The Crexi Commercial Real Estate Podcast: Conversations in All Things CRE

This episode explores the intricacies of Manhattan’s office market and becoming a subject matter expert with Faraz Cheema, Crexi Platinum Award winner and Managing Partner of BKREA.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 of the Crexi Podcast, host Shanti Ryle, Director of Content Marketing at Crexi, sits down with Faraz to discuss the nuances of the Manhattan office market. Faraz shares his extensive background in commercial real estate, including his journey from finance and asset management to brokerage in New York. The conversation covers valuable insights into market trends, office to residential conversions, and effective brokerage strategies. They also delve into how to build a strong social media presence and the importance of focused, quality engagement over quantity in networking.  Introduction and Guest OverviewFaraz Cheema's Background and Career PathFamily Business and Early CareerTransition to Commercial Real EstateMoving to Manhattan and New ChallengesOffice Market Insights and TrendsOffice to Residential ConversionsCorporate Real Estate Trends in ManhattanLuxury Retailers and Real EstateBrokerage Analysis and AI IntegrationProspecting and Client EngagementSocial Media Strategies for BrokersBuilding a Social Media PresenceNetworking and Referrals in Real EstateChallenges of Starting in a New MarketBalancing Social Media and BrokerageRapid Fire Questions and Investment StrategiesFinal Thoughts and Contact Information About Faraz Cheema:Faraz Cheema, SIOR, CCIM, focuses on the Manhattan Office Market at BKREA. Faraz brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in commercial real estate, making him an invaluable addition to the BKREA team.Previously, Faraz Cheema was the Managing Group Principal Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty - Atlas Advisory Group and prior was Investment Sales Specialist since September 2016. Originally a Washington D.C. native, Faraz currently resides in Potomac, MD.With over 7 years experience as a financial analyst and 6 years as an asset manager, Faraz has a unique understanding of the investment side of commercial real estate. He has worked specifically within the retail and hospitality sectors in the Washington DC / Baltimore MD metropolitan area focusing on: acquisitions, disposition, asset management, & property management before entering the commercial real estate brokerage industry.Faraz possesses a Master of Science degree in Real Estate and Infrastructure, and in conjunction with his SIOR and CCIM designations, he is positioned to squarely meet his clients' diverse commercial real estate needs. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi

This episode, Ryan Hartsell shares his journey scaling Oxford Partners, top tenant rep strategies, and bold insights on the future of office and industrial CRE.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 of the Crexi Podcast, host Yannis Papadakis interviews Ryan Hartsell, principal and managing partner of Oxford Partners, to delve into the world of commercial real estate. With over 17 years of experience, Ryan shares insightful details about his career journey, the strategic foresight that has propelled Oxford Partners, and his approach to tenant and buyer-side representation. Their conversation covers a range of topics, including market trends, the importance of understanding client needs, unique challenges in industrial and office leasing, and effective negotiation strategies. Ryan also emphasizes the value of investing in personal growth, citing influential books and programs that have shaped his professional development. Listen in for practical advice for newcomers and industry veterans alike on building a sustainable book of business, making smart investments, and navigating today's real estate landscape.Introduction to the Crexi PodcastMeet Ryan Hartsell: Career HighlightsRyan's Journey into Commercial Real EstateBuilding Oxford PartnersApproaching Potential ClientsHiring and Training at Oxford PartnersProspecting and Cold CallingUnconventional Decisions and Lessons LearnedTenant Representation vs. Landlord RepresentationNegotiating Leases: Common Mistakes and StrategiesIndustrial Leasing ChallengesMarket Trends and VolatilityOpportunities in Industrial Real EstateKey Considerations for TenantsNavigating Complex DealsOffice Real Estate InsightsFlexible Lease Agreements: Myth or Reality?Unexpected Trends in Real EstateTenant Behaviors and Future TrendsContrarian Bets in Commercial Real EstateRapid Fire Questions and AdviceFinal Thoughts and Contact InformationIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next Podcast delivered straight to your inbox. For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog.Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease.Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi About Ryan Hartsell:Ryan J. Hartsell, SIOR, MRE, Principal, and Managing Partner of Oxford Partners, has built a distinguished career in commercial real estate, defined by his commitment to excellence and client success. With over 17 years in the industry, his leadership has propelled the company to achieve a remarkable 300% revenue growth in just five years, solidifying Oxford Partners' reputation as a leader in tenant and buyer-side representation within the office and industrial sectors.Ryan's expertise is rooted in his deep market knowledge, strategic foresight, and relentless dedication to his clients. He brokers around 40 transactions annually while overseeing over 250 real estate transactions per year, ensuring every client receives the highest level of service. Ryan's approach is characterized by his attentiveness, negotiation prowess, and ability to make leasing or purchasing commercial real estate enjoyable and cost-effective.As an SIOR designee, Ryan is recognized among the top 5% of his peers for his deal volume and professional achievements. He has also played a pivotal role in the SIOR community, serving as Chairman of the SIOR IBG Group. Ryan's unique blend of creativity, execution, and client-focused service has made him a trusted partner for business owners and tenants seeking to lease or purchase commercial real estate. His strategic vision, combined with a personalized approach, ensures that Oxford Partners delivers exceptional value and results. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi

This episode examines the unique positioning of retail strip centers and their unexpected resilience with Jeff Enck, Senior Vice President of Matthews REIS.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 of The Crexi Podcast, host Shanti Ryle interviews Jeff, a Crexi PRO Broker, about his 25+ years of experience working in retail investment sales. They delve into Jeff's career trajectory, starting from his initial real estate role to his current focus on unanchored retail strip centers. The discussion covers the historical and current trends in this retail segment, the impact of COVID-19, and the unexpected resilience and rent growth of strip centers. Jeff shares insights on the types of tenants that create a stable, profitable mix and discusses the future prospects and potential challenges for this asset class. He also offers advice for potential investors and developers looking to enter this market.Welcome to The Crexi PodcastMeet Jeff Enck: A Real Estate VeteranJeff's Career Journey: From Carpets to Commercial Real EstateEarly Days in Real Estate: Challenges and LessonsThe Evolution of Retail InvestmentThe Resilience of Strip Retail CentersDefining Strip Centers and Market OverviewInstitutional Interest in Strip CentersTrends and Surprises in the Strip Center MarketImpact of COVID on Strip CentersTenant Mix and Future TrendsChallenges and Opportunities in Strip CentersAdvice for Landlords and DevelopersRapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks' About Jeff Enck:Jeff Enck stands as a distinguished Senior Vice President at Matthews Real Estate Investment Services™, bringing over two decades of experience in retail investment sales. Throughout his 25-year tenure, Jeff has consistently demonstrated industry achievement and leadership, earning a reputation as a seasoned professional with hundreds of closed transactions on behalf of some of the most well known names in real estate.Prior to Matthews™, Jeff served as senior vice president for SRS Real Estate Partners. In this role, Jeff spearheaded a new service line, specifically focusing on the sale of unanchored retail assets. This initiative not only marked an expansion of SRS’ capital markets service offerings but also underscored Jeff’s commitment to maximize value for investment property clients. Jeff has been featured as both a speaker and guest writer in Shopping Center Business, Southeast Real Estate Business and Databank Retail Symposium.  If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi

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 WelcomeJay Luxe's Background and Career HighlightsEarly Career and Transition to Real EstateChallenges and Strategies in Real EstateSpecialization in Retail LeasingNotable Deals and Community ImpactLuxury Retail and Market InsightsUnderstanding Real Estate PricingLocation and Rent DynamicsChallenges in Leasing and Landlord-Tenant RelationshipsImportance of Taxes and Broker RepresentationRetail Landscape and Market TrendsRestaurant Real Estate DynamicsFuture of Retail and Real Estate InsightsRapid 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. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi

Shlomo Chopp, Managing Partner at Case, brings over 20 years of expertise in distressed real estate. He dives into the crucial art of debt restructuring, emphasizing respect, preparation, and creative negotiation strategies. Shlomo shares insights on navigating the complexities of distressed properties and the significance of strong relationships in the commercial real estate landscape. Additionally, he discusses the current market's cautious optimism, contrasting it with past financial crises, and highlights innovative approaches to client acquisition through networking and social media.

This episode charts building an investment playbook and lessons from social media stardom with Don Tepman, Founder of TownCentre Capital and creator of StripMallGuy.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 of The Crexi Podcast, hosted by Shanti Ryle, Don Tepman shares his career trajectory from unexpectedly entering commercial real estate to becoming a prominent figure both in the market and on social media. Don reveals his journey of managing and investing in strip malls, adding value to properties, and building meaningful relationships with tenants and investors. Additionally, he discusses his influential social media presence, the creation of the 'Strip Mall Guy' brand, and its impact on his business. The episode also delves into the upcoming Strip Mall Guy Gala and its significance in the commercial real estate community.Welcome to the Crexi PodcastMeet Don Tepman: The Strip Mall GuyDon's Early Career and First DealLearning the Business: Mentorship and GrowthCreative Problem Solving in Real EstateThe Evolution of Don's Investment StrategyAnalyzing and Adding Value to PropertiesBuilding Relationships with BrokersFair Market Rent and Tenant RelationsTenant Improvement Allowances and Win-Win StrategiesThe Strip Mall Guy BrandThe Impact of Social Media on Real EstateThe Gala: Celebrating Community and SuccessRapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts About Don Tepman:Don Tepman runs TownCentreCapital, a real estate fund he founded which focuses on buying neighborhood strip centers throughout the United States. He also runs the 'StripMallGuy' account on social media, which has approximately 325,000 followers across three platforms, and has become a primary dealflow source. Mr. Tepman started his career in 2002, and led his first strip center purchase in 2006.  He has completed 45 purchases, and raised over $150M in LP capital.  Now based in New York City, Mr. Tepman graduated from Santa Clara University with a Finance degree, and grew up in Cupertino, CA If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi

Nick Jones, Founder and CEO of Alakai Capital, shares his fascinating transition from professional wakeboarding to commercial real estate mogul. He discusses how sports shaped his business mindset and the importance of strong broker relationships in investment strategies. Jones highlights the evolving Florida market, addressing the impact of inflation and interest rates, all while pinpointing opportunities in industrial and medical sectors. Listeners gain insights into successful investment tactics and the significance of adaptability in a competitive landscape.

Laurence and Michael Bergman, leaders at NAI Bergman, share their rich insights from years in commercial real estate. They explore the transformative power of online auctions, emphasizing their growing role in the market. The duo discusses the importance of relationships and mentorship in shaping their careers, the challenges they've navigated with technology, and the significance of fostering a strong company culture. They also highlight the optimism ahead for CRE as AI influences investment strategies and new opportunities arise.

In a compelling conversation, Amy Calandrino, Founder and CEO of Beyond Commercial, shares her transformative journey from aspiring meteorologist to a commercial real estate expert. She reveals key strategies for balancing personal fulfillment with business growth and emphasizes the importance of adaptability. Listeners will gain insights into her upcoming book 'From Perfect to Real,' and hear about her mission to empower women in the industry. Additionally, Amy discusses the thriving Orlando market and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset amid challenges.

Welcome to this special edition of The Crexi Podcast, featuring on-the-ground insights and expertise live from Beth Azor’s 5th Annual Women’s Real Estate Investment Summit.In March 2025, the Crexi team traveled to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and sat down with notable women investors and entrepreneurs to capture key stories, expertise, and insights into the world of investing in commercial real estate.The Crexi Podcast explores various aspects of the commercial real estate industry in conversation with some of the top professionals in the space. 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, host Shanti Ryle, Director of Content Marketing at Crexi, sits with several keynote speakers from the conference, to cover wide-ranging topics, including:Breaking In – Nontraditional Paths to CRECarving Your NicheOvercoming Challenges Opening Doors – Mentorship & LegacyWhy Women Should Get into CRE NowFeaturing special guests:Tori Nook, Principal and Founder of Anchor RetailArleen Garza, Founder, REEP Equity and REEP ResidentialVictoria Garza-Fraser, Manager, Acquisitions and Capital EventsMandy McAllister, Managing Member, Good Fortune Capital & Founder, GoBundance WomenAllison Weiss, Founder, CRE RecruitingCamille Renshaw, Founder & CEO, B+E Net LeaseKarly Iacono, SVP, CBREPamela Bardhi, Founder, Revelution GroupIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next Podcast delivered straight to your inbox. For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog.Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease.Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexiAbout the Women’s Real Estate Investment Summit:The 2025 Women’s Real Estate Investment Summit, hosted by Beth Azor, is a 2-day event filled with speakers who have “done it”! They’ve invested and they are happy to share their experiences, their mistakes and successes, and things they wish they knew when they started, so that we can all learn from them.Each attendee will leave the event armed with ideas, inspiration and examples of how it can be done. Investing not only for gazillionaires who have access to millions of dollars to invest. The women next door have invested and you will meet them live and in person and hear their stories!About Crexi:Crexi is transforming commercial real estate with advanced, integrative technology and data analytics designed to accelerate every CRE stakeholder’s success. From trading properties to machine-learning-powered industry Intelligence, Crexi’s intuitive CRE solutions accelerate transaction velocity and have empowered over 3 million active monthly users to close more than $660 billion in deals and market over $7 trillion in property value. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy the next podcast delivered straight to your inbox.  For show notes, past guests, and more CRE content, please check out Crexi’s blog. Ready to find your next CRE property? Visit Crexi and immediately browse 500,000+ available commercial properties for sale and lease. Follow Crexi:https://www.crexi.com/​ https://www.crexi.com/instagram​ https://www.crexi.com/facebook​ https://www.crexi.com/twitter​ https://www.crexi.com/linkedin​ https://www.youtube.com/crexi