Breaking barriers has never been a choice for Karen Simon—it’s been a way of life. As President and Managing Partner of Emersons Commercial Real Estate, she has built a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the Dallas-Fort Worth real estate market.  

With over three decades of experience in brokerage, she has demonstrated expertise across office, retail, industrial, and land sectors, excelling in both leasing and sales. Notably, she made history as the first woman in Tarrant County to practice industrial real estate and became the first female broker to be recognized as the highest industrial producer in the Dallas-Fort Worth region. 

Since launching Emersons’ Tarrant County office in 2016, Ms. Simon has continued to shape the commercial real estate landscape. Her company manages over seven million square feet in Dallas and nationwide portfolio of 100 million square feet through strategic partnerships, including Kroger Real Estate. Her leadership in her office isn’t just about numbers—it’s about innovation, breaking boundaries, and paving the way for future female leaders in the industry.  

Today, Ms. Simon remains at the forefront of industrial and commercial real estate, proving that success isn’t just about being in the room—it’s about leading it.  

The Legacy of Ms. Simon 

Ms. Simon holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in American history from Texas Christian University. Her professional accolades include recognition among the Top 100 People in Real Estate Magazine, Most Influential Women in Texas, and One of the Greatest Women of Texas. She was also honored as Bradford Companies’ Top Producer and named Businesswoman of the Year by the Texas State Women’s Chamber of Commerce in 2007. 

Ms. Simon’s journey began in 1982 at Henry S. Miller, Texas’ largest real estate firm at the time, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become the highest industrial producer in the company—the first woman to achieve this milestone. She later played a pivotal role as Managing Partner at Bradford Company and Tig, expanding their presence and influence in the industry. 

From 1982 to 1989, she served as senior vice president of the industrial and land division at Henry S. Miller. She later took on the role of president at R.E. Group Advisors, Polo Club Enterprises Inc., and the industrial and land division of the Woodmont Company between 1990 and 2003. Her expertise led her to a successful tenure as executive vice president and managing partner at Bradford Commercial Real Estate Services from 2003 to 2014, followed by a leadership position as president and principal of TIG Real Estate Services Metroplex West from 2014 to 2016. 

Beyond her corporate achievements, Ms. Simon has played a pivotal role in advancing opportunities for women in commercial real estate. In 1987, she co-founded the Commercial Real Estate Women’s Organization, a groundbreaking initiative that continues to support women in the industry today. Her dedication to leadership extends to civic engagement, serving on the executive board of the Boys and Girls Club and the advisory board of the Adrian College of Texas Christian University. She has also held key positions with the Jewel Charity Ball, a nonprofit raising funds for a local children’s hospital, and has earned lifetime membership in the prestigious Urban Land Institute. 

Through her strategic vision, industry-first achievements, and commitment to mentorship, Ms. Simon has left an indelible mark on the commercial real estate landscape, paving the way for future generations of women in the field. 

A Sophisticated Approach to Property Management 

Emersons Commercial Real Estate delivers the advantages of a fully integrated real estate management operation—without the complexities and costs of maintaining an in-house team. Led in the Fort Worth office by industry veteran Ms. Simon, the firm specializes in providing professional property management services to owners, developers, and 1031 Tenant in Common investors. 

“Our experienced team offers tailored solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each client,” says Ms. Simon. “Whether it’s full-service property and construction management or specialized accounting and financial processing, we provide the flexibility for clients to be as hands-on or hands-off as they prefer.” 

Backed by a team of professionals with expertise across property management, construction, accounting, banking, and finance, Emersons offers a comprehensive approach to modern real estate ownership. The firm understands the complexities of property acquisition and management, ensuring strategic oversight at every stage. 

In response to growing client demand, Emersons has expanded its offerings to include brokerage services for buying and selling a diverse range of properties. This enhanced capability positions the company as a full-spectrum real estate partner, providing seamless solutions for investors and property owners alike. 

