News: Spotlight Content

2017 Women in Building Services: Kristen Gizzi, ECCO Development LLC

Name: Kristen Gizzi

Title: Director of Real Estate

Company Name: ECCO Development LLC

Years in real estate: 13

What real estate associations or organizations are you a member of? ICSC

How have you navigated obstacles to achieve success in your career?

I have faced many obstacles, each one unique and at different points within my career. One cannot look at an impediment as a reflection on themselves. You cannot let your self-confidence be impacted by any obstacle. Instead an obstacle is often a lesson in disguise. This is a tall order for anyone, including myself, especially when the hurdle you face is a rejection or something perceived to be a “knock” on your performance. Every obstacle in my life when not taken personally has lead to a positive decision. If you can reframe an obstacle in your mind as a stepping stone it can result in a positive change. 

How do you play your strengths to your advantage in your career?

I utilize my strengths to overcome difficulties by reframing them in a way that is valuable toward resolution. In other words, I do not need to comprehend the complexities of a contract or dispute to use my communication skills to diffuse a situation, opening the lines of communication and resulting in parties more amenable to negotiate and reach resolution. 

Almost every difficulty one faces can be managed and often resolved if addressed head on with your skill set. The lesson is to utilize your skills when an obstacle arises. These are your strengths and will assist you in achieving success personally and professionally. 

MORE FROM Spotlight Content

Over half of Long Island towns vote to exceed the tax cap - Here’s how owners can respond - by Brad and Sean Cronin

When New York permanently adopted the 2% property tax cap more than a decade ago, many owners hoped it would finally end the relentless climb in tax bills. But in the last couple of years, that “cap” has started to look more like a speed bump. Property owners are seeing taxes increase even when an
READ ON THE GO
DIGITAL EDITIONS
Subscribe
Columns and Thought Leadership
Properly serving a lien law Section 59 Demand - by Bret McCabe

Properly serving a lien law Section 59 Demand - by Bret McCabe

Many attorneys operating within the construction space are familiar with the provisions of New York Lien Law, which allow for the discharge of a Mechanic’s Lien in the event the lienor does not commence an action to enforce following the service of a “Section 59 Demand”.
Oldies but goodies:  The value of long-term ownership in rent-stabilized assets - by Shallini Mehra

Oldies but goodies: The value of long-term ownership in rent-stabilized assets - by Shallini Mehra

Active investors seeking rent-stabilized properties often gravitate toward buildings that have been held under long-term ownership — and for good reasons. These properties tend to be well-maintained, both physically and operationally, offering a level of stability
How much power does the NYC mayor really have over real estate policy? - by Ron Cohen

How much power does the NYC mayor really have over real estate policy? - by Ron Cohen

The mayor of New York City holds significant influence over real estate policy — but not absolute legislative power. Here’s how it breaks down:

Formal Legislative Role

Limited direct lawmaking power: The NYC Council is the primary
The strategy of co-op busting in commercial real estate - by Robert Khodadadian

The strategy of co-op busting in commercial real estate - by Robert Khodadadian

In New York City’s competitive real estate market, particularly in prime neighborhoods like Midtown Manhattan, investors are constantly seeking new ways to unlock property value. One such strategy — often overlooked but