The Insider's Edge To Real Estate Investing

You’ll gain a data-driven view of U.S. investment sales in this market update with Eric Adeen, principal and senior director of US Investment Sales; Marion Jones, Principal and Executive Managing Director of U.S. Capital Markets; Joe French, Vice President of U.S. Capital Markets Group; and Mike Fay, Chairman of U.S. Capital Markets Group Executive Committee. You’ll hear why 2025 marks a potential pivot point, with transaction volumes picking up, fundraising momentum returning, and REIT earnings projections revised upward. Capital is shifting as private buyers lead office acquisitions and opportunistic and value-add funds raise record levels. You’ll also get an in-depth look at local market dynamics in Florida, where condo law changes, distressed citrus groves, and underperforming malls are creating unique buying opportunities. In Washington, D.C. there is transformation through data center growth, adaptive reuse, and federal property dispositions. You’ll learn why market strategies are key for positioning in today’s competitive environment.

In this Linedin Live Replay, You’ll learn about market trends and broker insights in this conversation with co-hosts JackStone and Alex Gornik of No Cap by CRE Daily. They share the story behind CRE Daily’s growth, their expansion into podcasting, and why connecting institutional players with rising talent has been so impactful. Dive into current market conditions across major U.S. cities, including New York, Dallas, and San Francisco. You’ll learn why private buyers are dominating office deals, the role of end-user purchases, and trends in office-to-residential conversions. The conversation closes with practical insights on the broker–principal relationship, how collaboration and integrated databases give a competitive edge, and why transparency and relationships remain at the core of winning deals in today’s real estate market. You can connect with Jack and Alex at their show No Cap by CRE Daily.    You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll learn how affordable housing can create meaningful change in this episode with Robert Dunn, Managing Director at Fairstead. As an institutional and community partner, the firm oversees a national portfolio with in-house expertise in acquisitions, development, construction, property management, and community impact. You’ll gain insight into how portfolio managers work with local governments, navigate compliance and financing challenges, and create improved environments for residents. Rob shares his journey from syndication to acquisitions to asset management, and why mastering operations can give you an Insider’s Edge. You can connect with Robert at LinkedIn and on his company website   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll learn about growing your presence and knowledge in this conversation with Marion Jones, Executive Managing Director of U.S. Capital Markets at Avison Young. James and Marion explain how thoughtful partnerships can help improve your client skills and ability to execute on deals.    You’ll discover how your platform and learning environment play an important role in a successful career. From leveraging data and new tech to expanding your reach into new markets, James and Marion share examples of how to stay ahead in a rapidly changing business. They also cover how constantly challenging yourself and looking to learn can lead to better client outcomes.     You can connect with Marion at LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariontjones/) and at the Avison Young website.    You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You will learn about making a community impact in this conversation with David Brause, president of Brause Realty Inc., a third-generation real estate business founded in 1927. With a long-term focus on value creation, the company prides itself in preserving the historic character of 20th century buildings while integrating modern technology to revitalize interiors.     You’ll gain insights into the history and development of the Young Men’s/Women’s Real Estate Association in New York, an organization which both David and James have been involved in and have served as former chairman. In addition, David and James have spent time on the Real Estate Board of New York’s Board of Governors. David is chairman on the Long Island City Business Improvement District and on the Board for Union Square Partnership, and continually looks for ways to support both real estate and the city.     You can connect with David at his company’s website (https://www.brauserealty.com).     You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You will learn about transitioning from brokerage to investing in this conversation with Stephen Palmese, CEO of Integritas Capital, a private equity platform specializing in real estate and credit investments. With a career spanning decades, Stephen shares how his experience as a leading broker in Brooklyn laid the foundation for his success as an investor.   You’ll hear how leveraging market insights, establishing credibility, and building trust can be key when investing. Stephen also delves into his firm's focus on opportunistic investments and credit strategies, along with the value of showing up and maintaining consistency.   You can connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

  You’ll learn about generating outsized value by investing in underappreciated properties in this episode with Brian Ker, Founder and President of Snowball Developments, and Scott Sambade, Head of Capital Markets at Snowball. The company was created to acquire under-utilized and under-invested properties in the Greater NYC urbanized region with the opportunity for immediate renovations and long-term development potential.    You’ll hear how their involvement with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) has been beneficial for mentorship, networking, and growing trusted relationships. Brian and Scott walk you through how Snowball finances deals, communicates with more than 100 investors, and maintains institutional discipline while preserving the agility of a private operator.    You can connect with Brian and Scott at their company website.    You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson  

