In commercial real estate, location has always been a top priority—and for good reason. Knowing the local zoning rules, traffic flow, and what’s being built nearby can greatly impact a property’s value. That’s why many firms have focused on building strong local knowledge, often expanding into new markets by opening regional offices or teaming up with local experts who know the area well.

Over time, we’ve learned that local expertise, while valuable, is not always enough. The tools have evolved, making access to traffic counts, demographics, zoning overlays, and comparative data widely available. What used to be considered “local knowledge” is now often just a few clicks away.

Specialists, Not Generalists

The advisory team at Sands realizes the value and limitations of location data; our focus is on understanding the business behind the building.  To truly uncover a tenant’s business health and an asset’s long-term value, we go deeper:

• We lean on internal collaboration between product-type specialists to ensure every opportunity is reviewed by experts who deeply understand the asset class, bringing together a full team to support each investment.
• We zoom-in to zoom-out, asking questions like:
  • How does the tenant’s revenue per square foot compare to industry benchmarks?
  • What trends in technology and consumer behaviour might impact the business in the next 5 years?

This awareness has led us to build a brokerage model based on deep industry knowledge rather than geographic coverage alone.  Instead of creating a network of generalists spread thin across markets, we’ve built deep teams of specialists—brokers who know specific asset types inside and out, from QSR and self-storage to car washes, medical, and more.

Who You Work With Matters

Making the right CRE investment isn’t just about choosing the right market or tenant—it’s about finding the right team to help you make sense of it all. Not every brokerage goes beyond the basics, so here are a few things to look for when choosing who to work with:

• Do they have experience with the kind of property you’re considering—or access to the insights you’ll need to understand it well? Different firms work in different ways, so it’s worth asking how familiar they are with your property type, and whether they can guide you through its specific challenges and opportunities.
• Do they bring in the right expertise when it’s needed? Some firms have dedicated specialists, others may rely on a broader network. What matters is that they’re able to offer well-rounded insight—even if that means tapping into additional voices internally.
• Do they guide you on how to manage or operate the asset after closing? Whether you’re hands-on or hands-off, a good brokerage can help you plan for stability and growth, not just acquisition.

At the end of the day, your investment partner should help you protect and grow your portfolio, so that your real estate decisions serve your long-term goals, your future, and your family. Interested in making SIG your partner? Connect with an advisor today https://signnn.com/meet-the-team/. 

Franchise restaurant properties remain a smart bet—here’s why they belong in your portfolio.

With elevated interest rates, tighter capital markets, and shifting consumer spending, investors are seeking stable, income-generating assets. Franchise restaurant real estate remains one of the strongest retail sectors, offering long-term leases, prime locations, and brand-backed tenants.

Franchise Restaurants vs. Independent Operators: Why Brand-Backed Tenants Matter

Investing in real estate comes with inherent risk, but franchise-backed properties offer a level of stability that independent operators must build over time.

• Established brand recognition drives repeat business, making these properties more resilient than standalone non-branded restaurants reliant on personal reputation. Independent operators are fully responsible for their success or failure and often have to rely on higher marketing and operational costs to stay profitable. 
• Franchisees benefit from national supply chains and operational support, marketing, as well as extensive R&D investments, which give them greater financial durability in uncertain markets. Independent operators need to negotiate their own supplier contracts and logistics which has an impact on their profit margins. 

For investors, franchise-backed restaurant real estate delivers strong tenant security, reliable cash flow, and long-term appreciation potential.

Macroeconomic Factors Strengthening Franchise Restaurant Real Estate

1. Stability in High-Rate, High-Inflation Markets

After a period of aggressive rate hikes, interest rates remain elevated, making stable, cash-flow-positive assets even more valuable.

