IRVINE, CA—So much reliance on technology has compromised personal interaction in our business, one of the biggest changes NAI Capital's new SVP Steven Hogberg has seen during his tenure in the real estate business, he tells GlobeSt.com. We spoke exclusively with Hogberg after the announcement of his new role about how the industry has changed over time and what he hopes to accomplish in his new position. 

GlobeSt.com: What are you looking forward to accomplishing in your new role?

Hogberg: I look forward to capitalizing on my 25-plus years of Orange County commercial real estate presence and transaction experience … and joining my old partner Roger Niez to reignite our old partnership and do deals!

GlobeSt.com: Aside from common-area amenities, what are office tenants seeking in their space today?

Hogberg: Tenants today are seeking more efficiency, less walls, and more creative space to encourage collaboration—and more parking, always.

GlobeSt.com: In such a highly competitive environment, what are retail tenants seeking in their space today?

Hogberg: Retail tenants seek location, always and forever. “A” locations will always stay leased with the best tenants. All the rest will compete for the next tier, with B and C tenants more concerned with rate.

GlobeSt.com: What are the biggest changes you've noticed in commercial real estate during your tenure in the business?

Hogberg: The biggest changes I've noticed are less personal involvement and interaction. So much reliance on technology has compromised the human connection in our business. And there are way more brokers and owners chasing a maturing and somewhat finite property pool. Lastly, I've noticed the transition of property use as the ever-increasing owner pool looks for a new way in and new opportunity.