written by
Tara Moore

Strong property operations have the power to elevate a property’s value and reshape how it is perceived in the market. At Intersection, we have found that proactive improvements not only solve immediate issues but also set the stage for long-term value. Two recent examples—a parking overhaul in Henderson, Las Vegas, and a security upgrade in the Inland Empire—show how practical, focused strategies can transform an asset.

Henderson, Las Vegas: Reshaping Parking to Restore Order

At our Henderson property, what seemed like a simple issue—parking—had grown into a serious obstacle. Prospective tenants hesitated to sign leases, and existing tenants voiced frustration as the lack of structure interfered with their ability to run their businesses. In a property with heavy automotive uses, this became a particularly acute problem.
The solution came in the form of a comprehensive parking plan. We re-striped the lot and designated stalls for each suite according to its pro-rata share, giving every tenant clarity and predictability. By coordinating closely with a local towing company, we ensured compliance from day one. What followed was a dramatic turnaround. Tenants quickly noticed the change, and several went out of their way to commend the improvement. The property’s reputation rebounded, leasing prospects returned, and occupancy climbed back to just under ninety percent. In an environment where order and access are essential, this operational change proved critical to stabilizing and elevating the property.

Inland Empire: Strengthening Security Through Technology

In the Inland Empire, the challenge was different but just as disruptive. When we acquired the property, it carried a history of mismanagement and recurring crime. Poor perimeter fencing left tenant yard spaces exposed, and the lack of effective oversight made theft a persistent concern. For tenants whose businesses depend on the security of outdoor storage, this was an issue.

Our response focused on reinforcing both physical and technological safeguards. We began by securing the perimeter, installing stronger fencing that gave tenants confidence their spaces were protected. At the same time, we introduced a camera system with live video monitoring and talk-down capability, enabling agents to intervene in real time by issuing warnings through voice speakers and escalating to authorities when necessary.

The impact was immediate. Reports of crime and theft declined sharply, and tenants began to view the property as a safe and dependable place to operate. What once felt vulnerable was now secure, and the property’s value rose as a direct result of addressing security with a long-term, tenant-centered mindset.

Wrapping It Up

These two examples—parking in Henderson and security in the Inland Empire—underscore a core principle of property management: proactive improvements create tangible results. By focusing on the operational details that matter most to tenants, from the flow of vehicles to the safety of stored materials, we not only resolve pressing issues but also strengthen relationships, enhance retention, and protect long-term value. In short, good management is not reactive; it is strategic, deliberate, and always centered on the tenant experience.

written by
Natalie Baylon

Grocery Outlet Signs Long-Term Lease at Prominent Pacific Beach Retail Site

RSR Holdings, LLC, represented by Dan McCarthy and Alec Spencer of Intersection, has secured a significant lease agreement with Grocery Outlet, a leading publicly traded retailer in the grocery industry. The lease encompasses 12,365 square feet of prime retail space at 1211 Garnet Avenue for a term of 132 months, with a total lease consideration of $3,708,797.00.

Known for its strategic location and substantial visibility on a major arterial, 1211 Garnet Avenue offers 12,365 square feet of retail space accompanied by ample dedicated parking—a rare find in the Pacific Beach submarket. Following extensive marketing efforts, RSR Holdings identified Grocery Outlet as an ideal long-term partner based on its robust business model and brand presence with over 480 locations nationwide.

“We are gratified to have completed this agreement with Grocery Outlet, whose tenancy will undoubtedly enhance both the asset and the Pacific Beach community,” stated Alec Spencer, Senior Associate at Intersection.

With a legacy of serving Pacific Beach through notable retailers such as Thrifty Drug Store and Trader Joe’s, 1211 Garnet Avenue continues a reputation for attracting premium tenants and achieving strong lease rates under the stewardship of RSR Holdings and Intersection.

Grocery Outlet is renowned for offering name-brand groceries at discounted prices, making it a valuable addition to the retail landscape of Pacific Beach.  They were represented in this transaction by Dave Hagglund of CBRE.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for RSR Holdings, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining enduring relationships with tenants and delivering exceptional value to the community.

