News:
Spotlight Content
Posted: August 26, 2025
2025 Women in CRE: Ava Schumm, Meridian Capital Group
Associate
Commercial Real Estate Finance
Meridian Capital Group
What skill or quality do you believe is essential for success in your field today?
Success in commercial real estate is driven by unwavering commitment, strategic thinking, persistence, and patience. Trust — earned with clients, landlords, and lenders—serves as the foundation for long-term success. Given the protracted nature of transactions and inevitable setbacks, consistency, adaptability, and the ability to pivot under pressure have been key in moving deals forward. Coupled with deep market intelligence, these qualities distinguish top performers and enable them to navigate complexity with precision and impact.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate?
My advice to women considering a career in commercial real estate is to lead with confidence, know your value, and stay relentlessly persistent. The field is competitive and often male-dominated, yet it rewards strategic thinking, resilience, and strong relationships. Speak up, ask questions, and stay intellectually curious.
Be teachable, collaborative, and study the market. Your time is your greatest asset—invest it wisely with women leaders whose insight is invaluable. Grit and courage are recognized, and with focus, the return will be worth it.
Tags:
Spotlight Content
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
.png)
Quick Hits
.gif)
.jpg)
Columns and Thought Leadership
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”.
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
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
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
.gif)