How do you spot winning real estate deals in a volatile market?

Bob Knakal, founder of Massey Knakal Realty Services and current CEO of BK Real Estate Advisors, joins us today on the Broker Brunch podcast to reveal the strategies he uses to spot the next big real estate investment.

With over 2,300 buildings sold and $22 billion in transaction volume, Bob Knakal has witnessed—and navigated through—every major market cycle in NYC.

We dived deep into the current state of New York real estate, the impact of AI and data on brokerage, untapped buying opportunities in today’s market, and how changing policies are affecting the city’s development prospects.

Knakal also shares his strategies for real estate success, including how brokers can leverage technology, develop proprietary insights, and maintain a competitive edge.

Tune in to stay ahead in a volatile market and understand how to capitalize on emerging trends.

Drop a like and subscribe for more expert insights on real estate!


Connect with Bob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobknakal/

Our Socials:
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/


(00:00) Bob Knakal's Real Estate Journey
(03:04) Bob's Approach to Prospecting and Social Media
(06:21) Building Client-Centric Strategies
(12:28) Bob and Paul’s Early Years in Real Estate
(15:56) The Role of AI in Real Estate Brokerage
(18:01) Challenges in Real Estate Data Interpretation
(25:45) The Value of Proprietary Data
(28:27) Impact of Data on Real Estate Strategy
(34:45) Policy Implications on New York Housing Market
(41:06) Real Estate's Role in New York's Economy
(45:23) Real Estate Investment Opportunities
(50:31) Servant Leadership and Team Building
(54:29) Legacy of Massey Knakal in New York Real Estate
(56:41) Territory Network in Real Estate
(59:13) The Art of Real Estate Brokerage
(01:03:17)  Bob’s Passion for Real Estate

Is the next real estate crisis looming? Will it be worse than 2008?

In this episode of the Broker Brunch podcast, James Nelson, Principal, Head of Tri-State Investment Sales at Avison Young, joins Brian and Mitch to share expert insights into the potential risks and opportunities in today’s volatile real estate market.

With interest rates rising and market sentiment shifting, the real estate landscape is changing rapidly, leaving many investors questioning what’s next.

James takes a deep dive into the psychology of real estate cycles, revealing how investors can navigate downturns, avoid common pitfalls, and take advantage of market shifts. He also discusses the strategies brokers and investors are using to stay ahead in a competitive environment, including how to spot distress in the market and what it means for long-term investment strategies.

If you’re looking to understand how to protect your assets, capitalize on market corrections, and make smarter investment decisions during turbulent times, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Hit that like button, comment and subscribe for more!


Connect with James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesnelsonnyc/

Our Socials:
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/


(00:00) Intro and Market Insights
(00:37) James Nelson’s Approach to Real Estate
(03:53) Starting a Real Estate Career in NYC
(06:19) Kickstarting a Career in Real Estate Brokerage
(09:23) Real Estate Market Cycles and Current Trends
(12:54) Navigating Downturns and Staying Competitive
(16:30) Diversifying in Real Estate and Building a Team
(18:52) Team Structure and Asset Class Focus
(20:57) Strategies for Growing and Retaining Talent
(24:11) Managing Multiple Deals
(30:06) Balancing Personal Investment with Brokerage
(34:24) Writing a Book on Real Estate Investing
(39:16) Expanding Real Estate Ventures Nationally
(40:19) The Future of Real Estate and AI’s Impact

Ever wonder how investors avoid paying a ton in taxes when selling real estate?

The secret lies in mastering the 1031 exchange. For many investors, understanding real estate tax strategies can feel overwhelming. But today, you’ll learn exactly how to use 1031 exchanges to maximize your investment returns and avoid costly mistakes.

Robert Sharfstein, the Managing Principal behind RPS Capital Management, joins Brian and Mitch on the Broker Brunch podcast to share the strategies that have helped his clients thrive in the ever-changing real estate market.

In this episode, Robert breaks down the steps to successfully executing a 1031 exchange, the benefits of strategic asset management, and the key factors to consider in today’s market. He also reveals the common pitfalls investors face and how to steer clear of them. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, you’ll discover valuable insights to help you grow your portfolio.

So if you want to make 2024 THE year you elevate your real estate investments, even in a challenging market, this episode is a must-listen.


Connect with Robert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-sharfstein-a89a0a28/

Our Socials:
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
(01:05) Robert Sharfstein’s Background & RPS Capital
(03:46) Life Cycle of a Real Estate Deal
(05:00) Identifying Investment Opportunities
(06:08) Tax Changes & 1031 Exchanges
(11:02) Managing Family-Owned Assets
(12:20) Assisting Sales Brokers
(14:22) Recent Market Trends & Deals
(17:20) Offering Property Management Services
(19:40) Partnering with Mortgage Brokers
(21:28) Networking in Real Estate
(24:08) Building Long-Term Relationship 
(27:25) Preparing for the Next Market Cycle

What if the future of real estate investment isn’t in luxury condos or skyscrapers but in schools?

