John Mally has been with NAI Ohio Equities since 2015 and specializes in retail, office, and land development. John’s creativity paired with his knowledge of the construction industry has made him a great advisor to buyers, sellers, and tenants. He has successfully focused on investment projects and adaptive reuse in many transactions, working with both owner-occupants and investors to complete over 300 transactions.

As the primary agent for The Fort and The Stable on Columbus’ southside, John brokered and continues to support one of the area’s larger adaptive reuse projects, and has worked with tenants in creating a thriving community of artisans and entrepreneurs while bringing new business to the Steelton Village area.

John’s expertise across a wide array of real estate transactions, as well as his integrity and energy has proven beneficial to many businesses. He is committed to helping businesses thrive in and around Columbus by providing in-depth analysis of their real estate investments and through his demonstration of market knowledge and proven strategies that create win-win scenarios for both landlords and tenants. John serves on the Columbus Realtors Commercial Advisory Board and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bowling Green University. John has been a licensed real estate agent since 2013.

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Why did you decide to get into Commercial Real Estate?

I have a strong appreciation for all types of construction, development, and the entrepreneurial strategy that brings it together. In my ten years of working with contractors and developers across Ohio, I developed a dedicated interest in site selection, commercial property, and the negotiation of a deal. After an introduction to Ohio Equities President and broker Mike Simpson, my passion and stewardship for Columbus real estate continued to grow leading to an exciting career path.

I believe that businesses of every size and shape play an integral part in our economy and deserve the highest level of customer service through that process. With the new corridors thriving in Central Ohio, the growing workforce, modernized retail, and motivated entrepreneurs, Columbus is an exciting area to engage in commercial real estate.

Why did you decide to make Columbus your home?

Columbus has always been my home as I grew up on Eastmoor Blvd and graduated from Bishop Hartley. After returning from four years at Bowling Green it was exciting to see how quickly the city had changed. With the revitalization of the Short north and downtown both in full swing I wanted nothing more than to make my mark in my hometown. Entering into my marriage, we both had a dream of raising a family in Bexley where we could stay close to family, the Buckeyes and access to the exciting new hotspots here in Columbus.

Can you describe a memorable transaction?

In 2017 I began assisting Fortner Upholstery in locating a larger facility, as they had outgrown two buildings and were continuing to expand. We explored multiple options and landed on a 232,000sf building that was in need of some love, but had plenty of room for growth and to accommodate other businesses. Advising the client through this 1031 exchange and acquisition has led to lots of education and many opportunities. It is now home to dozens of tenants and has been pivotal to an area of South High that has long been looked over.

What is your favorite hidden gem in Columbus?

I’m a bit of a history buff so I tend to be drawn into anywhere that shows our city’s rich history. My favorite hide away is what I regard as The Top Steakhouse in Columbus and is located just outside of Bexley. They take pride in the quality of their menu and the bonus is the mad men vibe which takes you back to a bygone era. As of late though, Valter’s at the Maennerchor, has become a new favorite. An authentic German Village landmark that many are yet to experience.

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Case Studies

• Laundry Max | Retail Sale

Testimonials

Epicenter Event Center

"John helped us find the perfect spot for a business, keeping in consideration all our needs and was persistent. He is his word and has been the most thoughtful and committed realtor I’ve ever worked with."

Zedrick Clark

Transactions

• Blazer Parkway, Dublin | 6,000 SF | Men's Warehouse (Lease)
• 6161 Busch Blvd | 77,000 SF | HPRS (Sale)
• Hazelton Etna Road, Etna Township | 13.364 Acres | AD Farrow (Sale)
• Morse Crossing, Columbus | 13,688 SF | Epicenter (Lease)
• Northwest Blvd, Grandview | 3,500 SF | Trident Design (Lease)
• Main Street, Bexley | 2,800 SF | Bexley Chiropractic (Lease)
• Cassady Avenue, Bexley | 4,000 SF | Brent Applebaum (Sale)

• Creative firms find homes in old fire truck factory (January 26, 2020)
• Local Bakery Opening Store Front on Parsons Avenue (April 9, 2019)
• Introducing Columbus Navigator's New(ish) Home: The Fort (November 16, 2018)
• First Look: Want to work in an old fire truck factory? 'The Fort' opens on the south side (October 6, 2018)
• John Mally and Jim Merkel win at the Columbus Realtors Commercial Award night (March 9, 2018)
• Fortner Upholstering moves to South Side, bringing jobs and space for creative tenants (July 18, 2017)
• Fortner Upholstery Growing into South Side Warehouse, Making Room for Others (August 25, 2017)
• South side gets more retail and residential space with the Eisen on Parsons (September 22, 2016)
• People on the move (June 27, 2014)