
Hosted by Forth Heffner · EN
Your go-to source for real conversations with the people shaping commercial real estate across North and South Carolina.
Each episode, we sit down with brokers, developers, investors, lenders, and industry leaders to hear their stories — the deals that defined them, the markets they're watching, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned CRE professional or just starting to explore the world of commercial real estate, there's something here for you.
From the mountains of Asheville to the coastlines of Charleston, the Carolinas are one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the country. We're here to introduce you to the people building it, buying it, and betting on it.
What to expect: Honest conversations. Local expertise. No fluff.
Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and join the growing community of Carolinas CRE enthusiasts.

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The conversation covers Lash Hairston's journey from golf course maintenance to the shopping center business, his niche in small markets, and the impact of retail development on local communities. It also delves into leadership challenges, predictions for the retail industry, and advice for newcomers in the commercial real estate industry. Lash shares his contrarian belief about market rent and emphasizes the importance of valuing every step in the process.TakeawaysNiche in small marketsImpact on local communitiesChapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:21 Transition to Real Estate11:30 Niche in Small Markets20:42 Impact on the Community27:42 The 'Gold Rush' in the Carolinas35:42 Belief About Market Rent

The conversation covers the journey of Neil Robinette, a third-generation real estate professional, and his role in the family-owned CS Smith Property Group. It delves into his early life, education, and the challenges of joining the family business. The discussion also explores the history of the broom business, family connections, and the growth and expansion of CS Smith Property Group. Additionally, it highlights market trends in the Carolinas, site selection, deal making, and the future plans of the company, including equity partnerships.TakeawaysFamily-owned business successReal estate development and investmentMarket trends in the CarolinasChapters00:00 Introduction and Background07:22 Family Connections and Relationships17:31 Growth and Expansion22:36 Market Trends in the Carolinas32:14 Equity Partnerships and Future Plans

The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the commercial real estate market and economic forces in the Carolinas. It includes insights on local economies, population growth, international investment, and the impact of climate on migration patterns. The conversation covers various topics related to the economic landscape of the Southeast, focusing on North and South Carolina. Mark Vitner discusses the impact of natural ties and growth in the region, as well as the implications of interest rates, inflation, and growth on commercial real estate operators.TakeawaysPopulation growth in the Carolinas is driving investment and economic development.International investment in the US, particularly in the Carolinas, is viewed as a safe and attractive option. Natural ties and diversity drive traffic and growth in the Southeast.Commercial real estate operators should consider the impact of interest rates, inflation, and growth on their strategies.