• Franchise restaurant properties often operate under longer-term leases, providing a more predictable income stream. Additionally, franchisees have the flexibility to structure leases with annual rent escalations, helping landlords hedge against inflation and maintain steady revenue growth over time.
• Many top brands have strong pricing power derived from their loyal customer bases and strong brand recognition. This allows them to pass on any rising costs to the consumer without seeing a fall in foot traffic.
• One of the most popular lease types with franchise restaurants, triple net leases, transfer the operating costs to the tenant, protecting investors from any rising expenses.
• Fast food demand remains strong even during unstable financial times, with many consumers favoring more affordable options. 

2. Sale-Leaseback Transactions Are Increasing, Providing Strong Investment Opportunities

Higher interest rates have increased the cost of debt for operators, leading many franchisees to look at alternative sources of capital through sale-leaseback transactions. Investors can capitalize on this opportunity and benefit from: 

• Higher cap rates, driven by the flexibility of franchisees who understand their rent affordability, make this a standout option compared to other asset types like office or multifamily, which have been impacted by rising interest rates and have less flexibility.
• Portfolio diversification with brands that have a proven track record. With multiple locations, multi-unit franchise operators have access to higher institutional knowledge, helping them navigate challenges. 
• Tenants with strong credit profiles and built-in rent escalations.

3. Prime Locations Drive Property Value and Long-Term Demand

Despite the dominance of online ordering and delivery services, physical restaurant locations remain a cornerstone of the franchise model. Rather than replacing brick-and-mortar spaces, digital demand is reshaping them, driving the need for prime locations with large kitchens, dedicated pickup areas, and expanded drive-thru lanes to accommodate both in-person and online customers. 

When evaluating restaurant real estate, it’s essential to consider these evolving needs, ensuring spaces are optimized for both traditional dining and the growing digital market.

The Future of Franchise Restaurant Real Estate in 2025 and Beyond

The restaurant industry is evolving, but franchise-backed QSRs continue to drive real estate demand. The sector is being reshaped by shifting consumer behaviors, evolving restaurant formats, and financial market conditions, creating new opportunities for investors who stay ahead of the curve.

February 24, 2025 | By SIG’s Truck Stop Team – Tyler Ellinger, Matt Montagne and Yossi Freeman:  Assisting our clients in selling the Petro Dodge City Travel Center was a unique challenge, and we had been in discussions with the seller for about a year before we brought the right buyer to the table. The market was unpredictable—interest rates have fluctuated, and that made investors hesitant about high-ticket transactions. The seller, an experienced travel center operator, wanted to diversify his portfolio, but only if the pricing aligned with his business plan.

Navigating the Negotiation

Initial Discussions – One Year Prior
We started working with a seasoned travel center operator who was considering diversifying his portfolio but was unsure if he could achieve the right price point in a shifting market.

Market Uncertainty – Interest Rate Volatility
With the economy shifting, investors became more cautious, making high-value transactions harder to come by as the inventory and buyer pools got smaller. We worked closely with the seller to show how the right buyer could see the property’s long-term value and justify the price.

Buyer Identified – Full Asking Price Secured
Through targeted outreach and strategic positioning, we connected with a buyer who saw the property’s value and was willing to meet the full asking price based on the information and intangibles that we were able to put together with the help of the seller. This turning point reinforced that solid fundamentals could instill confidence even in a market where many were hesitant to move forward.

Negotiation Challenges – Inventory Valuation Dispute
A disagreement over the truck service center inventory threatened to derail the transaction. Instead of allowing the deal to stall, we helped both sides move past the short-term roadblock and towards the financial projections and the future success of the business, demonstrating how corporate efficiencies would drive higher revenue per gallon. By reframing the discussion around long-term value, we helped both sides find common ground.

Closing the Deal – A Market-Defining Transaction
With all concerns addressed and both parties aligned, the deal moved forward to completion, marking the most expensive travel center sale to TA in 2024.

Why This Worked

Some deals are about the numbers, and while the numbers are important, the key here was finding the right partners that could create a win/win for all parties involved. We worked to ensure both sides understood the long-term value of the deal and felt confident in their decision and more importantly, it reinforced what I believe brokerage should be about—clarity, trust, and keeping deals on track even when challenges arise.

