We Let Go of the Big Office… and Leveled Up

Downsizing our office wasn’t the end — it was the reset our business needed.

For years, having your own office was the benchmark of success.

We had it all — 10,000 square feet in the western suburbs of Chicago, complete with 10 private offices, a gorgeous training facility, and the satisfaction of knowing we’d “made it.” It was the dream… until it wasn’t.

When the pandemic hit, everything changed. For 15 months, we couldn’t even use the space — but the bills kept coming. $14,000 a month for a beautiful but silent building. And when we finally reopened? The people had changed. Behavior had changed. And the way we did business had to change too.

The New Reality of Work

In 2025, flexibility isn’t a perk — it’s a necessity.

Our community, like many others, found they preferred attending meetings online. The idea of commuting, gathering in large spaces, or sitting in all-day events? It lost its luster. And while we love the power of in-person connection, we had to face the facts: the traditional office model was outdated — at least for how we work today.

So we pivoted.

We downsized to a lean, modern 1,800-square-foot office. And instead of losing out, we gained more than we imagined. Now, we operate inside a shared workspace with access to:

• A theater-style auditorium for big events
• 10 fully equipped meeting rooms for when we need to go live
• Comfortable lounges and coworking spaces
• A restaurant and a coffee bar that make “lunch meetings” a real treat

Best of all? We cut $10,000 a month in overhead while upgrading our environment.

Why Shared and Co-Working Office Spaces Are Booming in 2025

We’re not the only ones making the switch. Shared workspaces have evolved far beyond cubicles and coworking clichés. Here’s why they’re dominating in 2025:

✅ Financial Intelligence

Office leases are a fixed expense in a rapidly changing world. When your business flexes, your space should too. Shared workspaces allow you to:

• Cut costs dramatically without sacrificing professionalism
• Scale up or down as your team evolves
• Avoid long-term leases that box in your growth

🤝 Built-In Collaboration

You’re surrounded by other go-getters, creatives, and entrepreneurs. These spaces foster connection and idea-sharing — often over coffee instead of conference calls.

🧰 All-Inclusive Amenities

Need a quiet spot for a Zoom call? Book a soundproof pod. Hosting a big workshop? Reserve the auditorium. Want to meet with a client? Use the lounge. Shared spaces give you access without ownership — and that’s a win.

🌐 Appealing to a Modern Workforce

Let’s be real — today’s top talent isn’t chasing corner offices. They want flexibility, lifestyle, and culture. Shared workspaces reflect that vibe, making them a powerful tool for recruiting and retention.

📍 Location Without the Cost

Want to be in a trendy neighborhood or downtown district? A traditional lease might kill your budget. Shared spaces give you presence and prestige — without the premium price tag.

Our Reality, Reimagined

We didn’t “downsize.”
We optimized.
We reimagined how we work — and how we serve. Our team is more connected, our events are more intentional, and our budget is now invested in growth instead of square footage.

We’re proud of the shift. And honestly? We wish we’d done it sooner.

Want to Learn How We Work (Smarter)?

We’re building real estate wealth and digital businesses in this new era — and shared workspaces are just one part of the model.
Join us for an Intro Meeting to discover how we do it, the tools we use, and the people we do it with.

Because smart investing isn’t just about what you buy — it’s about how you build.