To learn more about this project or the deal, please reach out to Alec Spencer at [email protected]

Natalie Baylon is the Marketing Manager at Intersection, providing strategic marketing expertise to support business objectives across company divisions. For general and marketing inquiries, please get in touch with Natalie at [email protected] 

written by
Natalie Baylon

Mercado Rancho Bernardo Named First Retail Center to Earn the Prestigious TOBY® Award

Intersection is excited to announce that The Mercado in Rancho Bernardo has earned a historic achievement in commercial real estate as the first retail center to be named The Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY®) Award in San Diego, by the Building Owners Management Association (BOMA). This accolade, traditionally bestowed upon office buildings, is a testament to our commitment to excellence in property management and operations.

The TOBY Award represents the pinnacle of recognition within the commercial real estate industry, honoring exemplary practices in building management across specific categories of building types or sizes. To even qualify for consideration, a property must first earn a BOMA 360 designation, triumph in local and regional competitions, and eventually emerge victorious at the regional level.

At The Mercado, our journey to this groundbreaking achievement has been marked by vison, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Over the years, Intersection has meticulously curated an international tenant mix that harmonizes to create an unparalleled experiential retail center. Our partnership with Intersection Facility Services has ensured seamless tenant improvements and project maintenance, elevating the property to new heights.

Situated in the heart of San Diego’s tech and innovation corridor, Rancho Bernardo serves as the backdrop for The Mercado’s success. The area boasts an impressive roster of major companies, including Amazon, Hewlett-Packard, Northrop Grumman, Sony, and the recent addition of Apple’s sprawling 67.5-acre campus. Conveniently accessible via I-15 with multiple entry points via Rancho Bernardo Road and Bernardo Center Drive, The Mercado stands as a community focal point, drawing in residents, office employees, and visitors alike.  Coupled with a strong residential demographic component and proven retail traffic patterns, project ownership and management saw the potential to raise the shopping experience to a new level.  Capital investment and creative vision have resulted in a unique project that is 100% leased.

What sets The Mercado apart is its commitment to excellence in every facet of its operation. From its very walkable accessibility, well-maintained landscapes, and prominent signage to the recent exterior enhancements accentuating its unique architectural features, every detail has been meticulously crafted to create an inviting and exceptional retail environment.

The judging criteria for the TOBY Award encompass an array of factors, including community impact, tenant and employee relations programs, energy management, accessibility, emergency procedures, personnel training, sustainability and overall excellence. The rigorous inspections conducted by industry experts validate the significance of this achievement.

Winning the TOBY Award underscores our dedication to delivering best-in-class operations and management. It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit of everyone involved in making The Mercado an unparalleled success.

We owe this momentous achievement to the vision, expertise, and collaborative efforts of an exceptional team. It’s with immense gratitude that we extend our thanks to:

  • Nicole Schuck and Sean Rafford (Intersection Real Estate Services): Their unwavering commitment to excellence have been the driving force behind The Mercado’s success. Your vision and dedication have steered us toward this historic milestone.

  • Nick Cardoso and Fernando Cruz (Intersection Facility Services): Their relentless efforts in handling tenant improvements and maintenance have been instrumental in elevating The Mercado to its current stature. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence are truly commendable.

  • Dan McCarthy and Alec Spencer (Intersection Commercial Brokerage): Their expertise in curating a tenant mix that creates an exceptionally experiential retail center has been invaluable. Your insight and dedication have been pivotal in shaping The Mercado into what it is today.

  • Mark Hoekstra (President and Co-founder of Intersection): His guidance, vision, and unwavering support have been the cornerstone of the success at Mercado for nearly three decades.

Each member of this exceptional team has played an integral role in securing this prestigious recognition. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence have been the driving force behind The Mercado’s triumph.

This recognition only fuels our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead, eager to continue setting new benchmarks in the commercial real estate landscape.

The Mercado in Rancho Bernardo isn’t just a retail center; it’s a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. Together, we’ve made history.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and experience the excellence that defines The Mercado.

