Nothing beats hard work.
January 18th, 2008 was my first day working in Commercial Real Estate. I still remember arriving early that morning, and receiving a phone call from my father. “Never change who you are” he said, knowing how nervous I was in trying to follow my brother, Robert, into Investment property sales at Marcus & Millichap. I had to make this work, I cannot fail, I thought to myself. After a one and a half decades of ups and downs, listings and closings, and seemingly endless negotiations, a lesson I learned many years prior while working on a local farm during high school and college summers, still rings true: nothing beats hard work.
My nearly $2 Billion in Net Leased Property sales is a testament to that hard work, but equally a testament to the amazing client relationships I have created along the way. I knew from the beginning that the key to success is one’s long-term client relationships. I am extremely grateful and appreciative for the clients that I am lucky to have, as many now have become true friends. Assisting my brother, Robert Bender, and his partner, Doug Passon, in 2009 we built Fortis Net Lease to better serve our clients in every aspect of the real estate holding / selling continuum. Our focus since our inception has been aimed towards achieving our client’s real estate goals, while helping them preserve and create wealth. Thereby, our goals are our client’s goals.
From FNL Agent #1 to Partner & Managing Director, my wife, Isabel, has been by my side since we met while attending the University of Michigan. When I am not behind my computer screens piecing together transactions, you’ll find me with Isabel and my three wonderful children, either near home or on the shores of Lake Huron enjoying Pure Michigan. I credit any success I have attained to my parents, from whom I learned the meaning of work; to my older brother Rob, for being not only my mentor but also for providing me this opportunity, and to my incredible Junior Partners, Ben and Andy, as they truly keep me on the tracks.
My plan is to continue to work tirelessly for the benefit of my clients, while helping to navigate the direction of Fortis Net Lease and our amazing agents for many years to come.
Personal Sales Volume Results:
2021 Sales: $315,500,000
2020 Sales: $263,500,000
2019 Sales: $$185,648,324
2018 Sales: $197,535,276
2017 Sales: $138,870,028
2016 Sales: $144,978,176
2015 Sales: $144,884,881
2014 Sales: $155,741,029
2013 Sales: $145,885,099
Awards:
2 Time GlobeSt. ReForum: INFLUENCER IN NET LEASE (Link to Article)
Crain’s Detroit Business: Broker of the Year (Link to Article)
CoStar Power Broker Award: 2015′,16′,17′,18′,19′,20′,21′
Memberships:
Forbes | Real Estate Council
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)