Get to Know Forte: Six Questions with Dan Lofgren

1. What were your career goals when you were in high school?

In high school I was most focused on going to college.  My older siblings were the first to attend college on the Lofgren side of my family, so I wanted to follow in their footsteps.  After that, it was saving enough money to go.  I worked a variety of jobs but two summers at a hydraulics manufacturer in Minneapolis was my primary earning opportunity!

2. How did you get started in commercial real estate? What was your first job in commercial real estate?

I attended St. Cloud State University and graduated from the Real Estate Program.  I took a summer internship at a commercial appraisal firm in downtown Minneapolis and the experience made me realize that was not the right career path for me.

My first “real” job in commercial real estate out of college was Assistant Property Manager at United Properties.  During my time in the Real Estate Program, I heard very good things about the company so I applied for an open position in their downtown St. Paul location, working for Beth Holmgren (now with Ryan Companies).  She was a great influence and I still talk with her often.

3. If you could be doing anything else except work, what would it be?

I enjoy spending time outdoors, fishing, hunting, golfing, hiking, walking our dog, and exercising. In the summer, most of our time is spent at one of our kid’s softball or lacrosse games but we love to get out on our boat to either fish or tube when possible. Our dog is a Golden Retriever named Rudy – he loves to grouse and pheasant hunt even more than I do, so I just try to keep up with him.

4. What are some non-profits that you support? Why is their mission important to you?

Every Meal – They are fighting child hunger.

TreeHouse – They offer a safe, welcoming place for primarily young teens to interact by offering support groups, mentoring and off-site activities.

I was extremely lucky to have loving parents/family, a roof over my head and didn’t have to worry about food on the table.  Sadly, that is not the case for many kids and young people – both of these organizations provide support by helping those who were not as fortunate as me.

5. How do you spend your time outside of work? Do you have a fun family outing to recommend?

Spending as much time with my wife, three children, family and friends that I can.

One of the best memories from a recent family outing was when we went to the Black Hills last year.  It was great!  The highlight was the day we rented a UTV, packed our lunch, and spent the day exploring trails.  We had great weather which made it even more fun.  I would highly recommend it!

6. What’s your favorite podcast? Or a favorite book?

I have not gotten into podcasts (yet).  I enjoy listening to music too much!  I like all genres of music – alternative, folk, rap, country, soul, rock, etc. and checking out the occasional concert when I can fit it in.

I can count the number of books I’ve read since college on one hand.  My favorite magazine is Minnesota Conservation Volunteer – it’s a publication which provides stories and photographs on outdoor news, activities and conservation efforts in the state of MN.

Learn more about Dan Lofgren‘s Real Estate Advisory expertise here.