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In this episode of Broker Brunch, Brandon Polakoff (Head of NYC Investment Sales at Avison Young) and David Shorenstein (Principal at Hildreth Advisors) join Brian Whelan to discuss what it takes to thrive in a tough New York City real estate market. 

They share lessons on discipline, long-term strategy, creative deal-making, and leadership in challenging cycles. 

Discover how top brokers adapt, build relationships, and find opportunity even when the market slows.

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) Preview and Intro

(00:58) How Brandon & David Got Started in NYC Real Estate  

(03:42) Lessons from the First Years in Brokerage  

(07:31) Adapting to New York Real Estate Market  

(10:55) Leadership Lessons from Managing a Top Brokerage Team  

(14:18) David’s Journey into Property Investment  

(18:47) Balancing Work, Family, and the Real Estate Lifestyle  

(22:19) 2025 Market Outlook: What Smart Investors Should Expect  

(26:36) Finding Opportunities When the Market Slows Down  

(30:02) How Technology and AI Are Changing Brokerage Forever  

(33:48) Relationship-Driven Growth: The Secret to Long-Term Success  

(38:15) What Separates Top Performers from Average Brokers