Working With SIOR Real Estate Broker Brian Smith
Brian M. Smith, SIOR, CCIM, is the Principal Broker of Regent CRE. This leadership role signifies an unmatched capacity to help clients realize their commercial real estate objectives.
Whether you are in need of a larger space, or you seek to free yourself from restrictive leasing terms, the vibrant city of Charlotte, NC, presents countless opportunities. Partner with a top-tier SIOR designated real estate broker and let us help you turn your business aspirations into tangible outcomes.
By engaging with Brian Smith, an SIOR-designated broker, you can trust that you will receive superior representation from preliminary discussions to negotiation and final purchase.
With an extensive background in commercial real estate in North and South Carolina, a web of connections in the business community, prestigious real estate credentials, and unmatched attention to client needs, our dedication to providing the highest level of service is unwavering.
Why Is Working With an Sior Realtor a Competitive Advantage?
The prestigious Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR) represents an exclusive group of accomplished real estate professionals. An SIOR designation is recognized as one of the most highly respected credentials in the commercial real estate industry. Comprised of 4000 members in over 50 different countries worldwide, SIOR brokers possess the acumen, years of experience, and networks necessary to secure optimal deals in industrial properties and office real estate. Aligning with an SIOR-designated licensed real estate broker can powerfully amplify your real estate objectives.
Becoming a member of the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors is akin to gaining membership to an elite league of real estate experts. This group comprises top-tier professionals who have excelled in the commercial real estate field and proudly hold an esteemed SIOR designation. At Regent Commercial Real Estate, we understand the critical importance of astute navigation through complex contracts, negotiation dynamics, and logistical considerations. Our priority is to guide and support you throughout the process.

What Is the SIOR Designation?
The SIOR designation distinguishes the most accomplished commercial real estate agents in the industry. This credential signifies an unparalleled degree of knowledge, experience, and professionalism. It’s earned by completing a number of rigorous requirements, setting its members apart by their hard work, experience, and commitment to excellence.
The SIOR designation is given to real estate brokers with the highest level of knowledge, production, and ethics. When you choose to work with an SIOR-designated broker, you can rest assured that you’re in capable and trustworthy hands.
SIOR Designation Requirements
What does it take to earn the title of an SIOR-designated broker? Here are the SIOR’s requirements for earning this prestigious designation:
- A minimum of five years of real estate brokerage experience as an actively engaged industrial and/or office broker.
- A minimum Gross Fee Income (GFI) for three years out of the last four years. For industrial specialists in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, that’s $450,000.
- Endorsements from two SIOR designees within the chapter and outside of the applicant’s firm.
- Uphold high ethical standards of practice and pledge to uphold SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice with completion of classroom or online course.
- Demonstrate being a knowledgeable professional in the industrial or office real estate market.
The SIOR designation comes with rigorous prerequisites, including a minimum of five years of active engagement as an office and/or industrial real estate broker, specific Gross Fee Income (GFI) requirements,, endorsements from SIOR designees, adherence to SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice, and proven competency in the industrial or office real estate market.
As SIOR-designated brokers, our proven track record demonstrates our deep understanding of the commercial real estate market and our commitment to delivering excellent service. Furthermore, we at Regent CRE believe in continuous professional development to stay abreast of the industry’s evolving landscape.


