Secure Net Lease Facilitates Shake Shack Sale in Northern Virginia
Matthew Scow Represents Seller in 1031 Exchange Transaction
Secure Net Lease, a nationally recognized brokerage firm, has successfully closed the sale of a freestanding Shake Shack located in Gainesville, Virginia. The transaction was completed with a 1031 exchange buyer based in New York, marking another efficient closing executed by Secure Net Lease on behalf of a repeat development client.
Matthew Scow, who represented the seller, shared, “This was a very smooth transaction. The buyer was in a 1031 exchange, which aligned perfectly with the quality of the tenant and the strength of the location they were targeting.”
The Shake Shack is located along Lee Highway (US-29) in Gainesville, one of Northern Virginia’s fastest-growing suburban markets. The ±3,086-square-foot building features the brand’s modern freestanding prototype with a drive-thru and sits in a high-visibility, high-traffic corridor surrounded by dense residential neighborhoods, national retailers, and schools. The site benefits from proximity to I-66 and is positioned in an affluent trade area with average household incomes well above the national average. The property’s access, visibility, and surrounding demand drivers make it a compelling long-term investment opportunity.
“We actually closed a little early, before the store even opened, because the buyer was eager to begin collecting rental income. This is exceptional real estate just outside of Washington, D.C., and I believe it’s going to be a really strong Shake Shack location” Scow concluded.
This transaction underscores Secure Net Lease’s continued success in connecting motivated 1031 buyers with high-quality, newly constructed assets in top-tier markets. The early closing, prior to store opening, further reflects the buyer’s strong confidence in the asset and their desire to begin generating rental income as soon as possible.
Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE: SHAK) is a leading fast-casual restaurant brand known for its premium burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-spun shakes. Since its founding in 2004, the company has expanded to over 500 locations worldwide and continues to build a loyal customer base through its elevated menu, experiential store formats, and modern approach to casual dining. Shake Shack’s strong brand recognition, continued growth, and innovative store design have made it a highly desirable tenant in the net lease investment market.
About Secure Net Lease
Secure Net Lease is a nationally recognized brokerage firm with offices in Dallas, TX and Los Angeles, CA that specializes in the acquisition and disposition of investment real estate. With over 100 years of collective experience, over $7.4B in sales, and transaction history in 48 states, Secure Net Lease consistently ranks among the top 10 of all brokerage firms nationally within their niche. Secure Net Lease works with developers, tenants, private and institutional owners to achieve market-setting cap rates for single- and multi-tenant net lease investments across the nation. Historically, 88% of Secure Net Lease offerings are new construction leased to nationally known tenants with 10+ years remaining on the primary term.
