2016 Women in Real Estate: Amira Yunis

Name: Amira Yunis

Title: Executive Vice President

Company Name: CBRE

Email: [email protected]

Years in real estate:18

Telephone: 212-984-8126

What real estate associations or organizations are you a member of?

REBNY, ICSC

What recent project or transaction are you most proud of?

The Urbanspace that I leased 230 Park Avenue on the corner of 45th and Vanderbilt and the Breitling Flagship that I completed at 575 Madison Avenue. Urbanspace is particularly close to my heart as I work just across the street and had a long history with the corner. I was constantly trying to come up with creative ways to activate the space. Eventually, I met Eldon Scott of Urbanspace and I struck creative retail gold. I was able to walk away with positive results on all sides. A great deal for my tenant and a great asset to the neighborhood.

I am also very proud of the transaction I completed at 575 Madison Avenue. The new two story Breitling store replaced a tenant on the corner that had been an eyesore. Now with the modern buildout, the corner houses one of the grandest retail stores in NYC. The deal increased the cache of the building and cemented the area as part of the high-end Madison Avenue corridor.

What recent honor, achievement or recognition has meant the most to you and why?

I was honored to be the 2014 Sarcoma Foundation of America Courage Award recipient. I was awarded the Courage award for battling sarcoma cancer and surviving, all while working and closing deals. It was an incredibly transformative experience for me in both my personal and professional life. Since receiving the courage award I have become a board member with the foundation, and the chairperson of the annual gala the last two years in a row. I’m proud of my work with the foundation and being able to support people still battling against this aggressive cancer.

What have been some of the benefits of being a mentor or having a mentor?

When I first started in New York real estate it was very difficult for me to find a positive and successful role model. To make matters worse it was virtually impossible to even find any women in the retail business. I learned the business from who I could, and always nurtured the best relationships in order to build a solid network. Because of my experiences as a new agent, I always offer my assistance to the young brokers in my office and outside of my organization. I especially try to identify and foster relationships with young women looking to break into the industry. I find spending time helping young and ambitious people keeps you renewed and happy. Young people always have a new perspective on our business, and sometimes the mentoring relationships are mutually rewarding.