Flake & Co. and ARK Commercial & Investment Real Estate have announced a strategic merger that brings together two respected names in Arkansas commercial real estate. Beginning November 1, the combined firm will operate under the Flake & Co. name.
The collaboration unites the leadership of Jessica Flake Dearnley, John Flake, and Jeff Yates, combining decades of experience in brokerage, investment real estate, tenant representation, and client advisory services.
For Flake & Co., the merger represents a major step forward in expanding its reach and strengthening its capabilities across the Arkansas market. Jessica Flake Dearnley described the partnership as a rare alignment of experience, market knowledge, and long-standing industry credibility.
Jeff Yates, founder of ARK Commercial, brings more than 30 years of commercial real estate experience to the combined company. Over the course of his career, he has built a strong reputation for serving a wide range of clients and maintaining long-term national tenant representation relationships. His leadership in both the industry and the community has included service with organizations such as CREC, BOMA, ICSC, the Little Rock REALTORS Association, and Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas.
The partnership also continues a long professional relationship between Yates and John Flake, adding another layer of familiarity and shared market experience to the merger. Together, the combined team is positioned to offer clients a deeper bench of expertise and a broader platform for growth.
Jessica Flake Dearnley continues to distinguish herself as one of the state’s leading figures in investment-focused commercial real estate. Her credentials include CFA, CPA, and CCIM designations, underscoring the analytical and investment-driven perspective she brings to the firm’s leadership.
With this merger, Flake & Co. enters its next chapter with expanded talent, deeper experience, and a stronger platform to serve clients across Arkansas.
