Charlie Cummings, Managing Principal at Innovate Commercial Real Estate, explores owner-operator strategies, lease-to-own paths, and Denver CRE trends.

The Crexi Podcast connects CRE professionals with industry insights built for smart decision-making. In each episode, we explore the latest trends, innovations and opportunities shaping commercial real estate, because we believe knowledge should move at the speed of ambition and every conversation should empower professionals to act with greater clarity and confidence.  

In this episode of the Crexi Podcast, host Shanti Ryle sits down with Charlie to discuss his journey from aviation consultant to commercial real estate, his commitment to helping small business owners and investors, and the importance of integrity and community involvement in the industry. The conversation also covers trends in the Denver real estate market, the strengthening position of the owner-operator, and the use of AI tools in commercial real estate. Charlie emphasizes the value of relationships, transparency, and providing exceptional service in building long-term success.

• Meet Charlie Cummings: From Aviation to Real Estate
• Charlie's Journey into Commercial Real Estate
• Early Challenges and Success Stories
• The Importance of Integrity in Real Estate
• Community Involvement: TEDx and Toastmasters
• Owner Operators vs. Other Investors
• The Shift from Renting to Owning
• Generational Shifts in Brokerage
• The Importance of Service and User Experience
• Next Generation Investors and Business Owners
• Denver's Unique Market Dynamics
• Leveraging AI and Technology in Real Estate
• Building Relationships and Adding Value
• Collaborative Masterminds and Mentorship
• Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Charlie Cummings is the Founder and Managing Broker of Innovate Commercial Real Estate, a Colorado-based brokerage known for helping business owners and investors turn vision into long-term success.

Before launching Innovate CRE, he spent six years with KW Commercial where he developed deep expertise in brokerage, advisory, and client service, working across a broad range of asset types. The majority of his business originated from referral partners—a testament to his client-first approach and commitment to long-term relationships over transaction volume.

Prior to entering commercial real estate, Charlie worked as an aviation consultant for several firms, serving public-sector airport clients across the United States. His transition into real estate was driven by a passion for entrepreneurship and a desire to help other founders and business owners build their own legacy and understand their why.

With nearly a decade of real estate experience and over $80 million in closed transactions, Charlie specializes in owner-occupier and investment services. Under his leadership, Innovate CRE has become a trusted local partner for businesses seeking to align their real estate with performance, expansion, and legacy-building goals. He is now focused on growing his personal brand, not just to build awareness for business, but to amplify the stories and success of his clients. 

Dedicated to community impact, Charlie has been involved with the following organizations in Colorado: CACEN (Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network), 5280 Toastmasters, Hope Communities, Mission Animal Hospital, SCORE, TEDx Mile High, Junior Achievement, and Project Angel Heart.

Outside of work, Charlie enjoys time with his wife Andrea, daughter Sofia, and their dog Noah—embracing community in every part of life. He’s passionate about cooking, the outdoors, travel, and continuous learning.

For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog.

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