We are proud to have a passionate group of leaders who guide our day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning to better serve our clients. They are a driving force in the commercial real estate industry and mentors for the next generation of facility and property managers. One person that encompasses everything that makes Berman special is Mary Lantz.
Mary Lantz is the Senior Director of Property Management at Berman, where she is responsible for leading and overseeing our property management division and mentoring our team of property managers. Mary is an experienced executive manager specializing in Mixed-Use and Class "A" Office assets, managing millions of square feet of commercial real estate assets.
An esteemed expert in the commercial real estate industry, Mary has served in various leadership roles at the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), including her current positions as Chair of Government Affairs for BOMA International and Committee Member for BOMA Internationals Industry Defense Fund Committee. Mary can be frequently found on Capitol Hill, fighting for commercial real estate owners and ensuring their best interests.
Mary is a pioneer in our industry, and we are so happy to have her here at Berman. We sat down with Mary to discuss her current positions at Berman and BOMA and what she has learned from such an accomplished and diverse career in commercial real estate and property management.
You've had a great career in the property management field. What do you love about this industry?
Every day is something different, and each day is never the same. I truly enjoy helping people such as my clients/building owners, saving them money for a better return on their investment, and lobbying on Capitol Hill in their best interest. Helping my team; mentoring them to be the best they can be in the industry.
What's the biggest mistake you've seen by property owners when they try to keep the value of their property high?
Value engineering instead of investing in the front end, which will cost them in long-term maintenance costs on the back end.
What is your favorite place to spend a few days on vacation?
Anyplace tropical to sit on the beach or by the pool and relax.
What do you believe Berman does better than any of its competitors?
The owner is hands-on, which helps control the quality of service and stay competitive in pricing with the market. Also, Marty was very strategic in his hires to ensure the highest degree of experience and knowledge for each company division.
Why have you invested so much of your professional career and time with BOMA?
To continue to educate myself, to grow in my career, for the networking as well as the relationships that I’ve built in the last 15 years, which is invaluable, and to fight for the commercial real estate industry/building owners when the government flippantly enacts laws which cost building owners money. Thus, increasing the operating expenses, which are passed back to the tenants.
Who was your mentor (or inspiration), and how did they impact your life and career?
Sandy Chace, a broker with CBRE. I met Sandy 10 years ago while applying for a position with CBRE. We worked together for over six years and have continued the relationship since I’ve moved on. She is a successful self-starter who empowers, fights for, and lifts up other women. She has been an amazing mentor to me and has impacted my life both personally and professionally. She inspires me every day.
What book is your absolute favorite and why?
Any book for self-improvement. If I’m going to spend time reading, I want to grow and learn something.
What advice would you give 20-year-old Mary as she is starting her career?
Be patient. Your time will come.
Thank you, Mary, for speaking with us and all you do to help our clients. You can connect with Mary on LinkedIn or contact Mary by email for more information.
