Ronald Ward
Vice President, Colliers
Honolulu, HI 96813
Investment & Industrial specialist
Phone (808) 524-2666
Investment & Industrial specialist
Specialties
Investment Sales Broker
Property Types
Industrial, Land, Office, Retail, Multi-Family
Markets
Hawaii
Languages
English
Bio
I started in the commercial real estate business shortly after I sold a food distribution company that I founded and operated for over 30 years in Hawaii. As an owner I bought and leased land and distribution facilities state-wide. Like most operators I employed commercial agents to assist me in the process. In doing so I quickly discerned what was most important to me as a CLIENT, and after selling my business in 2003, transferred that experience to a career in real estate.
What was MOST important to me as a client? TRUST, confidence in the person’s knowledge of the market, and professionalism. Basically I wanted my agent as a trusted confidant, the same as my attorney and CPA. My clients know that as a result of my experience I understand the business challenges facing them.
Starting out it was natural for me to gravitate to what I knew best, which was industrial-oriented sales and leasing. I was not young when I started, but I had to begin at the bottom. Every Saturday morning I bid farewell to my wife and two sons for the day as I canvassed industrial users and landlords on Oahu. Like most new agents I focused on tenant (user) representation. At the same time I was building my knowledge of inventory, and tenants that operated in the Hawaii industrial market. There were a lot of pieces of the puzzle I had to learn. My foundation as a businessman was invaluable in securing my clients, but I had to gain market knowledge to be effective for them. So I began to work diligently to build my skills, and learn the people and properties that make up the Hawaii industrial market.
I remember my first successfully tenant representation. It was hard, the experience was new and I had to really concentrate on the process and personalities of the parties. Once we successfully completed the small lease, my client thanked me for helping them find the perfect home for their business. It made me feel good! Subsequently we have become close friends, and I have completed 3 additional leases, and assisted them in buying land to build a custom distribution facility that will accommodate their growing business for years to come.
Using these same fundamental skills I have been able to establish myself as one of the most effective advocates for clients, which now range from medium and large Industrial users to major investment groups. I work with petroleum companies, automobile dealers, national recognized construction firms as well as some of Hawaii’s most sophisticated investors.
The biggest change I have seen in the industry is the transition from the single agent model, to the team approach. Clients are best served when you are able to assist them with a team of professionals, rather than a single individual. In nearly every assignment I reach out to associates that will compliment and broaden my skill set to assist the client in every aspect of the transaction. I enjoy working with teams, either as the leader, or a key participant.
Education
