As a property manager with the Thomas Duke Company, I’ve had the privilege of helping many businesses find spaces that fit their needs well. But every now and then, there’s a project in which timing, creativity, and trust come together to create something that stands out as truly special. That was the case in our partnership with Financial Services of America (FSA) and their CEO, Richard James. With a tight timeline and specific requirements, this deal gave us a chance to show what a dedicated team and a strong client relationship can accomplish.
I first connected with Richard when FSA started searching for a new office space. They were in a tough spot: their previous building was not serving them, and they wanted to move out by the end of the year. We had just 65 days to find, customize, and get them into a new space. I knew the stakes, and I knew our team could rise to the challenge.
Richard and I quickly established a great relationship, so he felt free to speak frankly about what FSA needed: a reliable partner who could get the company settled fast and tailor the space to fit their team.
From the start, my goal was to make sure Richard knew he could count on us. I assured him that we’d look out for his company every step of the way to make the office transition as smooth as possible.
With the clock ticking, we got to work. One of the biggest benefits we offered was our building’s flexibility and our willingness to make the necessary modifications to fit FSA’s needs. Our design team walked through the building with Richard and his team, discussing everything they envisioned. Then, working from that vision, we adjusted the layout, knocking out walls and reconfiguring spaces to make sure everything matched FSA’s needs.
In just 65 days, the space was ready. FSA moved into a fully customized office that wasn’t merely functional but exactly suited to their business. I could see that Richard was thrilled. Hearing him say the renovated space was “world-class” let me know we’d done right by him and his team.
When we first negotiated the lease, I assured Richard that if FSA ever needed to expand, we could accommodate their growth. At the time, he didn’t think he’d need to take me up on the offer. But FSA continued to grow, and we stepped up to meet their need for additional space. Recently, FSA took over an extra 6,000 square feet, which we built out for them in just 45 days.
As Richard put it, “Their word is truly their word. Everything they promised, they delivered.” That meant a lot to me because at Thomas Duke we take pride in building trust with our clients. I wanted Richard to know that we’re here not just for a single project. We’re here for the long run.
In addition to the customized space and quick turnaround, we were able to provide FSA with an added bonus. The previous tenant had left behind hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of furniture. I knew it would be valuable to FSA. About 70% of the furniture now in their office we gifted to them, and Richard was genuinely touched by our gesture.
Building relationships with tenants goes beyond leasing office space. It’s about supporting their growth, addressing issues quickly, and showing that we’re invested in their success. As Richard shared, “The furniture and attention to detail were far more than I expected.”
Richard is so proud of the space we helped create that he regularly gives tours to clients, showing off the features that make their office unique. He says that clients often walk in and say, “Wow, that’s nice!” Knowing that we helped create that experience for FSA’s clients makes all the work worthwhile.
At the Thomas Duke Company, we understand that every business has unique needs. For us, it’s about more than just finding space; it’s about building partnerships and making sure our clients feel supported. If you’re looking for space for your business, I’d be happy to help you find the right fit.
Reach out to me, Trevor Duke, at trevor@thomasduke.com or call (248) 476-3700. Let’s talk about your needs, and together we’ll find a solution that works.
