2017 Women in Real Estate Spotlight - Natalie Herald

Years in real estate: 18

What real estate associations or organizations are you a member of: Real Estate Finance Association, and CREFC 

How have you navigated obstacles to achieve success in your career: I made a job change in 2007 which turned out not to be the right fit coupled with a real estate cycle that was clearly ending. I needed to make a change but was concerned about the interruption in my career and having a job blip on my resume. Ultimately a career is a long game and by maintaining a good network and relationships it proved not to be an issue. It gave me an opportunity to reflect on the reasons I took the job in the first place and also what my skills and strengths were positioned for.    

How do you play your strengths to your advantage in your career: My ability to build relationships and get along with lots of different personalities is very useful as a transaction oriented investment professional. Having people that are always willing to take your call or get together even if significant time has passed since your last interaction is important. As a nationally oriented investor you never know when paths will cross again but inevitably they always do.  I’ve done plenty of deals that have resulted from existing relationship referrals. In a competitive landscape being known as someone who is good to work with has been beneficial.