Deconstruct

Why NYC real estate is suddenly all about politics

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

On this week’s episode of Deconstruct, hosts Hannah Kramer and Lilah Burke dive into the increasingly political world of New York City real estate.

They break down the latest developments surrounding New York’s proposed Pied-à-Terre tax, including new details about how the state may determine which luxury second homes are taxed — and why the logistics could still derail the plan.

The episode also explores rising tensions between the real estate industry and the administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. At The Real Deal’s NYC Real Estate Forum, protesters interrupted a panel featuring Related Companies CEO Jeff Blau over Hudson Yards subsidies, while developers and city officials debated rent stabilization, housing incentives like 485x, and whether City Hall and the industry can still work together.

Plus:
• Why Japanese investors are pouring billions into NYC real estate
• The Mamdani administration’s $31 million judgment against a Bronx landlord
• Steve Roth’s controversial comments about “tax the rich” politics
• What industry leaders really think about the future of New York development

If you want to understand where NYC real estate, housing policy and politics are headed next, this episode is for you.

Breaking down the Chetrit Group's challenges

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Deconstruct, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer unpack the growing challenges for the Chetrit Group, longtime players in New York City real estate now dealing with lawsuits, alleged mismanagement, and mounting lender pressure. The episode takes listeners inside a tense courtroom auction tied to a $132 million judgment, offering a rare glimpse into how distress is playing out in real time.

The show also covers major headlines shaping the market: Gary Barnett’s acquisition of the historic Friars Club and what it signals for his Midtown assemblage strategy; uncertainty around a $2 billion Hudson Yards platform deal as political priorities shift; and CoStar’s sharp stock decline following its expensive push into residential real estate.

Plus, the hosts dive into the high-profile clash between NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and billionaire Ken Griffin, exploring what a proposed tax on ultra-wealthy homeowners could mean for New York — and whether it could push capital elsewhere.

Why private clubs are popping up everywhere in New York City

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:30:00 -0400

This week on Deconstruct, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer break down Governor Kathy Hochul’s controversial pied-à-terre tax proposal on luxury second homes, what it could mean for the NYC housing market, and why brokers and developers are worried.

They also unpack the guilty verdict against former Vornado executive Jared Solomon in a years-long fraud scheme involving fake brokerages and stolen company funds. Plus: Is Manhattan’s Third Avenue office market making a comeback?

Then TRD reporter Liz Cryan joins the show for an exclusive look at New York City’s booming private club scene—from Soho House and Zero Bond to the new wave of family-friendly clubs reshaping office towers, condos, and luxury real estate. Are private members clubs the future of urban amenities—or headed for a correction?

Spring selling season is here. Will NYC's luxury real estate market bloom?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:00:00 -0400

This week on Deconstruct, top luxury broker Frances Katzen joins the podcast to discuss the New York City luxury real estate market as spring selling season begins. She shares insight on inventory shortages, buyer behavior, new developments, international demand, and what both buyers and sellers should expect in the months ahead.

The episode also covers major real estate headlines, including guilty pleas in the Omnibuild fraud case, Cushman & Wakefield’s lawsuit against Sotheby’s over a $10 million commission dispute, distressed office deals in New York and San Francisco, and Zara founder Amancio Ortega’s growing global real estate empire.

Real estate after Zohran Mamdani's first 100 days

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:00:00 -0400

Deconstruct breaks down the latest news on the Flatiron Building, a record lease at 9 West 57th, and a foreclosure at a car-branded condo in Miami. Plus, politics reporter Kathryn Brenzel joins the podcast to cover how new NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani has fared in his first 100 days in office.

After a $10 million fraud, Josh Schuster's victims try to claw back their cash

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 10:45:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Deconstruct, a podcast from The Real Deal, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer examine how record Wall Street bonuses could influence New York City’s luxury real estate market, preview the upcoming trial of a former Vornado executive accused of fraud, discusss foreclosure risks at Kaufman Astoria Studios, and why Palantir’s Miami headquarters announcement may not be what it seems. Then Senior Reporter Rich Bockmann joins the podcast to explain how infamous developer Josh Schuster rose to prominence, fell from grace, and how the would-be investors he left behind are struggling to claw back their profits.

Zillow vs. Compass: behind the battle to control home listings

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:15:00 -0400

Compass and Zillow have been battling it out over real estate listings. The outcome could reshape how homes are marketed across the U.S.

In this episode of Deconstruct, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer talk to reporter Sheridan Wall to break down Compass’ lawsuit, which accused Zillow of anticompetitive behavior after the portal introduced a ban on privately marketed listings. At the heart of the dispute: who controls access to listings, and how much power platforms like Zillow should have over the residential market.

The conversation unpack what Zillow’s policy actually does, why Compass says it harms competition, and how the fight fits into a broader battle over listing transparency, private networks, and the future of home search. They also explore what this means for agents, buyers, and sellers—and whether this case could set a precedent for how real estate platforms operate going forward.

If listings are the lifeblood of residential real estate, this is a fight over who gets to control the bloodstream.

Plus, the hosts take you through headlines about the future owner of the Chrysler building, a stalled project at the World Trade Center, an ambitious rezoning starting to take shape in Brooklyn, and more.

A constitutional crisis in Section 8 housing

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400

In the latest episode of Deconstruct, a podcast by The Real Deal, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer talk about proposals for increased property taxes, rent control, and a rezoning that could open a floodgate for New York City development. In an interview with TRD Policy Pro reporter Caroline Spivack, they dive into a debate over Section 8 vouchers, which some landlords say are unconstitutional.

Who's still buying NYC's rent stabilized buildings?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400

In the latest episode of Deconstruct, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer explain the battle to demolish a landmark church on the Upper West Side, close the loop on the verdict in the sex trafficking case against the Alexander brothers, and explain why development in Gowanus has boomed. Then, the hosts interview multifamily broker Lev Mavashev to find out who's buying New York City's devalued rent-stabilized building – and who isn't.

The sex trafficking case against the Alexander Brothers comes to a close

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:30:00 -0500

Oren and Tal Alexander were once among the highest echelon of luxury real estate brokers, rubbing elbows with celebrities and billionaires. For the last month we've seen them in the courthouse as they, along with Oren's twin brother Alon, stood trial on federal sex trafficking charges. TRD senior editor Ellen Cranley, who was on the team that broke the earliest allegations against the brothers in June of 2024, explained to Deconstruct's Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer what the reporters have seen in the courtroom, breaking down the strategy for both the defense and prosecution and explaining what it all means for real estate. Plus, why the late Ivana Trump's townhouse took so long to sell, why Dish wireless is enraging landlords, and more.

Inside the multifamily mortgage fraud that's rattled the real estate industry

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Deconstruct, hosts Hannah Kramer and Lilah Burke discuss the ongoing trial of the Alexander brothers, who face serious allegations of sexual assault and sex trafficking. They also cover the fraud case against Nir Meir, the implications of high-end rental prices in New York City, and a deep dive into a complex mortgage fraud scheme affecting the market. The episode concludes with a look at ICE's controversial plans to convert industrial sites into detention centers and upcoming events in the real estate community.

How real estate brokers scrambled to get inside the Epstein house

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0500

Deconstruct is the only podcast that brings you all the news you need to know about real estate. Now back for a fifth season, hosts Lilah Burke and Hannah Kramer will ake you inside The Real Deal's newsroom to cover the biggest issues in New York City and real estate today. In the first episode, the hosts talk with reporter Jake Indursky, who sifted through the Epstein files to find out just how badly top real estate brokers wanted to get inside his Upper East Side townhouse. Then, an update on new mayor Zohran Mamdani's plan to freeze the rent, a quick look at mounting CMBS debt, and more.

Deconstruct is a weekly podcast. Look out for new episodes every Thursday at 3:00 PM.

Will Trump be a net positive for commercial real estate?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

President-elect Donald Trump's campaign promises look to be a mixed bag for commercial real estate. Extended tax cuts would be a boon for dealmaking; tariffs could spark inflation and push the Federal Reserve to throw the cutting cycle in reverse.

Deconstruct sits down with NYU Schack Institute of Real Estate Associate Dean Marc Norman and partners at Holland & Knight Joe Guay and Joel Roberson to parse the impact on investors and developers in 2025.

Do you have guests you want to hear from? Topics you want explored? Questions, feedback, critiques? Write to us with "Deconstruct" in the subject line @ suzannah.cavanaugh@therealdeal.com.

The guy holding the gavel at the Fortress v. Cohen auction

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Matthew Mannion is auctioneer to the stars of New York City real estate. He handled the Flatiron Building's two-parter, the Times Square Margaritaville's flameout and most recently the UCC auction of Cohen Realty Enterprises' interest in a potpourri of assets.