How Are SIOR Realtors Different?
Compared with CCIMs and other high-level real estate credentials, one major component that sets SIOR realtors apart is the high-dollar commission amount that’s required in order to earn the SIOR designation.
In addition to completing courses and exams, SIORs are required to meet minimum transaction benchmarks, maintaining a certain Gross Fee Income (GFI) for three out of the four most recent 12-month periods. In addition, 70% of these transactions must fall into the office or industrial category.
These SIOR requirements naturally create a high barrier to entry for membership. Because of this, when you hire an SIOR, you know that you’re working with one of the most elite brokers in the commercial real estate market.
Why Hire an SIOR Realtor?
Hiring SIOR realtor and Broker-in-Charge, Brian M. Smith, offers distinct advantages for your transactions: expert knowledge and experience in commercial real estate, extensive industry connections, and reliable support throughout the complex process of buying or selling commercial property. Our aim is to facilitate well-informed decisions, secure optimal deals, and alleviate the stresses often associated with such transactions.
Expertise
An SIOR realtor has a wealth of knowledge and experience in commercial real estate. They have a deep understanding of local market knowledge and financial analysis, zoning laws, and property values. Because of this, at Regent CRE, we’re ready and able to help you make the most informed decisions possible.
Connections
Our SIOR team is well-connected in the industry, which means we can help you find the best-of-the-best properties or buyers for your needs. With extensive market research tools, access to exclusive listings, and working relationships with other professionals, you can rest assured you’re not missing anything. With over a decade of experience in the state of North Carolina, our clients get to benefit from our network of local relationships.
Support
Let’s be honest with ourselves: Buying or selling commercial property can be a stressful process. But with our SIOR real estate team by your side, you’ll have the support you need. We’ll handle the uncomfortable sale or lease negotiations, lengthy paperwork, and other details, so you can focus on your business and your new property.
How Does This Benefit You?
In addition to the above, working with our SIOR team offers significant time savings, the potential for increased return on investment, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing an expert is diligently handling your transaction. From site selection to negotiation to move in, our commitment is to secure the best possible deal for you, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish.

Time-saving
Finding the right commercial property or buyer can take many hours as well as significant research. Our SIOR team can preserve your valuable time by doing the legwork for you and presenting you with only the best options. Request your free, custom market report today.

Increased ROI
SIOR realtor Brian Smith is ready and available to help you maximize your return on investment by identifying properties with high growth potential or by competitively negotiating favorable terms for your sale. Learn more about commercial investment transactions in metro Charlotte.

Peace of mind
With an SIOR realtor on your side, you can rest easy knowing that you have an expert handling your transaction. We will work tirelessly to get you the best deal possible and ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish.
What Are the Categories of SIOR Realtors?
SIOR (The Society of Industrial and Office Realtors) incorporates six different specialist categories within the organization. These are broken down into:
- Industrial Specialist (specializing in industrial transactions)
- Office Specialist (specializing in office transactions)
- Industrial & Office Specialist (dual transaction specialist)
- Advisory Services Specialist (consultant or advisory practitioner)
- Sales Management Specialist (a specialist who manages 10 or more sales or leasing agents)
- Executive Specialist (a specialist who manages over 100 agents in three or more offices)
Each of these categories signifies a high level of experience and active engagement in the commercial real estate industry.
Specific qualifications for each category are as follows:
Industrial, Office, and Industrial/Office (dual) specialists must show a minimum of five years of documented experience in industrial and/or office brokerage, in addition to active engagement as an industrial/office broker.
Sales Management specialists must also show a minimum of five years of documented brokerage experience working in the industrial and/or office sphere. In addition, they must prove active management of at least 10 brokers or salespeople.
Executive Management specialists are professionals who specialize in providing consulting or advisory services. As such, they must show at least 10 years of management experience and must manage at least 100 brokers in 3+ locations or show oversight of commercial real estate network.

Introducing Brian M. Smith: Your Local SIOR Realtor
Brian M. Smith, SIOR, CCIM, owner and Broker-in-Charge of Regent Commercial Real Estate, is a seasoned commercial real estate professional based in Charlotte, NC. A graduate of Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, Brian has successfully completed nearly 1000 lease and sales transactions. With SIOR-certified sales numbers increasing year by year, Brian’s extensive experience is seen not only in knowledge and numbers, but also in a growing number of satisfied customers who are thriving in their real estate endeavors.
In addition to his SIOR designation, Brian Smith also holds the title of Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). Although this membership encompasses a different focus with separate requirements, similar to the SIOR title, CCIMs must complete a rigorous education program, proving themselves to be the best of the best in the world of commercial real estate brokerage. CCIMs specialize in commercial properties and have a deep knowledge of financial management and market analysis.
While finding an SIOR-designated realtor gives you a significant competitive edge in the world of commercial real estate, working with a broker who is a member of both the SIOR and a CCIM all but guarantees a home run in your next real estate endeavor.
Apart from his professional life, Brian prioritizes spending time with his family, relishing moments with his wife Patricia and their four children, Mary Ella, Maximus, Theodore, and Matilda. He recognizes the intrinsic value of family and the importance of investing in their future – a principle he brings into his real estate practice.

