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Success in real estate is not about doing everything. It is about mastering one thing.

On this episode of the Broker Brunch Podcast, Michael Rudder, founder of Rudder Property Group, shares how deep specialization in New York’s office condo market built his career and turned a niche into a multi-million dollar business.

Michael breaks down what it takes to dominate a market through focus, data, and consistency, from launching his firm during the 2010 financial crisis to leading New York’s top office-to-condo conversions. He also explains why ownership often beats leasing, how to find value in downturns, and why 2025 feels like another rare moment of opportunity for disciplined investors.

This episode is a masterclass in niche strategy, long-term thinking, and building wealth through focus and specialization.

Michael Ruder's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-rudder-4a75925/

Connect with us on LinkedIn
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/

(00:00) Intro 
(00:55) Starting Rudder Property Group 
(04:07) The Origins of Office Condos in New York  
(08:41) The Collapse of Office Values in NYC  
(11:17) Inside the Brill Building Conversion Story  
(14:52) Why Buy Office Space Instead of Leasing?  
(19:29) Who Buys Office Condos and Why It Matters  
(25:30) The Soloviev Site and Strategic Real Estate Positioning  
(27:41) When Buying Makes More Sense Than Renting  
(29:32) The Office Condo Market Beyond New York  
(31:26) Expanding Into Retail Condominiums  
(35:57) The Challenges of Selling to Owner-Users  
(37:37) The Power of Specialization in Brokerage  
(38:40) How Clients Spot True Market Expertise