To learn more about Mercado Shopping Center or the TOBY awards, please reach out to Nicole Schuck @[email protected]

Natalie Baylon is the Marketing Coordinator at Intersection, providing strategic marketing expertise to support business objectives across company divisions. For general and marketing inquiries, please contact Natalie at [email protected] 

written by
Nicole Schuck

What to Do in a Power Outage: A Property Manager’s Comprehensive Guide

Power outages can occur in various forms – from planned outages due to switchgear maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and electrical replacements to unplanned outages, which have been on the rise in recent times. In 2023, California experienced a staggering 3,683 blackouts, marking an 80% increase from the previous year, and impacting 7 million customers, which is a 204% increase from the previous year. This emphasizes the importance of being prepared for power disruptions. Here’s your comprehensive guide to managing power outages effectively:

1. Safety First

Safety is the top priority during a power outage. Ensure the safety of all occupants in your building:

  • Elevator Use: Remind everyone not to use elevators during a power outage, as they may get stuck. Provide guidance on the use of stairwells and evacuation procedures if necessary.

2. Contact the Utility Company

The first step is to determine the extent of the outage. Is it localized to your building, or is it a broader outage in the area? Contact the utility company or local power provider to report the outage and obtain an estimated time for power restoration.

3. Inform Tenants and Occupants

Quick and clear communication is crucial. Notify tenants and building occupants about the power outage as soon as possible. Use phone calls, email, text messages, or any other communication channels available to you.

4. Provide Information

Keep tenants updated on the situation:

  • Outage Duration: Share the estimated duration of the outage.
  • Safety Precautions: Provide information on safety precautions tenants should take.
  • Emergency Contacts: Supply contact information for any emergency or maintenance personnel who can assist them.

5. Emergency Lighting

Ensure that emergency lighting is functional in common areas, stairwells, and exit routes. Emergency lighting is crucial for the safety of occupants during a power outage.

6. Backup Power Systems

If your building has backup power systems like generators or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), ensure they are operational. Regular testing and maintenance are essential to avoid issues during power outages.

7. Address Tenant Concerns

Be responsive to tenant concerns and inquiries. Provide assistance and information as needed. If tenants have critical equipment that requires power (e.g., medical devices), consider offering alternative accommodation if possible.

8. Document the Outage

Keep records of the outage, including:

  • When it started.
  • Communication with utility providers.
  • Any actions taken.

9. Monitor Security

Ensure that building security systems, such as access control and surveillance cameras, continue to operate if possible. If not, consider increasing security patrols or taking other measures to maintain safety.

10. Plan for Extended Outages

If the power outage is expected to be prolonged, consider making arrangements for tenants:

  • Temporary Services: Provide temporary lighting, heating, or cooling, especially if the outage occurs during extreme weather conditions.

11. Collaborate with Emergency Services

If necessary, collaborate with local emergency services and authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of occupants.

12. Communication During Restoration

Keep tenants informed about the progress of power restoration and any developments. Once power is restored, confirm that all building systems are functioning properly.

13. Post-Outage Review

After the power is restored, conduct a post-outage review to identify any weaknesses in your preparedness and response plan. Use this information to improve your procedures for future power outages.

In conclusion, managing power outages as a property manager requires a well-thought-out plan for both planned and unplanned outages. Safety, communication, and proactive inspections are key elements to minimize disruptions and keep tenants safe during these challenging times.

 

To learn more please reach out to Nicole Schuck at [email protected]

Nicole Schuck is a Senior Real Estate Manager at Intersection, providing management services across the company portfolio. For real estate services inquiries, please contact Nicole at [email protected] 

written by
Natalie Baylon

Something’s Buzzing at The Mercado Rancho Bernardo

As we continue to see new growth and development in San Diego a new trend is taking flight—urban beekeeping. Awareness around the importance of pollinators is growing and more and more commercial real estate owners and managers are embracing hive hosting. Beyond just honey production, urban beekeeping offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to a healthier environment and a sweeter urban landscape.

  1. Supporting Local Food Production: With the decline in honeybee populations globally, urban beekeeping helps fill the pollination gap and ensures the success of local food production. By maintaining beehives in urban areas, beekeepers provide nearby gardens and farms with a reliable source of pollinators, ultimately contributing to increased crop yields and a more sustainable food system. As a result, urban beekeepers actively participate in the movement towards locally sourced, fresh produce that benefits both consumers and the environment.

  2. Environmental Guardians: Bees are environmental superheroes, and urban beekeepers act as guardians of their hives. By practicing responsible beekeeping methods, such as providing ample food sources and creating safe habitats, urban beekeepers promote biodiversity and help restore natural ecosystems within urban environments. Bees also contribute to the health and vitality of nearby green spaces by pollinating trees, which improves air quality and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the city.