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Esposito, Founder & Principal at Apex Development Group LLC, to explore how charter schools are transforming the landscape of urban development in New York.

Andrew has turned this niche into a thriving venture, building schools that not only serve communities but also create profitable real estate opportunities.

Join Brian and Mitch on the Broker Brunch podcast as Andrew shares his journey into real estate, his strategic approach to partnerships, and how he navigated the complexities of securing financing for charter school projects. From rezoning to long-term investments, Andrew dives deep into the risks and rewards of developing charter schools, why this market is booming, and what real estate investors can learn from his experience.

Tune in now for a game-changing discussion on the future of NYC Real Estate and development.


Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-esposito-95a1349a/

Our Socials:
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/

(00:00) Intro
(00:52) Andrew Esposito's Journey
(09:30) Charter Schools as a Real Estate Opportunity
(13:19) Financing a $50 Million Charter School Project
(16:54) Charter Schools and Rezoning: Challenges and Opportunities
(20:10) Speculative Land Buying: How Rezoning Changes the Game
(25:23) Affordable Housing and Charter School Projects
(30:53) Charter Schools: Expansion vs. New Charters
(33:46) The Political Landscape of Charter Schools in NYC
(37:40) Selling Charter School Developments
(42:13) How Charter Schools Change Neighborhoods
(48:13) Apex's Future in Charter School Development and Affordable Housing
(50:49) Affordable Housing in the Bronx
(52:06) Andrew's Vision for the Future of Real Estate

New York's Real Estate market is the roughest it’s ever been.

But, have you ever wondered how top real estate investors beat the toughest market conditions and still come out on top?

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of real estate investment with Peter Hungerford, Founder & Managing Principal of PH Realty Capital, who’s managed to acquire over 3,000 units in one of the most challenging markets—New York City.

For many investors, the current lending environment and market uncertainties might seem daunting, but Peter shares the strategies that have helped him not just survive, but thrive.

Join Brian and Mitch on the Broker Brunch podcast as Peter reveals his approach to managing large portfolios, securing financing in a liquidity crisis, and maximizing operational efficiency. He breaks down the keys to successful real estate investment, from controlling what you can to making calculated bets that pay off in the long run. Plus, Peter shares his predictions for the remainder of 2024 and what it means for investors looking to make strategic moves.

So if you’re ready to take your real estate game to the next level in 2024, even when the market gets tough, this is the episode you don’t want to miss.


Connect with Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-hungerford-phrealtycap/

Our Socials:
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/

In this episode of The Broker Brunch, we sit down with Howard Koh, an experienced litigator and self-proclaimed Guardian of Real Estate Rights. Howard shares his journey to becoming a lawyer and his dedication to solving complex real estate disputes. We delve into his expertise in landlord-tenant issues, lender-borrower conflicts, and construction disputes. Howard discusses the impact of economic changes on real estate, the intricacies of office building foreclosures, and the legal landscape post-COVID-19. Join us for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice, fascinating case studies, and Howard’s unique perspective on the real estate market.

 In this episode, finance broker Andrew Dansker discusses the complexities of today's lending environment and offers valuable insights into securing capital in a competitive market. Learn about the challenges facing real estate professionals, strategies for building a resilient business, and the importance of trust in client relationships. 

Welcome back to our channel! In this episode, we dive deep into the latest trends and updates in the real estate market. Join us as we discuss the implications of recent changes in housing policies and what it means for investors and homeowners alike.

We continue Season 2 by sitting down with Ari Ravi from RIPCO's Tampa Bay office in Florida. Ari is a top investment sales broker specializing in the sale of single and multi-tenant assets. Given his Florida roots, we were curious to hear how Ari views the NYC market and to discuss trends in capital migration up and down the North-East. In addition, Ari's unique experience in both sales and management allowed him to implement successful strategies in his business that have been tried and tested down through the years. We hope you enjoy getting to know Ari as much as we did! 

Eli Weiss of Joy Construction joins us to discuss all things Development in NYC. Eli's background in government, capital markets and construction give him a well-rounded view on what it takes to develop large scale projects while navigating the many obstacles in his path. Born and bred in Brooklyn, Eli is a life-long New Yorker so has skin in the game in his pursuit for making the neighborhoods he's building in both affordable and desirable for its residents.  We enjoyed getting to know him better and hope you do too!