By: Cyndi Disharoon REALTOR®
It may come as no surprise: while most developers still work with real estate agents when searching for commercial properties, the majority now begin their search online.
The internet has become an essential—and indispensable—tool in the commercial property search process. Nearly 95% of commercial developers use the web to find properties, with 54% starting their search online.
Over the past decade, online searches for commercial property have surged to 74%, up from 39%. By contrast, only 15% of searches now involve newspapers—down sharply from 48% just ten years ago. This digital trend isn’t slowing down.
While agents remain critical partners in navigating commercial real estate, client expectations have evolved.
In the past, developers often chose an agent based on firm affiliation or personal rapport. Today, they prioritize accessibility and tech-savviness. Clients expect their agent to be connected—using smartphones, tablets, and digital platforms to provide:
Up-to-date neighborhood insights
Price and contract negotiation support
Fast, efficient communication.
Speed matters. Most clients expect a response to their initial inquiry within one hour—yet only
30% of agents meet that mark.
Clients define a successful commercial real estate experience as having an agent who:
responds promptly;
listens closely to their needs;
shows properties aligned with their goals;
works diligently throughout the process; and
successfully closes the deal.
At Leslie Wells Realty, I’m committed to exceeding these expectations—every time.
