A Testament to Foresight: The Potential of Tacoma
We often associate the word 'vision' with a certain arrogance, as though it carries a presumption of a grandeur detached from the practical world. Yet, my story with Tacoma isn't about a disconnected dream, but rather, a genuine love for a place brimming with potential! I mean, what place isn’t if you really take the time to look? Tacoma is a tale of a vision brought to life not by a reckless bet on a random gamble, but by a keen understanding of the enduring principles of real estate and my deep commitment to sustainable development.
This journey began in 2008 when my wife and I bought a vacation property on Vashon Island, and it offered us a unique vantage point! Looking out from the southern tip of Vashon Island, we could see Tacoma in the distance and became enamored with a city that was quietly yearning for recognition. Here was a place that was so full of charm and character, yet for a long time, it seemed overshadowed by its larger and flashier neighbors.
What I saw in Tacoma was opportunity - not the kind that would lead to quick profits and then disappear, but the sort that could transform a city and build lasting value. When the real estate market and workforce were trembling at the thought of offices, I saw potential in a 3,000 Sq. Ft. office building nestled just a block away from the vibrant McMenamins Elks Temple. It was a leap of faith, no doubt, but it was backed by a steadfast belief in the vitality of the city and its people.
The steady transformation I’ve committed to continues to be a joy to witness. One of my first tenants, Ramona Jones from Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, was quick to see the potential that Tacoma offered, and became my first tenant in the office! Together, we recently closed on our first Tacoma apartment deal and are working towards leasing out the remaining Tacoma office spaces. Our collaboration is about more than just selling properties; it's about building a community that acknowledges the unique attributes of Tacoma and uses that as a foundation for sustainable growth.
This is a long-term project, and it's one that is shared by the city itself. In fact, the City of Tacoma recently elected me to their Design Review & Advisory Board, a testament to our shared commitment to creating sustainable buildings and spaces. In the near future, the City of Tacoma and Built Green will be hosting an event together, marking a significant step toward our shared vision of a sustainable Tacoma.
So…this city that once seemed to be lingering in the shadows, is beginning to get the exciting recognition it deserves. This isn't the result of an overzealous promotional campaign, but rather, the natural outcome of allowing a city to blossom at its own pace. It's an affirmation of a vision that understands real estate not as a quick win, but as a long, thoughtful process of building and creating. After all, we aren’t investing in real estate just for ourselves, but also for future generations who deserve a better world. One that inspires them to inspire others.
There's a certain pride in looking back and seeing how far we've come, but what's even more exciting is the road ahead. Tacoma isn't done growing, and neither are we. So, here's to a city that's ready to shine, to the sustainable future we're building together, and to the surprises that are yet to come.
Stay tuned, because this story of Tadashi in Tacoma is only just beginning.