Interview with Nectar CEO Derrick Barker: Bridging the Gap in Commercial Real Estate Financing
Title: Derrick Barker: From Real Estate Enthusiast to Nectar CEO
Derrick Barker’s journey in commercial real estate is not just about making deals, it’s about making a difference. From his early days at Harvard to founding Nectar, Barker has been a game-changer in the industry.
Starting his real estate career while still in college, Barker and his roommates began buying properties in Atlanta with a vision to provide affordable housing options for their community. After a stint on Wall Street, Barker realized his passion was in fixing and flipping properties, leading him back to real estate in 2013.
Recognizing the lack of funding for small businesses, especially those owned by people of color, Barker and his wife Brittany Mosely founded Nectar in 2020. Nectar has since worked with $61B in capital requests, focusing on funding stable projects that need an extra push to move forward.
In an interview with Bisnow, Barker shared insights into his journey and the mission of Nectar. He emphasized the importance of providing capital to small and medium-sized real estate companies that are often overlooked by traditional lenders.
As banks pull back on lending, alternative lenders like Nectar are stepping in to fill the gap. Barker highlighted the opportunity in the current market and the impact Nectar is making by enabling real estate developers to grow their portfolios.
Looking ahead, Barker predicts challenges in the commercial real estate market, particularly for borrowers with short-term debt. Despite the potential hurdles, Barker remains focused on creating impact and empowering communities through real estate.
Outside of work, Barker enjoys spending time with his family, supporting his children in their sports activities, and cherishing moments of relaxation at home.
Derrick Barker’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world of commercial real estate.