In 2024 we welcomed top talent, expanded into new markets, and refined our offerings to serve our clients better. Whether you’re a longtime client or considering joining our team, we’re proud to share how we’ve evolved to create more opportunities and deliver even greater value. Read more →

Industrial properties are increasingly recognized as lucrative investments, thanks to the booming e-commerce sector, growing logistics demands, and revitalized manufacturing industries. However, success in this sector requires more than recognizing demand—it requires a strategic approach to evaluating locations. Understanding factors such as accessibility, market trends, workforce availability, and regulatory compliance is critical to ensuring stability and long-term asset performance.

The Role of Accessibility and Infrastructure in Industrial Real Estate

Accessibility is central to the success of industrial properties. Locations with excellent transportation links—highways, railways, ports, and airports—support cost-effective logistics and operational efficiency. Properties close to suppliers, production centers, or key consumer markets further streamline supply chains. Urban-edge areas or logistics hubs in growing metropolitan regions often offer the dual benefit of affordability and connectivity. These characteristics make accessibility a fundamental consideration when assessing industrial property investments.

Market Demand and Growth Potential: The Stability Factor

Assessing market demand and growth potential is critical for maintaining stable industrial assets. Properties in regions with high absorption rates and low vacancy rates signal strong tenant demand, which contributes to steady cash flow and reduced risk. For example, industrial properties in Sunbelt markets like Nashville, Atlanta, and Dallas-Fort Worth have experienced year-over-year rent increases of over 8%, according to Commercial Edge’s Industrial Market Report. Investors benefit from focusing on regions where population growth, economic expansion, and industry development align to support long-term stability.

Workforce Availability: A Key to Tenant and Property Performance

A property’s proximity to a skilled and reliable workforce is critical for tenant satisfaction and operational efficiency. Industrial operations often require a mix of skilled and unskilled labor, and areas with a strong labor pool offer long-term stability. In order to understand the ability to hire in the area, you must assess labor market conditions, including availability, wage trends, and employment stability, ensuring investors choose properties in regions that meet workforce requirements. Workforce availability not only attracts tenants but also supports sustained demand for the property.

Navigating Zoning Laws and Regulatory Complexities

Zoning laws and environmental regulations play a crucial role in industrial real estate. These regulations dictate permissible uses and operational constraints, directly affecting a property’s functionality. Properties that meet these requirements reduce legal risks and maintain tenant usability. Understanding zoning and regulatory compliance ensures that an investment property aligns with both legal standards and operational needs. Investors must conduct thorough due diligence to mitigate risks and safeguard their investments against future challenges.

Property Condition and Flexibility: Maximizing Tenant Appeal and Yield

The condition and flexibility of a property significantly impact its investment value and tenant appeal. Tenants increasingly prioritize facilities that support modern technology, operational adaptability, and room for expansion. Investors should carefully evaluate structural integrity and major systems such as HVAC and roofing. These “big ticket” items play a crucial role in lease structures where landlords bear maintenance costs and remain vital in triple-net leases, as they influence tenant satisfaction, retention, and the property’s marketability. Ensuring a property is well-maintained and adaptable strengthens its position in the market, bolsters tenant appeal, and enhances long-term financial performance.

In conclusion, evaluating industrial property locations requires a methodical approach that balances accessibility, market demand, workforce considerations, regulatory compliance, and property flexibility. These factors collectively determine the potential of an industrial investment to deliver stable returns and future growth. As investors navigate this dynamic sector, a keen eye on market trends, thorough due diligence, and strategic decision-making will set them apart in securing high-performing assets. By understanding and leveraging these critical aspects, investors can position themselves for success in the thriving industrial real estate market.

Contact the SIG Industrial team today to explore tailored strategies for industrial property investments and achieve your financial goals.

