Jacksonville area agent Allyson Mecca of LoKation has discovered powerful synergies between investment and retail real estate, creating what she describes as a “Venn diagram” of overlapping opportunities that benefit both sides of her business.
“The investment side and the retail side, they interact almost in a Venn diagram method,” Mecca explains. “As an investor, I’m looking at property values, I’m looking objectively at trying to understand what something is worth in its current state, as well as with different improvements.”
This dual perspective proves particularly valuable when advising retail clients on property improvements. “A client will ask, ‘If I were to change up my kitchen cabinets, or if I were to put flooring, hardwood flooring throughout, would that increase my value?'” Mecca says.
One of the most significant benefits of straddling both worlds is the development of reliable contractor networks. “I could use a tile contractor on a house that we’re flipping, but then also be able to recommend them to a client who’s looking to sell their family home,”Mecca notes.
This network creates what she calls “supply chain synergy,” benefiting both investment and retail clients while supporting local businesses. “These small companies, they work so hard, and people are just so skilled and talented at what they do.”
Perhaps most interestingly, Mecca observes how clients often cross between retail and investment activities: “They become my client because they want to buy a couple of investment properties, and then I end up helping them find their dream home for their family when they eventually relocate to the area.”
For other agents considering this dual approach, Mecca emphasizes how investment experience can enhance retail service. “Being a woman in a male-dominated field with the investing side… helps me learn how to better streamline and be more assertive in my communication as a realtor for clients.”
Having renovated over 55 houses through her investment company, Mecca brings practical knowledge to both sides of her business. “I think that straddling both worlds has allowed me to not only have cross-pollination of clients, but it’s allowed me to form relationships with some key suppliers.”
Looking ahead, Mecca sees continued opportunities in maintaining this dual focus, particularly as market conditions evolve. “We can’t expect that it’ll always be exactly the same, but we can look at the bigger picture.”
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