Huntsville, Alabama, February 10, 2026
Giuliana Russo-Skinner joins NAI Chase Commercial as a Leasing and Sales Specialist, bringing international advisory experience to enhance business opportunities in Huntsville, Alabama. As the city grows, her expertise will help navigate the sophisticated commercial real estate landscape, supporting local entrepreneurs and fueling economic expansion.
Huntsville
Global Expertise Elevates Huntsville Commercial Real Estate
Giuliana Russo-Skinner brings international advisory experience and a deep understanding of market dynamics to NAI Chase Commercial, enhancing opportunities for businesses across Alabama’s thriving economic hubs.
Huntsville, Alabama, continues to solidify its reputation as a dynamic center for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. The city’s remarkable economic growth is a testament to the determination of local entrepreneurs and the strategic investments made by businesses and individuals committed to its prosperity. As the Rocket City expands, the demand for sophisticated commercial real estate services and fresh perspectives becomes increasingly vital to sustain this momentum and ensure continued economic health. The robust, free-market environment in Huntsville fosters competition and rewards expertise, making it an attractive destination for top talent in various sectors.
In a move set to further strengthen the region’s commercial real estate landscape, Giuliana Russo-Skinner has officially joined NAI Chase Commercial as a Leasing and Sales Specialist. Her arrival at the esteemed firm underscores the ongoing influx of skilled professionals drawn to Alabama’s vibrant economy and the opportunities presented by its expanding business sector. This addition highlights the power of private enterprise to attract and integrate diverse, high-caliber talent, ultimately benefiting local businesses and investors seeking expert guidance.
A Strategic Addition to a Growing Market
Giuliana Russo-Skinner has joined NAI Chase Commercial as a Leasing and Sales Specialist. While based in the firm’s Birmingham office, her role is designed to serve clients throughout Alabama and the surrounding region, including the bustling Huntsville market. NAI Chase Commercial, a member of NAI Global, operates as a premier managed network of commercial real estate firms, providing a comprehensive suite of services.
The firm, which has maintained a presence in Alabama since its establishment in 1985, is recognized for delivering trusted expertise and exceptional client service. NAI Chase Commercial’s extensive offerings include retail, office, and industrial commercial property brokerage, leasing and sales, commercial property development, commercial property management, investment property brokerage, construction management consulting, and building renovation services. This broad range of services is critical for supporting the diverse needs of Huntsville AL business and contributing to Huntsville economic growth.
Cultivating Expertise and Global Insight
Russo-Skinner’s professional journey is marked by a blend of academic rigor and practical real estate experience. She began her career in academia before transitioning into real estate investment in 2014. Her expertise expanded further in 2018 when she ventured into international consulting for a prominent Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). She has been a licensed professional since 2020. Beyond her advisory capacity, Russo-Skinner is an active commercial and residential landlord, providing her with firsthand, real-world insights that enhance her client services.
Her proficiency in Italian, Spanish, and English allows her to bring a global perspective to commercial real estate transactions, a valuable asset in an increasingly interconnected economy. Russo-Skinner is known for her honesty, clarity, and sharp strategic judgment, focusing on disciplined execution, sound analysis, and a global, intelligent approach to commercial real estate. Her specialization spans investment sales, leasing, and general brokerage, providing clients with comprehensive solutions for complex transactions.
Huntsville’s Enduring Economic Momentum
Huntsville stands out as a burgeoning hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, offering an environment conducive to high-growth startups. The city has experienced significant expansion, with its population increasing by nearly 5% from April 2020 to July 2023, adding over 34,000 residents and becoming Alabama’s most populated city. This impressive growth extends to Madison County, which saw the largest population increase in Alabama between 2020 and 2024, adding 35,199 people.
Several factors fuel this sustained Huntsville economic growth, including a thriving tech sector, an appealing quality of life, and comparatively affordable living. Projections for 2026 anticipate further market expansion driven by an influx of jobs, notably from Space Force and other industries, expected to commence in the spring. Additionally, Huntsville continues to distinguish itself nationally with a perfect 100 score on the housing affordability index, indicating that the median household income can comfortably support the median home price in the area, a rare achievement for cities of its size.
Commercial Real Estate Fuels Local Prosperity
The commercial real estate sector plays a pivotal role in accommodating Huntsville’s expansion and supporting Alabama AL entrepreneurs. NAI Chase Commercial’s operations reflect this growth, with recent activities demonstrating its impact on the local economy. For example, the firm represented The Veggie in the leasing of a new location in Madison and facilitated the leasing of retail spaces for three new tenants at the Bailey Cove Shopping Center in Huntsville.
Furthermore, NAI Chase Commercial secured a significant 90,000 square foot lease for Performance Drone Works (PDW) at 400 Diamond Drive in Huntsville, showcasing its capacity to support the diverse industrial needs of the region. These transactions not only fill vacant spaces but also create opportunities for new businesses to thrive and expand, contributing directly to Huntsville small business development and job creation. The availability of diverse commercial properties, alongside expert guidance, ensures that businesses can find the right spaces to innovate and grow.
