Why Commercial Real Estate Agents Need a Strong Lending Partner

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Commercial real estate is one of the most rewarding and complex sectors in real estate. As an agent, you’re balancing market knowledge, client expectations, and tight timelines. But let’s be real: even the best deal can fall apart if the financing isn’t there. That’s why having the right lending partner is not just helpful — it’s essential.

What Counts as Commercial Real Estate?

Commercial real estate (CRE) covers a wide range of property types:

  • Office Buildings – single-tenant to high-rise towers
  • Retail – shopping centers, strip malls, restaurants, and standalones
  • Industrial – warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing
  • Multifamily (5+ units) – income-producing rental buildings
  • Hospitality – hotels, motels, and resorts
  • Special Purpose – schools, medical facilities, religious buildings, entertainment venues

Each property type comes with unique challenges for financing, and that’s where a skilled lending partner makes all the difference.

Why Agents Should Care About Financing

Your role doesn’t stop at finding the property. The financing determines whether the deal actually closes. Here’s why working with the right lender matters:

  • Faster Closings – Delays in financing can kill deals. I work to streamline the process and keep your timeline on track.
  • Creative Solutions – Not every buyer fits the traditional mold. I bring loan products designed for self-employed buyers, investors, and unique property types.
  • Added Value for Clients – Connecting your client with tailored financing makes you look like the complete package — not just a salesperson, but a problem-solver.

Loan Products That Help You Close More Deals

Here are some of the commercial loan solutions I can bring to the table for your buyers:

  • Commercial Real Estate Loans – For office, retail, multifamily, mixed-use.
  • SBA Loans (7a and 504) – Ideal for business owners purchasing or improving their own space.
  • Bridge Loans – Short-term solutions to secure a property now and refinance later.
  • DSCR Investor Loans – Qualify based on rental income, not personal income — perfect for multifamily and investment properties.
  • Specialized Programs – Including foreign national loans, self-employed borrower programs, and unique property financing.

Why Partner With Me

You have choices when it comes to lenders — so why me?

  • 30+ Years in Housing & Finance – From HUD-certified counselor to mortgage broker, I’ve seen just about every scenario.
  • Problem-Solving Mindset – I don’t walk away from a tough deal; I find ways to make it work.
  • Consistent Communication – You’ll never be left guessing. I keep you and your client updated every step of the way.
  • Relationship Focused – My goal isn’t just one transaction — it’s to become your long-term lending partner.

The Bottom Line

Your success as a commercial real estate agent depends on more than just finding the right property — it depends on making sure your client can secure the financing to buy it. Partner with me, and you’ll have a lending ally who helps you close more deals, satisfy more clients, and build more repeat business.

📞 Let’s talk about how I can help you and your clients win in today’s market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes commercial financing different from residential financing?
Commercial loans are typically larger, require higher down payments, and are underwritten based on the property’s income potential as well as the borrower’s financials. Leases, tenant stability, and projected cash flow all play a bigger role.

2. How long does it take to close a commercial loan?
Timelines vary, but most commercial loans take between 45–90 days from application to closing. Having an experienced lender (and a well-prepared borrower) can help shorten that window and avoid costly delays.

3. Can you help with buyers who don’t fit the “traditional” borrower profile?
Yes. I specialize in programs for self-employed buyers, investors using DSCR loans, foreign nationals, and borrowers who need creative solutions like bridge financing or SBA loans. If your client doesn’t fit the box, I’ll help them find a path forward.

Connect with Caroline Shook from CMS Mortgages, a licensed mortgage broker, for expert mortgage advice and services.

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