Our CRE Team

With decades of experience in various facets of the architecture, real estate and development industries, The Word Factory team brings unparalleled experience to the table, whether you're looking for consulting, strategy or content.

Margot Carmichael Lester, Carrboro, N.C.
I've been covering trends in architecture, development and commercial real estate since 1993. My analysis and reporting have been featured in local, regional and national newspapers and magazines such as Urban Land, Architect and Multifamily Executive. For 10 years, I analyzed and covered office deal flow and trends in the highly competitive Southern California market for the Los Angeles Business Journal. I've authored series on topics such as affordable housing finance, rebuilding New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and buying real estate — from office space to private islands. I've also created advertising, marketing and promotional materials for agents and developers. My experience gives me unique insight into helping architects, brokers and developers promote properties, projects and themselves.

Charlie Marcus, New York, N.Y.
I began my career as a developer and builder in the 1990s, buying and rehabbing multifamily units in Manhattan before moving on to renovate entire buildings into luxury condos. I've financed, built and managed dozens of projects, including The Ellington Condos, which were featured in the New York Times in 2003 as an outstanding example of a turn-around.  I also co-founded PropertyShark.com, a leading property research resource. A registered broker, I consult with developers on property selection, advise brokers on positioning and marketing properties, and coach professionals on presenting to neighborhood groups, regulatory entities, investors and other high-stakes constituencies.

Claire Parker, Ocala, Fla.
I've been working in and writing about real estate, development and architecture since 1998. I was a member of the marketing department at two Charleston, S.C.-area real estate firms, one specializing in high-end historic properties and the other in vacation home rentals and sales. I blend my marketing savvy with strong research and writing skills. I've gathered information and reported for Multifamily Executive, Architect and Developer magazines; and has written regularly about historic homes for print and online outlets. She covered real estate and development as a business reporter and blogger for the Ocala Star-Banner newspaper. In addition to my work with The Word Factory, I also write about architecture and design for Wrightsville Beach magazine

Contact Us
Margot Carmichael Lester
margot@thewordfactory.com
919 967 3712