Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Benoit.
Hi Lisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Before I ever became a broker, I was a business owner — working long hours, wearing every hat, and spending countless nights researching how to grow and market my restaurants. I learned how to manage staff, build systems, and create a brand from the ground up, but when it came to real estate, I realized how much I didn’t know.
At the time, I had no idea what the difference was between a gross lease, a modified lease, or a triple net lease. I negotiated my own restaurant leases and learned the hard way just how critical those details are. I made mistakes that cost time, money, and peace of mind — mistakes that could have been avoided with the right guidance.
Those experiences became the foundation of my purpose. They taught me that no entrepreneur should have to go through that kind of stress alone. Today, as the broker and owner of CENTURY 21 Alpha Commercial Group, I use those lessons to make sure my clients and agents have the support I never had. I help business owners not only find the right space but also understand negotiations, permitting, build-outs, and the financials behind each decision.
Every challenge I faced turned into an opportunity to build something better — for my team, my clients, and my community. My bad experiences became the blueprint for helping others have better ones. That’s what drives me every day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth road. I had to make a lot of mistakes to get to where I am today. There were plenty of uncertainties, difficulties, and growing pains along the way — but each one taught me something valuable.
When I first started, I didn’t have a mentor or a clear roadmap. I learned through trial and error, sometimes the hard way. There were moments when I doubted myself, but I kept going because I knew that every challenge was preparing me for the next level.
Now, those same lessons are what make me better at what I do. I’m stronger with financials, more strategic when helping clients secure their first brick-and-mortar location, and much more confident when negotiating leases or marketing listings. Every obstacle became part of my education, and today I get to use that knowledge to help others avoid the same mistakes I made.
As you know, we’re big fans of Century 21 Alpha Commercial Group. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At CENTURY 21 Alpha Commercial Group, we specialize in helping business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs find the perfect properties to grow their businesses and portfolios. Whether it’s a retail space, restaurant, office building, or land for development, our focus is on educating clients and guiding them through every step — from negotiations and permitting to financial analysis and marketing.
What sets us apart is experience. I come from the world of small business ownership — restaurants, retail, and everything in between — so I understand firsthand what it takes to make a business succeed. I’ve been on the other side of the table, signing leases and learning lessons the hard way. That experience allows me to approach real estate differently. I don’t just sell properties — I help clients make decisions that protect their businesses long-term.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that CENTURY 21 Alpha Commercial Group has earned a reputation for being hands-on, accessible, and client-first. We operate with integrity and transparency, making sure our clients understand every part of the process. Our agents are trained to go beyond the basics — we teach them how to analyze deals, run financials, and think like investors and business owners.
At our core, we’re not just in the business of real estate — we’re in the business of building success stories. I want readers to know that if they partner with us, they’re not just getting a brokerage — they’re getting a team that genuinely cares about their goals, growth, and long-term vision.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that there’s always room to grow from your past. Every experience — good or bad — teaches you something if you’re willing to learn from it.
Nothing in life or business happens by luck or by accident. Success takes hard work, consistency, and a willingness to keep improving, even when things don’t go as planned. I’ve learned that if you stay focused on growth and keep showing up every day, you can always build a better version of yourself and become the person you’ve always aspired to be.
Pricing:
- Transparent commission structures tailored to each client’s goals and property type.
- Complimentary initial consultation for business owners and investors exploring commercial opportunities.
- Custom marketing packages for listings, including digital campaigns, signage, and professional photography.
- Project management and permitting assistance available upon request for build-outs or tenant improvements.
- Training and coaching programs for new agents or small business owners wanting to learn commercial real estate fundamentals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.c21luckymoney.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckymoney.lisa/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luckymoneyrealestate/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luckymoneylisa/
Image Credits
Quy Tran Photography
