2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Jacquelyn Mascetti, Herman Katz LLP

What trend or change in commercial real estate do you believe will have the biggest impact over the next five years?

Retail is having a bit of a cautious comeback. Stores that previously vacated malls are returning to them, vacancy rates are decreasing in strip centers and local downtown areas and rental rates are increasing. This is due to a number of factors, including some changes in consumer behavior and the current status of the economy. Over the next five years, we could face upheavals such as a recession, significant political changes, or consumer behavior completely changed by AI. I expect that any one of these factors could completely extinguish any of the retail regrowth we are currently seeing.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women entering commercial real estate?

As a woman in commercial real estate, there will be times (even in 2026!) when you will be the only female in the room. As such, it is incumbent upon you to ensure that your opinions and perspective are heard and considered. By physically showing up and participating, you are demonstrating why you belong there. In addition, my advice is to take the “extra” opportunities that are presented to you, both in and out of the office, if you are able. If you are asked to join a committee, or write an article, or give a presentation, accept the invitation. Those extras offer you a chance to provide female leadership, perspective, and prove competence. Over time, the extra effort involved will be rewarded with a solid reputation and clear-cut credibility that you have built for yourself and other women in commercial real estate.