As foreclosure filings keep ticking up, Mannion shares stories from the courthouse steps and the inside scoop on how auctions get done.

Investment lessons from 13th Floor's very active Arnaud Karsenti

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Arnaud Karsenti, the head of Miami-based 13th Floor Investments, has a whopping dozen multifamily projects underway in a city set to break another record for deliveries in 2024. Does Miami have the tenants to meet that supply? Karsenti talks in-migration, demand for housing near public transit and the pros and cons of public-private partnerships at The Real Deal's South Florida Real Estate Forum.

The ultra-wealthy ride to ranchland

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Ranches have long been at the beating heart of Texas — first, as working plots; then, as legacy land. During the pandemic, the properties acquired a new sheen, attracting city-weary Texans and would-be cowboys willing to spend tens of millions of dollars for some peace and quiet and peace of mind. Four years later, demand has come roaring back. TRD's Joe Lovinger talks with one of the state's prolific ranch brokers to find out what's drawing all of that dollar volume to the desert.

How real estate donors and housing-conscious voters will drive the election

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Election 2024 has been a wild ride for real estate. Housing stole the spotlight as an unlikely bipartisan issue, and the industry’s top donors are allotting dollars based on more than the business. As the nation readies for Tuesday’s vote, TRD Senior Reporter Kathryn Brenzel explains why an “unsexy” voter issue will drive votes, and who big names are backing.

Inside the workout room with Iron Hound's Rob Verrone

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In the latest episode of Deconstruct, TRD's Suzannah Cavanaugh finds out how loan specialists fix bad debt – or at least try to – by talking with loan workout specialists Rob Verrone and Job Warshaw of Iron Hound. Verrone works with sponsors to hash out modifications for distressed CMBS debt, and Warshaw brings perspective from the other side of the table — he spent three decades heading up negotiations for special servicer LNR Partners.

Has climate change become undeniable for real estate?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This month, two major hurricanes pummeled the southeastern U.S. As locals face the damage, the industry may be having its own reckoning with the existential threat severe weather poses to real estate. Or not. As developers respond to continued demand for high-risk real estate, and insurance premiums crush disaster-prone areas, Suzannah and Joe talk with South Florida reporters Katherine Kallergis and Kate Hinsche about the tension between the industry and Mother Nature.

The man who bet the bank on post-pandemic office

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In less than one cycle, New Jersey-based investor Shaya Prager went from total unknown to the owner of millions of square feet in suburban office properties across the country. Now, as the market turns, he's mixed up with allegations of fraud and at risk of losing much of his fast-grown portfolio. On the latest episode of Deconstruct, TRD's Suzannah Cavanaugh and Joe Lovinger talk with fellow reporters Jess Hardin and Sam Lounsberry to break down the curious case of Shaya Prager.

We got a rate cut. Now what?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In the latest episode of Deconstruct... The Federal Reserve slashed interest rates 50 basis points last month to the euphoria of commercial real estate borrowers. One cut does little to move the needle. But the Fed is projecting more cuts to come. Deconstruct breaks down how three different scenarios could affect refinancings.

Tides Equities eyes a turning tide for multifamily

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In the first episode of Deconstruct's fourth season, host Suzannah Cavanaugh and new co-host Joe Lovinger dive into the swelling concerns and a potential turning point for multifamily owners and operators. Listen for their analysis and Suzannah's conversation with Sean Kia and Ryan Andrade, principals of the fast-growing and oft-criticized Tides Equities.

WeWork’s Global Head of Real Estate on Emerging from Bankruptcy and What Comes Next

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

WeWork emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month after a herculean effort to cut costs. The task demanded the cooperation of hundreds of landlords and their lenders. Peter Greenspan, the coworking firm’s Global Head of Real Estate, brings Deconstruct to those negotiating tables for a look at how WeWork addressed 500 leases worldwide, and offers listeners a preview of the firm’s next chapter.

BGO's Chief Economist on The Fed's Next Move

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Don't expect interest rates to drop back to zero. But your floating-rate loan may be a bit less painful by year's end. The Real Deal's Deconstruct chatted with BGO's Chief Economist Ryan Severino about when rate cuts will come, the data that shows a cooling economy and what risks the Federal Reserve runs if it cuts too little, too late.

Special Report: Alexander Twins Accused of Rape

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Last week, The Real Deal broke the news that top broker Oren Alexander and his twin brother, Alon, had been accused of rape and sexual assault by at least two women. The complaints detail events that allegedly took place more than a decade ago. But the lawsuits and the nearly 30 people who came forward alleging similar incidents after the story published, according to an attorney representing the two women, speak to a pattern of alleged gender-based violence. Deconstruct speaks with South Florida Bureau Chief Katherine Kallergis, Reporter Sheridan Wall and Senior Editor Ellen Cranley about what we know so far.

_Warning: This episode includes descriptions of alleged sexual assault.

_This episode was recorded Friday, June 14; this is a developing story.

Katherine Kallergis can be reached at kk@therealdeal.com. Sheridan Wall can be reached at sheridan.wall@therealdeal.com. Editor Ellen Cranley can be reached at ellen.cranley@therealdeal.com.
_
__

How to Jumpstart a Stalled Condo Project

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Real estate attorney Isaac Kodsi nabbed Arbor Residences out of foreclosure in late 2023 with two goals: revive the dead condo project and return deposits to former buyers. Not a year later, Kodsi says he nailed the latter goal and is on track to wrap construction by the end of 2024. South Florida Bureau Chief Katherine Kallergis interviewed Kodsi on how he paid back buyers and where sales, led by Sandra Masis of Cervera Real Estate, now stand.

Opportunity, Opportunity, Opportunity: Goldman Sachs' Alternative Capital Lead on Real Estate Lending

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Last month, Goldman Sachs announced it closed a new real estate credit fund, capable of handing out more than $7 billion. And with regional banks and other financial institutions reeling back their exposure to commercial real estate, Goldman Sachs sees this as the perfect time to get in on the action. Deconstruct chatted with Goldman Sachs' co-head of alternative capital formation, Jeff Fine, what asset classes it's excited about and the opportunity for private credit in real estate.

Dealing with Syndications 101 with LP Adviser Aleksey Chernobelskiy

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Tue, 28 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Aleksey Chernobelskiy has many pieces of advice for retail investors writing checks for syndicated real estate deals. But, one of the most important: you could lose it all. As many syndicators — firms that pool equity to buy property — grapple with distress, thanks to rising interes rates, investors have been stuck in the crosshairs trying to determine whether to pump more money into a struggling deal, or walk away.

Deconstruct chatted with Chernobelskiy about syndicator best practices, what retail investors should know about real estate investing, feeder funds tapping wealth for these deals and what LPs can do if everything goes wrong.

Developer Sam Charney Dissects New York's 421a Extension and New Tax Break on the Block 485x

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Last month, Gov. Kathy Hochul passed a bombshell housing deal that extended the 421a tax abatement and introduced a new tax break for apartment projects: 485x. Developer Sam Charney of Charney Companies talks the profit potential of 485x compared to 421a, demand for sites eligible for the extension and when rental construction will ramp back up.

Deconstruct Live! Talks Bank Failures, Multifamily Fears with Fortress, Benefit Street and Urban Standard

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

It's Deconstruct Live! at The Real Deal's New York Forum. Fortress' Steve Stuart, Benefit Street Partners' Mike Comparato and Urban Standard Capital's Seth Weissman talk bank failures, distressed note buying and lending demand in a live taping of Deconstruct.

What Marijuana's Reclassifying Means For Pot Shops and Cannabis Capital

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Last week, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said it would move toward reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug — Schedule III instead of Schedule I. The move has big implications for the intersection of cannabis and real estate. Founder and CEO of cannabis REIT NewLake Capital Partners Anthony Coniglio talks tax relief and opportunity for state-licensed operators and capital providers like NewLake.

Looking at the Legislation Critical to Making Office-to-Residential Conversions Work

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

It's not just tax credits. It's not just zoning by right. To make office-to-residential conversion projects work, developers need all of the above, says Bobby Fijan of Philadelphia-based Form Developers. TRD's Deconstruct chatted with Fijan about some of the legislation, policies, subsidies and programs across the country that have helped push these conversions forward.

New York Finally Gets a Housing Deal

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Note: This episode was recorded before the state finalized a housing deal. For a detailed break down of what passed check out Senior Reporter Kathryn Brenzel's story here:

After years of negotiations, Albany has finally fleshed out the framework for a housing deal. Tenants call it a give away to developers. Landlords have their own gripes with an intended boon for rent-stabilized owners. Deconstruct sits down with The Real Deal's Kathryn Brenzel to talk Gov. Kathy Hochul’s “parameters of a conceptual agreement.”

