I wanted it to be their words.

In all the years, and all the columns you've written, how many times have you uttered the words, 'Give me a call?' Can you even imagine?'

I was so ecstatic. I couldn't wait to tell these kids.

You'll have control over your occupancy costs. You can't be put out of business by your landlord.

But over time, it has proven to be a prudent investment for just about everyone. If you view it as a long-term home for your business and you plan to be there a long time, a periodic drop in value won't affect you.

Yes, the value of commercial real estate in parts of the Bay Area declined between 2000 and 2003,