New Show Highlights the Drama of Commercial Real Estate

Albany, New York — Todd Drowlette, a 44-year-old commercial broker, is set to showcase the often-overlooked world of commercial real estate in the new A&E series, “The Real Estate Commission.” Premiering October 12, the show follows Drowlette’s journey as he navigates the intricacies of commercial deals, from leasing space to selling properties.

The eight-episode series arrives at a time when many are seeking financial independence through side hustles and investments. Drowlette aims to attract viewers who are eager to break into real estate without the burdens of residential landlord duties. “All the people who want to be rich, who hate their corporate jobs… there are all these other things that you can be an investor for that don’t involve toilets or residential tenants,” he said.

The series will alternate between Drowlette helping clients, including a budget retailer looking for store locations, and his efforts to sell properties like a rundown office building in Albany. He wants viewers to experience genuine highs and lows of commercial dealmaking rather than the artificial drama often seen in reality TV.

However, filming the actual transactions presented challenges. “A good deal falls apart three times before it actually happens,” Drowlette said, recounting a situation where a law firm’s office purchase fell through just before closing.

Drowlette, who started his brokerage, Titan Commercial Realty Group, a decade ago, grew up near the Canadian border in Malone, New York. His early career began with a remote leasing project in upstate New York which eventually launched him into the commercial sector.

Despite the real estate show typically focusing on high-stakes markets like New York City and Los Angeles, “The Real Estate Commission” highlights Drowlette’s work primarily in quieter areas in upstate New York and Pennsylvania.

Executive producer Justin Cerone believes the program’s relatable stories will resonate with audiences. “It’s everyday people, for the most part — they’re relatable,” Cerone stated. He thinks the stakes involved in these deals naturally create drama.

Barbara Corcoran, a prominent residential real estate figure, noted that the real estate genre of reality TV is ripe for fresh perspectives. While she voiced concerns about the potential complexity of commercial real estate turning viewers away, she acknowledged that ordinary material can sometimes become captivating television.

Corcoran added, “When we had started ‘Shark Tank’, my best friends didn’t even watch it… a business show will never make it, it’s too dry.” Yet her show, which is about to enter its 17th season, has remained popular with a diverse audience.

Ultimately, Corcoran expressed interest in watching “The Real Estate Commission,” saying, “It better not be too good, or I’m going to be jealous.” Drowlette’s new endeavor may not only shine a light on commercial real estate but also attract a new generation of investors.