LOS ANGELES, CA – Sands Investment Group (SIG) is excited to announce that Jonathan Silver has joined the team as Vice President – Investment Sales Advisor. With a wealth of experience in commercial real estate investment, Jonathan brings a proven track record of success to the firm’s Los Angeles office. Read more →

ATLANTA, GA – Sands Investment Group (SIG) is excited to announce that Paul Fischetti has joined the team as a Senior Investment Advisor, bringing his extensive expertise in retail and restaurant development to the Atlanta Metropolitan area. Read more →

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Sands Investment Group (SIG) proudly welcomes Jacob Strahler as Vice President – Investment Advisor, specializing in single-tenant net-lease and multi-tenant retail properties. Read more →

AUSTIN, TX – Sands Investment Group (SIG), a leading commercial real estate investment advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Michael Gonzalez has joined the team as Vice President – Investment Advisor. Gonzalez brings more than a decade of expertise in investment sales real estate to SIG. Read more →

Convenience stores (c-stores) have long been appreciated for their accessibility and essential offerings. Yet today’s consumers expect more than just convenience—they’re looking for healthier options, digital conveniences, and environmentally responsible practices. This shift in consumer expectations opens new opportunities for investors who see the potential of evolving c-stores to attract a broader, more engaged customer base and remain relevant in a competitive market. Embracing these changes not only boosts profitability and property value but also positions investors at the forefront of an industry in transformation. Sands Investment Group (SIG) offers strategic guidance to help investors leverage these trends for growth and resilience.

Changing Consumer Expectations

The evolving c-store industry is responding to changing consumer values and lifestyles. Key transformations in the market include healthier food options, advanced technological integration, and sustainable initiatives that resonate with today’s customers.

Hot and Healthy Food Options
Today’s health-conscious shoppers want more than traditional convenience fare. Many c-stores now offer hot, freshly prepared meals that cater to diverse tastes, including items like grilled chicken sandwiches and customizable salads. These nutritious and appealing options position c-stores as convenient dining destinations, increasing per-visit spending. By transforming their food offerings, c-stores turn quick stops into opportunities for customers to spend more while enjoying a higher-quality experience.

Technology Enhancing Experience
Technology is revolutionizing the shopping journey in c-stores. Self-checkout kiosks, mobile ordering platforms, and contactless payment systems are no longer optional—they are essential. These features streamline operations and create frictionless experiences that encourage customers to explore additional products. Andrew Ackerman, Executive Managing Partner at SIG, explains: “The industry has consistently evolved—from full-service stations to self-service, from cash-only to digital payments, and now to cashierless convenience. Innovation drives profitability.” For investors, adopting such technology boosts customer satisfaction while enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing transaction volumes.

Sustainability and EV Infrastructure
Sustainability is a growing priority for consumers, and c-stores are adapting by integrating environmentally friendly features such as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These stations attract eco-conscious customers, open doors to new revenue streams, and position properties as future-ready. Investors who prioritize such sustainable practices can align their assets with both consumer values and emerging regulatory trends, ensuring competitive positioning in the marketplace.

The Investor Advantage: Driving Profitability and Stability

Investors in modernized c-stores stand to gain substantial benefits and by aligning with consumer preferences, these stores can significantly increase their profitability. Enhanced food offerings, for instance, not only attract a broader range of customers but also drive higher spending per visit. A customer stopping for fuel might now spend an additional $15 on freshly prepared meals, beverages, or other essentials—a marked improvement over traditional transaction volumes.

Profitability also plays a critical role in the overall stability of a c-store investment. Successful stores with robust revenue streams bolster the creditworthiness of their operators, paving the way for stronger lease agreements. John Brown, Investment Sales Advisor at SIG, highlights this shift: “C-Stores are now expanding… with larger stores, sometimes over 4,500 square feet, and full kitchens. The trend is moving toward high-margin food service, clean landscaping, and an overall consumer-friendly experience.” Properties that fail to adapt risk losing value and missing out on future growth.

Conclusion

The evolving c-store landscape offers unique opportunities for investors willing to adapt. By embracing consumer-driven trends such as health-focused offerings, advanced technology, and sustainability, c-stores can stand out in a competitive retail space, attract a loyal customer base, and increase property value. For investors, these adaptations not only drive higher profitability but also build resilience against market shifts.

