SmartVibes

Winter 2026

The Smart Agency newsletter, delivering must-read articles and trends in commercial real estate and finance.

CONVERSATIONS WITH KEYNOTES

Empowering Place, Purpose, and People: Insights From Claire Johnston, Keynote Speaker at GlobeSt Women of Influence LA

At The Smart Agency, we’re honored to spotlight exceptional voices shaping the future of commercial real estate.  Recently, our CEO Jenn Quader had a chance to sit down with Claire Johnston, CEO of Americas for Lendlease on behalf of GlobeSt.com in preparation for the recent “Women of Influence Los Angeles” event at L.A. Live. The conversation perfectly exemplifies the transformative leadership driving our industry forward.

WATCH THE VIDEO
FROM THE SMART BLOG

Why Investor Groups Are Increasingly Turning to Affordable and Workforce Housing

As investors scan the real estate landscape for resilient opportunities, affordable and workforce housing are increasingly standing out as compelling alternatives to some traditional sectors that are still finding their footing. Demand for reasonably priced housing continues to surge while supply remains stubbornly constrained, creating a structural imbalance that supports occupancy, cash flow stability, and long-term growth. Investors seeking dependable performance in a market undergoing recalibration are beginning to recognize this asset class as both a strategic and socially aligned solution.

READ ABOUT AFFORDABLE & WORKFORCE HOUSING INVESTMENT
PRESS ACHIEVED

Our Clients in the News

Curated links to publicity we recently achieved for our Clients, providing key insights into the commercial real estate and financial services industries:

The Dermot Company in AFIRE:

The Lifestyle Renter: A Growing Opportunity

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OTL, Inc. in Orange County Business Journal:

Anaheim Firm Makes a Splash with AI

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Western National Property Management in Commercial Observer:

Laura Kouri: Rising to the Top

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Avanath Capital Management in IREI:

Avanath Capital Secures $75M Commitment from Ballmer Group

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A LOOK INSIDE TEAM SMART

Our Holiday Party: ‘Twas the Season!

Team Smart’s holiday party is truly a can’t-miss tradition—one we look forward to all year. Our 2025 celebration took place at Hive & Honey, perched atop the Marriott Irvine Spectrum in Irvine, California, where we enjoyed breathtaking sunset views overlooking the city.

The evening brought together our remote team members and our Orange County crew for a chance to reconnect, share laughs, and celebrate the season. From delicious bites and specialty cocktails (Smartinis, anyone?) to a crowd-favorite gift exchange and plenty of memorable moments, the night was filled with good cheer and even better company.

We hope your holiday season was just as joyful and refreshing—and that it left you energized and ready to kick off a fabulous (and profitable!) 2026.

READ ABOUT SMART'S CULTURE

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