Who we are

We are a San Diego-based commercial real estate firm that exclusively represents tenants — never landlords.

Our team of seasoned professionals brings extensive experience in the commercial real estate landscape, prioritizing your needs at every step. From market analysis to lease negotiations, rest assured that we place your interests front and center in every aspect of your journey. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, we ensure that each interaction surpasses your expectations, delivering a seamless experience tailored to your unique requirements."

Meet the team

What Guides Us

We are committed to doing 
things the right way. We help entrepreneurs and CEOs navigate the commercial real estate process with ease and confidence.

Informed by our core values, our tried-and-true method ensures you get the best options that are in your best interest.

Travis Carter

Travis Carter

President

The visionary behind Carter and Co, a California-based commercial real estate advisory firm, has spent close to two decades crafting a legacy of excellence. Known affectionately among local entrepreneurs and founders as the ultimate market guru, Travis brings an unyielding passion and attention to detail to every endeavor.

From strategic planning sessions to the nitty-gritty of lease negotiations, Travis’s knack for tailoring solutions that perfectly fit his clients’ needs is unmatched. His illustrious career has garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Broker of the Year titles, Costar’s prestigious Power Broker award, and recognition as one of San Diego’s top 40 business leaders under forty.

But beyond the awards and transactions lies Travis's true calling—serving a diverse clientele that ranges from Fortune 500 giants to small independent businesses. His extensive portfolio boasts over a thousand successful real estate transactions, all underpinned by exhaustive market research and meticulous analysis.

At the core of Travis’s ethos is a genuine commitment to client satisfaction, underscored by his strategic acumen and out-of-the-box problem-solving skills. His contagious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment have transcended the typical advisor-client relationship, forging friendships with the majority of his clients as they collaborate towards mutual prosperity in their business ventures.

When he’s not busy revolutionizing the commercial real estate landscape, Travis finds comfort in family time with his wife and three children. An avid supporter of the PLNU surf team, he’s helped them secure an impressive seven Championship National First Place Titles in the last decade. And let’s not forget his flair for comedy and magic, which has been delighting audiences across Southern California.

Ben Nease

Ben Nease

Senior Advisor

A native of San Diego, Ben Nease grew up in the Point Loma area and attended Point Loma Nazarene University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. An entrepreneur at heart, he played a key role in launching and growing OB Beans Coffee Roasters in Ocean Beach, as well as Sur Coffee in San Clemente and Huntington Beach. Beyond serving great coffee, these businesses are deeply rooted in community impact, regularly giving back through local nonprofits.

His firsthand experience as a business owner, selecting the right spaces, negotiating leases, and working with landlords gives him a deep understanding of the challenges tenants face. This perspective fuels his commitment to exclusively representing tenants, ensuring they secure the most flexible leases in spaces that truly align with their needs.

Ben believes that a well curated space, much like a thoughtfully designed café, fosters creativity, connection, and a sense of home. Whether working with startups, growing businesses, or established companies, he is dedicated to finding locations that not only support his clients’ operational needs but also enhance their brand and culture. His passion for advocacy and keen eye for strategic opportunities make him a trusted partner in securing the ideal space with the best possible terms.

Outside of his career, Ben is known as a genuine and community driven person. A local fixture in the Ocean Beach and Point Loma communities, he values deep relationships with family and friends. He’s an avid surfer, basketball player, and creative, with a passion for photography and videography. Whether in business or in life, Ben’s focus remains on fostering meaningful connections and making a positive impact wherever he goes.

Kyler Cooke

Kyler Cooke

Senior Advisor

Kyler Cooke is a passionate commercial real estate broker at Carter+Co, one of San Diego’s top tenant representation firms. A graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University with a degree in Business Real Estate, Kyler has played a key role in closing over 100 lease transactions. His hands-on approach and genuine commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs are at the heart of the value he brings to the team.

Kyler’s leadership background and dedication to community service have shaped his work ethic and attention to detail. With a strong entrepreneurial mindset and sharp negotiation skills, he ensures that every client receives the care, focus, and results they deserve, making complex real estate processes smoother and more successful.

He believes that integrity, hard work, and building long-term relationships are the backbone of success in real estate. This outlook shapes his approach to every deal, keeping his clients’ goals front and center.

When he’s not in the office, Kyler loves spending time outdoors—whether surfing, camping, or diving into action sports. He is also active in his local church, where he enjoys giving back through volunteer work. Whether navigating a lease negotiation or seeking out the next adventure, Kyler’s passion for people and excellence drives him, both personally and professionally.

Steve Donatelli

Steve Donatelli

Chief Financial Officer

Steve Donatelli brings decades of financial and operational expertise to Carter+Co as Chief Financial Officer. With a career spanning leadership roles in finance, strategy, and operations, Steve has a proven track record of driving enterprise value and optimizing business performance. His extensive background includes CFO and executive roles across industries, where he specialized in financial forecasting, strategic planning, and cost optimization.

At Carter+Co, Steve plays a vital role in strengthening the firm's financial foundation and operational efficiency. His deep understanding of cash flow management, lease structures, and capital strategy not only supports Carter+Co’s continued growth but also provides clients with invaluable financial insights when evaluating lease and purchase opportunities. As a former CFO, Steve brings a unique perspective to real estate transactions, helping tenants analyze costs, structure deals, and make data-driven decisions that align with their long-term business goals.

Steve holds an MBA in Accounting and Finance from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His expertise, analytical approach, and commitment to client success make him an integral part of the Carter+Co team. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, playing pickleball, and watching his grandkids play baseball.