"Having grown up in the East Bay, I'm looking forward to finding ways for owners and investors to add value to existing properties and discover hidden potential in the East Bay," says Choi.

In addition, Choi will work on selling net-leased properties in the western United States. She will be responsible for assisting clients in determining suitable real estate investments.

Choi left a position as an investment broker at BT commercial to join Colliers. She has also worked as a real estate appraiser, consultant and analyst. "There's a market opportunity in the East Bay right now for investment brokerage, especially in the $10 million and under category," says Ed Del Beccaro, managing partner at Colliers in Walnut Creek. "Around 75 percent of the commercial buildings in the Interstate 680 Corridor are valued at under $10 million. We want to capitalize on that opportunity and Maria's a significant part of our strategy."