Star City Six – Brett Harris
Greenleaf Properties (www.greenleafproperties.com) is a full-service commercial real estate company located in Lincoln. Brett Harris is the director of brokerage services for Greenleaf Properties.
Tell us a little about your business.
I joined Greenleaf Properties as managing broker in January of this year and I have been busy adjusting to my new position. We work with buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and investors to help them achieve their real estate objectives.
How did you get started in the business?
My first couple jobs after college included some real estate activities and I had an interest in learning more about commercial real estate. In 2004, I had a chance to join Speedway Properties and I worked there for 14 years until joining Greenleaf recently.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Following the sale of a family-owned business, I had to make a decision about staying at it under different ownership or pursuing other interests. After staying with the company for a few years, ultimately, it was not the right fit for me long term and so I chose to go in a different direction.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
In 2011, I earned the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, which required core class work, a comprehensive exam, and the submittal of a portfolio of qualifying experience.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Jan works at Bryan Health as an occupational therapist. We have four kids, ages 15, 14, 11, and eight. This June will be our 20-year wedding anniversary! We spend much of our free time attending our kids’ sporting events and driving them around to various activities.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Ha-ha, not sure there is such a thing as a day off when you have four kids. I enjoy playing golf and boating, both of which can be enjoyed with family.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I can waterski barefoot!
If you would have a super power, what would it be?
Endless energy with little need for sleep. I could be more productive and might have a chance of keeping up at work and at home!
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Golf course design. As a golfer, I’ve always been interested in this. I love the idea of using the natural landscape to create a great golf course.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’ve been lucky to be involved with a variety of local non-profits, including Lincoln Literacy, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, and the local Boy Scouts. The organization that I’ve had the longest relationship with is Junior Achievement (JA), which teaches youth about free enterprise and economics. Our family business supported JA programs and I became involved with JA while working there. I’ve served on the JA board of directors for many years and have volunteered to teach JA classes at the grade school, middle school, and high school level.
What is your favorite movie?
Either Sideways or a 1980’s classic like Raising Arizona. I obviously haven’t been to the movies for a while.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
MōMō Pizzeria & Ristorante.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Abraham Lincoln.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 467-2525; Email: brett@greenleafproperties.com; Website: www.greenleafproperties.com.