Jessica Richer, Hanna Commercial Real Estate

Name: Jessica Richer

Title: Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker

Company Name: Hanna Commercial Real Estate

What was the most challenging part of working during the pandemic?
The silver lining of working during the pandemic was finding ways to be creative and thinking out of the box. All the usual rules of engagement were changed. We could not show listings or cold call. We had to reach people using social media in a more interactive manner. First, we created The Richer Team at Hanna Commercial Real Estate YouTube Channel to showcase listings and conduct interviews. Then, in addition to our personal social media accounts, we established a Linked-In account for The Richer Team at Hanna Commercial. This was fun and allowed us to connect to several people.

What aspects of working from home did you enjoy most?
The time gained from not commuting or being out on the road meeting with people and showing properties was applied towards professional and personal enhancement. For example, I read books and articles on business and professional issues and took online classes. I tried to eat healthier and incorporate exercise into my routine.

What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2020?
Staying positive, keeping the team on course, and reinventing how we do business.

What was your most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2020?
My most notable transaction was frozen when the pandemic hit. It is moving forward now, but it may not be completed at the end of 2020 and end up being finalized in first quarter of 2021. At least half of the transactions in my pipeline were frozen in mid-March. It took until the third quarter of 2020 for business to resume. Fortunately, deals were completed. The pandemic created a rollercoaster of unexpected results for 2020 transactions.

What are your predictions for commercial real estate in 2021?
My business is focused on the Capital Region of New York State. During 2021 the industrial leasing and sales will continue to be robust. Leasing for office, medical and retail will be challenging. Interest in multifamily and senior housing will continue to be significant. I am optimistic that 2021 will be a better year.