  3. Education and Awareness: Intersection partnered with Alvéole to install and maintain our rooftop hive because of the education and activities they offer to tenants and the community. They provide an opportunity to learn about the intricacies of the hive, the social structure of bees, and the process of honey production. By engaging with urban beekeeping with Alvéole, we’ve become more connected to our tenants and have gained a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between humans and pollinators.

  4. Supporting Local Food Production: With the decline in honeybee populations globally, urban beekeeping helps fill the pollination gap and ensures the success of local food production. By maintaining beehives in urban areas, beekeepers provide nearby gardens and farms with a reliable source of pollinators, ultimately contributing to increased crop yields and a more sustainable food system. As a result, urban beekeepers actively participate in the movement towards locally sourced, fresh produce that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Urban beekeeping is a win-win endeavor. By supporting the bee population at and around The Mercado Rancho Bernardo, we promote the growth of thriving urban ecosystems, foster local food production, raise environmental awareness, and enjoy the delectable rewards of honey. Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable future—one hive at a time.

To learn more about our partnership with Alvéole, please contact Nicole Schuck at [email protected].

Natalie Baylon is the Marketing Coordinator at Intersection, providing strategic marketing expertise to support business objectives across company divisions. For general and marketing inquiries, please contact Natalie at [email protected] 

written by
Natalie Baylon

The leadership spotlight is shining strong on Nicole Schuck.

Senior Real Estate Manager Nicole Schuck sat down, last month, with fellow BOMA member Michele Ignacio of A.O. Reed & Co., to discuss Nicole’s leadership within the industry. In addition to being a longtime BOMA San Diego Principal Member, she is also an amazing BOMA leader; having previously served as the Vice Chairperson to the Programs and Seminars Committee, and for the past 5 years has served on the Board as Liaison to Emerging Leaders, Programs and Seminars, and currently the Community Service Committee.

Learn more about her leadership style below:

BOMA San Diego: What sparked your interest in becoming a leader in BOMA?
Nicole: The ability to connect with people from different backgrounds (especially property managers) and have a common connection of working in our industry.

BOMA San Diego: What is your leadership philosophy?
Nicole: Try to walk a mile in a person’s shoes before you give direction or advice to someone. Poor leaders often deliver tone deaf messages to their team if they don’t understand the background of a situation or the challenges the individual is facing. Great leaders understand their team member’s journeys and the obstacles they must face.

BOMA San Diego: What are your top three strengths as a leader?
Nicole: The ability to empathize with people in any given situation. Always having a sense of humor and not to take yourself so seriously. Recognizing opportunity everywhere.

BOMA San Diego: What skills do you use most often in your leadership role in BOMA that are transferable to your career at Intersection?
Nicole: The ability to make connections and find resources through BOMA that help me for budgeting, capital projects, and professional development.

BOMA San Diego: What is the most important challenge that you’ve faced since joining our organization, and how has your experience helped you grow in your career?
Nicole: Have confidence in yourself and put yourself in situations that get you out of your shell. I used to be a very introverted and self-conscious person; every social event used to be a huge point of anxiety for me. Now I look forward to every social event and seek out people I’ve never met. That’s one of my favorite things to do at luncheons now!

BOMA San Diego:What is the one piece of advice you have for emerging professionals who are preparing to be a leader?
Nicole: #1: Life is too short to wear a boring pantsuit. #2: You may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s ok. If you feel like someone is trying to pull you away from your authentic self and shape you into something that only serves their needs, it’s time to look for other opportunities that will embrace you for being yourself.

BOMA San Diego: Who inspires you and why?
Nicole: All the BOMA ladies! There is such a great group of women in our organization that come from all walks of life that encourage and help each other. I don’t think I could have grown in my career without the amazing support of women in our organization that took me under their wing.

Thank you for being an amazing BOMA Leader Nicole!

To learn more about Real Estate Services please reach out to Nicole Schuck at [email protected] or Mark Hoekstra at [email protected].

Natalie Baylon is the Marketing Coordinator at Intersection, providing strategic marketing expertise to support business objectives across company divisions. For general and marketing inquiries, please contact Natalie at [email protected] 

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