When Dr. Zamarippa and Dr. Almany faced a corporate acquisition of their veterinary clinic, they recognized a pivotal moment. The buyout presented a clear choice: continue as associates under new corporate leadership or take control of their professional future. With a firm deadline approaching to either re-sign, apply elsewhere, or start their own practice, they chose the path to practice ownership—one that would allow them to implement their unique vision and values.
Like many first-time practice owners, the doctors had a strong clinical background but limited business experience. They knew residential real estate, but the complexity of commercial real estate was beyond their expertise.
“We knew we needed representation because we did not know anything about starting a new veterinary practice,” explained Dr. Zamarippa.
Their lender connected them with Todd Stanley at Practice Real Estate Group (PRG), a healthcare-focused real estate brokerage with experience opening hundreds of medical, dental, and veterinary practices. Todd immediately responded to their inquiry and launched a comprehensive search for medical office space in their target San Antonio market.
The market analysis revealed a significant challenge: only one available location met their specific requirements—and it already had multiple competing offers. Despite the competition, the doctors were confident this location aligned perfectly with their vision and were determined to secure it.
“We really needed Todd to come in and help us with that process so that we could get favorable lease terms – things that were in our best interest – and also so that we could get the lease space for ourselves versus it going to someone else,” said Dr. Zamarippa.
Todd recognized that strategic patience would be the deciding factor in these negotiations. While carefully advancing discussions with the landlord, he simultaneously connected the doctors with other essential resources they would need to build out their space—from construction groups to architects.
“We really wanted to come here and we wanted this space and we had to make sure – through Todd – that this is where we ended up,” emphasized Dr. Zamarippa.
As their employment deadline approached, Todd’s negotiation strategy paid off. The doctors signed a lease with favorable terms on their ideal space, just in time to give notice at their previous practice.
“I really do not think we would have gotten through the negotiation process without Todd,” reflected Dr. Almany.
Today, the veterinarians operate their practice in the location they envisioned—one strategically positioned to serve their target patient base and support their long-term business goals. Their journey from associates to owners demonstrates how aspiring practice owners can successfully navigate the challenges of location selection and lease negotiation with the right guidance.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Practice Ownership?
Are you an associate considering the leap to practice ownership? Don’t navigate the complex world of healthcare real estate alone. PRG’s data-driven approach and healthcare-specific expertise can help you find a location that supports your practice vision and financial goals. Contact the Practice Real Estate Group team here.