How Brian Smith Can Help
Brian M. Smith has acquired intensive training as an Industrial Specialist in the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors. As part of the SIOR Carolinas Chapter, he’s highly practiced in the categories of investments, tenant representation, distribution & logistics, brokerage management, sale/leasing, landlord, corporate services, and real estate consulting. His extensive experience working with industrial flex properties and other types of properties within the commercial sphere give his clients the edge they need to be bolstered to the highest level of real estate success – whether leasing, buying, or selling.
Here’s how SIOR realtor Brian M. Smith and our team can help you achieve your real estate goals:

Expertise and Guidance
Armed with extensive experience in commercial real estate leasing, property management, project management, tenant representation, and asset management, Brian possesses a deep understanding of the Charlotte market’s complexities. His role extends beyond brokerage – he also acts as a mentor, ensuring you have the insight necessary to make informed decisions, and advocating for your best interests to secure optimal deals.

Creative Solutions
Understanding that each real estate transaction presents its own unique set of challenges, Brian adapts his approach accordingly. Leveraging his seasoned expertise, cognizance of current market conditions, and creative problem-solving skills, he develops tailored strategies to navigate any obstacles, aligning solutions with your specific needs and objectives.

Passion
Beyond just securing a deal, Brian is devoted to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients. More than just holding a real estate career, his passion for clients’ success is evident in his relentless work ethic, driving him to negotiate with tenacity and dedication. The pinnacle of each transaction is seeing his clients attain their desired results, affirming the value and efficacy of his efforts.
SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles & Standards Guarantees Honest & Transparent CRE Dealings With Brian Smith
Succeeding in Charlotte, North Carolina’s commercial real estate market requires expertise, trustworthiness, and a commitment to ethical practices. The Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR) is distinguished by guiding principles that prioritize your needs to ensure transparent and honorable interactions.
As you consider hiring Brian as your commercial real estate broker, understanding the SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards offers assurance that you’re aligning yourself with a person of excellence and integrity. Learn more about SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles & Standards below and how it makes Brian Smith different.
SIOR Principle 1: Act in the Best Interest of Those Who Should Benefit from Your Conduct
When partnering with Brian, you can trust that every action and decision made on your behalf is tailored to your interests and objectives. This ensures you receive expert commercial real estate advice that helps you achieve your goals. This client-centric approach fosters a transparent and value-driven relationship.
SIOR Principle 2: Be Honest at All Times and With All Parties
Brian's unwavering commitment to honesty guarantees you receive accurate and unfiltered information about every aspect of your commercial real estate transactions. This builds trust and makes your decision-making process more informed and straightforward.
SIOR Principle 3: Honor Fiduciary Duties
Brian is dedicated to upholding his fiduciary responsibility and prioritizes your financial interests above all else. His strategic advice is geared towards helping you maximize your investment and minimize risk.
SIOR Principle 4: Be Sensitive to Potential Conflicts of Interest
Brian ensures that every decision is free from external pressures or influences to avoid potential conflicts. This diligence guarantees the recommendations you receive are unbiased and in your best interest.
SIOR Principle 5: Disclose & Obtain Approval for Self-Dealing
Brian's transparent approach ensures that you’re always informed about any transaction in which he might have a personal interest. This full disclosure helps you make informed decisions and be confident that there's no hidden agenda, further building trust between you and Brian.
SIOR Principle 6: Document All Agreements & Keep Accurate Records
Brian’s careful documentation certifies that all agreements are clear, transparent, and legally binding. This secures your investments with the assurance that every detail of your transactions is accurately documented and easily accessible.
SIOR Principle 7: Do Not Discriminate
Brian’s dedication to fairness and equality guarantees all clients receive top-tier commercial real estate services and opportunities regardless of background. This dedication to inclusivity fosters diverse relationships and ensures access to a broader range of options.
SIOR Principle 8: Obey the Law
Brian strictly adheres to all legal guidelines and regulations. His meticulous legal observance provides you with effortless transactions and protection from potential legal complications. Knowing your investments are secure lets you proceed confidently in your commercial real estate dealings.
SIOR Principle 9: Other Codes Govern Certain Activities
