In February 2016, Verita Commercial Real Estate opened its doors with a clear purpose. The goal was not simply to complete transactions, but to build a better commercial real estate experience for Frederick County. Ten years later, that purpose remains unchanged.

VCRE’s 10-year anniversary is about more than time in business. It’s about people. It’s about relationships built, challenges navigated, and a deep commitment to the Frederick community we proudly call home.

From first leases to complex redevelopment conversations, our work has always been rooted in showing up, listening carefully, and solving problems the right way.

The Vision—and the People—That Shaped VCRE

VCRE was founded by Tony “C” Checchia in February 2016 with a simple but powerful idea. Frederick needed a commercial real estate firm that was responsive, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the community it served. Not a big-box brokerage. Not a transactional shop. But a trusted local partner.

The early days were humble by design. VCRE started from a home office, grew while operating out of the Frederick Indoor Sports Center (FISC), and today proudly calls downtown Frederick home at Creekside Plaza along Carroll Creek. Each move reflected intentional growth—never rushed, never disconnected from the community.

Just as important as where VCRE has worked is who has joined along the way.

Over the past decade, VCRE has remained a small, highly experienced team. Every person who has joined the firm has done so to strengthen service, deepen relationships, and expand problem-solving capacity. Growth has always been measured by impact.

By staying intentional, the VCRE team is able to:

  • Stay accessible and responsive
  • Know clients personally, not just by transaction
  • Remain active in community service and local organizations
  • Make decisions guided by values, not volume

This approach allows VCRE to serve investors, business owners, landowners, municipal professionals, and tenants with clarity, consistency, and care—without losing the human element that matters most.

Is It the TRUTH? That’s Verità.

At the heart of VCRE’s culture is a simple but powerful question: Is it the truth—Verità?
 This principle guides how advice is given, how deals are structured, and how decisions are made.

Inspired by Rotary International’s Four-Way Test, VCRE measures its work against these questions:

  • Is it the TRUTH?
     Clear facts. Honest guidance. No shortcuts.
  • Is it FAIR to all concerned?
     Balanced solutions that respect every party involved.
  • Is it BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
     Outcomes that create long-term value, not short-term wins.
  • Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
     Relationships matter more than transactions.

This framework isn’t a slogan. It’s a daily filter for how VCRE operates in the market and in the community.

That’s why we say: Always close with Verità.
 Adapted from Rotary International’s Four-Way Test.

That mindset has shaped VCRE from day one—and continues to guide where we’re headed next.

A Frederick Story Through and Through

The VCRE team is built with professionals who grew up, live, and work in Frederick County. That local perspective shapes how we approach every assignment and every relationship.

With decades of combined experience — including leadership that dates back to 1989 — our team has built a reputation for steady guidance and trusted counsel throughout the region.

Those roots matter. Understanding zoning nuances, neighborhood dynamics, and long-term community goals allows the VCRE team to help clients make confident, informed decisions.

Whether working with private investors, local business owners, landowners, or public-sector partners, the approach remains the same:

  • Listen first
  • Solve the problem
  • Protect long-term value

That shared commitment is why many clients return again and again as their needs evolve.

Catalyzing Change Along the Golden Mile

One of the most visible examples of VCRE’s problem-solving role came with the Frederick Towne Mall property along the Golden Mile. When the mall sat vacant for years, the challenge extended far beyond leasing space.

The question was how to responsibly reintroduce activity to a long-dormant property in a way that respected zoning, community expectations, and long-term redevelopment goals.

As shared in the Frederick News-Post, Tony worked toward a lease that would bring new energy to the site while serving as a catalyst for future development. The vision focused on thoughtful reuse rather than drastic change.

Progress doesn’t always have to be disruptive to be meaningful. Sometimes, it starts with one smart step forward.

Honoring the Frederick Indoor Sports Center Chapter

VCRE’s history is also closely tied to the Frederick Indoor Sports Center. Operated by Tony and his partner beginning in 2009, FISC became a gathering place for families, athletes, and local businesses.

When the difficult decision was made to close the facility following the pandemic, it reflected the same values that guide VCRE today. Exhaust every option. Be transparent. Put people first.

Even during that transition, efforts were made to help the businesses inside the building find new homes—another example of stewardship that extends beyond a single transaction.

Community Is Not a Buzzword at VCRE

VCRE’s commitment to Frederick extends beyond real estate. Active involvement includes organizations such as Key City Rotary, Community Arts, Inc., the Mental Health Association, Impact Club,  Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, Frederick County Building Industry Association, and Frederick County Association of REALTORS®. 

Strong communities create strong markets. Giving back isn’t separate from our work—it’s part of it.

Looking Ahead to the Next Decade

As we celebrate 10 years of Verita Commercial Real Estate, we’re not slowing down — we’re building momentum.

Frederick County continues to grow and evolve. With that growth comes opportunity, responsibility, and leadership. At VCRE, we believe the future belongs to those willing to set the vision, stay focused, and bring the right people along for the journey.

Tony continues to lead the mission of VCRE with a clear focus: empowering the team, staying actively involved at both the city and county levels, and advocating for a strong, business-forward environment in Frederick. His leadership keeps VCRE engaged not just in transactions — but in shaping the long-term success of our community.

The Team Driving the Vision

Maria (Joined 2016)
 A founding team member, Maria helped launch VCRE’s Property Management Division and has grown it into a full-service resource for property owners. From tenant relations to operational oversight, she provides landlords with steady, professional management focused on long-term asset performance. As this division continues to expand, Maria remains a key driver of its growth and success.

Justin (Joined 2017)
 With nearly a decade at VCRE, Justin has become a familiar face in Frederick’s business community — often recognized by his signature bowtie. His creativity, enthusiasm, and passion for connecting people have helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and established businesses secure the right space to own or lease. His relationship-first approach continues to strengthen VCRE’s footprint across the region.

Amos Martin (Joined 2021)
 After transitioning from a successful career in automotive sales, Amos entered commercial real estate with focus and determination. He has immersed himself in continuing education and community involvement to better serve clients focused on investments, portfolio strategy, and long-term asset planning.

Amos is currently pursuing his CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation — widely regarded as the gold standard in commercial real estate. The designation reflects advanced expertise in financial, market, and investment analysis and is earned by only a small percentage of industry professionals. His commitment to this process underscores his dedication to delivering high-level advisory services to his clients.

Melanie Day (Joined 2025)
 In 2025, VCRE expanded its services with the launch of an in-house Tenant Construction Division, welcoming Melanie Day as Director and Office Manager. With more than 25 years of experience in construction and operations, Melanie brings deep expertise in budgeting, job costing, contractor coordination, and project execution.

This division allows VCRE clients to move from site selection to build-out with one trusted partner — improving efficiency, transparency, and quality control.

Arianna McCardle (Joined 2026)
 A Hood College graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Arianna joined VCRE as Transaction & Marketing Coordinator. Dedicated, detail-oriented, and outgoing, she supports the team’s growth by strengthening marketing efforts and ensuring smooth transaction management across the board.

Our Commitment Moving Forward

As we enter our second decade, VCRE remains committed to:

  • Smart redevelopment
  • Long-term relationships
  • Clear communication
  • Community-first thinking
  • Leading with positive energy and focus

We believe strong teams build strong communities. We stay clear on the vision, invest in the right people, and continue moving Frederick forward.

To the clients, partners, landlords, tenants, investors, and community leaders who have trusted us over the past 10 years — thank you.

Here’s to the next decade of solving problems, creating value, and building Frederick — together —with Verità.