Aarica Mims
Aarica Mims’ sons like pointing out “mom’s buildings” on car rides. Over the years, she’s given them a lot to look at.
In her 18-year career in commercial real estate, Mims has facilitated transactions involving more than 8 million square feet of commercial real estate, with a total value well into the billions. Her national and international clients include Fannie Mae, Alkami Technology, The Coca-Cola Company and Health Care Service Corporation/Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Today, Mims oversees KDC’s leasing platform as the company’s senior vice president of development. Her responsibilities include developing and implementing leasing strategies, focusing on corporate build-to-suit projects, marketing the company’s strategic land sites, and exploring new development and acquisition opportunities.
But this working mom isn’t just focused on real estate — she’s also committed to building lasting relationships and a stronger community.
Mims is in her fourth year as a member of the Cattle Baron’s Ball, the world’s largest single-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. As a member of the underwriting committee and co-chair of the Trailblazers and Underwriting Parties, she is involved in the many moving parts of the iconic fundraising event.
She also plays an active role in the KDC Cares program and has served as vice president for membership of the Armstrong Bradfield Preschool Association. Mims has volunteered in several chair and co-chair roles for the Armstrong Elementary Parent Teacher Association, but her favorite PTA jobs are ones that come with less impressive titles: lunch lady and librarian.
What (or who) motivated you to get involved in the community?
I wanted to use my skills in a way that benefits others, not just serving myself or my career. Meeting new people in the neighborhood early on was also important to me, as I wanted to build lasting relationships for my children. I was also drawn to being part of a charity, like the American Cancer Society, that truly tugs at my heart — cancer has impacted so many of our family and friends. I am passionate about contributing to awareness, research, and funding for cancer prevention. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see firsthand the difference we as volunteers are making in so many lives.
What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
In high school, I spent my summers working in the front office of my grandfather’s body repair shop. He trusted me with a lot of responsibility at a young age, including payroll and finances. I must have passed the test, because I returned the next summer and appointed myself the CFO. (No pay raise, though!) My grandparents laughed about that even 20 years later.
Where do you see yourself and/or your career 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I see myself still in commercial real estate development, helping to drive corporate relocations to DFW, shaping the future of office space and developing new landmark buildings and developments nationwide. And if my current life is any indication, I’ll also be in full sports mom mode — juggling practices, games, and lessons all over town. (Will there be a way to clone me in 10 years as well?)
What’s on your bucket list?
My short term (13 months and counting) bucket list is to celebrate my 40th birthday in Monaco and France with my husband. This milestone calls for champagne with a pretty view.
What accomplishments are you the proudest of and why?
I’m proudest of being a present, deeply involved mom and wife while succeeding in a competitive, mostly male-dominated industry. My boys love pointing out “mom’s buildings” and development signs as we drive around. Seeing my career achievements through their eyes makes it all the more meaningful.
What was your toughest business or personal challenge?
Returning to work with two kids under the age of 2 was more challenging than I expected. It was rough trying to balance my career, family, and have some semblance of a social life. But that’s when I learned that the balancing act doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes one leg of the tripod is shorter, but the key is adjusting the other legs as needed and just keep going.
How do you motivate yourself and others?
I believe in positivity, communication, and maximizing effort. I lean on these attributes to stay upbeat. Plus, I make sure to always celebrate the wins!
What was your “lightbulb moment” that led you to your career?
I was introduced to commercial real estate in high school and immediately knew it was the career for me. These professionals seemed to love their work, and I was inspired by their energy and excitement for the next deal.
What’s a fun fact that someone wouldn’t know about you?
I have completed three full marathons — Dallas, San Francisco, and Chicago. I don’t plan to add others to the list!
What would you tell an 18-year-old you?
It’s okay to have an opinion — not everyone will agree with you, and that’s okay. Your opinion might be the very thing that sets you apart. Stay confident, be authentic and continue to have a voice. Also, never say “never.” Be open to new opportunities because you just never know where it might lead.
If you could buy a book (or rent a movie) for your neighbor, what would it be and why?
My neighbor is 94. She would much rather I come over for a glass of wine and a little chit chat.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Business relationships are so powerful! Build them. Nurture them. Enhance them. They can make everything easier and more rewarding. As your career evolves, you never know where these relationships may take you and what doors will open as a result.
Is there anything else you think we should know about you?
I’m married to my high school sweetheart. We attended college together in Oklahoma (football player and cheerleader — cue the heart eyes emoji), and we both ended up with careers in commercial real estate.
