Howard Stern, Law Offices of Howard Stern

What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2013? A dramatic increase in transactional work for the firm, coupled with the work and time put into the reorganization and update of my firms electronic and internet capabilities paying particular attention to the minute details and interacting immediately with staff thereby enabling this firm to interact with our clients more efficiently and expeditiously. Both of which are, in fact interrelated. What was your most notable project, deal or transaction in 2013? The representation of an owner in its sale for $13 million of two adjoining Brownstones in Downtown Brooklyn to an major Manhattan developer. The transaction needed to be creatively structured and monitored to protect all parties during an extensive protracted due diligence period. A period during which, I was able to deliver the two buildings with no residential tenants and worked with purchaser as it negotiated with commercial tenants in the buy out of their leases for closing. What are your predictions for commercial real estate in 2014? Given the influx of more major non New York Real Estate Groups; foreign dollars and investors; as well as the influx of new smaller players forming their own investment groups, fueled by the corresponding increase in 1031 structured transactions, I see the market continuing to increase dramatically. Although I fear continued sharp increases may cause a bubble as we get closer to the 2014 election cycle. The high prices of Manhattan deals are causing a huge increase in value of properties in the outer boroughs and favoring Owners there. As many are saying, "Brooklyn is the new Manhattan". What are your resolutions for 2014? 1. To continue my attention to detail and upgrade my personal skills to continue to fuel this firms expansion. 2. To continually and constantly prioritize all matters. 3. To end my addiction to checking emails in the late evening hours. Except those dealing with a matter actually on for the following morning. To enjoy life and my family more. The younger generation can not differentiate between their personal and private lives. And their private lives are lacking. When I see families eating out with everyone engaged with their smart phones and no one talking I become sad.