With a commitment to excellence and a depth of industry expertise, Emersons Commercial Real Estate continues to redefine property management, delivering tailored strategies that drive long-term value. 

A Culture of Flexibility and Empowerment  

Emersons Commercial Real Estate is committed to cultivating a workplace that fosters empowerment, adaptability, and professional growth. Ms. Simon emphasizes that a dynamic work environment is essential for attracting and retaining top talent, particularly in an industry as fast-paced as commercial real estate. 

During the pandemic, Emersons embraced remote work options for employees who preferred a flexible arrangement. While in-person collaboration remains a cornerstone of success, the company recognizes that adaptability enhances productivity and job satisfaction. This balanced approach allows team members to operate efficiently while maintaining the high standards of service that clients expect. 

By prioritizing flexibility within a structured and supportive framework, Emersons ensures that its professionals can thrive, innovate, and deliver exceptional results. The company remains committed to evolving workplace strategies that empower its team, ultimately driving long-term success for both employees and clients. 

Evolving Opportunities for Women in Commercial Real Estate  

Ms. Simon recognizes that the commercial real estate industry is in a constant state of evolution, shaped by shifting market dynamics, technological advancements, and changing workforce demographics. While women remain underrepresented in leadership roles, their contributions have been instrumental in transforming the field. 

Over the past three decades, the presence of female professionals in real estate has grown significantly, with more women stepping into key positions across brokerage, development, and investment sectors. Their leadership brings fresh perspectives, innovative strategies, and a collaborative approach to an industry traditionally dominated by men. 

This upward trend is not just a milestone but a signal of the industry’s future—a landscape enriched by diverse voices, experiences, and expertise. As more women assume leadership roles, the industry moves toward a more inclusive and balanced environment, benefiting businesses, clients, and communities alike. Ms. Simon remains a strong advocate for mentorship and professional development, believing that fostering talent and creating opportunities for women will lead to sustained success and innovation in commercial real estate. 

Balancing Technology with Personal Connection  

Technology has transformed the commercial real estate landscape, streamlining communication, research, and transaction management. Digital tools enhance efficiency, providing real-time data, virtual property tours, and seamless collaboration. However, Ms. Simon emphasizes that face-to-face interaction remains irreplaceable in building trust and closing deals. 

While online platforms and AI-driven analytics have made property searches more accessible, nothing compares to the value of an in-person tour. Walking a client through a space allows them to experience the property firsthand, ask questions in real time, and gain insights that digital presentations simply cannot replicate. This personal approach fosters stronger relationships, deepens client confidence, and ultimately drives more successful transactions. 

Ms. Simon also stresses the importance of developing interpersonal skills in the next generation of real estate professionals. Encouraging younger team members to master the art of conversation, actively listen, and engage with clients on a personal level enhances long-term relationships and client retention. In an industry where trust is paramount, striking the right balance between technology and human connection is the key to sustained success. 

Key to Success in Real Estate 

Trust is the foundation of success in commercial real estate. Transparency and integrity are crucial in building lasting relationships with clients, investors, and industry peers. A willingness to acknowledge knowledge gaps and a commitment to finding solutions foster credibility, says Ms. Simon. She believes that professionals who embrace continuous learning and adaptability position themselves as trusted advisors rather than just service providers. 

Going above and beyond is a defining trait of dedication in the industry. Whether it’s scheduling a weekend tour, tackling a complex research challenge, or proactively addressing client concerns, prioritizing client needs fosters loyalty and strengthens reputations. These small yet impactful actions not only enhance service quality but also drive referrals and long-term business growth. 

Ms. Simon underscores the importance of humility and confidence in the field. “Women—and men—should be able to say, ‘I don’t know the answer to your question, but it’s a good question, and I will find out.’ Recognizing that no one can be the best at everything is essential,” she explains. By embracing this mindset, professionals cultivate an environment of trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement. In an ever-evolving market, the ability to adapt, learn, and maintain authenticity sets industry leaders apart, ensuring lasting success in the competitive world of commercial real estate.