You’ll learn about entrepreneurship and building a long-term real estate business in this conversation with Jordan Vogel, co-founder of Benchmark Real Estate Group. Since its launch in 2009, Benchmark has specialized in purchasing existing multifamily and retail mixed-use assets in targeted U.S. East Coast markets including New York, Florida, Georgia, and Connecticut.     You’ll hear about risk-taking and raising capital, along with insights into contrarian investing and navigating regulatory environments like rent stabilization laws in New York. Jordan discusses ways to create a track of record and how to present properties to investors as opportunities for them.    You can connect with Jordan at his company website and LinkedIn You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll learn the value of in-depth knowledge and market insight in this episode with Matthew Adell, founder and owner of Adellco, a New York real estate company which covers the entire spectrum of developments, redevelopments, conversions and zoning. The company has developed or redeveloped 1.9 square million feet and rezoned 6 million square feet.    You’ll hear about working with investors and following global trends, along with the factors that are involved with rezoning projects. Matthew explains the differences between ground-up development and conversion projects, and how he forecasts supply, demand, and pricing years in advance based on market cycles and data.    You can connect with Matthew at his company website and LinkedIn.   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson  

You’ll learn how to build a real estate firm from the ground up in this conversation with Greg Fournier, Managing Principal of Greenbrook Partners, a privately-held, vertically integrated real estate operating company that maximizes value by instituting best-in-class management and redeveloping properties. Greg shares his pivot from being a NASDAQ trader to getting involved in real estate and making an entrepreneurial leap.   You’ll hear about following an investment strategy and different ways to raise funds. Greg shares insight into starting hands-on and building a 150-person operation with institutional partners, along with keeping a long-term perspective to real estate investments.   You can connect with Greg at his company website (https://www.greenbrookre.com/ ). You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

  You’ll learn about understanding data and market cycles in this conversation with Lonnie Hendry, Chief Product Officer at Trepp and host of the TreppWire podcast. Trepp is the leading provider of data, insights, and technology solutions to the structured finance, commercial real estate, and banking markets. You’ll hear why following macroeconomic movements can help you make informed decisions in your local market.     You can uplevel your real estate knowledge at Trepp Connect (in NYC), an in-person conference in Rockefeller Center, May 13-15, 2025. It is designed to connect commercial real estate (CRE) and lending professionals with industry peers, market news with trusted Trepp data, and industry narratives with insights from top experts. Use the discount code nelsontrepp2025 at checkout for $200 off your ticket!   You can connect with Lonnie through his podcast (https://www.trepp.com/the-treppwire-podcast/hosts/lonnie-hendry) and at the Trepp Connect event (https://www.trepp.com/trepp-connect-in-nyc-2025).   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll learn about holding property for the long-term in this conversation with Jason Muss, President of Muss Development, a family real estate firm founded in 1906. The company evolved from single-family homes to building more than 15 million square feet of commercial, residential, industrial, and retail space. You’ll gain insight into conservative financing and the importance of strong tenant relationships and stable management. Jason also shares strategies for partnering with like-minded investors and how to vet potential collaborators. You can connect with Jason at the company website and LinkedIn.   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You will learn how to take your investment sales career to the next level in this conversation with Marion Jones, Executive Managing Director of U.S. Capital Markets at Avison Young. Marion shares her own career pivot from working at a large institutional firm to joining a smaller shop where she could grow her book of business. You’ll learn the value of identifying the right platform, specializing in an asset class, building a team, and scheduling your time. Marion and James also discuss the importance of relationships and taking a long-term approach. You can connect with Marion at LinkedIn  and at the Avison Young website.  You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson    

