Women in Commercial Real Estate
The commercial real estate industry is dynamic, competitive, and rewarding. While it has traditionally been a male-dominated field, more women are breaking barriers, shaping the industry, and thriving in various roles. We spoke with five successful women in commercial real estate to learn about their journeys, challenges, leadership insights, and advice for the next generation.
Joanna R. Manfro: Creating a Legacy
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?
My career in real estate began organically, almost by osmosis. My family has been involved in various facets of real estate, and I developed an interest from a young age. From my first job at a law firm at 13 to a 15-year journey across three REITs, I have acquired extensive industry experience, spearheading acquisitions totaling $2 billion in shopping centers. My transition to brokerage was driven by a desire to challenge the traditional, male-dominated landscape, and I have since closed approximately $100 million in transactions.
Have you faced unique challenges as a woman in commercial real estate?
Building relationships in male-dominated settings can be challenging. I had to learn by doing, pushing my way into meetings and proving my expertise through competence and exceeding expectations. Success in this field hinges on performance, and women may have to work harder initially to establish credibility—but results speak for themselves.
What leadership qualities do you think are essential for women in commercial real estate?
- Be tough, but adaptable.
- Network strategically.
- Be a sharp analyst.
- Be tenacious.
- Think big.
- Communicate clearly.
- Act with integrity.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Step outside your comfort zone, build real relationships, and don’t sweat setbacks—they are part of the journey. Find mentors, learn from them, and support other women in the industry.
What do you enjoy most about working in commercial real estate?
Seeing years of effort materialize into successful deals, witnessing long-term relationships turn into pivotal transactions, and proving that women have a place in this traditionally male-dominated industry.
Mabelle Perez: A Passion for Real Estate
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?
My interest in real estate investing led me to brokerage. Interestingly, I found myself in hospitality almost by accident, but I have since discovered that the career is fun, dynamic, and incredibly rewarding.
Have you faced unique challenges as a woman in commercial real estate?
Yes, it can be harder to be taken seriously or to break into the industry without a male counterpart on your team. To overcome this, I have leveraged mentors and collaborated with capital markets teammates to build credibility.
What leadership qualities do you think are essential for women in commercial real estate?
You need to learn to love “no,” embrace “yes,” and hate “maybes.” Having thick skin and confidently taking a seat at the table—whether you feel ready or not—are crucial to success.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Many people give up too soon. Balance self-care with doing your best. This approach will help prevent burnout and keep you in the game.
What do you enjoy most about working in commercial real estate?
I love the flexibility of my schedule, the opportunity to travel, and the relationships that continue to strengthen over time.
Catherine Lueckel: The Flexibility Factor
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?
I was a marketing assistant when I decided to get my real estate license. I needed a flexible schedule as I was raising a young son and preparing to remarry and have more children. This career allowed me to control my time.
Have you faced unique challenges as a woman in commercial real estate?
Not really. In my experience, many business owners prefer working with women because we are seen as more trustworthy and relationship-oriented. Sometimes, my male colleagues struggle because of negative experiences with other men in the industry.
What leadership qualities do you think are essential for women in commercial real estate?
It’s critical to learn your market, understand the basics of construction and municipal requirements, and share your knowledge with peers. You want to be the go-to person for property-related questions in your market.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Time is your most valuable asset. Be mindful of those who might waste it.
What do you enjoy most about working in commercial real estate?
Meeting small business owners. Their passion and dedication are inspiring, and I love being their go-to person when they need new locations or more space. It’s rewarding to see how their growth impacts their families and communities.
Lily H. Heimburger: A Path from Development to Brokerage
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?
I started as an assistant for an office/hotel developer and found development fascinating. With a background in marketing and international business, I wasn’t initially aware that a career like mine existed. After two years, I got my real estate license and worked for a shopping center developer as a lease administrator. Eventually, I took on a tough leasing project, which led to a career in brokerage.
What leadership qualities do you think are essential for women in commercial real estate?
Helping others is key. Mentorship and collaboration create strong networks that support career advancement. Having strong mentors has been invaluable. Most of my mentors have been women, and they have been instrumental in my growth and success.
Emily Miller: A Journey from Marketing Analyst to Brokerage
What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate?
I entered the industry in my mid-twenties as a marketing analyst and property manager for a family office in Mobile, AL. These roles helped me learn markets and exposed me to different asset classes. It was an industry I had never considered before, but I’ve been hooked ever since.
Have you faced unique challenges as a woman in commercial real estate?
I was fortunate to start my brokerage career on an all-female team, which helped me build connections with strong women in the industry. Their mentorship empowered me to navigate challenges early on and continues to be a valuable resource today.
What leadership qualities do you think are essential for women in commercial real estate?
Collaboration, adaptability, confidence, and thick skin.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Ask all the questions—it’s okay to not know everything.
What do you enjoy most about working in commercial real estate?
The dynamic nature of the industry—no two deals are ever the same.
Final Thoughts
The journeys of these incredible women highlight the resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking required to succeed in commercial real estate. Their insights and advice serve as inspiration for the next generation of women looking to enter the industry. Whether it’s learning to embrace rejection, prioritizing time management, or building strong relationships, their experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in commercial real estate.
