The Greater Lehigh Valley continues to see new residential and commercial building. At the forefront of those projects are developers, engineers, contractors and more, all working together to foster economic growth.

One company with a growing footprint in the region is SVN Imperial Realty in South Whitehall Township.

Here to answer this week’s “Behind the List” questions is Tom Skeans, managing partner of the firm.

LVB: There’s a huge market for commercial properties throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley. How long has SVN Imperial Realty been operating in the region and what are its primary services?

Tom Skeans: Imperial Realty was founded in 1976 by Debby and Darbin Skeans. They specialized in residential brokerage and appraisal. In the early 1980s, they transitioned into commercial brokerage and appraisal. In 2004, we joined SVN as an independently owned office. Today, we have 13 agents and employees. We specialize in commercial real estate services including brokerage (sales and leasing), management and consulting.

LVB: What is your guiding philosophy as a business leader?

Skeans: Our foundation is based on cooperation, both in our office and with the real estate community. Through cooperation, we can deliver the best results for our clients and provide a great work space.

LVB: What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

Skeans: My grandfather, Ray Fassman, told me to buy something (real estate) every year. The same advice was reinforced by my parents throughout my life. If you stay on the watch for opportunities and continue investing (especially in income-producing real estate) you will enjoy extra cash flow your entire life and die wealthy. While I haven’t quite lived up to buying something each year, I sure do try.