Commercial Real Estate: An Intern’s Perspective

Commercial real estate is a field that demands more than just academic knowledge; it requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from those who have already mastered the industry. This is something I learned firsthand when I crossed paths with Andy Westby, a successful commercial real estate agent at Goldmark Commercial in Fargo, ND. His passion and dedication left such a strong impression on me during a single class visit that I immediately knew I needed to work for him. That moment marked the beginning of my journey into the world of commercial real estate.

But before I dive deeper into that story, let me introduce myself. My name is Beck Erholtz, and I’m a proud native of central Minnesota. I attend North Dakota State University, where I’m a member of the Men’s Golf team. Currently, I’m in my “senior” season, although the term is a bit fluid given the complexities of academic timelines. I’m on track to graduate in Spring 2025 with a master’s in business administration, adding to my bachelor’s degree in finance.

Over the past nine months, I’ve gained invaluable experience in commercial real estate, far beyond what my academic courses could teach me. While my education in finance and business administration has given me a strong foundation, the lessons I’ve learned on the ground, in real-world scenarios, have been crucial. Commercial real estate is a dynamic field that often requires you to think on your feet, adapt to changes, and constantly seek new opportunities.

My journey with Goldmark Commercial began in December 2023 when Andy Westby took a chance on me. Initially, I discovered that Goldmark wasn’t planning to hire any interns for the Summer of 2024. While this could have been a setback, I saw it as an opportunity to show my determination. I scheduled another meeting with Andy, hoping to change his mind, and I succeeded. We worked out a flexible arrangement that fit my busy schedule while ensuring I was held accountable for my tasks, projects, and weekly responsibilities.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned during this internship is the importance of asking questions. When you’re surrounded by some of the best agents in the Fargo/West Fargo/Moorhead area, it’s crucial to tap into their knowledge and experience. In a field as complex and fast-paced as commercial real estate, asking questions and seeking guidance is key to growth.

In commercial real estate, success isn’t just about closing deals or mastering market trends, it’s about persistence and a commitment to continuous growth. This industry requires you to develop a thick skin, to be resilient in the face of rejection, and to keep pushing forward even when the path ahead isn’t entirely clear. It’s a field where the ability to build relationships is just as important as understanding the financials, and where networking and mentorship play crucial roles in career development.

During my time at Goldmark Commercial, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of building these relationships. Whether it’s collaborating with colleagues, negotiating with clients, or simply engaging with other professionals in the field, I’ve learned that every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow. The commercial real estate world thrives on connections, and I’ve found that the more I invest in those connections, the more I get out of them.

Another key aspect of my growth has been learning to embrace challenges. The commercial real estate landscape is constantly shifting, with market conditions, regulations, and client needs evolving regularly. This environment can be daunting for newcomers, but it’s also incredibly rewarding for those willing to adapt. Each challenge I’ve faced has pushed me to think creatively, to problem-solve on the fly, and to approach obstacles as opportunities for innovation.

Finally, my experience has reinforced the value of mentorship. Having someone like Andy Westby, and the team of expert commercial agents, in our office in my corner has been instrumental in my development. Their guidance has helped me navigate the complexities of the industry, and their willingness to invest in my growth has made all the difference. This mentorship has shown me that learning doesn’t stop after graduation, it’s a lifelong process, especially in a field as dynamic as commercial real estate.

Persistence is what led me to this internship, and it’s what continues to drive me forward in this industry. If there’s one takeaway from my journey so far, it’s that success in commercial real estate, or any field, for that matter, comes to those who are willing to put in the effort, ask the right questions, and never stop learning.