Brian's extensive knowledge of industry-specific codes means you’re always compliant, regardless of your transaction's complexity. His expertise protects you from potential pitfalls or oversights many people encounter in Charlotte, NC’s commercial real estate market.
SIOR Principle 10: Be Truthful in All Representations & Advertising
You can trust that any information, promotion, or representation made by Brian is accurate and genuine. This transparency allows you to make decisions based on factual data, leading to better investment outcomes.
SIOR Principle 11: Do Not Make False or Misleading Statements About Others
Brian's commitment to integrity creates respectful and truthful interactions within and outside his business circle. He provides you with reliable information and creates a professional environment free from deceptive practices.
SIOR Principle 12: Disclose the Nature of Your Relationship
Transparency is key. Brian always makes you aware of the nature and scope of your professional relationship. It's a foundation for clear communication and mutual trust.
SIOR Principle 13: Offer to Cooperate With & Compensate Other Commercial Real Estate Agents
Brian's collaborative approach ensures you have access to a broader network of commercial real estate opportunities. This cooperation amplifies the range and quality of possibilities available to you.
SIOR Principle 14: Do Not Interfere With the Relationships or Rights of Other CRE Agents
Brian maintains a harmonious industry environment by respecting professional boundaries in Charlotte, NC’s commercial real estate market. This respect translates to smoother transactions and negotiations since relationships with other commercial real estate agents remain positive and constructive.
SIOR Principle 15: Cooperate in All Professional Standards Proceedings
Brian's commitment to industry standards puts him at the forefront of best practices in commercial real estate. You benefit from this dedication with guaranteed service that meets or exceeds the professional benchmarks of other commercial real estate agents.
SIOR Principle 16: Resolve Financial Disputes through Mediation and/or Arbitration
Brian's approach to resolving financial disputes prioritizes efficient and fair solutions. This approach minimizes disruptions, reduces potential costs, and ensures quicker resolutions if you are in conflict. Brian’s dedication to maintaining cooperative relationships while safeguarding your interests fast tracks a satisfactory outcome without prolonged litigation.
Enjoy a Hassle-Free Commercial Real Estate Experience With Brian Smith
Brian Smith’s commitment to the SIOR’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards shows that hiring him as your commercial real estate broker is an investment in trust, excellence, and integrity.
Don’t leave your investments to chance. Put them in the hands of an experienced CRE professional who prioritizes your success at every turn.
Partner with Brian Smith for a journey that promises fruitful transactions and lasting peace of mind. Ready to experience the finest commercial real estate guidance in Charlotte, North Carolina? Call us today!
Why Invest in Real Estate in the Metro Charlotte Area?
The metro Charlotte region in North Carolina and South Carolina has everything you need to succeed in the commercial real estate world. From its thriving economy to its convenient network of highways and interstates to the variety of properties available, the opportunities around Metrolina give business owners, managers, and investors the chance to maximize their commercial real estate strategy and see their business thrive.
Whether you’re searching for industrial spaces, flex properties, commercial office spaces, retail property, or raw land for new business development, good real estate decisions start with an experienced and capable broker by your side.
Reasons to Invest in Charlotte, NC, Real Estate
Location, location, location
Charlotte is perfectly situated in the heart of the Southeast, with easy access to major highways, airports, and shipping ports. The city is also home to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which, according to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, is the seventh busiest airport in the world. This bustling airport, known as CLT, is one of the top 10 most connected airports in the world, offering non-stop flights to over 180 locations both nationally and internationally. Located on the western part of Charlotte just 15 minutes from Uptown, the airport neighborhood is an ideal location for businesses looking to expand, which in turn drives demand for commercial real estate.
In addition to the busy CLT airport, Charlotte is also home to Norfolk Southern's Charlotte Regional Intermodal Facility, a busy, 200-acre facility providing reliable transportation for businesses around the country.
Strong and diverse economy
Charlotte has a booming economy with a diverse range of industries, including finance, healthcare, energy, and more. Indeed, the city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Bank of America, Lowe's Home Improvement, Honeywell, Duke Energy, and others. Domtar, headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, is another one of three Fortune 1000 companies headquartered in SC.
The metro Charlotte area also has a thriving startup scene. This means that no matter what type of property you invest in, there will likely be strong demand from a variety of tenants or buyers.
