Why NAI DESCO
Why Businesses Choose NAI DESCO for Commercial Real Estate in St. Louis
NAI DESCO is a leading commercial real estate brokerage firm in St. Louis, Missouri, specializing in retail, industrial, office, and property management services.
Our team represents local, regional, and national clients with a focus on tenant representation, landlord leasing, investment sales, and strategic real estate advisory. With deep market knowledge and strong relationships across the region, NAI DESCO helps businesses make informed, strategic real estate decisions.
What We’re Known For
NAI DESCO is recognized throughout the St. Louis market for delivering results across multiple property types and client needs.
Retail Brokerage Expertise
Representing national retailers, regional brands, and local businesses in site selection, lease negotiation, and market strategy
Industrial Real Estate Solutions
Helping logistics, manufacturing, and distribution companies identify and secure the right facilities for growth
Tenant & Landlord Representation
Providing strategic guidance for both occupiers and property owners across all asset classes
Local Market Leadership with National Reach
Backed by the global network of NAI Global, combining local expertise with national and international capabilities
Results-Driven Approach
Data-informed insights, strong negotiation, and a focus on long-term client success
Our Commercial Real Estate Services
NAI DESCO offers a full range of commercial real estate services to support clients at every stage of the real estate lifecycle:
Built on Experience. Focused on Results.
A Proven Track Record in St. Louis Commercial Real Estate
Founded in 2000, NAI DESCO was established through a strategic partnership between the Schnuck family and experienced commercial real estate brokers to create a full-service, locally focused firm. Since its inception, NAI DESCO has built a strong reputation for delivering results across office, industrial, retail, medical, and investment properties.
In 2011, NAI DESCO expanded its market presence through the acquisition of Coldwell Banker Commercial’s St. Louis brokerage division, significantly increasing the firm’s brokerage capacity and strengthening its position in the region.
Local Expertise Backed by Global Reach
NAI DESCO is the St. Louis affiliate of NAI Global, a leading global commercial real estate platform. Through this partnership, clients benefit from both deep local market expertise and access to a worldwide network of professionals.
NAI Global includes more than 300 offices across 60+ countries, with thousands of professionals managing and transacting commercial real estate on a global scale. This connection allows NAI DESCO to support clients with both local and multi-market strategies.
The Advantage of an Independent Firm
As an independent, locally owned firm, NAI DESCO offers the flexibility to act quickly, think strategically, and prioritize client outcomes without the constraints often found in larger corporate structures.
At the same time, through its affiliation with NAI Global, the firm combines this independence with the scale, resources, and collaboration of an international network. This balance allows NAI DESCO to deliver tailored solutions with both local insight and global perspective.
Talk to the Right Team
Whether you’re leasing, buying, or managing property, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Brokerage Services
Leasing, site selection, acquisitions, and investment sales
Peter Sheahan
Founding Principal
314.994.4081
psheahan@naidesco.com
Start a conversation about your real estate strategy →
Property Management
Operations, tenant relations, and asset performance
Katie Hardiman
Vice President – Property Management
314.994.2330
khardiman@naidesco.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Real Estate in St. Louis
Q: How do I choose the right commercial real estate firm?
A: The right firm should have strong local market knowledge, proven experience in your property type, and a track record of successful transactions. NAI DESCO combines local expertise with national resources to deliver strategic guidance and measurable results.
Q: Who are the top retail brokers in St. Louis?
A: Top retail brokers in St. Louis typically specialize in tenant representation, landlord leasing, and site selection across key retail corridors. NAI DESCO’s retail brokerage team works with national retailers, regional brands, and local businesses, providing market insight and strategic leasing expertise.
Q: What does a commercial real estate broker do?
A: Commercial real estate brokers help clients lease, buy, and sell properties, negotiate terms, analyze market conditions, and develop real estate strategies. Firms like NAI DESCO provide these services across retail, industrial, office, and investment properties throughout the St. Louis market.
Q: How does NAI DESCO build long-term client relationships?
A: NAI DESCO focuses on building long-term relationships through consistent communication, market expertise, and a commitment to doing what’s right for the client. Our team prioritizes trust and results, helping clients navigate complex real estate decisions with clarity and confidence.
Q: What makes NAI DESCO different from other commercial real estate firms?
A: NAI DESCO combines strong local market expertise with a client-first approach built on trust, respect, and accountability. Our team is focused on delivering measurable results while maintaining long-term relationships with clients across retail, industrial, office, and investment real estate.
Q: Why is trust important when working with a commercial real estate firm?
A: Commercial real estate decisions involve significant financial and strategic commitments, which is why trust is critical. At NAI DESCO, we prioritize transparency, honest market guidance, and clear communication so clients can make confident, informed decisions.
Q: When should I hire a commercial real estate broker?
A: Businesses should engage a commercial real estate broker early in the process—before beginning a property search or lease negotiations. Working with a firm like NAI DESCO ensures access to market insight, off-market opportunities, and strategic guidance from the start.
Q: How are commercial real estate brokers paid?
A: Commercial real estate brokers are typically compensated through a commission paid as part of a lease or sale transaction. In many cases, the property owner pays this fee, allowing tenants and buyers to benefit from professional representation without direct cost.
Q: What are the best areas for retail or industrial space in St. Louis?
A: The best locations depend on your business goals, target customers, and operational needs. St. Louis offers a range of strong retail corridors and industrial submarkets, and NAI DESCO helps clients evaluate trade areas, access, demographics, and growth trends to identify the right fit.
Q: Do I need tenant representation or landlord representation?
A: Tenant representation focuses on helping businesses secure the best possible location and lease terms, while landlord representation focuses on leasing and positioning properties for ownership groups. NAI DESCO provides both services, offering strategic guidance based on your role and objectives.
Q: What should I look for in a commercial property management company?
A: Property owners should look for proactive communication, operational efficiency, and a team that understands both tenant needs and asset performance. NAI DESCO’s property management services focus on maintaining value, improving tenant retention, and optimizing operations.