Episode 1: Markets, Money, and CRE

Welcome to Behind the Building, a commercial real estate series where we uncover the strategy, the people, and the decisions that shape our built environment.

In this episode, I’m joined by Devon Hawkins, Assistant Professor at Elon University and Founder of Elite Economic Advisors. Devon brings her sharp economic insight to the table, offering a clear and practical breakdown of how key economic indicators are influencing commercial real estate decisions—from inflation and interest rates to tariffs and the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”

In this conversation, we explore:

  • How rising interest rates and monetary policy are reshaping lending and investment decisions

  • The ripple effects of tariffs on materials, development costs, and the CRE supply chain

  • What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” means for infrastructure, tax strategy, and long-term development

  • Why North Carolina—especially the I-85/40 corridor—is uniquely positioned for manufacturing and logistics growth

  • The role of shovel-ready land, infrastructure investment, and vacancy rates in choosing development sites

  • Economic strategy through the lens of opportunity cost, regional development, and policy priorities

  • Advice for CRE owners and brokers on how to cut through economic noise and plan smarter

Whether you’re a property owner, investor, developer, or CRE professional, this episode delivers actionable insight into how macroeconomic trends intersect with your commercial real estate decisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Inflation control via interest rate hikes = tighter lending

  • Tariffs may spike material costs with few domestic substitutes

  • Tertiary markets like Alamance County & Burlington are poised for growth

  • CRE success today hinges on strategic site selection & forward-looking development planning

    • CRE Resource Section

    Your Resource for Commercial Real Estate

    I want to be your go-to resource for all things commercial real estate. Whether you’re questioning your property’s value, evaluating an investment, planning improvements, or trying to understand your next move, I can help connect you with the right insights and people to move forward with confidence.

    I will work with you to ensure you have the insights, tools and people to be in the driver seat with your decisions.

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    Follow along for insights, deal perspectives, and conversations shaping commercial real estate.

Episode 17 | Inside the CCIM Designation with PJ Doherty

May 6, 2026

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Marcus Thomas, AIA, NCARB, President and CEO of KEi Architects, to explore the intersection of visionary design and community impact. As the leader of a prominent minority-owned architecture firm serving the Southeast, Marcus brings a unique perspective on how thoughtful design drives long-term institutional goals and equitable growth.

Episode 16 | Cost Segregation Explained with Kevin Giles

April 9, 2026

In this episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Kevin Giles, Director at Giles Flythe Engineers, to pull back the curtain on the technical and financial lifecycles of commercial real estate. Since 2010, Kevin has been a pivotal partner for investors and developers, providing the critical due diligence and tax optimization strategies that turn a “good deal” into a high-performing asset.

Episode 15 | User-first design in Commercial Architecture with Marcus Thomas, AIA

March 26, 2026

In this Behind the Building episode, Emilee Collins, CCIM sits down with Marcus Thomas, AIA, NCARB, President and CEO of KEi Architects, to explore the intersection of visionary design and community impact. As the leader of a prominent minority-owned architecture firm serving the Southeast, Marcus brings a unique perspective on how thoughtful design drives long-term institutional goals and equitable growth.