Chris Batten, founding principal, designated broker, and managing member at Spokane-based real estate company RenCorpRealty LLC, has contributed to downtown Spokane’s revitalization with adaptive reuse projects and renovations for nearly 25 years.

Batten has been involved in numerous downtown Spokane housing redevelopment projects and historic preservation developments, including SoDo Commons at 410 W. Third. RenCorpRealty aims to build 200 to 250 new housing units in downtown Spokane over the next three to five years, with 130 units currently in various stages of development, he told the Journal in August.

Recognized as a Certified Commercial Investment Member in 2002, Batten is considered an expert in commercial and investment real estate. He currently serves on the Spokane Business Association board of directors as vice chair and also is an advisory member of the Downtown Spokane Partnership.

Batten describes himself as a determined leader, a trait reflected in his favorite quote, “It’s not good enough to try; you must succeed.”

Education: Associate degree in real estate, Spokane Falls Community College. 

What would you tell others looking to follow a similar career path to yours? It’s a business of ups and downs — stick with it.

Who do you turn to for professional inspiration or mentorship? Bobby Brett.

What has been the most important risk you’ve taken and why? During the great recession in 2009, we risked everything by going all in, cashing in our retirement, and not looking back. We went from 40 employees to just two and rebuilt over the next six years.

What career or job would you want to have if you weren’t in your current role? I have been doing this for 30 years. To be honest, I have never thought twice about it.

How do you relax and unwind? Enjoying a cigar by the fire pit at the lake.