Commercial Investment Real Estate Winter 2020 | Page 41

BHATNAGAR: I recently completed all the core courses, and my education to this point has tremendously increased my confidence and analysis skills. I can thoroughly analyze different scenarios and take the correct course of action. I can better understand the pressing issues and educate my clients about them. I was successful both as a busi- ness owner and as an investor before begin- ning my CCIM education, but the concept of the time value of money has been a huge- ly significant takeaway from CCIM. Carmela Ma, CCIM, inspires me the most, and she continues to be my role model. After finishing CI 101, I realized that getting the pin will not only enhance my skills and confidence, but it will also grow my business at a faster pace. CIRE: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHAL- LENGING ASPECT OF YOUR JOURNEY TOWARD THE CCIM DESIGNATION? BHATNAGAR: Really, the hardest part has been finding the necessary time for the courses. But after finishing CI 101, I real- ized that getting the CCIM pin will not only enhance my skills and confidence, but it will also grow my business at a faster pace. Once I receive my CCIM designation, I will be among the recognized leaders in the indus- try. My investors, lenders, and clients will all have more confidence in me. Because of this, I have prioritized my education — and it was important to me to finish all the courses as soon as possible. I completed all the core courses in less than five months. CIRE: WHAT SUPPORT STRUCTURES HAVE HELPED YOU DURING THIS PRO- CESS? HAVE YOU RECEIVED HELP FROM COLLEAGUES OR MENTOR FIGURES? IS THERE A CCIM THAT INSPIRES YOU? BHATNAGAR: The biggest support is my family. My husband has made a point to be sure he is available to care for our kids when I travel to take courses from top CCIM in- structors. Also, all CCIM designees con- tinue to be very welcoming, inspiring, and willing to give support. Finally, my mentor, CIRE: WHAT IS ONE THING YOU’D LIKE TO TELL YOURSELF IN FIVE OR 10 YEARS, WHEN YOUR CCIM PIN SEEMS LIKE A FIXTURE IN YOUR BUSINESS WARDROBE? BHATNAGAR: At that point, when I can envision my business growing at a much faster pace, I know I will be thankful for my decision to pursue my CCIM designation. My pin will be precious to me, and I know I will consider it to be among my biggest achievements. The time and the work will be worth it. CIRE: WHAT MOST INSPIRES YOU TO SEEK CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT? BHATNAGAR: My passion for real estate, my investors’ trust, my self-confidence, and my determination to leave a legacy for my kids — these are the things that keep me seeking to continually improve myself, in my business and in life. Nicholas Leider Senior content editor of Commercial Investment Real Estate Contact him at [email protected]. CCIM Development Specialty Track The CCIM Development Specialty Track program is one of the industry’s leading continuing education concentrations, providing developers, investors, and consultants with a comprehensive understanding of the entire process of development from due diligence to disposition. The program content is structured around the Real Estate Development Matrix developed by Daniel Kohlhepp, Ph.D., of the world-renowned Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. Upcoming Courses RE Development: Property Redevelopment Jan. 15 & 17 | Online Instructor Led RE Development: Land Development Jan. 28 & 30 | Online Instructor Led RE Development: Building Development Feb. 24 & 26 | Online Instructor Led RE Development: Building Renovation Mar. 24 & 26 | Online Instructor Led RE Development: Land Packaging Mar. 31 & Apr. 2 | Online Instructor Led Introduction to Development Workshop July 23 − 25 | Denver To learn more, visit www.ccim.com/dev-track or call [phone], opt 2 CIREMAGAZINE.COM COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE 39