Breck Bard: Architecture, AI, and Surviving Today’s CRE Market

Breck Bard joins Bruce Bean to discuss his unique path from architecture to commercial real estate ownership and asset management. Starting with a background in computer engineering and architecture, Breck explains how macroeconomic shocks like the Great Financial Crisis and COVID-19 shaped his career decisions and perspective.

He shares how earning an MBA helped him transition from design into the ownership side of CRE, ultimately leading to his work on major redevelopment projects like Hilltop Mall in Richmond.

The conversation also dives into today’s challenging investment environment. With high interest rates, compressed cap rates, and ongoing uncertainty, Breck explains why his firm is choosing to stay patient rather than rush into acquisitions.

A key highlight of the episode is Breck’s approach to using AI in real estate operations. From drafting tenant communications to improving workflow efficiency and even assisting with website SEO, AI is becoming a valuable tool—though still one that requires human oversight.

Breck also reflects on how his architecture background continues to give him an edge in project management, especially when dealing with complex retail repositioning and tenant improvements.

 

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