The Closing With CBRE's LA Head Lew Horne

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Lew Horne thought he was going to run a pet store business. Then, he thought he’d sell computerized systems to wholesale grocers. Neither panned out. Instead, Horne runs CBRE’s operations across Los Angeles, Orange County and the Inland Empire, leading advisory services, property and project management and capital markets teams.

And in L.A., developers, brokers and brokerage heads have no shortage of hurdles — a stagnant office market, new transfer taxes on sales over $5 million, homelessness and bureaucratic permitting processes. Horne chatted about it all.

“Let’s get some of these barriers out of the way,” Horne said. “Let’s start taking a look at what we need to do to regain the trust of the development community. Let’s not restrict them on what to build.”

The Real Deal sat down with Horne for The Closing, The Real Deal's signature monthly magazine interview series. Deconstruct is airing an extended version of this interview. To read it, head to TheRealDeal.com.

Moody's Checks In on the Wall of Office Maturities

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The foretold wall of CMBS maturities has hit and early data on office loans signals the fears around repayments — that troubled owners won't be able to swing it — are being realized. Deconstruct talks with Moody's Analytics Senior Director and Head of CRE Economic Analysis Kevin Fagan and Director of CRE Economics Matt Reidy.

How Lender Kennedy Wilson Picks a Real Estate Development to Finance

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

For the most part, construction lending has dried up across the country, with more and more regional banks pulling back from financing ground-up real estate projects. But Kennedy Wilson, a lender based out of Los Angeles, sees opportunity in that. With more lenders on the sidelines, Kennedy Wilson can take advantage of lending to what it determines are the best borrowers and the best projects. And by being active, it can help take some construction loans off regional banks' balance sheets.

The Real Deal's Deconstruct chatted with Thomas Whitesell, Kennedy Wilson's head of debt originations, about how the firm is choosing what to lend on, its optimism for multifamily and the difficulties with office-to-resi conversions.

Breaking Down The NAR Settlement

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

When the National Association of Realtors announced it had proposed to settle a landmark antitrust suit over real estate agent commissions for $418 million, everyone had questions. The Real Deal's Deconstruct breaks down what is changing — and what is not.

TRD reporters Sheridan Wall and Harrison Connery discuss NAR's new rule prohibiting broker compensation offers on the MLS, or multiple listing service, and what this means for agents and homebuyers going forward. Deconstruct also chatted with Michael Nourmand, who runs Los Angeles-based brokerage Nourmand & Associates, about how he thinks not much is set to change — and noted that commissions have always been negotiable.

Congress v. Hedge Funds: Single-Family Rental Edition

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In December, Democrats in Congress introduced a bill that would put an end to hedge fund ownership of single-family homes. As demand for single-family rentals continues to grow, developers specializing in build-to-rent claim they'll get burnt. Deconstruct breaks down who's in the crosshairs and the likelihood that legislation can rein in the investment giants.

Have We Hit Bottom? A Price Check on Office

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

From Chicago to San Francisco, office buildings continue to trade at astonishing discounts and reappraisals show value declines as high as 80 percent. But is there further left to fall? The Real Deal's Chicago Bureau Chief Sam Lounsberry and West Coast Bureau Chief Isabella Farr weigh in.

Gil Dezer on Luxury Development, Financing and the South Florida Boom (Plus His Love For Cars)

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Gil Dezer knows how to build branded condos. From the Porsche Design Tower to the Armani Residences in South Florida, Dezer is now focused on building the Bentley Residences. Despite growing up in New York City, Dezer is now Miami through and through and remains bullish about the city and South Florida in general — and believes people will keep shelling out big bucks to live there.

Deconstruct chatted with Dezer about pre-sales at the Bentley Residences, how he's thinking about a construction loan and why he still thinks he has the best land in the country. (Plus, some of the cars he's recently added to his collection).

The Real Guy Behind StripMallGuy

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

If you're on RETwit (now Real Estate X), you've probably read Don Tepman's posts. You just didn't know it. Tepman, who heads University Avenue Partners, is StripMallGuy, the once anonymous X account that amassed over 200k followers since 2021. Tepman, now unmasked, sits down with Deconstruct to talk why he went public and of course, what's next for strip malls.

The Short-Seller And The REIT: Inside Arbor Realty Trust's CLOs

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

For the last six months, Arbor Realty Trust has been the target of a prominent short seller, Viceroy Research, which claims that a huge chunk of its collateralized loan obligation, or CLO, portfolio is in trouble. Arbor, though it denies the short seller's numbers, said it is experiencing challenges and delinquencies are set to rise. And the company is not afraid to go after non-performing borrowers.

Deconstruct sat down with Gabriel Bernarde, one of the individuals behind Viceroy, to chat about the reports, and then dug into Arbor's fourth-quarter earnings.

Unpacking The CRE CLO

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

After the 2008 financial crisis, investment managers came up with a new securitized product: the collateralized loan obligation, or CLO, for commercial real estate. It was designed to correct some of the risks that came with its predecessor, the collateralized debt obligation.

But what exactly is the CRE CLO and how does it work? Deconstruct enlisted attorney and CLO expert Stewart McQueen at Dechert to break down the product.

New York Community Bank: Canary in the Coal Mine for CRE Pain?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

New York Community Bank reported a surprise loss in the fourth quarter, took an axe to its dividend and socked away over $500 million for commercial real estate losses. The bank's stock sunk to a 23-year low and other regional lenders fell in response. Is NYCB a red flag or a one-off for CRE distress in the banking space? Deconstruct digs in.

Brokerage Head Kyle Matthews On What's Next For Commercial Real Estate Across The Sun Belt

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Not many commercial brokers branch out to start their own brokerages. But in 2015, Kyle Matthews did. Today, his Nashville-based firm Matthews Real Estate has done more than $50 billion in deals and about 650 agents. Most of what Matthews is focused on is advising clients — helping buyers and sellers sort out investments and identify pockets of opportunity. At a time when some asset classes (hint: multifamily and office) are struggling across the Sun Belt, Matthews thinks there's never been a better time for brokers to take on this role.

The Real Deal's Deconstruct chatted with Matthews about how values dropping presents an opportunity for buyers and what he's predicting across the Sun Belt in 2024.

A Private Equity Head on Investment Opportunity in "Transitional" 2024

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Heading into 2024, rate cuts are the silver lining on everyone’s mind. Still, Ron Dickerman, founder and president of private equity firm Madison International Realty, sees 2024 as a “transitional year.” As capital cautiously comes off the sidelines, Dickerman talks opportunity in the wall of maturities and which asset classes he’s eyeing. Hint: Cold storage is on the come-up

The NIMBY vs. YIMBY Battle Takes The Nation

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Pull back the cover of The Real Deal's January issue and you'll find NIMBY vs. YIMBY battles unfolding across the country. Deconstruct talks with TRD senior reporters and bureau chiefs to unpack what's driving development and blocking construction in New York, South Florida, Los Angeles, Austin and Chicago.

Deconstruct Live at TRD's Miami Forum: Using AI to Hack Zoning

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Imagine a scenario where you, a developer, could pick a site on a map and discover exactly what you could build there. No more hiring experts, contacting the city, finding ways to match zoning requirements. Deepblocks, run by Olivia Ramos, is trying to do exactly that and more, using artificial intelligence. Deconstruct sat down with Ramos at The Real Deal's annual Miami Forum last November to chat about the firm, concerns around AI and how its applications are spreading across the real estate industry.

A Case for Housing Compromise in the 2024 NY Legislative Session

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The Real Deal dubbed New York’s last legislative session the “housing session that wasn’t.” Developers desperate for a 421a tax abatement replacement went home empty handed. Tenant advocates saw no movement on the renter protection good cause eviction.

Could 2024 be different? Alicia Glen, housing expert and deputy mayor for housing and economic development under the De Blasio Administration, thinks so.

“I do feel there is a path forward,” Glen said. “We just need leadership to drive the deal.”

Deconstruct Live at The Real Deal's Miami Forum: Meet Kaizen AI

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In early November, the Deconstruct team flew to Miami for The Real Deal's annual showcase and forum. We're bringing you an interview we did live with the founders of Kaizen AI, Jay Shah and Anuj Shah. Kaizen uses artificial intelligence to analyze building designs, then retrofits them to be the most profitable project for any given space, taking developer wants into account.

Wind in the Doldrums? A Look Ahead At NYC Investment Sales

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

You know the story: interest rates rose and deal flow slowed. After a year and half of sluggish trading, what's next for NYC's investment sales market? Avison Young's Head of Tri-State Investment Sales James Nelson lays out the market dynamics set to drive office and multifamily deals. Ariel Property Advisors' Founder Shimon Shkury gets granular on the distress affecting the rent-stabilized market.

Ivanhoé Cambridge on Separating Good Office From Bad, Opportunistic Investing and Deploying Cash

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500

"It's the case of the haves and the have nots."

