The Bob Knakal Show

Andy Davidoff, Chairman and CEO of Emmes Companies, shares his inspiring journey from college dropout to real estate titan. He reveals how he capitalized on key opportunities, including RTC auctions, and built a successful firm across NYC and beyond. Davidoff discusses the potential of converting office buildings amidst NYC's housing demand and highlights the transformative impact of investing in distressed properties. He also reflects on the joys of motorcycle escapes and fine dining, emphasizing the importance of relationships in business.

Don Tepman, known as StripMallGuy, is a prominent commercial real estate investor and social media influencer with a massive following. He shares his journey from broker to strip mall investor, highlighting the hidden potentials of these properties. Don discusses the power of building a personal brand in real estate, revealing successful strategies for social media growth. He also emphasizes the importance of real-life connections forged through online interactions, showcasing how community bonds can enhance business opportunities.

In this enlightening discussion, Francis Greenburger, Chairman and CEO of Time Equities and author of 'Risk Game,' shares his remarkable journey from teenage bookkeeper to real estate mogul. He recounts pivotal moments during financial crises and the booming co-op conversion era. Greenburger reveals how he spot opportunities amidst chaos and his philosophy of long-term holds over quick gains. With a rich history of navigating market downturns, he emphasizes the importance of creativity and resilience in building a successful career in real estate.

Dov Hertz, founder of DH Property Holdings, has an impressive background in NYC real estate, particularly known for his work on multi-story warehouse developments. He shares intriguing stories from his early Brooklyn days and the iconic 220 Central Park South deal. Dov discusses his pivot from luxury high-rises to industrial real estate, emphasizing the future of urban logistics. He offers insights on spotting market shifts, negotiating complex deals, and the importance of specialization, making this conversation a treasure trove of lessons for real estate enthusiasts.