At Sands Investment Group, we are dedicated to helping investors navigate these changes with precision and insight. Our experienced advisors offer in-depth market analysis to pinpoint the best opportunities and provide tailored strategies to align c-store investments with emerging trends. By guiding investors through strategic improvements—whether in technology or sustainable practices—we ensure that c-store properties remain relevant, profitable, and positioned for future growth. With SIG’s support, your investments in the c-store sector can capture today’s consumer demands and drive long-term success.

Contact our C-Store Team today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

The casual dining sector is evolving rapidly due to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. These shifts are going to start having an impact on property values, making it essential for commercial real estate investors to understand how these trends influence investment potential. By aligning investments with the current trends shaping the casual dining landscape, investors can ensure long-term value growth and portfolio resilience.

1. Enhanced Customer Experiences and Property Value

Today’s diners seek more than just good food—they want memorable, immersive experiences. In response, casual dining establishments are investing in ambiance, expanding outdoor seating, and incorporating entertainment features. Properties that can accommodate these elements can help to increase the value, as they allow tenants to cater to the demand for experiential dining. For investors, choosing adaptable spaces that enhance customer experience can attract tenants who are willing to pay higher rents and sign longer leases. This ultimately boosts the property’s income potential and enhances overall asset value.

2. Digital Integration as a Value Driver

The adoption of digital solutions such as online ordering, delivery, and contactless payments has become a standard in casual dining. Properties with robust digital infrastructure—like high-speed internet and dedicated pickup areas—are increasingly appealing to tenants who want to stay competitive in the digital age. Doug Roland, investment advisor at Sands Investment Group, notes that with the rise of platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, operators have been able to “utilize smaller square footage, less parking, and reduce labor costs. This setup makes for more stable tenants which ultimately reduces investor risk.” Working with SIG investment advisors allows investors to have access to key insights into which tenants and operators are taking advantage of technological advancements and which are not.

3. Sustainability Enhances Appeal and Long-Term Value

Environmental consciousness is rising among both consumers and businesses. Casual dining establishments are thus seeking eco-friendly, energy-efficient properties. Buildings that offer sustainable features often command higher values because they align with tenants’ goals of reducing environmental impact and operational costs. Sustainable properties attract tenants willing to pay a premium for green features such as solar panels, gray water recycling, and LED lighting, which in turn strengthens tenant retention and supports long-term value growth. Investors who focus on sustainability not only meet current market demands but also mitigate potential risks associated with future environmental regulations, adding to their properties’ resilience.

4. Multi-Use Spaces Increase Versatility and Value

Casual dining establishments are increasingly interested in spaces that can serve multiple purposes beyond dining, such as hosting events or providing co-working areas. Multi-use properties that offer this flexibility tend to have higher market values as they can cater to diverse tenant needs and adapt to shifting demands. For investors, this versatility translates into greater revenue potential, as such properties can attract a broader range of tenants looking for spaces that maximize both utility and adaptability.

5. Prime Location and Accessibility as Core Value Indicators

Despite the rise of delivery services, location remains critical for casual dining success. Doug Roland emphasizes that “geography is very important, as properties in high-traffic areas with easy access to parking and public transit continue to attract a steady flow of customers”. For investors, focusing on properties in strategic locations helps maintain strong rental rates and consistent tenant demand. By choosing locations with prime accessibility, investors increase their chances for not only stable income but also long-term property appreciation.

6. Menu Innovation and Its Influence on Property Value

Menu innovation is another trend influencing casual dining real estate. Diners today are more adventurous, favoring unique, high-quality, and often health-conscious options. Restaurants focused on menu innovation often require adaptable kitchen spaces that can accommodate evolving culinary trends and specialized equipment. Properties with flexible layouts or potential for kitchen expansion appeal to tenants who prioritize menu creativity as a way to differentiate themselves. Investors who recognize this trend can select properties that cater to forward-thinking tenants, enhancing both rental income and property value.

