BY BRANDI SMITH

What might be considered one of the more modern approaches to development is, it turns out, rooted in some of our near-ancient history. Mixed-use development has been around for several
centuries and is exemplified by the medieval villages that cropped up all over Europe.

The rules for constructing a lasting village between the 5th and 15th centuries were fairly simple. It ought to be compact, dense, offer multiple uses and provide limited transportation systems. Within the walls, the village must provide a community that is not just functional, but productive.

Just as it didn’t in medieval times, mixed-use development today need not focus exclusively on residential, retail or entertainment.

 

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BY BRANDI SMITH

“I have spent the past 18 years learning the ins and outs of Houston: how it transforms, develops, and grows, who the players are and who the future players will be.” – Kristen McDade

For Kristen McDade, being a real estate broker boils down to one thing: integrity. “This goes for any industry you are in, but is especially meaningful in real estate where your reputation is
everything,” says the Senior Director at Berkadia. “Clients know they can trust me.”

McDade says she learned that early on while working across the desk from her father, legendary Houston broker Bill McDade. He also taught her the value of hard work.

“Keep listening. Keep learning. Keep calling. Keep pushing. He had a framed note on his wall for years that said ‘Press On,” she says. “I work hard. I do what I say I am going to do and then some.”
An added bonus is that McDade’s nearly two decades in commercial real estate have all been logged in her hometown of Houston.

 

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