Fostering an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Huntsville’s environment actively supports entrepreneurial innovation and the resilience of small businesses. Various local initiatives contribute to a robust ecosystem. The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s Invention to Innovation Center (I²C) acts as a regional initiative that promotes and accelerates the commercialization of technology-based ventures through incubation, co-working, mentorship, and funding. Similarly, Alabama A&M University’s Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Economic Development partners with state economic development engines and small businesses to foster economic growth, particularly in North Huntsville and underrepresented communities.
Accelerator programs like gener8tor Huntsville also play a crucial role, connecting early-stage founders with necessary resources to succeed in the Rocket City, offering programs that include mentorship and capital support. The Huntsville/Madison County Chamber’s Economic Development Department is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment, offering resources and connections for startups and established companies alike. On the regulatory front, a Huntsville Circuit Judge previously ruled the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) unconstitutional, deeming it an overreach of congressional authority. This decision signals a local judiciary’s commitment to limited regulation and protecting the operational freedom of Huntsville small business entities.
Balancing Growth with Community Well-being
While Huntsville experiences undeniable growth and economic vitality, it is essential to consider the implications for community well-being. A recent analysis indicated that Huntsville ranks high nationally among metropolitan areas where institutional investors are acquiring a substantial share of homes. This trend raises concerns about maintaining access to homeownership for local families, which is historically a primary path to wealth creation in the United States. Homeownership provides a foundation for long-term household stability and neighborhood investment.
The emphasis on attracting and retaining families, not just capital, is crucial for Huntsville’s long-term success. Professionals like Giuliana Russo-Skinner, with their comprehensive understanding of both commercial and residential real estate, are instrumental in navigating these complex market dynamics. Their expertise helps ensure that commercial development remains aligned with the broader community goals, providing essential services and spaces for businesses that support local residents and contribute to a balanced and sustainable Huntsville economic growth.
Conclusion
The integration of seasoned professionals like Giuliana Russo-Skinner into NAI Chase Commercial represents a significant advantage for Huntsville’s thriving commercial real estate market and the broader Alabama economy. Her international experience, combined with NAI Chase Commercial’s established local presence and comprehensive services, will undoubtedly provide enhanced opportunities for Huntsville AL business ventures and Alabama AL entrepreneurs. As Huntsville continues its impressive trajectory of growth, fueled by innovation and a supportive business climate, the role of expert commercial real estate guidance becomes ever more critical. We encourage our readers to continue supporting local businesses and engaging with the ongoing developments that shape Huntsville’s promising economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Giuliana Russo-Skinner and what is her new role?
- Giuliana Russo-Skinner has joined NAI Chase Commercial as a Leasing and Sales Specialist. She is an experienced international commercial real estate advisor.
- What services does NAI Chase Commercial provide in Huntsville?
- NAI Chase Commercial provides Retail, Office, and Industrial Commercial Property Brokerage, Leasing and Sales, Commercial Property Development, Commercial Property Management, Investment Property Brokerage, Construction Management Consulting, and Building Renovation Services in Huntsville and other regions of Alabama.
- What is Giuliana Russo-Skinner’s background in real estate?
- Giuliana Russo-Skinner began her career in academia, transitioned to real estate investment in 2014, and expanded into international consulting in 2018 for a REIT. She has been licensed since 2020 and is also a commercial and residential landlord.
- How is Huntsville’s economy currently performing?
- Huntsville is a burgeoning center of innovation and entrepreneurship, with rapid population growth. The economy is fueled by a growing tech sector, affordable living, and a high quality of life. Madison County, where Huntsville is located, saw the most growth in Alabama between 2020 and 2024.
- Are there concerns about the Huntsville housing market?
- Huntsville ranks high nationally among metros where institutional investors are purchasing a large share of homes, raising concerns about homeownership access for local families. However, Huntsville maintains a perfect 100 score on the housing affordability index.
Key Details: Giuliana Russo-Skinner and NAI Chase Commercial
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Appointee | Giuliana Russo-Skinner |
| New Role | Leasing and Sales Specialist |
| Company | NAI Chase Commercial |
| Company Operations in Alabama | Operating since 1985, with offices in Huntsville and Birmingham. |
| Russo-Skinner’s Expertise | International commercial real estate advisory, real estate investor since 2014, licensed since 2020, fluent in Italian, Spanish, English. |
| NAI Chase Commercial Services | Brokerage, Leasing, Sales, Development, Property Management, Investment Brokerage, Construction Consulting, Building Renovation. |
| Huntsville Economic Context | Burgeoning center of innovation and entrepreneurship, rapid population growth, strong tech sector, high housing affordability. |
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