How SIG’s Investment Advisors Provide Value to Investors

Our investment advisors bring valuable insights to investors in casual dining real estate by aligning investment strategies with key market trends. Through expert analysis, we identify properties that are adaptable, digitally integrated, and sustainability-focused, ensuring these assets meet current tenant demands and support long-term growth. By leveraging their deep knowledge of prime locations and multi-use property potential, our investment advisors help investors make informed decisions that optimize property value, attract quality tenants, and enhance portfolio resilience. This strategic guidance positions investors to navigate a dynamic market effectively and secure sustainable returns.

Contact our restaurant team today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

The early education sector is emerging as a hotbed of commercial real estate investment, driven by profound demographic shifts and economic changes. Despite disruptions during the pandemic, demand for modern early education facilities continues to grow, making the future of this property type promising for savvy investors. Let’s explore the key factors shaping this opportunity and why now is the time to invest in the future of early childhood education.

1. Shifting Demographics & Post-Pandemic Recovery

Urban and suburban areas are seeing a surge in young families seeking quality early education for their children. While COVID-19 caused enrollment to plummet—dropping from 54% to 40% for 3- to 4-year-olds between 2019 and 2020—there’s been a steady recovery. By 2021, enrollment climbed back to 50%, and the trend continues upward.

Adam Bridges, Senior Investment Advisor at Sands Investment Group, notes, “We’ve seen a strong bounce back in childcare enrollments post-pandemic, which is encouraging for investors looking at performance at the unit level.”

This recovery presents an opportunity to meet the growing demand for innovative, high-quality facilities, especially as more parents re-enter the workforce. With young families and strong employment rates driving the need for modern learning environments, now is the time to invest in this resilient market.

2. The Impact of Expiring Pandemic Funding

As pandemic-related financial support for early education facilities ends, there’s a shift towards long-term sustainability. During the crisis, many centers relied on federal grants, but now the focus is on operators who can thrive independently.

Bridges explains, “When underwriting a center, we factor out pandemic grant money to ensure long-term viability. Investors need to pay attention to tenant resilience—especially as federal aid is phased out.”

For investors, this makes tenant stability a critical factor. SIG’s research highlights the importance of partnering with operators who are self-sufficient and able to provide stable cash flows. The right tenants will ensure a robust return on investment in a post-pandemic world.

3. Dual-Income Households & the Rising Demand for Reliable Childcare

With both parents working in most households, childcare has become a necessity. This societal shift has transformed early education facilities into essential infrastructure, especially in suburban areas where childcare options are scarce.

“Childcare is no longer a luxury—it’s essential for dual-income households,” Bridges emphasizes. “Investors who cater to this need are not only filling a market gap but also providing a vital community service.”

Investors who develop or repurpose properties into early education centers are addressing a growing societal need while securing solid investment returns. Facilities offering full-day programs that align with parents’ work schedules are in high demand, making them attractive both socially and economically.

4. Economic Resilience & Stability

One of the most appealing aspects of investing in early education is its economic resilience. Unlike other commercial real estate sectors that experience fluctuations, early education remains a steady and essential service. Parents consistently prioritize their children’s education, even in tough economic times.

“Early education is a stable product type with growing operators nationwide,” says Ryan Sompayrac, SIG’s Investment Sales Advisor. “We’re seeing expansion and development in the number of operators and facilities in the education space, making this sector a solid choice for growth-oriented investors.”

How SIG Helps Investors Navigate the Early Education Market

At SIG, we understand the complexities of investing in early education. Our team offers expert guidance in identifying high-quality tenants who can operate independently of short-term financial aid. We closely monitor market trends and policy changes to help investors make informed decisions.

Bridges further highlights, “SIG’s national platform allows us to connect our clients with out-of-state buyers willing to pay a premium, helping them maximize their investment returns.”