Real estate investment firm Ivanhoé Cambridge is facing the same issues as every other investment firm: how do you correctly manage an office portfolio right now? For the firm's head of office and life sciences investments, Jonathan Pearce, it's all about separating assets into buckets: the good ones worth throwing new cash on, and the ones underperforming. Deconstruct chatted with Pearce about how he’s thinking about investing in office right now, opportunities for preferred and mezzanine financing and how it helps to have the support of a hundred-billion-dollar-plus parent company.

Deconstruct Live at The Real Deal's Miami Forum: Inside Miami's Resi Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In early November, the Deconstruct team flew to Miami for The Real Deal's annual showcase and forum. We're bringing you two interviews we recorded on site at the event. First, you'll hear from Miami star broker Dora Puig about the state of the residential market. After that, Edgardo Defortuna and Ana Christina Defortuna at Fortune International Group talk about the hotel-branded residence market, new development in South Florida and why there are so many New York restaurants in Miami.

About That NAR Verdict — Everything You Need To Know

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

On the last day of October, a jury found the National Association of Realtors and two brokerages — HomeServices of America and Keller Williams Realty — guilty of conspiring to artificially inflate broker commissions. The verdict immediately spurred a copycat suit and could inspire dozens more. The Department of Justice is eyeing its own case and policy changes could be on the table. The Real Deal's Sheridan Wall and Harrison Connery break down the case and its aftermath.

Meet Maya: Fredrik Eklund Takes on AI

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Fredrik Eklund is now actually on 24/7. The "Million Dollar Listing" star broker and his partner John Gomes have launched a new AI tool called Maya, which allows buyers and agents to dig through listings and ask the bot general real estate questions. The Real Deal's Deconstruct sat down with Eklund to chat about his new AI venture and took Maya for a test drive.

The Syndicator's Dilemma: A Multifamily Boom Goes Bust

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Two years back, when money was still cheap, a new crop of investors was getting in on the red-hot multifamily market. Syndicators — investors who pool money to buy properties — turned to floating-rate debt to quickly close on deals when demand was at its peak. After a year and a half of rate hikes, many of those fledgling investors are now grappling with distress. Nuvo Capital Partners' Brian Underdahl discusses the catalysts behind that boom and how his firm is working with borrowers to save troubled deals.

The Distress Roiling the CMBS Markets

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

"A slow-moving train wreck." That's what Daniel McNamara, the founder of Polpo Capital, calls the upcoming wall of maturities — the massive amount of commercial mortgage-backed securities coming due in the next year or two. Many, especially those who used floating-rate debt are facing a triple threat: the triple whammy of higher interest rates, lower valuations and more conservative lending. All of that is making it difficult for commercial landlords to refinance and leaving CMBS investors at risk.

The Father of CMBS Talks Origin Stories, Great Recession and Today's Distress

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In the early '90s, Ethan Penner pioneered the commercial mortgage-backed security. Thirty years later, the father of CMBS breaks down the investment product's origin story, the writing on the wall before the Great Recession and the CRE downturn of today.

As New Development Stalls, Swire Properties is Still Reshaping Miami

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Tighter lending conditions have proved a thorn in the side of many Miami developers. But not Swire Properties. Henry Bott, the new president of the firm's American arm, discusses development plans for the last piece of land on Brickell Key, plus the mainland office supertall it's building with Related.

Filling the Gap: The Private Players Turning to Real Estate

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

As the market for traditional lending, through regional banks or commercial mortgage-backed securities, has dried up, more private credit lenders and financiers have hopped into the real estate space. And Arkhouse, a private equity firm focused on deals to privatize public real estate investment trusts, sees opportunity in that.

The Real Deal's Deconstruct chats with Arkhouse managing partners Gavriel Kahane and Jon Blackwell about why they think the public markets undervalue real estate and why this boom in private credit is good for their business.

The Agency's Mauricio Umansky Talks Resi Rebound and Reality TV

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Mauricio Umansky is a busy guy. His brokerage The Agency opened a New York office last year, then a Hamptons outpost early this summer. His firm and family star in the Netflix series Buying Beverly Hills. Season 2 wrapped filming in July. And this spring the broker released his first book — The Dealmaker. It's a guide to success in business and in life.

In Fresh Air's 'How Parking Explains The World' host Terry Gross interviews author Henry Grabar on how parking codes, lots and garages limit the creation of affordable housing. Listen here.

Why Related Companies Is Still Building Office

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Related Companies is building offices in Chicago, Austin and West Palm Beach. That's right — offices. At a time when so many firms are pausing office development, citing a lack of tenant demand and the shift towards remote work, Related is plowing ahead with developments. The Real Deal's Deconstruct chatted with Related's head of office development, Philippe Visser, about why the firm is still building new office stock, despite market headwinds.

CrowdStreet, Nightingale and a Crowdfunding Disaster

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In June, a group of investors who invested in a Nightingale Properties-sponsored deal on crowdfunding platform CrowdStreet found out their money was missing. The Real Deal's podcast Deconstruct looks at what happened, the risks with crowdfunding and FundRebel, a new platform that is trying to differentiate itself.

Guests:
Ian Ippolito, founder of Private Investor Club and the Real Estate Crowdfunding Review
Mark Drachman, FundRebel CEO

Credits:
CrowdStreet, WFAA

Inside Larry Silverstein's New Lease on Life

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

At 92 years old, Larry Silverstein is shaking things up. The founder of Silverstein Properties is spearheading a mammoth office-to-residential conversion. He's thrown his hat in the ring for the city casino bid. And he's in with a new crowd: the young folks of Lower Manhattan.

We're baaack! Deconstruct Season 3 Coming Soon

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

The Real Deal's Deconstruct is back with a fresh season of interviews, deep dives and market analysis on Tuesday, September 5. After that, catch us every Monday on Apple, Spotify, TheRealDeal.com or wherever else you love to listen. Talk soon!

RXR Realty CEO Scott Rechler Talks Distress, Slowdowns and Opportunity

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

RXR Realty CEO Scott Rechler's year has centered on "Project Kodak" — a strategy of separating older, obsolete office buildings from a younger product that can still pull the tenants and rents to thrive. TRD's Deconstruct sat down with Rechler to unpack how that strategy has evolved, why he's pegged multifamily as the next shoe to drop and whether the Fed's recent rate pause will lift the gates on investment sales.

Credits: CBS New York

Too Hot to Handle: The Hamptons Housing Crunch

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

It’s no secret the Hamptons boomed during the pandemic. New Yorkers fled the city in search of year-round vacation properties, stoking for-sale demand that flooded over into rentals. As the market enters its first Covid-free summer (fingers crossed), brokers say that surge has receded. In its wake stands a housing market transformed.

Guests: Dana Trotter, managing partner at The Agency; Cindy Scholz, partner on Compass’ Hudson Advisory

Why Palm Beach is Seeing Record Mansion Pricing

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Real estate is a sport in Palm Beach. And billionaires are still making moves, despite an overall slowdown in home buying across the country. The luxury market in the South Florida town has been propelled by "inter-island moves" — wealthy homebuyers hopping from one mansion to the next. Deconstruct chats with TRD senior reporter Katherine Kallergis about why Palm Beach is continuing to see record deals trade and the most expensive listing currently on the market in the area.

Could 16M Vacant Homes Solve the Housing Crisis?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

The U.S. is short 6.5 million homes, Realtor.com estimates. The solution, argues Kurt Carlton, co-founder of investment platform New Western, are the 16 million houses that sit vacant. Deconstruct breaks down how small-time investors are fixing up empty properties to put supply back on the market.

Is Texas Immune From Distress?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 29 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In the pandemic, a wave of new residents flooded into Texas. No income tax, cheaper homes and plenty of good barbecue joints. Six of the 15 fastest growing cities in the country from July 2021 through July 2022 were in Texas, the only state with more than three on the list. That presented a massive opportunity for developers, with homebuilders such as Lennar developing entirely new cities on the outskirts of Austin, Houston and Dallas. But will a bust come after the boom? Deconstruct chats with The Real Deal reporter Joe Lovinger about where investors are starting to see signs of distress in Texas and how commercial and residential real estate players are grappling with a new interest rate reality.

New York's Rent Law Battle Enters Its Third Act

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 22 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400

Nearly four years after landlords challenged New York’s sweeping set of rent reforms, their suit has finally landed where they'd hoped: U.S. Supreme Court's doorstep. Deconstruct breaks down owners’ two-pronged approach to a rent law rollback and what drama could come from the rent guidelines board vote next month.

Reinventing the American Mall With Bill Shopoff

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 15 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

For many, the U.S. mall is an institution. But for others, as more brick-and-mortar stores face trouble, malls are an opportunity. More and more developers are looking at malls to redevelop them into apartment complexes, with restaurant and retail components. The Real Deal’s podcast Deconstruct chatted with Bill Shopoff of Shopoff Realty Investments, which is leading some of these conversions in California.

