310. Bullish on CRE? "America's Commercial Real Estate Show" Host Michael Bull Tells All
Feb 25, 2025
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Michael Bull, Founder and CEO of Bull Realty, brings over 35 years of experience in commercial real estate to the table. He reflects on his journey from leasing apartments to overseeing a successful brokerage. Michael emphasizes integrity and quality service as key to thriving through market cycles. He predicts that the current office market could turn into 'the buy of the decade,' despite challenges. Plus, he shares insights from hosting America's Commercial Real Estate Show for 14 years, enhancing his expertise and networking.
Michael Bull emphasizes that integrity and exceptional service are fundamental for sustainable success in commercial real estate.
Despite current challenges, Bull predicts the office market may present significant investment opportunities as it stabilizes.
Deep dives
Michael Bull's Journey into Commercial Real Estate
Michael Bull began his career in commercial real estate while leasing apartments during his college years. After gaining experience in property management and successfully tripling the size of a management company, he shifted his focus to sales. At just 22 years old, he transitioned into full-time commission sales, initially selling apartments. This early exposure to the industry laid the foundation for his successful career, as it instilled a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the client perspective.
Core Values that Drive Success
The key to sustaining success in a brokerage firm, according to Bull, lies in a strong mission statement rooted in integrity and exceptional service. Prioritizing the needs of clients and treating all parties in a transaction with respect fosters long-lasting relationships. Instead of chasing commissions, delivering top-notch service aligns with his firm's philosophy and has contributed to long-term growth. This commitment to ethical practices has helped Bull's firm navigate various market cycles successfully.
Navigating Market Downturns
Michael Bull's extensive experience during downturns, such as the S&L crisis, has shaped his approach to the commercial real estate market. He emphasizes the significance of a robust work ethic and the ability to creatively solve problems for clients, especially in distressed situations. His firm thrived in previous recessions by adapting to the challenges presented, such as orchestrating complex transactions that required innovative solutions. This focus on creativity and overcoming obstacles continues to be crucial for agents facing current market challenges.
Evolving Trends in the Atlanta Market
The commercial real estate landscape in Atlanta is shifting, with increasing activity in sectors like office and medical spaces. Bull notes that lenders are beginning to work through challenges, which opens opportunities for more REO assignments. He observes a divide within the office market, as prime Class A properties continue to perform well while older buildings struggle. Bull is optimistic about the future, predicting that as the market stabilizes, investors will see significant value opportunities in Atlanta's evolving environment.
In this special guest episode of The TreppWire Podcast, we are joined by Michael Bull, founder and CEO of Bull Realty, and host of America’s Commercial Real Estate Show. With over 35 years in commercial real estate and more than $8 billion in transactions, Michael shares insights from his journey from leasing apartments while in college to running a successful brokerage licensed in 8 states. We discuss how integrity and quality service have been the cornerstones of his business through multiple market cycles, and how creative problem-solving helps close complex deals. Michael offers his perspective on the current office market, predicting it may be "the buy of the decade" despite current challenges. We also explore his experience hosting America's Commercial Real Estate Show for over 14 years, and how it has sharpened his industry expertise. Tune in now.
Episode Notes:
- Michael's Journey into Commercial Real Estate (01:24)
- Building a Brokerage on Integrity (3:30)
- Navigating Market Downturns (6:29)
- The Future of the Office Market (13:35)
- Hosting America's Commercial Real Estate Show (20:27)