By partnering with SIG, investors can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of early education facilities and capitalize on the rising demand in this sector. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to this market, our team is here to help position your investments for long-term success.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

When we say SIG is a values-driven business, this really comes to life with SIGives, our charitable giving arm. Through donating a combination of our time, energy, and treasures, we acknowledge that beyond the commercial real estate bubble, there are bigger things that require our attention, and that with knowledge comes responsibility.

This idea that SIG is bigger than any individual, and should have a positive impact in the world, but most significantly, within the communities where we work, predates the founding of the company. Back in 2010, when Chris and Liz Sands started SIG in Santa Monica, CA, they infused their own values associated with giving and service into the company’s DNA. They recognized that real estate brokerage can often be very self-focused, overly individualistic, and cut-throat, core traits that they wanted to avoid and why they wanted to do things differently with SIG. This alternative way of looking at the world and doing business has taken hold at SIG and has become such a fundamental pillar in our success, that the quarterly community outreach projects are no longer mandated but rather motivated and self-propelled by each of our current seven offices.  

“SIGives is absolutely the epitome of our culture and values, particularly collaboration, gratitude, and giving back. On more than one occasion, I’ve heard from candidates and new hires that the SIG culture and SIGives sets us apart and is a key reason why people want to work for us,” says Liz Sands, SIG co-founder.

SIGives Today

While we donate our time as part of SIGives, we also know that many of the organizations that we work with need more than just volunteers which is why we give a percentage of our revenue to organizations that are working to improve the communities in which we operate. In 2022, we proudly hit the milestone of $1 million donated in a year. 

When it comes to giving our time, each office location comes together quarterly for a day of giving back where we spend time volunteering with the causes closest to our hearts in our local communities. Recent examples are a local animal shelter in Austin TX and a beach clean up in Charleston, SC.  

Finally, it’s important to us that SIGives extends to our own team members. When someone has a cause that is near and dear to them, they just need to ask and we contribute to any charitable initiative that our team member is involved with in their personal capacities. 

SIGives in 2024

Our recent SIGives office activities included:

• Cleared invasive plant species from several acres of Valley Forge National Park – Philadelphia, PA
• Beach clean up on Sullivan’s Island – Charleston, SC 
• South Florida Broadcaster’s Celebrity Golf tournament in association with the My Family Matters foundation – Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Volunteered at Central Texas Food Bank – Austin, TX

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Events we are involved in this year: 

• We’re a headline sponsor of the Special Olympics Bocce Bash – Charleston, SC 
• Habitat For Humanity – Austin, TX
• CHOP event, Philadelphia, PA

Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics 

Long-standing beneficiaries of SIGives are Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics. Working in real estate, our support for Habitat for Humanity is apt. At ribbon-cutting ceremonies for newly built Habitat homes, we have met the new residents of homes we have helped build, which gives us our team a humble reminder of what real estate is really about and continues to fuel our passion for what we do. 

With Chris and Liz’s backgrounds as competitive athletes, the Special Olympics holds a special place in our hearts  – we believe that everyone should have access to the benefits and enjoyment that sports and competing gives you. Our teams have volunteered at games and we’ve sponsored events that have resulted in hundreds of athletes being able to compete at the Special Olympics.

“Donations from companies like Sands Investment Group are the lifeblood of Special Olympics South Carolina. Their loyal support over so many years has made our mission possible, and while they may not know you by name, our athletes carry thanks in their hearts for your contributions.”   

• Sandye Williams, Director of Development, Special Olympics South Carolina

Our Future Plans for SIGives

Looking ahead, we intend to grow and expand SIGives leaning into our CRE capabilities as strategic advisors and deal makers, all the while maintaining the program’s organic, grassroots ethos, where everyone at SIG feels ownership and has the ability to shape our charitable activities. We are honored to work with the organizations we do and proud of how SIGives continues to bring to life our culture, our values-based approach to CRE brokerage, and the SIGnificant difference you experience when choosing SIG.

