Expansion calls for more than intention – it requires a coordinated effort between the vision in the mind’s eye with strategic actions in the physical world. Just as a plant must grow in proportion with its pot, I expanded the business in lockstep with my vision.

I love tapping into my excitement for commercial real estate by evaluating a retail strip mall in my home city of Los Angeles. These collections of shops, boutiques and storefronts are the community watering holes that make neighborhoods thrive in big cities like LA. They bring neighborhood folks together for mingling and chatting, shopping and connecting.

The future is bright for Olga and Brand Capital, Inc.

“I look forward to helping as many people as possible. Whether it is an upcoming loan maturity, a potential refinance of a loan or you’re looking for an acquisition loan for a new property, I want to be that helpful advisor who offers financial solutions. Even with volatile rates and industry challenges, capital is still available and deals are still put into place. It just takes time invested to find the right source and loan terms.”

Backed by inspired and orchestrated action, I call on women investors to leverage their actions toward commercial real estate investment through concise daily efforts, consideration of your environment and a cultivated understanding of your mission.

In my storied career, I’ve experienced first-hand how this business demands grit, tenacity, and grace in every stage of the process.

Have you ever had a dream that won’t seem to go away? Years may pass and yet you come back to it in your mind through little reminders along your path. Your dream – whether to start a company, travel extensively or invest in commercial real estate – is the key to a creative life.

Why is self-agency the optimal word for commercial real estate finance in 2024? “Retail property owners holding loans that are set to mature in this higher interest rate environment are bracing for impact,” according to ICSC, an industry-leading publication.

My industry, commercial real estate finance, is grappling with 21-year high rates, rising costs and lending restrictions. How do we face these challenges in the midst of our new reality? Perhaps the key here, like the caterpillar, is acceptance. How often do we ignore and deny, obfuscate and distract from what is right in front of us? The solution all along is to accept and push forward, strengthen business relationships and collaborate on new deals.

As I continue to grow my business, I’m astonished to see how my connections – colleagues, friends, co-workers, firms, lenders – are the lifeblood of commercial real estate finance. I’m reminded of a quote from Desmond Tutu, celebrated activist from South Africa and author of…

With nearly 20 years in commercial real estate finance, I recently launched my own company – Brand Capital, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate mortgage brokerage firm – and I’m discovering new ways to succeed and how to better serve my clients and community. My new business has me thinking: How do I redefine my idea of…