“Confidence comes with experience, but courage starts on day one.”

Sarah Finney Miller, Senior Vice President at NAI Summit

Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in:

I began my career in real estate through the property management sector, where I served as the Director of Property Management and Broker of Record for a boutique firm in the Lehigh Valley. This role gave me a strong foundation in operational oversight, client relations, and asset management. In 2015, I was recruited by NAI Summit to join their sales team, which was a pivotal move that allowed me to transition into the commercial real estate arena and expand my expertise in brokerage and investment services.

What is your current position?

I currently serve as Senior Vice President at NAI Summit, specializing in Industrial and Office asset classes throughout the Northeast Pennsylvania region. In this role, I focus on delivering strategic real estate solutions tailored to the unique needs of property owners, investors, and occupiers within these sectors.

What was your most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2024?

My team and I represented the sale of a 40,150 s/f former Bethlehem Steel facility that had been thoughtfully repurposed into a state-of-the-art innovation and development hub for emerging food and beverage companies. The property was purchased by Bethlehem Area School District to be transformed into a new satellite vocational-technical facility serving students from three surrounding districts.

This project was especially meaningful due to its evolution, from a historic manufacturing site to an innovation hub, and now to an educational center, bringing renewed purpose and long-term value to the community. The transaction was honored with the 2024 CoStar Impact Award, which recognizes exemplary commercial real estate deals that have made a significant positive impact on local neighborhoods or submarkets.

How do you manage the work/life balance?

Work/life balance is an ongoing process, and some days are more successful than others. As women, we often carry the dual responsibilities of professional growth and household leadership, which can be difficult to navigate simultaneously. I’ve learned that it’s not always possible to do everything perfectly, and that’s where giving myself grace becomes essential. As both a wife and a mother, I hold myself to high standards, but I also recognize the importance of self-compassion and perspective. Striving for balance doesn’t mean achieving perfection every day, it means being intentional, adaptable, and kind to yourself along the way.

Do you feel being a woman is an advantage, disadvantage or no advantage in today’s business world? Why? Why not?

Being a woman in commercial real estate can occasionally still feel like you’re an outsider within a gentlemen’s club. I think it’s important to acknowledge those challenges without letting them define your path. While the industry has made significant progress, there are still moments when you’re reminded that it’s traditionally male-dominated. That said, I’ve found that being a woman in this industry can also be an advantage. It allows you to bring a fresh perspective, lead with empathy, and build strong, trust-based relationships. Ultimately, success in this business comes down to knowledge, resilience, and results, all of which are qualities that transcend far beyond just gender.

What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young woman about to go into the field of commercial real estate or your allied field?

Confidence comes with experience, but courage starts on day one. Commercial real estate can be an intense and competitive field, but your voice, perspective, and presence matter much more than you realize. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and support your growth. Learn everything you can, stay curious, and don’t shy away from the room just because you might be the only woman in it. Walk in knowing you belong and never let anyone make you question that.