CCIM Q&A with Candis Pressley, CCIM - CEO, Trinity Real Estate

Why and When Did You Become a CCIM?

When I initially became a licensed real estate agent, I had a strong desire to pursue commercial real estate; however, I was uncertain of the best path to make my transition. When I decided it was time to turn my dream into reality, I made the strategic decision to pursue the CCIM Designation while simultaneously pursuing my graduate degree via the University Fast Track program. I earned my CCIM Designation in 2017.

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How Long did it take you to go through the process and meet the requirements?

The entire process took me about two and a half years, from when I finished graduate school to meeting all of the CCIM Designation requirements. I found that the University Fast Track program really streamlined some of the process and made me feel as if the CCIM Designation was within my reach.

What was the greatest challenge of becoming a CCIM?

I must admit the portfolio part of the process seemed quite daunting to me. Luckily, my mentors are esteemed CCIM Designees, and I was able to seek their guidance. They provided me with great advice on best practices for creating a successful submission, and they were gracious enough to share their own subjective experiences and strategies. This insight and support helped me approach this aspect of earning my CCIM Designation with confidence.

Although I found the portfolio challenging, I must attest that I had a very supportive network who helped me navigate this aspect of the process.

What is the greatest value you have gained from becoming a CCIM?

One of the greatest values I have discovered through the process of becoming a CCIM is the power of networking and learning from my peers.

For example, during a recent governance meeting, I met a colleague who shared an interesting story about a deal he was trying to broker. Rather than continuing on that path, he ended up pursuing a joint venture and successfully completed the deal himself. I called him to gain more insight into this process and what he learned along the way. The knowledge he shared was invaluable and inspired me to explore a similar opportunity in my market. These types of interactions and exchanges are priceless; they foster a real sense of community.

Why would you encourage others to take the path to CCIM Designation?

I firmly believe in the power of continuous learning and pushing yourself to stay on top of professional pursuits. For me, the path to the CCIM Designation has been a pivotal tool to my success.

The coursework and tools in the classes are so useful in my representation of clients, giving me the insight and information I need to be the best real estate agent I can be. The curriculum and real-world applications have given me the skills necessary to provide exceptional service to my clients. Having the CCIM Designation has also set me apart from my competitors, giving me a competitive edge and signifying my commitment to professional excellence.

Earning the CCIM Designation has instilled in me a newfound confidence and a deeper understanding of commercial real estate. I am grateful for the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities the CCIM Designation has brought into my life.

What do you tell others in the industry about being a CCIM?

I wholeheartedly encourage others, especially those who are already active practitioners, to invest in themselves and take the crucial step toward a CCIM Designation. I believe it's worth embarking on the journey.

The curriculum will help you gain a better understanding of financial analysis and negotiation tactics and enhance your ability to obtain favorable outcomes for your clients.

It is essential for people to recognize that the CCIM Designation stands as the pinnacle designation for commercial and investment real estate professionals. This is the gold standard to pursue if someone aims to broaden their career opportunities and deepen their standing in the market.

While there may be other programs that attempt to emulate its impact, The CCIM Institute remains unmatched. There is a wealth of ongoing educational resources and professional development opportunities. The CCIM Institute offers a wide range of classes and webinars that are held continuously, ensuring that professionals can continue to enhance their knowledge and stay abreast of the latest industry trends.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

To my younger self, I would say I wish I had the insight to transition to commercial real estate earlier in my career. Commercial real estate is full of unique opportunities, challenges, and rewards. By entering this realm sooner, I could have accelerated my professional growth.

Hindsight, I do not regret any parts of my path; each turn has shaped the professional I have become.

In the coming three years, what do you predict is the next “big thing” to hit the industry?

It's possible we will see an upward trend in office spaces again. While the rise of co-working and a collaborative, flexible workspace has remained prevalent since COVID, I see it eventually shifting again for various reasons. I envision very innovative designs, including spaces for socializing and private spaces for relaxation and mental health.

At A Glance

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CANDIS PRESSLEY, CCIM, a lifelong devotee of the real estate industry, has achieved remarkable milestones throughout her career. Starting as a licensed real estate agent at 19, she steadily progressed to becoming a licensed

broker. Pressley has expertly managed portfolios exceeding three million sf of commercial real estate, including involvement in a $192 million municipal budget.

Her passion for real estate is evident through her property acquisitions, such as a recent 3,400-sf commercial building and parking lot. Serving as a versatile business flex space, it includes a co-working/event space, a full-service commercial kitchen, and a real estate school.

In 2020, Pressley founded Trinity Property Advisors, an MBE-certified boutique commercial real estate firm, now also a general contractor, operating in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and New York. She has held leadership positions within esteemed industry organizations, including the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

A Philadelphia native, Pressley graduated from Temple University with a bachelor's in business administration, majoring in real estate. She also holds a master's of science in real estate from the University of Florida, awarded in 2015. Pressley obtained the coveted CCIM Designation in 2017 and is a member of The CCIM Institute's prestigious Jay W. Levine Leadership Class of 2023. She is also a single parent of Colin, an awesome 11-year-old.