2026 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Justin Geffner, RTL

“Justin exemplifies the qualities we look for in the next generation of real estate professionals. He combines a strong work ethic with genuine passion, consistently demonstrating professionalism, persistence, and commitment to his clients. His ability to build relationships, embrace challenges, and grow makes him one of the industry’s emerging talents. We are proud to have him at RTL and confident he will make a meaningful impact on New York City commercial real estate.” 

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?

My passion for real estate took root at an early age, confirmed by a residential internship at Corcoran in 2023 where I gained firsthand exposure to the industry. While at Florida State University, I immersed myself in commercial real estate and quickly realized brokerage was where I could best combine my entrepreneurial mindset, relationship-building skills, and passion for helping businesses grow. Joining RTL was a natural next step, and since day one I have been focused on building my career in commercial brokerage while learning from the best in the industry.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of?

More than any individual transaction, I take pride in building genuine, lasting relationships with tenants, landlords, and industry professionals, the foundation of every successful deal. One transaction that stands out early in my career was leasing 4,500 s/f to Body Alive Fitness at 28 East 4^th St. The deal required months of persistence, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Seeing a first-time New York City operator secure the right location was incredibly rewarding and reinforced the value of staying committed throughout every stage of a transaction.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you?

One of the most influential figures in my career has been Steven E. Baker, CEO of RTL. His mentorship has shaped my development and approach to brokerage. Three principles from Steven guide me: brokerage is not a 9-to-5 business and you must be prepared to seize opportunities; success is built through hard work, persistence, and consistency; and brokerage is a hospitality business. Keeping clients informed and confident in your abilities builds lasting trust. Beyond Steven, the entire RTL team has been instrumental, and I have learned something valuable from nearly everyone I have worked with.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry?

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform commercial real estate. While technology will never replace the relationship-driven nature of our business, it is changing how landlords, tenants, and brokers evaluate opportunities. Sophisticated data tools now provide insights into demographics, foot traffic, and market trends, enabling more informed decisions. Brokers who combine data-driven insights with market knowledge and strong relationships will have a competitive advantage. The future belongs to those who balance technology with the human element at the core of every transaction.