CHALLENGE
Dr. Kaaren Vargas-Kelly, an established pediatric dentist with Iowa Kids Pediatric Dentistry, was looking to expand her practice into Linn County, specifically Marion, IA. Dr. Vargas-Kelly had specific location requirements, on site parking needs and a detailed time frame for taking possession of a new space. The dental practice had unique interior build out requirements to consider as well. It was going to be important to find a landlord who a) understood the vision of the practice b) was open to a long-term lease and c) was willing to participate in a portion of the build out.
ACTION
Dr. Vargas-Kelly interviewed brokerage firms and engaged Erica Seelman of GLD Commercial to lead the property search and leasing efforts for Iowa Kids Pediatric Dentistry. After discussing the assignment with Dr. Vargas-Kelly in detail, uncovering all the ‘non-negotiables’ for her practice, Erica and her team quickly and thoroughly presented all viable commercial options, followed up by reviewing client questions and on site tours. In an effort to best serve the client, Erica leveraged her building owner network to uncover off-market opportunities as well. One of the off-market opportunities (a former McDonald’s building) would require a bit of creativity but had the potential to be an outstanding, high-profile location.
RESULT
After surveying the Marion area for suitable commercial real estate options, Iowa Kids Pediatric Dentistry narrowed in on one of Erica’s off-market opportunities, a former McDonald’s building, with the idea of renovating the exterior and interior space. Erica worked on behalf of the client to negotiate a favorable long-term lease with the landlord while also involving the client’s architect and contractor to ensure a team effort.
“It was so wonderful working with Erica to find a location for my new pediatric dental practice. We were originally looking in downtown Marion but then Erica called me with an off-market opportunity to consider. It turned out to be spectacular! We could not have had a better experience from start to finish. Thank you, Erica for helping us every step of the way.”
Dr. Kaaren Vargas-Kelly and Kevin Kelly, Iowa Kids Pediatric Dentistry