Credits: CBS New York

Fannie Mae’s Chief Economist on How Bank Collapses Spurred a Fed Pause

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 08 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400

After approving another rate hike, The Federal Reserve left the door open for an interest rate pause when it meets next in June. Fannie Mae’s Chief Economist Douglas Duncan details how a trio of bank collapses helped drive that potential pause and what a mild recession means for the mortgage market.

Inside First Republic’s Woes

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In the wake of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, First Republic, a prominent mortgage lender in San Francisco, lost billions in deposits. But what does that mean for lending and can the bank survive? The Real Deal's Isabella Farr looks at First Republic Bank's financial health and how some of its long-term mortgages are posing issues for the bank's balance sheet. Plus, Deconstruct chats about the New York state budget and New York Community Bank’s earnings.

Disclaimer: This story was recorded before the FDIC seized First Republic Bank and sold it to JPMorgan on Monday morning.

Credits: Yahoo! Finance, ABC News

Can Airbnb Bridge the Landlord-Tenant Divide?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Last November, Airbnb launched its tenant-friendly apartment venture, a product that allows renters to list units with their landlords’ consent. The firm pegs the service as a win-win that offers on-the-books income for tenants and perks for owners. Jesse Stein, Airbnb’s global head of real estate breaks down the product’s potential and which national landlords are already on board.

Who Flakes On The Flatiron Building?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

When Jacob Garlick, a relative unknown in the small world of New York real estate, secured the winning bid on the Flatiron building, he told NY1 the moment had been a “lifelong dream since he was 14 years old.” Two days later he flaked on the down payment. The Real Deal's Deconstruct chats with senior reporter Keith Larsen on the man behind the botched buy and why Garlick is still gunning for the building.

Credits: NY1

The Robots Are Coming: Should Real Estate Worry?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0400

The launch of ChatGPT last year presented an existential problem for residential brokerage: Would the new tech transform into a beloved virtual assistant or the type of threat that could undermine their role in real estate?

Keeping The Heat: Inside Miami’s Luxury Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

We all know the story: wealthy buyers flocked to pour money into homes in South Florida. But is the demand still there, given rising interest rates? The Real Deal's Deconstruct chats with TRD's residential bureau chief Katherine Kallergis about how the market has softened, but some are plowing ahead with exorbitant buys. Plus, Deconstruct chats about the Flatiron building, Chicago's upcoming election, Blackstone's multifamily loans and First Republic's balance sheet.

Subscribe to The Real Deal now for more blockbuster real estate news, trends, profiles, analysis and more.

Credits: CBS News

From The '90s to Now: Making Sense of CRE's Downturn

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0400

As distress descends on commercial real estate, Deconstruct analyzes how past financial crises can inform how borrowers, banks and policy makers handle this down cycle. Guests include: Bob Knakal, JLL Senior Managing Director, Head of New York Private Capital Group; and Sam Chandan, Professor of Finance and Director of the Chao-Hon Chen Institute for Global Real Estate Finance at the New York University Stern School of Business.

An ‘Existential Weekend’: How Two Bank Collapses Roiled Real Estate

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Let's talk about last week. The Real Deal’s Deconstruct explains the catalysts behind the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank last week and the lasting impact on regional banks, real estate lending and the Fed’s next steps.

Credits: CNBC, ABC News, NBC News, CBS, CNN, Forbes

Inside Downtown LA’s Pain Points

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Brookfield has defaulted on $784 million worth of loans connected to office towers in Los Angeles. Starwood foreclosed on the completely vacant Broadway Trade Center. A deal to sell a 40-story tower has been delayed for the 10th time. So what is going on with Downtown L.A.‘s office market? Deconstruct chats with Michael Soto, a research director at Savills, about the pain we’re seeing across the city’s center and how we ended up here.

Credits: CNBC

As Equity REITs Flounder, Fundrise CEO is Bullish on Credit

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0500

For the past year, public real estate investment trusts that own or manage office buildings, hotels and multifamily have traded at steep discounts as investors feared rising rates would take a whack to profits and property values. Amid that downturn, Ben Miller, CEO of investment platform Fundrise, has set his sights to credit. Tune in for the lowdown on why Miller sees opportunity in debt and which asset classes he’s eyeing once equities markets recover.

The Myths of Multifamily’s Sun Belt Bust

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 08:15:00 -0500

What goes up must come down, right? That’s one of the myths that has followed the Sun Belt’s multifamily market for decades, says Real Page Chief Economist Jay Parsons. It’s the idea of a boom and bust cycle, wherein strong periods of investment give way to supply levels that overserve demand. In practice, though, the Sun Belt has proved itself a market as or more resilient than many coastal cities. Here’s the rundown on why 2023 will likely be no different.

'Shvo-ing' It Up: Why Michael Shvo Is Bullish on Office

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Michael Shvo doesn't care about how other people's office buildings are doing, just his own. He also thinks it's time for some of New York's office buildings to be demolished and rebuilt. TRD's Deconstruct sat down with the luxury developer to discuss the capital he deployed during the pandemic, why he's bullish on the office market in New York and San Francisco, and how he's taking advantage of a lack of office space in Miami Beach.

Rent Control Enters the Chat

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

From LA to D.C., tenant protections have emerged as the policy du jour after two years of rising rents cemented affordaiblity as a headline issue. Los Angeles has rolled out a patchwork of renter-friendly policies; the White House made a push for better regulation of the rental market and six states are eyeing reforms that would allow cities to instate their own versions of rent control. So what’s the rub? Economists say capping rents is the best way to kill affordability. Deconstruct has the break down and also looks at the top news of last week.

Guest: National Multifamily Housing Council President Sharon Wilson Geno

Credits: a16z, Fox Business, KABC-AM, Democracy Now, KCAL News, KTLA 5

How The Fed’s Latest Hike Could Kickstart the Mortgage Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Last week, the Federal Reserve hiked interest rates for the eighth time in less than a year, sending benchmark rates to their highest level since 2007. For a mortgage market that has seized in the wake of higher financing costs, another rate hike would seem to be bad news. But Nadia Evangelou, senior economist at the National Association of Realtors, says the slowing pace of hikes could offer markets the type of certainty that could revive mortgage demand.

Twitter’s Debacles Aren't Helping San Francisco's Office Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Twitter has stopped paying its rent, auctioned off furniture and let go half of its employees. None of that is helping Shorenstein and JPMorgan refinance a $400 million loan on the company’s San Francisco headquarters. Deconstruct chats with TRD reporter Emily Landes about Twitter's fights at the building and how it's emblematic of the larger impact of tech's shakeup on the San Francisco Office Market.

The Hotel Market's Uphill Battle

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Times Square hotels are headed to bankruptcy. Investors are clawing at distressed properties in Chicago. High interest rates are making it harder for investors to transact. And in California, more supply is coming offline, as developers look to hotels for adaptive reuse projects. Deconstruct chats with Atlas Hospitality Group president Alan Reay about the looming distress across the hotel industry, but where investors are finding pockets of hope.

SL Green Bets On a Future Times Square Casino

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Times Square is already full of tourists, billboard glitz and Broadway shows. SL Green, New York's largest landlord, is now bidding to build a casino in the entertainment hub. The firm has placed a bid with the city to take up one of three casino licenses up for grab in Downstate New York. The Real Deal's Deconstruct chats with SL Green executive Brett Herschenfeld about why the firm chose Times Square and why it has teamed up with Caesars on its plans.

Further reading: https://therealdeal.com/2022/12/05/going-for-the-jackpot-a-look-at-the-high-rollers-competing-to-build-nyc-casinos/

Credits: New York Governor Kathy Hochul's State of the State 2023 address

Hochul's Priorities for New York Real Estate

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Jan. 10, Gov. Kathy Hochul delivers her State of the State address for 2023. Deconstruct has the scoop on where the governor's priorities lie when it comes to New York real estate. Hint: Affordable housing is a huge one.

A Peek at CRE in 2023

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

It's the end of the year as we know it, and investors feel — uncertain. Rate hikes have slowed deals in the second half of 2022 and Fed Chair Jay Powell said there's more pain to come. But how long will all the available dry powder stagnate on the sidelines? Deconstruct breaks down 2023 forecasts for multifamily, retail, industrial and office and chats with Moody's Senior Economist Thomas LaSalvia about when the deal dam might break.

Alternative Investment Goes Mainstream: Harrison Street's Recs for a Down Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

High rates and uncertain times have seen traditional CRE transactions falter in recent months. But for deal-hungry investors, Harrison Street CEO Christopher Merrill says there's an alternative — alternative assets. The executive makes the case that once-fringe investment vehicles like student housing or self-storage hold the recession-proof demand and repricing power investors are craving.

