Today we’d like to introduce you to Jodie Huynh.
Hi Jodie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
With a robust background in international business management and sales, I bring a global perspective and a servant-leader’s heart to the Austin commercial real estate market. My journey began in Southern California as an alumna of Long Beach State, followed by more than five years in Asia driving business development and operations within the IT sector. This international tenure was defined not only by business growth but by a deep commitment to community; in Ho Chi Minh City, I co-founded Helping Hands Saigon, a non-profit dedicated to supporting elderly residents and orphanages, while establishing a vital act of service in mentoring young professionals to engage in community volunteerism.
My connection to Austin began unexpectedly during a visit in 2004. I was instantly captivated by the city’s unique blend of “college town” vibrancy and capital-city ambition. Though firmly rooted in California at the time, I officially relocated in 2013 when my husband joined the faculty at UT Austin, and I have been an integral part of this energetic community ever since.
Upon arriving in Austin, I joined the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, rising from Small Business Coordinator to Small Business Manager. In this role, I strategically merged my international business acumen with my non-profit expertise to strengthen the local entrepreneurial landscape. It was here that I discovered my true passion: Commercial Real Estate Advocacy.= though brokerage.
Today, I specialize in navigating the complexities of commercial real estate to protect and empower local business owners. I serve as a dedicated representative for my clients in negotiations with landlords and sellers, ensuring their profiles are presented with professionalism and strength. By orchestrating a seamless collaboration between a network of experts—including bankers, attorneys, CPAs, and insurance providers—I simplify the intricacies of lease contracts and property acquisitions. My mission is to handle the high-stakes details of the real estate process so that my clients can focus on what they do best: scaling their operations and elevating their businesses to the next stage of sustainable growth.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Commercial real estate is a demanding industry, and navigating it as an Asian American woman has presented unique challenges. I’ve faced everything from unreturned calls to a lack of willingness to entertain local deals. I have seen firsthand how small businesses often lack the leverage that national brands enjoy. These obstacles didn’t discourage me; instead, they fueled my mission to be the advocate who levels the playing field, ensuring my clients’ voices are heard and their profiles are respected.
We’ve been impressed with Emerald RE Partners, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Emerald RE Partners is a premier boutique commercial real estate brokerage built on the power of partnership. Our values are the bedrock of our work, shaping every engagement with integrity and purpose. We specialize in guiding businesses and investors through the complexities of the commercial market, driven by a singular ambition: to deliver optimum value through personalized solutions. With over 18 years of collective experience, our seasoned professionals blend deep market analysis, strategic planning, and master-level negotiation skills to provide tailored results that align perfectly with our clients’ long-term goals. Our expertise lies in helping clients secure prime brick-and-mortar spaces, execute strategic multi-unit expansions, and build equity through the purchase of owner-occupied commercial properties.
How do you think about luck?
Since earning my CCIM designation in 2021, I have remained deeply committed to the Central Texas CCIM Chapter, progressing through various board positions to my current role as 2026 Chapter President. Leading at this level keeps me at the forefront of commercial real estate trends and legislative changes. This involvement isn’t just a title; it is the engine behind my growth as an industry expert, allowing me to bring a sophisticated, data-driven approach to every transaction I oversee.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emeraldrep.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jhuynh9999/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodiehuynh
