Our next feature in our Expert Intel series, where Mabrey Bank financial experts are asked specifically about one of their areas of experience, focuses on commercial real estate. In this Q&A, we talk to Director of Tulsa Lending, Chris Odom, about the dynamics of acquiring CRE and the ever-changing industry. Chris has spent more than a dozen years at Mabrey and is a leading lender in Tulsa-area real estate.
To see the previous installment in our Expert Intel series, click the links below.
Building Long-Time Client Partnerships – John Pixley
The New Age of Digital Banking – Laura Zigler
Creating and Sustaining Culture – Kendall Mullen
Investing in Rural Land – Mark Mabrey
What is your role at Mabrey Bank and your area of expertise?
I serve as a Director of Tulsa Lending at Mabrey Bank, overseeing the Tulsa Commercial Lending Team. Our Tulsa team is comprised of seven commercial lenders and four loan assistants. My personal expertise lies in structuring tailored real estate financing solutions for investors, developers and business owners across various property types, including office, retail, industrial, multifamily and owner-occupied facilities. I help clients navigate the loan process, from due diligence to closing, drawing on our bank’s local market knowledge in Oklahoma and beyond.
What trends or changes are you currently seeing in commercial real estate?
The currents trend I am seeing is a growing strength in multifamily and industrial/logistics properties. Retail properties remain a steady investment, particularly in necessity-based formats (e.g., restaurants, services in walkable areas), while office development is showing gradual improvement in prime, high-quality spaces with hybrid work adaptations.
What is a common misconception you often see from clients when developing land for commercial real estate usage?
Clients often underestimate the critical importance of thorough due diligence, entitlements, and regulatory hurdles when investing. It can be easy to assume zoning, permitting, environmental assessments, etc. will align quickly and cheaply, only to face delays of months and increased construction costs from overlooked site-specific challenges or local regulations. Our team at Mabrey is here to help you navigate this complicated process.
What should be front of mind for clients right now in commercial real estate?
The focus for prospective clients should be on good asset quality located in strong fundamental growth areas. Zero in on properties with strong long-term tenant demand and surrounding amenities to ensure value and projectable growth.
How does Mabrey Bank’s approach to commercial real estate differ from other financial institutions?
Mabrey Bank takes a relationship-driven, tailored and community-focused approach as a local Oklahoma-based institution. We specialize in flexible financing, acquisitions, construction and refinancing across property types, working directly with clients to structure deals that support growth and sustainability. By combining high-quality service and community investment with competitive products, we have been able to serve the needs of a variety of industries throughout the state.
How do you utilize Mabrey Bank’s mission and core values within commercial real estate?
Mabrey Bank’s goal is to build loyal, mutually beneficial relationships with our clients by providing high-quality financial services. In Commercial Real Estate this translates to putting the clients first with transparent communication and creative problem solving.
What should commercial real estate clients be preparing for in next 5 years?
As the economy becomes more technologically influenced, you could see continued strength in the industrial market with data and AI centers. Our tailored approach to lending means that we are ready to provide the best possible service as the needs of clients change with the market.