Commercial Brokerages Feel The Pain

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

After low interest rates propelled investment sales to a record-breaking year in 2021, commercial brokerages including CBRE, Newmark and JLL, are now feeling the brunt of the impact. They're pushing to cut costs, some have laid off employees, but all agree the macroeconomic environment has made it hard to do business. Deconstruct chats with TRD reporter Patrick Ralph about the reasons behind the brokerages’ pain and whether the firms will see relief in the future.

The Safest Bet in Retail: Grocery Stores

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500

As commercial real estate deals have sputtered under the pressure of a rising rate environment, one asset has proved a safe bet: grocery-anchored retail. Sales of shopping centers with a supermarket soared during the pandemic and should hold steady as other trades falter.

To Lend or Not To Lend?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

With rising interest rates, major institutions have cut back on lending. Issuances of commercial mortgage-backed securities dropped 35 percent in the third quarter, compared to the second. Deconstruct chats with Madison Realty Capital's Josh Zegen about what opportunities are still out there — coming from distress, loans on loans and creative refinancings.

Credit: NBCLA

Compass Points to Its Future

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Compass CEO Robert Reffkin had a busy Nov. 10. Hours after speaking at a TRD forum in Miami, Reffkin got on a conference call with analysts to discuss the company's much anticipated earnings results for the third quarter. Compass lost $157 million from July through September — more than it lost in the second quarter. Deconstruct looks at the state of the brokerage, why it's struggling and where it goes from here.

Guests: TRD reporter Harrison Connery, TRD deputy web editor and South Florida reporter Katherine Kallergis.

Hines Takes On the Improbable Office-to-Resi Play

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

Industry experts agree: Converting unused office towers to residential buildings is great in theory, but a moonshot to pull off. Despite the grab bag of obstacles that make these projects so difficult, the developer and office landlord Hines is getting in on the action. The Real Deal breaks down how Hines' Salt Lake City project pencils out and what it signals about the right building for the job.

Guests: Steven Paynter, studio director at Gensler's Toronto office; Dusty Harris, senior managing director of Hines' Utah and Oregon investment activity.

What Happens When California Cities Fumble Housing Plans?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

After the city of Santa Monica failed to submit a state-approved housing plan on time, developers raced to capitalize on the city's failures. Under California state law, developers in cities whose housing plans fall out of state compliance can turn to filing so-called “builder’s remedy” projects that do not require the usual consent of municipal councils or planning commissions.

But how did this happen? TRD's Deconstruct chats with reporter Trevor Bach about why the city of Santa Monica is set to get more than 5,000 new units, whether cities can challenge these projects and how other regions may get a deluge of new housing.

Will Single-Family Rentals Survive Inflation?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Investors have flocked to purchase single-family homes across the U.S., as technology has made the asset class scaleable. But, how will the sector fare with inflation, increasing interest rates and a potential recession on the horizon?

Deconstruct chats with Doug Brien, the CEO of single-family rental management and investment firm Mynd about why he's still bullish on the asset class.

Can WeWork Make a WeSurgence?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Ahead of its third quarter earnings, TRD's Deconstruct chats with senior reporter Keith Larsen about where WeWork stands and how it’s going about cutting costs under CEO Sandeep Mathrani. The company faces a difficult road in its effort to bounce back from its disastrous 2019 IPO attempt and navigate a struggling office fundamentals at the same time.

In Powell v. Inflation, the Housing Market is a Casualty

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400

We all know how mortgage rates have shot up over the last few months, as the Fed has hiked up rates to fight inflation. But, home prices remain stubbornly high across the country. So, what's the deal? Deconstruct chats with Redfin's chief economist Daryl Fairweather about discussed the impact of the rate shifts on first-time homebuyers and why a slowdown in sales activity has not coincided with a decline in prices.

This Key Construction Material is Now An Endangered Species

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400

It’s real estate trivia this week. A workhorse of the construction industry is now a disappearing resource. The catch: Few recognize the material is quickly slipping through our hands. TRD’s Deconstruct chats with reporter Kathryn Brenzel about the root of the crisis and how the industry can best adapt.

Ryan Serhant On Going Solo, Brokerages and More

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400

When celebrity broker Ryan Serhant left Nest Seekers in 2020 — striking out on his own months into a pandemic that had all but shut down New York City’s real estate market — the industry thought he was crazy. Deconstruct chatted with the former "Million Dollar Listing" star about his decision, the state of the housing market and why some residential brokerages are struggling right now.

Real Estate Navigates Legalized Cannabis

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Cannabis might be legal in New York, but no legal dispensaries are out there yet. State lawmakers have budgeted $200 million to build out 150 dispensaries by 2024, but the first licenses are yet to be given out. So how are landlords navigating all of this to bring in dispensaries as tenants? Deconstruct chats with TRD's Cailley LaPara about the issues both landlords and tenants are facing as the state looks to open its first cannabis stores.

The New Asset Class of Soundstages

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Earlier this year, New York City's Department of Buildings approved Wildflower Studios: a $600 million, vertical soundstage project in Queens. Wildflower Ltd, run by Adam Gordon, is behind the project, with the help of Robert de Niro. TRD's Deconstruct chats with Gordon about his first foray into studio real estate, which has become a popular asset class among investors.

Real Estate's Top Earners

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how much the top CEOs of real estate firms make? For The Real Deal's August cover story, reporter Joseph Lovinger sifted through records to find out just how much CEOs of public REITs and brokerages made last year. Deconstruct chats with Joseph about how he got the story and what sort of perks these top earners get.

The State of The Luxe Market with Bess Freedman

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

After an insane year for high-end real estate in New York City, things have finally begun to slow. Kicking off a second season, The Real Deal's Deconstruct looks at the state of the luxury market in New York City with Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman, who discusses the factors behind this shift and how her firm will adapt.

Coming Soon: Deconstruct Season 2

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

We're back! The Real Deal’s hit podcast “Deconstruct” is back on Aug. 29 for a second season of breaking down the most important concepts and trends in real estate, with bigger guests and bolder ideas.

Hosts Isabella Farr and Suzannah Cavanaugh will kick off the second season of “Deconstruct” by interviewing Bess Freedman, CEO of Brown Harris Stevens, who will dig into the latest in New York City’s luxury market.

Is Multifamily Set to Cool Down?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Multifamily was the most popular asset class for commercial real estate investors in the first quarter. This popularity was fueled by extraordinary rent growth and historically low interest rates. Investors could get relatively cheap capital to buy up apartment complexes with steady cash flow. But interest rates are no longer historically low. So will the market start to cool?

You'll hear from Matt Fotis, a senior managing director at Marcus & Millichap in New York City.

Will the Industrial Market Ever Slow Down?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

The industrial market is hot. If you’re in commercial real estate, you’ve heard this a million times. But, as we approach mid-2022, interest rates are up, meaning acquisitions and development are both more expensive. And Amazon, obviously the largest e-commerce company, has told the world it has too much warehouse space. So what does this all mean for the industrial market?

You'll hear from Barbara Perrier, an industrial broker at CBRE, and Jordan Kovalsky, who oversees acquisitions and asset management for Faropoint across the Midwest.

Credits: Reuters

Who's Afraid of Fires and Floodwaters?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Last month, a two-story home in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, washed away in a storm. We're all seeing rising sea levels, more flash flooding, hurricanes and fires across the country. But are these events of climate change deterring homeowners from buying in certain areas? Deconstruct's Suzannah Cavanaugh chats to Ben Keys, a professor of real estate at The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania, Luis Robledo from Douglas Elliman in California and Cristian Salazar, the director of communications at the Center for New York City Neighborhoods.

Credit: Storyful, "Beach house collapses into ocean during storm"

The Hamptons Dream

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 30 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Chances are, some of you New Yorkers listening might be spending this Memorial Day weekend in the Hamptons. Some of you might have even bought a house in the last couple of years, some of you might have been lucky to snag a beachside rental property. On this episode, Deconstruct looks at the housing market in the Hamptons and how the dream of lounging on the beach is unattainable for many. You'll hear from Cody Vichinsky, the co-founder and principal of Bespoke Real Estate, and Jeremy Samuelson, the director of planning for East Hampton.

Credits: Music by Blue Wave Theory, "Rabbit Ears"

Are Hotels Back?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 23 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Last weekend, more than 4.3 million people flew across the U.S. — about 1 million more people than the same days last year. But has this pickup in travel trickled down to hotels? Deconstruct looks at how hotels in some markets have completely bounced back from the effects of the pandemic — and others haven't. You'll hear from Kevin Davis, the CEO of JLL’s hotels and hospitality division for the Americas.