Quality of life
Charlotte is known for its mild climate, with an average of 218 sunny days per year. The city also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. In addition, Livability ranks Charlotte as one of the top 15 places to live in America, with more than 60 parks, 20 golf courses, and 7 farmers markets. This makes it an attractive destination for both businesses and residents, which bodes well for real estate investors to work with our SIOR real estate team. It's a win-win!
Reasons to invest in South Carolina Real Estate
Population Boom
South Carolina, especially the Fort Mill area, is BOOMING! The town's population experienced a 77.6% population increase between 2018 and 2023, making it the 7th fastest-growing suburb in America. That's like a turbo-charged rollercoaster of growth! With more people flocking to the area, businesses are also growing and flourishing. Investing in commercial real estate here is like joining a winning race!
Affordability and Business Incentives
Many of the commercial properties in these prime SC locations are available at more affordable rates than properties just a bit closer to metro Charlotte in NC. In addition, largely because of the lower competition, the state of SC offers a number of business incentives for companies who are interested in starting ventures or relocating to South Carolina. These competitive locations continue to boom economically, providing unprecedented opportunity for small and large businesses alike.
Proximity to Charlotte
Fort Mill, Rock Hill, and Indian Land know the secret to success—being besties with a major city! These strategic areas are located just south of Charlotte, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Access to the Charlotte market means tapping into a hub of Fortune 500 companies. Businesses looking to expand can hit the jackpot in this prime location.
FAQs About Working with an SIOR-Designated Broker
What does SIOR stand for?
SIOR stands for Society of Industrial and Office Realtors. This credential identifies realtors who have met the necessary qualifications for earning the SIOR designation.
SIOR-designated realtors specialize in office and industrial brokerage, setting themselves apart by the high-dollar commission amount that must be achieved in order to earn the designation. The minimum experience and achievement requirements along with the courses, exams, endorsements, and high ethical standards required by SIORs distinguish them as some of the highest-level commercial brokers worldwide.
Do SIOR brokers have to have experience?
Yes. In order to earn the SIOR designation, brokers have to have a minimum of 5 years of brokerage experience as an actively engaged office and/or industrial broker.
However, it’s not just a measure of years that qualifies SIORs, but also a significant transaction amount (measured as GFI—gross fee income) that allows brokers to earn the designation.
What other qualifications does an SIOR broker have to have?
In addition to at least 5 years of experience, SIOR brokers have to have a minimum Gross Fee Income (GFI). This is an essential metric for gauging a broker’s productivity and business health. The minimum GFI that’s required varies from state to state.
Other qualifications include endorsements from two other SIOR designees, a pledge to uphold the SIOR’s ethical standards, completion of the SIOR course, and demonstrable knowledge.
What are the main benefits of hiring an SIOR broker?
- More time. A broker with a high level of knowledge and experience can simplify the buying, selling, or leasing process, saving you time.
- Better ROI. Brokers who are well-acquainted with the processes of negotiation, complicated contracts, and logistical issues can help you navigate properties, identifying opportunities that give you the maximum return on your investment.
- Fewer headaches. When you work with one of the top experts in the industry, you know that you can focus on your business without worrying about something going wrong.
How common is the SIOR designation?
SIOR has over 4000 members in 50 different countries.
According to the National Association of Realtors, there are over 360,000 real estate brokerage firms operating in the U.S. Therefore, only a small portion of real estate brokers hold the SIOR designation.
Where can I find out more about the SIOR designation?
You can find more about SIOR on the organization’s “About SIOR” page.
Tying it All Together
Investing in commercial real estate in Charlotte, NC, is the smart choice for savvy property moguls looking to expand their portfolios. With its prime location, strong economy, and high quality of life, the greater Charlotte area has everything you need to succeed. And when it comes to finding the right commercial property or buyer, there’s no better partner than our SIOR real estate-designated broker, Brian Smith.
We have the expertise, knowledge, and connections to help you achieve your real estate goals. We will work with you every step of the way, providing guidance and creative solutions to ensure you make informed decisions and get the best deals possible. Start exploring your options in the Charlotte real estate market today or contact us to partner our expert team at Regent CRE to achieve your real estate dreams. Together, we’ll be unstoppable.



