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Licensed Associate Broker
Realty Connect USA
Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight?
“As a recently retired teacher, JoAnn Spatola brings many skills and a great understanding of her client’s needs to this industry. Over the past two years, JoAnn has grown into a top agent in our commercial real estate division. She completed several transactions with women entrepreneurs, helping them realize their dream of real estate ownership and business expansion. JoAnn is a consummate professional dedicated to learning every day and perfecting her craft. In my 40+ years in this industry she is one of the best I have ever seen and a total pleasure to work with.” - Philip Okun, Executive Vice President at Realty Connect USA.
What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of?
One of my recent and proudest accomplishments to date was in May, 2024 when I received the Rechler Equity Partners 2023 Broker Award for “Office Deal of the Year” 2023. Rechler Equity Partners is the largest owner of commercial real estate on Long Island and the office lease was for 21,304 s/f. This achievement highlights not only my dedication to delivering outstanding results, it also reflects my ability to navigate a complex commercial real estate transaction with precision and efficiency. It was an honor to be trusted with a high-profile project, which was also on behalf of a highly successful woman-owned and operated corporation. This milestone exemplifies my commitment to excellence and my continued support and growth of women in real estate.
What are the most important factors young women should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with?
When considering a real estate firm to build a career, there are several key factors, however for me the most important has been mentorship and development training opportunities. Having supportive and collaborative brokers, and specifically a Commercial Division Broker /Owner who has the commercial experience, knowledge and patience to provide ongoing education is extremely valuable. As a woman in my company, there are equal opportunities regardless of gender. Advancement in terms of production is the responsibility of the individual, however the support and mentorship in the commercial division of Realty Connect USA is endless for those who seek guidance. While an individual’s determination, perseverance, and motivation are primary, having the support of the company owners/brokers makes all difference.
Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you?
Given my involvement in commercial real estate, Barbara Corcoran is someone who inspires me. As a prominent female figure in the industry, what I admire most about her, is her incredible success in a “man’s world” where she states that they “never saw her coming”. As someone who started with humble beginnings, Barbara exemplifies resilience, innovation and grit. In addition, her story resonates with my core values of persistence, strategic and visionary thinking, adapting to changes and continually pushing boundaries to achieve success. Lastly, her charismatic leadership and her ability to combine business savvy with authenticity, humor and heart completes the persona of someone who truly inspires me.
Which professional organization(s) would you recommend to women just starting out in your industry:
As a woman starting out in real estate, more so commercial real estate, I would recommend joining a networking group such as LeTip, which could ultimately be a career game-changer. As the LeTip creed states: “LeTip is a professional organization of men and women dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service. Our focus is the exchange of business tips. Members will at all times maintain the highest professional integrity. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed.” Meeting weekly with neighborhood business owners helps to facilitate and accelerate the opportunities that may be available.
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