2025 Women in CRE: Lindsay Ornstein, OPEN Impact Real Estate

What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and why?

Helping Zeta Charter Schools secure their first permanent home at 425 Westchester was one of the most meaningful deals of my career. It marked the beginning of a decade-long partnership supporting one of NYC’s fastest-growing charter networks. We’ve since helped them open six schools, each providing high-quality, tuition-free education to underserved students. Knowing our work is directly impacting children’s futures and helping reshape educational equity in New York is deeply rewarding and exactly why I do what I do.

What skill or quality do you believe is essential for success in your field today?

Perseverance is absolutely essential. Deals are more complex, timelines are longer, and the stakes feel higher. You need grit, patience and a relentless drive to keep things moving forward. But just as important are interpersonal skills. Relationships power this industry — how well you connect, listen and build trust can define your reputation. Together, these two qualities — resilience and interpersonal skills — set the foundation for long-term success and fulfillment in commercial real estate today.

If you could change one thing about the CRE industry, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing, it would be the lack of diversity. Our industry has historically been closed off to women, people of color and those from nontraditional backgrounds. That needs to shift. Diverse teams bring better ideas, stronger dynamics and ultimately better client outcomes. At OPEN, we addressed this by creating a transparent salary-plus-bonus structure that promotes equity. The more inclusive we are, the more innovative and resilient our industry becomes.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate?

Dive in head first! Commercial real estate offers massive upside and a unique chance to shape your own path. It’s one of the few industries where you can build a thriving career, influence the physical world and have true control over your time. I’ve found it incredibly empowering. Yes, it’s competitive — but it’s also collaborative, creative and evolving. If you’re curious, driven and ready to learn, this field will meet you with endless opportunity..