Credit: CNBC, U.S. Transportation Security Administration

Housing Bubble 2.0?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 16 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

If you’ve tried to buy a house within the past two years, you know first hand how tough it’s been. Inventory is scant, prices are sky-high and if you do find a diamond in the chaos, chances are you’ll have to compete with other buyers to actually secure a winning bid. But now that mortgage rates are rising, are we seeing signs of a housing bubble? The Real Deal's Deconstruct chats with George Ratiu, an economist at Realtor.com and TRD reporter Kathryn Brenzel about how concerned buyers should really be.

Credit: CNN

The Mystery Behind Traded

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 09 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Traded has emerged as a very popular site for brokers, developers and industry professionals to see what has recently, for lack of a better word, traded, and as a way to advertise their own deals. But, who is behind the mysterious account?

For this month’s issue of The Real Deal, Joe Lovinger, a reporter at The Real Deal, set on a mission to find out. Deconstruct chats with Joe about Traded and how he did a lot of digging to find out who was behind this account.

The Have and Have-Nots of Chicago's Office Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 02 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Over two years into the pandemic, office towers across the U.S. are still struggling with high vacancy rates. Among the nation’s largest metros, one central business district has emerged as a venerable ghost town — downtown Chicago. Deconstruct chats with TRD reporter Sam Lounsberry about how the Chicago office market has fared.

CREDIT: ABC7, WGN News, CBS Chicago

Why Investors Are Housing Students

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Last week, Blackstone announced it was buying American Campus Communities for $13 billion. And it's not the only firm getting into student housing. As colleges and enrollment numbers have grown and admission rates have dropped, investment firms and developers have started investing in and building more and more apartments around college campuses. But when did the asset class become so institutionalized, and why?

Deconstruct talks to Justin Gronlie, Harrison Street's head of education real estate, CBRE's Jaclyn Fitts and Core Spaces COO Chad Matesi.

Credits: Yahoo! Finance and CNBC.

Navigating New York's Rent-pocalypse

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400

If you’re a New York renter, chances are if you haven’t been hit with a rent hike yet, you’re bracing for one. But those colossal jumps don't necessarily mean the market has hit it’s peak. TRD's Deconstruct looks at how rents in New York have come soaring back and how experts think more rent rises are to come.

You'll hear from Jonathan Miller, the CEO of appraisal firm Miller Samuel, David Kazemi of Bond New York, Devin Someck, the co-founder of Living New York and Stan Broekhoven of Keller Williams.

Behind the Scenes of Zillow Gone Wild

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400

In the market for a mansion in Connecticut with a potato shed? How about a Friends-themed two-bedroom home? On social media page Zillow Gone Wild, Samir Mezrahi posts the craziest, wackiest and most outlandish homes found on Zillow. TRD's Deconstruct chats with Mezrahi about how the page has grown over the last two years and some of the wildest homes he's seen.

Credits: NBC's "Saturday Night Live," Zillow sketch from Feb. 2021.

Short-Term Rentals Are Here to Stay

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Demand for short-term rentals has soared during the pandemic. Companies like June Homes, Blueground and Landing carved out their own niches in the Airbnb-dominated market as renters looked for flexible living during work-from-home periods. Deconstruct's Suzannah Cavanaugh looks at whether these growing rental firms will see continued demand, as companies finalize plans for employees to return to the office.

You'll hear from Jamie Lane, vice president of research at AirDNA, and Daniel Mishin, the founder and CEO of June Homes.

The Feasibility of Home Flipping in California

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Home flippers in California are taking advantage of high housing prices and demand for turnkey homes. But, they could face a 25 percent tax on properties under a proposed state bill. TRD's Deconstruct looks at how it may become more difficult to flip homes and whether it's still a profitable investment opportunity.

You'll hear from Page Turner, a broker and home flipper on HGTV's new "Fix My Flip," Tami Pardee, the CEO of Venice-based brokerage Pardee Properties, and Eric Sussman, an adjunct professor at the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

Credits: HGTV, Fox 5 San Diego

The New Kings of New York's Adam Piore

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

At the turn of the 21st century, something in New York City shifted. The city’s real estate started to change and suddenly, you had billion-dollar developments and $200 million penthouse sales.

In TRD's new book, The New Kings of New York, Adam Piore tracks the biggest players behind New York City's ascent to becoming a global hub for luxury real estate and development — from Kent Swig to Harry Macklowe to Stephen Ross. Deconstruct sat down with Piore to chat about the book.

The New Kings of New York is available for pre-order on Amazon now.

The Fed, Ukraine and The Future of The Mortgage Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

The Fed is expected to approve a quarter of a percentage point hike on rates, a raise that will make borrowing more expensive for homebuyers and commercial investors. And now the inflation caused by the war in Ukraine has introduced another variable to the lending puzzle. So what should borrowers expect?

You'll hear from Martha Olney, a teaching professor of economics at the University of California, Berkeley, Melissa Cohn, a regional vice president of mortgage for William Raveis Mortgage and Mark Fogel, the CEO and president of ACRES Capital.

Attribution: CNBC, "Here's how Fed Chair Powell sees the March Fed meeting."

Wall Street Bets on Real Estate

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Bankers and Wall Street employees have racked up incredible bonuses throughout the pandemic, as profits and compensation packages have soared to their highest level in a decade. Deconstruct looks at how financial workers are spending their newfound cash on real estate.

You'll hear from Stan Ponte, a senior global real estate advisor and associate broker with Sotheby's International Realty, and TRD reporter Joe Lovinger.

Real Estate Twitter's Anonymous Accounts

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Over the last few years, anonymous real estate-related Twitter accounts have gained thousands of followers, offering up opinions, real estate deals, anecdotes, statistics and real estate jokes and memes. But why is Twitter such an important platform for the real estate industry? And why are some of these anonymous?

We speak to two anonymous accounts, Pink Polo Shorts and Cash Flow Cowboy, about why they stay unknown, as well as Moses Kagan, who runs Los Angeles-based Adaptive Realty, and Keith Wasserman, who runs multifamily specialist Gelt, about the benefits of being on Twitter.

Building a Home Offsite

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Prefabricated and manufactured homes are cropping up more and more across the U.S., as more companies look to build housing in new ways, as a way to help alleviate housing shortages, lengthy construction timelines, environmental issues, and now, supply chain issues. The Real Deal talks to a few homebuilders about the benefits and disadvantages of manufactured housing and how exactly you build a home in a factory.

You'll hear from Steve Glenn, the CEO of Plant Prefab, Lauren Tucker, the co-founder of Orbit Homes, and John Geary, the CEO of Abodu.

Credits: CBS' WBBM-TV Chicago

How SoFi Stadium Kickstarted Inglewood's Boom

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Last year, the Los Angeles Rams' new SoFi stadium in Inglewood finished construction, making it the biggest, most expensive sports stadium ever built. But how has this affected the local real estate market? Just in time for the Super Bowl, The Real Deal's Suzannah Cavanaugh looks at how a new stadium can give surrounding resi markets, the draw it creates for business and the fallout when a team decides to move to another city.

You'll hear from Dr. Mark Rosentraub, the director of the Center for Sports Venues and Real Estate Development at the University of Michigan, Henry Manoucheri, the CEO of Universe Holdings, and Peter Belisle, JLL's southwest region president.

Credit:
“Little economic benefit from new stadium” — Investigative Post interview with Michael Leeds; “Why do taxpayers pay billions for football stadiums?” — Vox

The San Francisco Split

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0500

San Francisco has had nearly two years to recoup the residents it lost when Covid hit. Like other coastal metros, the housing market has recovered by leaps and bounds. The rental market tells another story. Reporter Suzannah Cavanaugh discusses the trends driving the city’s uneven recovery.

You'll hear from Patrick Carlisle, chief market analyst for the Bay Area at Compass, Sylvia Sotomayor, a realtor with MSI Real Estate Services in San Francisco, and Matthew Niksa, a Bay Area reporter for The Real Deal.

Attribution: Vertigo — Alfred Hitchcock, Green Gables opening sequence, NBC Bay Area “SF Neighborhood Tired of Rising Crime Bands Together to Hire its Own Security Force."

The Death of Luxury Comps

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:15:00 -0500

The family office managing the money of Alibaba execs Joe Tsai and Jack Ma recently purchased a condo at 220 Central Park South for around $190 million — a condo that last sold for $93 million. This extraordinary, almost 100 percent return shows how its becoming difficult to use comps as a way to compare luxury home sales across certain markets in the U.S.

You'll hear from Hiten Samtani, The Real Deal's associate publisher, and Jonathan Miller, who runs an appraisal firm called Miller Samuel.

Real Virtual Real Estate in the Metaverse

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

In November, a company called Tokens.com bought 116 parcels of land for around $1.2 million. Only that land wasn't really land. The plots are located in Decentraland — a metaverse, or online virtual world.

