2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Marisa Kinsey, Kinsey Equities LLC & Kinsey Consulting LLC

What leadership lesson has made the greatest impact on your career? 

The greatest leadership lesson I’ve learned is to lead with patience and resilience. Property management means balancing the competing priorities of owners, tenants, vendors, and regulators, and it’s impossible to satisfy everyone all the time. I’ve learned not to take challenges personally, but instead to focus on facts, communicate transparently, and make thoughtful decisions that protect both relationships and the long-term success of an asset.

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

Compliance and operational expertise will become just as valuable as acquisition expertise. Owners are facing an expanding list of regulations, sustainability requirements, insurance challenges, and rising operating costs that directly affect asset performance. Firms that combine strong operational knowledge with technology and data-driven decision-making will be best positioned to preserve value and create long-term returns.

What was the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in the past 12 months, and why?

The most rewarding work this past year wasn’t a single transaction necessarily, it was helping owners successfully navigate New York City’s increasingly complex operating environment. Between evolving regulations, rising operating costs, compliance requirements, and tenant challenges, I have focused on protecting asset value while keeping buildings stable and occupied. Seeing owners gain confidence through strategic planning, proactive management, and clear communication has been far more rewarding than any single closing.

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

Don’t underestimate the value of becoming an expert in the details. Commercial real estate offers countless career paths beyond brokerage, and deep operational knowledge can become a significant competitive advantage. Ask questions, seek mentors, and don’t be afraid to take on challenging assignments. Your reputation for integrity, reliability, and problem-solving will open more doors than simply having the loudest voice in the room.