The Bob Knakal Show

In this powerful episode of The Bob Knakal Show, Bob sits down with legendary real estate investor Andy Davidoff, Chairman and CEO of Emmes Companies. With over 35 years of friendship and 25+ deals together, this is a must-watch for anyone interested in New York real estate, investment strategy, and entrepreneurial grit.💼 Andy shares his unfiltered journey — from dropping out of college and demoing cast iron bathtubs at 15, to building one of the most formidable investment firms in the country. Discover how he seized massive opportunities like the RTC auctions and the Goldman-DeLorenzo portfolio, and how his firm scaled across NYC, the West Coast, and even Japan.🏙️ Topics covered include:The anatomy of a $120M profit dealWhy B and C office buildings are ripe for conversionNYC's insatiable housing demand and the Midtown South rezoningInvesting in distress: turning chaos into opportunityThe joy of motorcycle escapes and fine dining with friends💬 "You have to come to work willing to be fired. That's what it takes to be successful." – Andy Davidoff📣 Don’t miss this masterclass in real estate entrepreneurship, relationship-building, and opportunity recognition.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes and turn on notifications so you never miss the next one. Follow us on social media for live audience opportunities!📊 Presented by CREXI – the leading platform for commercial real estate professionals to prospect, evaluate, connect, and close.#RealEstate #NYCRealEstate #CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #BobKnakal #AndyDavidoff #BKREA #InvestmentStrategy #OfficeConversion #RealEstatePodcast #CXIConnect with Bob:🔔 Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/bobknakalnycLinkedIn:   / bobknakal  Facebook:   / bobknakalnyc  Instagram:   / bobknakalnyc  Twitter:   / bobknakal 

In this episode, Bob sits down with Don Tepman, better known as StripMallGuy, one of the most influential voices in commercial real estate (CRE) with over 400,000 followers across social media. Discover how Don went from being a broker to a successful strip mall investor, and how he built a digital brand that’s reshaping the way people think about real estate investing.Key Takeaways:How Don broke into real estate and built his first dealsLessons from transitioning from broker to owner/operatorThe power of personal brand in CRE investingWhy strip malls are still hidden goldminesSocial media growth strategies in the commercial space🔥 Whether you’re a real estate broker, investor, syndicator, or CRE enthusiast, this episode is packed with insight, authenticity, and inspiration.Subscribe now for more insider conversations from the leaders shaping commercial real estate.🔔 Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/bobknakalnycLinkedIn:  / bobknakal  Facebook:  / bobknakalnyc  Instagram:   / bobknakalnyc  Twitter:   / bobknakal  

What happens when a teenage bookkeeper grows up to build one of the most diversified global real estate portfolios in the world?On this episode of The Bob Knakal Show, Bob sits down with Francis Greenburger, Chairman and CEO of Time Equities, for a candid, powerful conversation spanning 50 years of real estate cycles, co-op conversions, global acquisitions, and entrepreneurial grit.From delivering newspapers in Queens to buying buildings in Montreal for $8 a foot, Francis shares the inside story of how he turned timing, instinct, and smart problem-solving into a multibillion-dollar career. He dives into lessons from New York’s 1970s financial crisis, the co-op conversion boom (and collapse), and the deals that defined an era.For anyone building a career in real estate—or just fascinated by the city's evolution—this episode is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and bold decision-making.Key Takeaways:How Francis started investing at 16 and found his way into real estateThe origin story of Time Equities and the role rent control laws playedConverting over 10,000 apartments and navigating the Tax Reform Act of 1986Buying distressed assets during economic downturns—then holding them for decadesLessons from the Savings & Loan crisis, the co-op boom, and today’s market volatilityHow to identify opportunity when everyone else sees chaosWhy Francis prefers control and long-term holds over chasing scaleConnect with Bob:🔔 Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/bobknakalnycLinkedIn:   / bobknakal  Facebook:  / bobknakalnyc  Instagram:   / bobknakalnyc  Twitter:   / bobknakal  

What does it take to dominate the New York City real estate market for decades and then pivot into an entirely new asset class? In this episode of The Bob Knakal Show, Bob sits down with Dov Hertz, founder of DH Property Holdings, to unpack an extraordinary career that’s reshaped skylines, built billion-dollar portfolios, and pushed the boundaries of what's possible in development.Dov shares stories from his early days growing up in Brooklyn to his time assembling some of Manhattan’s most iconic development sites, including the legendary 220 Central Park South deal. Then, he explains why he shifted from luxury high-rises to industrial real estate and how he pioneered multi-story warehouse development on the East Coast.From bold negotiation tactics to market insights and career-defining moments, this conversation is packed with lessons for developers, brokers, and anyone looking to play at the highest level of real estate.🔹 Key Takeaways:-How Dov Hertz became the secret weapon behind Extell’s major assemblages-The real story behind the 220 Central Park South power play-Why multi-story industrial buildings are the future of urban logistics-The mindset shift from assembling air rights to building last-mile warehouses-How to identify market gaps and pivot before the competition-Why the most complicated deals are often the most lucrative-The power of specialization and knowing your local market inside and out-Lessons in negotiation, from legendary buyouts to standing ovations-Don’t miss this rare look inside some of New York’s most high-stakes deals and the strategy it takes to stay ahead.Subscribe now for more insider conversations from the leaders shaping commercial real estate.🔔 Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/bobknakalnycLinkedIn:   / bobknakal  Facebook:   / bobknakalnyc  Instagram: / bobknakalnyc  Twitter:   / bobknakal  

This week, Bob sits down with Scott Rechler, Chairman & CEO of RXR, and a true titan of New York real estate. Together, they explore Scott’s incredible journey from his family’s innovative aluminum beach chair business to leading one of the most influential real estate firms in the nation.Join us as we dive into:→ The evolution of NYC’s real estate market 🌆→ Scott's insights on navigating industry downturns 📉→ Lessons on resilience, innovation, and leadership 💼Bob also shares his bold predictions for the NYC real estate market in 2025, highlighting key sectors primed for growth and the unprecedented turnover ahead. Don’t miss this in-depth discussion packed with valuable insights, historical context, and actionable takeaways.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction05:00 - Market conditions and predictions12:30 - Scott’s family legacy and business beginnings20:00 - Public markets and their impact on real estate📍 Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders: https://www.bkrea.comhttps://www.bobknakal.com🎥 Presented by @CREXI – the ultimate platform for commercial real estate transactions.Links and Resources:Visit Bob Knakal’s WebsiteFollow us on YouTube for the video version of the showSubscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyConnect with Us:Email: info@bobKnakalshow.comX: @BobKnakalShowInstagram: @BobKnakalShow🔔 Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/bobknakalnyc

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...