In the ever-evolving Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) landscape, staying ahead of changing consumer behaviors is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Today’s QSR properties are not merely about fast food; they’re about smart, sustainable choices, technological advancements, and a commitment to quality that resonates with a new generation of consumers. It’s also becoming increasingly evident that in this dynamic arena, the role of informed, expert guidance cannot be overstated. This is where our team of product-type specialists come into play, offering expertise and insight into the QSR investment landscape, ensuring our investors are not just keeping pace but actually setting the pace in the industry. Read more →

Opportunities abound for self-storage, making it an asset class that shouldn’t be overlooked. This holds especially true for investors seeking to compound wealth and grow the net worth of their portfolio because of the flexibility and adaptability of the asset. Unlike other, more fixed-use type asset classes, self-storage can take on many different shapes, meaning the property can be quickly and easily adjusted depending on location, local needs, and changing market conditions.   Read more →

At SIG, we’ve always done things differently and put our values at the heart of everything we do. And, coming out of a tough 2023 and still achieving above-average growth, we know this difference is what creates success for us. Our core values – honesty, integrity, gratitude, giving back, and growth – have allowed us to grow a measurably excellent CRE brokerage service and a best-in-class company. 

Our Values

Our values mean that we are not a group of real estate brokers who look at each deal through a single-minded transactional lens. Instead, we are strategic advisors who build long-lasting partnerships with our clients. These partnerships are based on honesty and integrity – ensuring the best deals are done, with the best outcome for all involved, while still maintaining a premium quality of service.

Our values also mean that we cooperate and collaborate, internally and externally, to add value and drive growth. This drives better deals for our clients, giving them access to wider databases, more choices, and better outcomes. 

Make no mistake though, our brokers are also fiercely competitive. But uniquely, they work hard and compete in an environment where they can show up and be seen as their whole selves and grow as human beings while also being an integral part of growing our business. 

SIGives – Giving Back

One of our core beliefs for the past 14 years is that SIG is bigger than us, and that with success comes responsibility. This is reflected in our values of gratitude and giving back, and in the work we do to contribute to the wider community outside of the real estate bubble through SIGives.

SIGives is a program that donates a percentage of our revenue to organizations that work to improve the lives of others. This means that when you work with us, you’re doing more than just contributing towards our bottom line.

We also donate our time and effort. Every quarter, our team members in each of our offices go out into the community to get involved with causes making a difference. Some of the community projects we support include Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and our local pet shelters.

Why the SIG Difference Matters to You

For real estate investors, wherever you land on the investment spectrum, the SIG difference means we can offer you a full suite of CRE services across industrial, office, medical, multi-family, and shopping centers. We partner with you to understand your investment goals and work across our network to find the right deal for you, with a premium quality service level that delivers results.

Check out our recent listings here

For tenants, our ability to support your business expansion goals extends beyond our net lease specialization to full brokerage services. The quality of service and values-based relationships you already know us for will continue to strengthen this year.

Our team, and CRE professionals who want to work or collaborate with us, can be at the top of their CRE game while cultivating their very best selves, having a voice, and succeeding and growing while staying in alignment with their core values. 

On the topic of our team, we’re growing our office footprint in 2024, so check out our careers page to join SIG. 

So, Why Do We Think This Values-Based Approach to CRE Brokerage Will Work?

Because it already has. We have proven the model over the last 14 years with growth that we are very proud of. Last year we listed and sold almost $4 billion, comprising more than 700  properties – and we plan to continue the growth trajectory in 2024. We have achieved significant traction as we build on our net lease foundation to expand our portfolio of brokerage services: we reached $300 million in industrial deals and $250 million in shopping centers in 2023. We achieved this growth with a small, agile team, and an industry-leading real estate marketing platform. 

But don’t just take our word for it. Inc. Magazine has ranked us in their list of the 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in the US for four years in a row.

Many in the industry might be facing 2024 with trepidation, given the rough ride we had last year. But we are confident that our values-based approach to commercial real estate and our laser-sharp focus on providing the best quality of service, underpinned by our people and platform, will maintain our growth trajectory this year.