Tokens.com is one of many firms that are buying up virtual real estate in the metaverse. But, what exactly are these firms using this land for? And is it actually real estate?

The Real Deal's Isabella Farr speaks to Tokens.com CEO Andrew Kiguel, as well as Janine Yorio, the CEO of metaverse investment firm Republic Realm and Michael Phillips, the President of Jamestown, which has re-created an iconic Times Square building in the metaverse.

Cheap Old Houses: An Interview with Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein are the hosts of Cheap Old Houses, a show on HGTV, and run an Instagram account under the same name, as well as a listing website called Circa Old Houses. We chatted over Zoom about why they got into the business of finding, promoting and restoring Cheap Old Houses, and how their Instagram account blew up to 1.8 million followers.

The Texas Draw

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Texas, the second largest state by population in the U.S., has seen unprecedented growth over the last year. Tech firms have flocked to Austin. Homebuyers are swarming to major metros. On the heels of launching our coverage of Texas, The Real Deal looks at what's driving growth in Texas and how developers are cashing in on the action.

You'll hear from Jacob Sudhoff, the CEO of Douglas Elliman Texas, and Dr. Luis Torres, a research economist at the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University.

Credits: Democracy Out There by Lobo Loco; KVUE segments

Trend Watch: 2022

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

For our last episode of the year, The Real Deal's Suzannah Cavanaugh and Isabella Farr discuss whether the rebound of retail, industrial and commercial real estate will continue into 2022 with JPMorgan Chase's Kurt Stuart and excerpts from CBRE's 2022 Outlook Briefing. You'll also hear from Rhino CEO Paraag Sarva discuss how consumer-friendly tech is here to stay.

Credits: CBRE's 2022 Outlook Briefing, including excerpts from CBRE's global chief economist, Richard Barkham, global head of industrial and logistics research, James Breeze, and its global head of occupier thought leadership, Julie Whelan.

2021: The Year Of The Metaverse, Single-Family Rentals and Eviction Moratoriums

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

A look back at the year that was 2021. From the $82.5 million sale of a condo at 220 Park Avenue South in New York City to buying virtual property in the metaverse to WeWork's IPO, we look at the biggest events, deals and trends across the real estate world this year.

A Retail Renaissance (for the Holidays)

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Between the pandemic, supply chain issues, labor shortages and now, a new variant, this shopping season is somehow stranger than the last. But, as restrictions have lifted and more of the country are getting booster shots, TRD reporter Suzannah Cavanaugh looks at whether are shoppers are returning to brick-and-mortar retail this holiday season.

You'll hear from Ethan Chernofsky, vice president of marketing at Placer, CBRE's Jamie Brooks based in Los Angeles, and CBRE's Annette Healey, who works for the firm's retail brokerage services across the New York Tri-State region.

The Attraction of the Hudson Valley

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

The Real Deal's Isabella Farr looks at the housing craze that has gripped the region from Westchester up to Albany as buyers have flocked there from near and far during the pandemic.

You'll hear from a number of local brokers, including Sally Slater of Douglas Elliman, Nancy Felcetto-Horowitz of Brown Harris Stevens and Raj Kumar and Annabel Taylor from the Lillie K Team at Select Sotheby’s International Realty. We also speak to Katherine Lanpher, a senior editor at Grist, about why she moved to a hamlet in Albany County last year.

The Zillow Fiasco

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month, Zillow quit the iBuying business. The firm would no longer buy and sell homes.

TRD reporter Erin Hudson discusses what happened and why Zillow's exit from the iBuying industry is so significant. You'll hear from Trulia co-founder Sean Black, who sold his firm to Zillow in 2015, as well as Rick Palacios Jr., who leads research at John Burns Real Estate Consulting.

Surfside Part Two: The Survivors And A Stalking Horse Bidder

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

After the Surfside collapse, Damac Properties submit a bid to buy the site for $120 million for redevelopment. Reporter Lidia Dinkova looks at the stalking horse bidder who is vying for the space, as well as who is supporting redevelopment and who is against it.

You'll hear from Martin Langesfeld and Pablo Langesfeld, the family of Nicole Langesfeld, and her husband, Luis Sadovnic who lost their lives in the collapse. Steve Rosenthal, a survivor of the collapse, is also featured.

Credits: Damac Properties commercial for Damac Bay from October 2021: and a 2017 NBC News interview with Hussain Sajwani.

Redeveloping Miami Beach's Hottest Strip

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Miami Beach's hottest clubs. Palm trees. Art deco buildings.

TRD reporter Francisco Alvarado discusses Miami Beach's famous Ocean Drive and how the mayor and city officials are pushing for redevelopment along the strip. Mayor Dan Gelber says redevelopment and a new 2 a.m. last call for alcohol will curb partying, crime and illegal activity. Others, like Mangoes owner David Wallack, say it'll just hurt existing businesses.

Surfside Part One: The Causes and the Condo Market

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

The first episode of a three-part series focused on South Florida. In this week's episode, we look at the Surfside condo collapse four months after the disaster.

TRD reporter Suzannah Cavanaugh speaks with South Florida reporter Katherine Kallergis on the potential causes of the fall, the players being held accountable and how the catastrophe shook the region’s real estate market. You'll also hear from Jaret Turkell, a broker at Berkadia.

Not Your Grandmother's Retirement Home: The Rise of Luxury Senior Living

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0400

As baby boomers are aging in senior living, developers and investors have shifted gears to meet their needs. TRD reporter Suzannah Cavanaugh discusses how the pandemic hijacked development and whether these ultra-luxe communities are pulling the demand they expected.

You'll hear from Rocco Bertini, the executive director at The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights and Watermark's chief investment officer Bryan Schachter; CBRE Valuation & Advisory Services' James Graber who works with seniors housing and healthcare; John Moore, the CEO of Atria Senior Living, and; Bryan Cho, an executive at Related Companies.

Star Architects: Bernardo Fort-Brescia and Jonathan Marvel Discuss the Future of Buildings

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Open spaces, greenery and no more rows of cubicles are just a few design trends that have emerged from the pandemic. On Deconstruct, top architects Jonathan Marvel of New York-based Marvel and Bernardo Fort-Brescia of Miami-based Arquitectonica talk about these design trends, why they're so excited about open space, as well as how architecture firms have fared during the pandemic.

You’ll also hear Patrice Derrington, a professor of real estate at Columbia University, discuss trends and how developers and architects are adapting to new ways of living and working.

The Battle to Save or Shut Down New York City Street Vendors

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Street vendors, including hot dog carts and art sellers, were hit hard during the pandemic. But are they starting to recover now? TRD’s Sasha Jones talks to two vendors about their businesses, along with Dan Biederman, the head of 34th Street Partnership, about how the real estate industry has clashed with vendors over the years.

You’ll also hear John Rennie Short, a professor of public policy at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, discuss how New York City is now trying to save the profession.

Saying Goodbye to a Couple Months of Free Rent

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

To anyone looking for an apartment in New York City, you unfortunately probably won’t be able to find a sweet deal with three months of free rent anymore. We break down what’s happening in the New York City rental market right now and what’s expected through the end of 2021. TRD speaks to Heather Moore, Greystar’s head of property management in New York, Adrian Savino, the director of leasing at Living NY, as well as Robert Schmidt, the co-founder of the Guarantors.

How to Sell a $65 Million Spec Home in Los Angeles

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

How does a star broker sell a $65 million home? On this week's episode of Deconstruct, Compass broker Aaron Kirman takes TRD's Isabella Farr on a tour of 1108 Wallace Ridge, a 19,000-square-foot spec home in Beverly Hills currently on the market for $65 million.

Betting Big on the Single-Family Rental

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Over the past few years, institutional firms have spent billions on acquiring and developing single-family rental homes. But what's the attraction? On this week's episode of Deconstruct, TRD speaks to Ed Coulson, a professor at UC Irvine's Center for Real Estate, and Josh Migdal, a real estate attorney in Miami, to discuss why firms like Blackstone, Invesco and JPMorgan like single-family rentals and some of the issues around owning these types of properties.

Where Did All the New Yorkers Go?

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

In March 2020, New York City was proclaimed dead. People fled, looking for more space and cheaper rents, as many could suddenly work from home. But where did they go? And did they come back? On this week's episode of Deconstruct, TRD speaks to Jeff Andrews, a data journalist at Zumper, and Javier Benson-Glanz, a general manager at real estate investment platform Cadre, about how these migration patterns have changed the rental market in New York City.

When Cryptocurrency Met Real Estate

hk@therealdeal.com (The Real Deal) — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

On this week’s episode of Deconstruct, TRD speaks to Madison Roberts, a real estate agent in Miami who brokers cryptocurrency deals, and Shaun Pappas, an attorney in New York City who has had to figure out how his clients can buy property with their crypto as digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum become increasingly popular with investors.