In 1999, Richard founded Hanna Commercial, LLC to create a specialized, independently operated firm dedicated exclusively to commercial real estate. This decision reflected his conviction that major transactions demand a broker's undivided attention and deep market knowledge—not the generalist approach of larger firms. The strategy succeeded. Today, Hanna Commercial is consistently ranked among the top 20 commercial brokerage firms in New Mexico, a position earned through two decades of client-focused service and proven transaction expertise.

Richard's professional credentials underscore his standing in the industry. As president of the Commercial Association of Realtors in New Mexico (2004) and recipient of the Realtor of the Year award (2005), he earned recognition from his peers for excellence and leadership. More meaningful than any award, however, is the sustained growth of his firm built entirely on client relationships and transaction success.

Beyond brokerage, Richard has developed and invested in significant commercial and residential projects, including a Walgreens development, a 42,000-square-foot single-tenant industrial building repositioning, a multifamily subdivision, a 63,000-square-foot office building renovation and leasing program, and an ongoing portfolio of single-family investments. This hands-on development experience deepens his understanding of market cycles, construction feasibility, tenant requirements, and investor returns—insights that consistently benefit his brokerage clients.

Richard's interests outside commercial real estate reveal a person of varied talents and passions. For over two decades, he was an active hot air balloon pilot and remains engaged as a foundation board member of the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. Together with his wife Claire, whom he married in 1998, Richard enjoys traveling across North America in their motor home—so far reaching three corners of the continental United States. An enthusiast of European sports cars, Richard currently drives a Maserati Quattroporte and competes in Spec Miata racing, reflecting both his appreciation for precision engineering and competitive spirit. These pursuits—ballooning, travel, motorsports—suggest someone comfortable with calculated risks, attention to detail, and disciplined execution: qualities equally essential to navigating complex commercial real estate transactions.

Richard and Claire share their home with Murphy, a border collie and Australian shepherd mix whose enthusiasm for fetch rivals his owner's dedication to closing deals.