  In this Episode, you’ll learn how to collaborate with others in real estate and learn at every step in this interview with Adam Altman. Adam is the founder and managing member of KABR, which is a vertically integrated private equity real estate firm responsible for the investment, development, and management of real estate. The portfolio includes commercial, multifamily, industrial, hospitality, and development assets. In his role, Adam is instrumental in fundraising, structuring JV partnerships, and sourcing and acquiring real estate property and debt. Adam has participated in transactions totaling approximately 6 million square feet of commercial properties, along with thousands of residential units, hotels, and new development land with over 6,000 units of entitlements.  Prior to joining KABR, Adam focused on acquisitions, development, management and disposition of real estate for a multi-billion-dollar healthcare company. He has also worked with the private wealth team at Deutsche Bank and as a portfolio manager and analyst at Chestnut Ridge Capital. In addition, Adam founded and sold Freshpair.com, an ecommerce company. Adam was intrigued with real estate from early on, as he walked blocks and neighborhoods while studying at NYU. After college, he went to other ventures, including Wall Street, his own internet company, and a family office, and eventually turned again to real estate. Along the way he learned valuable lessons, such as how to put capital together and the emphasis on personal relationships in real estate. He applied these to his later efforts with his partner at KABR. Today Adam’s firm focuses on the geographical areas of the New York metro area and the Southeastern region of the U.S. Looking back on his track record, he says, “Being able to trust someone is almost more important than anything else. It doesn’t guarantee outcomes, but it does guarantee alignment.” He also emphasizes the value of teamwork, saying, “It’s about collaborating and making it interesting.”   For beginning investors, Adam shares the importance of looking for ways to be helpful. Part of his success was built on his willingness to reach out and share information with others without expecting anything in return. “If you love real estate, the best way to do something is to go and do it,” he says. You can connect with Adam at his website KABR Group. I’m always happy to connect with listeners—you can find me online at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Real Estate Weekly articles: REW-online.com/author/jamesnelson My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You will learn how to break into investment sales brokerage, develop key relationships, and build a successful career in this conversation with Marion Jones, Executive Managing Director of U.S. Capital Markets at Avison Young. Marion shares her journey from starting at CBRE in the debt and equity side to working with industry legends and taking on leadership roles.    You'll hear about the importance of networking, how to land your first job, and what strategies can help you transition and grow during your career. James and Marion also discuss the mindset that supports long-term success, including being proactive, detail-oriented, and continuously learning.  You can connect with Marion at LinkedIn  and at the Avison Young website. 

You will learn how to identify emerging trends, break out as an entrepreneur, and maintain longevity in the real estate industry in this conversation with Adam Gordon, managing partner at Wildflower Limited, which creates innovative, sustainable and socially beneficial physical infrastructure in New York City. Adam’s career spans a vast array of asset classes, including self-storage, ultra-high-end residential, logistics and EV charging.    You’ll hear about how mentorship and research can shape your career and why bringing value to relationships is key to long-term success. Adam discusses the future of e-commerce logistics, urban infrastructure, and the studio business, including how Wildflower Studios is reshaping content creation in New York City.   You can connect with Adam at his company’s website and LinkedIn.  You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll learn about structuring the capital stack in this conversation with Scott Singer, co-lead of Tri-State Debt & Equity Finance at Avison Young. Scott walks you through the diverse sources of equity—from individual investors and family offices to institutional funds and sovereign wealth funds—while breaking down the capital stack into LP, GP, and coGP components. You’ll gain insight into how preferred equity, promote structures, and fee arrangements come together to form the backbone of successful real estate deals. Scott also shares valuable insights on assembling the right capital structure and navigating complex negotiations, emphasizing the importance of a sponsor’s track record and the role of a debt equity advisor. You can connect with Scott on LinkedIn and the company website    You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll hear about building a $1 billion commercial real estate investment portfolio in this conversation with Dennis Cisterna, Co-founder of Sentinel Net Lease. The firm was founded in 2019 and focuses on opportunistically acquiring assets that produce ongoing cash flow from long-term leases. These assets are expected to be resistant to certain market disruptions while offering potential outsized returns for investors. You’ll also hear about the mindset shift that you can have when transitioning from corporate leadership to running your own firm. Dennis also highlights the importance of building a track record, making strategic alignments, and understanding market cycles.   You can connect with Dennis his company website and on his LinkedIn.   You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

You’ll hear about how to identify opportunities and reach out to others in this episode with Peter C. Lewis, Chairman and President of Wharton Equity Partners, a real estate and private equity investment firm which draws on over 35 years of experience to identify opportunities ahead of others which capitalize on where the world is headed. You’ll learn about ways to work with partners and tap industry experts to navigate complex transactions. Peter emphasizes the importance of having conviction in your investment strategy, learning from industry veterans, and surrounding yourself with the right team when entering new asset classes. You can connect with Peter at his company website and on LinkedIn . You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson

  You’ll learn about managing real estate development and building a pipeline in this episode with Jed Resnick, CEO of New York City-based Douglaston Development, which for more than 40 years has focused on a wide range of projects and specializes in both market-rate and affordable housing.    You’ll hear about the “three-legged stool” of development: design, legal and regulatory frameworks, and financing. Jed explains his firm’s vertically integrated model, which includes construction through Levine Builders and property management via Clinton Management. For new developers, Jed emphasizes the importance of flexibility, creative problem-solving, and teamwork.   You can connect with Jed at LinkedIn, and his company website.    You can connect with me at: My website: JamesNelson.com LinkedIn: JamesNelsonNYC Instagram: JamesNelsonNYC Twitter: JamesNelsonNYC My Forbes.com articles: Forbes.com/sites/jamesnelson