Where Community and Commercial Real Estate Meet in Frederick
In Frederick County, Maryland, small businesses are more than storefronts or service providers—they’re vital threads in the fabric of the community. But starting or expanding a business here comes with big questions: Where do I find space? How do I navigate zoning and leasing? Who can help me avoid costly missteps?
That’s where the right partnerships make all the difference.
At Verita Commercial Real Estate (VCRE), we specialize in more than just real estate transactions. We build long-term relationships rooted in trust, support, and a deep knowledge of Frederick’s local market. Alongside resources like the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC), we’re here to help local entrepreneurs navigate the journey from idea to opening day.
The Real Estate Challenges Facing Small Businesses
Launching a brick-and-mortar business often starts with a dream: a boutique in downtown Frederick, a creative studio in a vibrant corridor, or a wellness space close to home. But for many small business owners, that dream is harder to realize than expected.
Karen Kalantzis, Senior Business Consultant, Frederick County at MWBC, sees this challenge firsthand. “In Frederick County, it can be tough to find the right size, the right location, and the right zoning at a price they can afford,” she explains. “Many entrepreneurs would love to start small in the heart of the city, but inventory is limited—and when it’s available, it often comes at a premium.”
Add in a lack of familiarity with commercial leases, zoning codes, and construction timelines, and it’s no wonder so many feel overwhelmed. But with the right guidance and early preparation, business owners can beat the odds.
How MWBC and VCRE Set Businesses Up for Success
MWBC plays a key role in preparing entrepreneurs for their first commercial lease or property purchase. From business planning and financial forecasting to connecting owners with lenders and trusted real estate professionals like VCRE, their support is comprehensive.
Karen shares, “We help business owners get comfortable with the language of leases and real estate. We give them tools and confidence to make informed decisions. And when they’re ready, we connect them to real estate experts who understand what small businesses need.”
Timing, she emphasizes, is critical. “Start your search 8–12 months before you plan to open. That gives you time to find the right location, plan build-outs, and secure financing.”
A Frederick Success Story: Serenity Swimming
In 2020, Jenni Hoover was running a small farm and working with MWBC to craft her first business plan. By 2021, she’d launched Serenity Swimming, a mobile swim school designed to meet a rising demand for lessons—especially after COVID-19 led to widespread pool closures.
But her clients needed more. “Access to water year-round is critical for skill retention in young swimmers,” Jenni says. “Parents were asking for lessons during the school year, and I couldn’t consistently access space.”
An unexpected pool closure during the fall of 2022 became a turning point. While walking on the C&O Canal, she shared a bold idea with her husband: “What if I opened my own pool?” He encouraged her to talk to Karen at MWBC. The next day, she did.
That moment sparked a year-long journey to opening a custom-built, three-lane indoor pool next to the Frederick Airport. And VCRE was with her every step of the way.
How VCRE Helped Make It Happen
Jenni reached out to VCRE after a webinar suggested finding a realtor. Karen immediately recommended Justin, a VCRE agent known for community involvement and an empathetic, detail-oriented approach.
“Justin didn’t just ask about square footage,” Jenni recalls. “He asked about my goals, my clients, and my pool requirements. He really listened.”
Finding a space for a swim school isn’t easy. There are unique needs—floor load capacity, high ceilings, water access, drainage, zoning approvals, and plenty of parking. Jenni admits, “I had a long list of requirements. Most realtors would have walked away. But VCRE stuck with me.”
Over the course of a year and countless meetings, site visits, and conversations with property owners and county staff, Justin and the VCRE team helped turn Jenni’s idea into reality. “Without Justin and Tony, this vision would have died,” she says. “They didn’t just help me find a location—they believed in what I was doing.”
More Than a Location—A Launchpad for Collaboration
Jenni’s new location doesn’t just offer warm water and private changing areas—it’s also a hub for community collaboration. In a nearby commercial building, Dream Free Art, run by Tina, a fellow S.H.E. Pitch winner and another VCRE client.
“We’re already talking about partnerships,” Jenni shares. “Art and swimming may seem like opposites, but we both serve kids and families. That shared audience creates opportunity.”
She encourages other small business owners to think about neighboring tenants. “What businesses are nearby? How can you support each other? A good location isn’t just about space—it’s about synergy.”
The Power of Frederick’s Business Community
Jenni’s story highlights just how interconnected Frederick’s business community is. From MWBC’s Coffee and Connections meetups to the S.H.E. Pitch competition hosted by the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, local support networks offer education, visibility, and access.
Both VCRE and MWBC are longtime champions of these initiatives. VCRE has even sponsored S.H.E. Pitch in past years, demonstrating its commitment to uplifting women entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic growth.
Advice for Small Business Owners Starting Their Search
Both Karen and Jenni agree on this: don’t go it alone.
“Work with a realtor who cares about your success,” Jenni advises. “And make sure they’re invested in the community. Justin’s involvement with Rotary and his reputation as a connector made a big difference.”
Karen adds, “Engage professionals early. Build your team before you need them. That includes lenders, counselors, and real estate experts like the team at VCRE.”
VCRE: Your Partner in Purpose-Driven Real Estate
At VCRE, we’re more than brokers—we’re partners, problem-solvers, and passionate advocates for local businesses. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or scaling an established venture, our team brings the insight, integrity, and persistence needed to help you succeed.
If you’re looking for commercial real estate in Frederick, Washington, or Carroll County, we’re here to help. Let’s connect and make your vision a reality—just like we did for Serenity Swimming.
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