Audrey Novoa, Murray Hill Properties

Name : Audrey Novoa Title : Executive Managing Director Company/firm : Murray Hill Properties Years with company/firm : 9 1/2 Years Years in field : 31 Years in real estate industry : 35 Address : 277 Park Avenue Telephone : 212-763-3528 Email : [email protected] URL : murrayhill.com Real estate organizations/affiliations : Real Estate Board of New York, YMWREA What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2010? In addition to my brokerage responsibilities as the leasing representative for 1 Park Ave., I have been working diligently with the ownership to successfully reposition the building into a viable investment and I am happy to report that we have accomplished that goal. What was your most notable project, deal or transaction in 2010? In 2010, I was successful in selling 236 Second Ave., a 5-story townhouse structure, to Functional Life, a school for children with disabilities. In addition to this building, I have also sold 221 West 61st St. to this ownership and 211 West 61st St. to this ownership and again for this ownership. How do you contribute to your company and / or the industry? My company, Murray Hill Properties, has recently moved to 277 Park Ave. With the move, MHP has transformed into a brokerage company that represents tenants, as well as third party landlords. I have more than 30 years of experience in representing tenants as well as landlords and I have been instrumental in the transformation of the company. What advice would you give to women just starting out in commercial real estate? As I said before, I have been working as a broker for more than 30 years, starting when there were hardly any female brokers in the industry. The industry has changed a great deal during this time and I would recommend to all brokers whether they are female or male, to have a high ethical standard, read real estate related articles and network as much as you can and most of all be diligent in everything you do. How do you manage the work/life balance? Managing work/life has always been very difficult especially when you have small children growing up. Remember you have only one life and it is most important to be there for your children. Therefore try to schedule your business appointments so you can also go to some school activities, such as sports games and music concerts. Also remember to communicate with your children and your spouse about what is going on in your business life so they can understand why you might be upset or frustrated. Communication is the key. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career? There have been many people during the 30 plus years that have influenced my career. Some of which have taught me to be creative and think outside the box and others have taught me to be focused in order to channel my inner strength and be compassionate and humble at the same time. What impact has social networking had on your business? Social networking has become very important to the industry. In order to keep pace with the ever changing real estate profession, I have found it to be crucial to attend real estate functions, non-profit gatherings and networking events.