ph.D. Nationally Acclaimed Economist

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Principal John Burns Real Estate Consulting

Managing Director Colliers International Tampa Bay, Central & Southwest Florida

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Dave Gammon, Director

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Michael Swindle, Commissioner Hendry County - District 4

Page Page20 14

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