Scott Rechler, Chairman & CEO of RXR and a powerhouse in New York real estate, shares his fascinating journey from a family aluminum business to leading a major firm. Dive into his insights on the evolving NYC real estate market and economic downturn navigation. Rechler discusses the anticipated 2025 sell-off and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in negotiations. He also highlights the growing need for housing and how AI is shaping office investment strategies, making this conversation a treasure trove of industry knowledge.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Bob Knakal Show! This episode features an engaging conversation with Steve Siegel, the Chairman of Global Brokerage at CBRE, the world's largest commercial real estate services company.  Steve who shares his unique background of growing up in the Bronx, his unexpected love for the New York Mets, and his illustrious journey in the real estate industry working his way all the way up to the top of the industry from the mailroom. Bob Knakal, former owner of Massey Knakal Realty Services and head of New York investment sales at C & W and  JLL and a legendary figure in NYC real estate, dives deep into Steve’s early career, from delivering leaflets to becoming a top broker. The episode also includes insights from Bob and his co-host, Jillian Mariutti, who reminisce about the history of NYC real estate and discuss current market trends. Listeners will be inspired by stories of resilience and triumph in the competitive world of real estate and can benefit from the Q&A segment addressing the current state of the market, tax incentives, and the future of NYC real estate.About Bob KnakalBob Knakal is a renowned figure in the New York City real estate market with a career spanning over 40 years. He is currently the Chairman & CEO of BKREA and previously co-founded Massey Knakal Realty Services in 1988 with Paul J. Massey Jr., which became NYC’s leading building sales firm. Under his leadership, Massey Knakal closed over 6,000 transactions worth more than $23 billion until its acquisition by Cushman & Wakefield in 2014​.Early CareerBob began his real estate career at CB Richard Ellis in 1984. He later co-founded Massey Knakal, where he implemented a unique territory system that made brokers experts in specific neighborhoods.Massey Knakal Realty ServicesKnown for its specialization in NYC building sales, the firm was acquired by Cushman & Wakefield in 2014 for $100 million. Bob continued as Chairman of New York Investment Sales at Cushman & Wakefield, where he was the top originating investment sales broker globally for several years.JLL and BKREABob joined JLL in 2018 as Chairman of New York Investment Sales. In 2024, he founded BK Real Estate Advisors (BKREA), integrating AI with traditional real estate practices to innovate the market​.Notable Achievements:Sales Record: Bob has personally been responsible for the sale of over 2,339 buildings (which is generally considered the highest total for a single broker in the history of NYC​, totaling more than $22 billion in sales. Development Sites: He has handled over 250 development site transactions, totaling over $7 billion in sales​.Recognition: Bob has been regularly listed among the Commercial Observer’s Power 100 and named one of the Most Influential Business Leaders in NYC by Crain's.Personal Projects and Media Presence:The Map Room: Bob is known for his extensive map collection, which he uses as a tool for client meetings and strategic planning. His “Map Room” has been a focal point in his career and media coverage​.Social Media and Mentoring: Bob is active on various social media platforms, sharing insights and mentoring young professionals in the real estate industry. His posts often discuss deal-making and industry trends, attracting a wide audience​. In 2024 he was ranked the #2 commercial real estate influencer on X (Twitter) and the #1 commercial real estate influencer on LinkedIn. Bob Knakal continues to be a pivotal figure in the NYC real estate scene, combining his vast experience with innovative approaches to shape the future of real estate brokerage.About Jillian MariuttiJillian Mariutti is a Senior Director in the New York office of JLL Capital Markets, Americas. She joined JLL as part of the HFF acquisition and has more than 15 years of experience in the commercial real estate industry. She arranges and structures real estate capital on an exclusive basis for the nation’s premier owners, investors, and developers. Previously Jillian was a Director at Mission Capital on the debt and equity finance desk. Prior to Mission, she worked at JCRA Financial LLC as the Head of Real Estate North America and was responsible for providing foreign exchange and interest rate risk management services to Real Estate clients. Jillian joined JCRA from Wells Fargo in New York where she was a Vice President and marketed and structured interest rate management solutions for Public REITS, Multi Family and Hospitality Finance clients. Jillian also spent a year working in the San Francisco office where she advised on interest rate risk management for the Gaming sector and the West Coast Real Estate Capital Markets team. She started her career at Wachovia in 2007 and covered a variety of industry groups within the firm’s Corporate and Investment Banking platform. Jillian graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. degree in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania. About Steve SiegelStephen B. Siegel is a prominent figure in the NYC real estate scene, currently serving as the Chairman of Global Brokerage at CBRE, the world's largest commercial real estate services company. He has been a key player in shaping the industry, with a career that spans several decades and includes numerous high-profile deals and leadership roles.Cushman & WakefieldSteve began his career at Cushman & Wakefield, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become President and CEO at the age of 37.Insignia/ESGHe later became the Chairman and CEO of Insignia/ESG, where he was instrumental in the company’s global expansion before its merger with CBRE.CBREPost-merger, Siegel has continued to lead major initiatives and transactions, contributing to CBRE's position as a leading global firm.Notable Achievements:Major Deals: He has negotiated some of the most significant deals in NYC, including the leasing of Gucci Group’s space at Trump Tower and the acquisition of 1290 Avenue of the Americas.Awards and Recognition: Steve has received numerous accolades, such as the Commercial Property News' Lifetime Achievement Award, and has been listed among the most influential business leaders in NYC by Crain's​.Community Involvement: Siegel is deeply involved in philanthropic efforts, including founding the Stephen B. Siegel Adult Day Care Center and serving on the board of the Gift of Life Marrow Registry. His contributions have been recognized by various organizations, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community​.Early Life: Steve was born in the Bronx to a Jewish family. His father was a laborer, and his mother worked as a school crossing guard. These humble beginnings shaped his work ethic and approach to business and philanthropy​.Steve Siegel's career is marked by his significant contributions to the real estate industry, his leadership in major companies, and his ongoing commitment to community service and philanthropy. His story and experiences offer valuable insights and inspiration for anyone interested in the world of real estate and beyond.Links and Resou...