Commercial brokers dig deep in economy

Say this much about commercial real estate brokers in the Tampa Bay area: Despite the deep commission drop-off in this economy, they aren't any less generous when it comes to supporting causes.

One such firm, Tampa-based Lane Witherspoon & Carswell, recently hosted its inaugural LWC Charity Tennis Challenge at Harbour Island Athletic Club. The doubles tournament, which attracted 20 brokers, raised $6,000 for LifePath Hospice's Circle of Love Center for Grieving Children.

“We have always been charitable. However, this was our first time organizing our own event,” LWC partner Trey Carswell tells Coffee Talk.

He adds that the tourney will raise awareness and funding for other charities as a planned annual event.

Meanwhile, brokers with sideline musical talent also performed at the River Jam 7 fundraiser.