Debunking Misconceptions in Luxury Retail Brokerage

This episode explores the trends, secrets, and future of luxury and high-street retail in Los Angeles and beyond with Jay Luchs, Vice Chairman of Newmark.

The Crexi Podcast explores various aspects of the commercial real estate industry in conversation with top CRE professionals. In each episode, we feature different guests to tap into their wealth of CRE expertise and explore the latest trends and updates from the world of commercial real estate. 

In this episode, Shanti Ryle, Director of Content Marketing at Crexi, sits down with Jay, one of Los Angeles's most prominent retail commercial real estate brokers. They discuss Jay's background, his journey from aspiring actor to leading real estate broker, and his significant transactions, including deals with top global fashion brands and high-profile real estate deals along Rodeo Drive and Melrose Avenue. 

Jay shares insights into the world of luxury retail, the challenges and strategies in securing prime retail locations, and the importance of genuine connections and caring about the community's landscape. They also explore the impact of social media on retail, the dynamics of leasing and buying in high-demand areas, and Jay's perspective on the future of retail in Los Angeles.

• Introduction and Guest Welcome
• Jay Luxe's Background and Career Highlights
• Early Career and Transition to Real Estate
• Challenges and Strategies in Real Estate
• Specialization in Retail Leasing
• Notable Deals and Community Impact
• Luxury Retail and Market Insights
• Understanding Real Estate Pricing
• Location and Rent Dynamics
• Challenges in Leasing and Landlord-Tenant Relationships
• Importance of Taxes and Broker Representation
• Retail Landscape and Market Trends
• Restaurant Real Estate Dynamics
• Future of Retail and Real Estate Insights
• Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

About Jay Luchs:

Jay Luchs is Vice Chairman at Newmark and one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable commercial real estate brokers, known for his “For Lease” and “Leased” signs across the city. He specializes in retail, office, and investment sales, representing top global fashion brands, entertainment companies, and emerging retailers. Luchs has completed major transactions for clients such as LVMH, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Celine, KITH, James Perse, and Equinox, including high-profile deals along Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue, and Sunset Boulevard.

He played a key role in LVMH’s $200 million purchase of the Luxe Hotel and the $122 million sale of 457-459 N Rodeo Drive to the Rueben Brothers. He’s also helped launch first stores for brands like Alo Yoga and James Perse, and secured pop-up and permanent spaces for brands like Supreme, SKIMS, and Fear of God.

In addition to retail, Luchs places corporate offices for fashion and entertainment clients, including Tom Ford, H&M, STAUD, and Brunel cuccinelli and various lvmh offices. He’s also active in the local art and restaurant scenes, helping galleries like Gagosian and restaurants such as Craig’s, Avra, and Tao Group find key locations across LA.

Luchs and his team represent over 125 landlord listings in premier areas such as Rodeo Drive, Abbot Kinney, and Malibu. A top producer at Newmark since 2014, he has closed several billion dollars in deals. Originally from Maryland, Luchs graduated from the University of Virginia and has lived in Los Angeles since 1995. He serves on MOCA’s Acquisition and Collections Committee.

For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog.

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