Veterans Day in Los Angeles: A Commercial Real Estate Perspective

Veterans Day is a time to honor and celebrate the men and women who have served our country. It is also a good time to reflect on the contributions that veterans make to our communities, including in the commercial real estate sector.

In Los Angeles, veterans play a vital role in the commercial real estate industry. They are owners, developers, brokers, and property managers. They also serve as tenants, occupying office space, retail space, and industrial space throughout the city.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to support veteran-owned businesses and veteran employment in commercial real estate. A number of organizations, including the Veterans Commercial Real Estate Council and the National Association of Realtors, offer programs and resources to help veterans succeed in the industry.

One of the biggest challenges facing veterans in commercial real estate is access to capital. Banks and other lenders can be hesitant to lend to veterans, especially those who have recently returned from service. However, there are a number of government and nonprofit organizations that offer loan programs specifically for veterans.

Another challenge facing veterans in commercial real estate is the competitive nature of the industry. It can be difficult for veterans to break into the industry and compete with more experienced professionals. However, there are a number of organizations that offer training and mentorship programs to help veterans succeed.

Despite the challenges, veterans are making significant contributions to the commercial real estate industry in Los Angeles. On this Veterans Day, let us take the time to honor their service and to support their success.

How veterans are shaping the commercial real estate landscape in Los Angeles

• Veteran-owned businesses are thriving. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses in the United States, and they generate over $1 trillion in revenue each year. In Los Angeles, veteran-owned businesses are a growing force in the commercial real estate industry.
• Veterans are developing innovative new commercial real estate projects. For example, the Veterans Commercial Real Estate Council is developing a mixed-use project in the San Fernando Valley that will include office space, retail space, and housing for veterans.
• Veterans are leading the way in sustainable commercial real estate development. For example, the Veterans Administration is developing a new medical center in West Los Angeles that will be LEED Gold certified.

How to support veterans in commercial real estate

• Do business with veteran-owned businesses. When you need to buy or sell commercial real estate, or when you need to lease office space, retail space, or industrial space, consider working with a veteran-owned business.
• Invest in veteran-owned businesses. There are a number of investment opportunities available in veteran-owned commercial real estate projects.
• Hire veterans. If you are looking for qualified employees, consider hiring veterans. Veterans have a wealth of skills and experience that can be valuable to any business.
• Support veteran-focused organizations. There are a number of organizations that are working to support veterans in commercial real estate. You can support these organizations by donating money, volunteering your time, or attending their events.

By supporting veterans in commercial real estate, we can help them to succeed and to make a positive impact on our communities.