Name: Karen Hurd

Company: Baker Tilly

What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2019?
In 2019, I accepted a new position as managing director, national business development with Baker Tilly. Baker Tilly is a leading advisory, tax and assurance firm. Our firm works with many types of real estate investors across all segments of the industry, commercial, residential, hospitality, medical, retail, industrial, mixed use. Every day I learn something new and I have to believe that in itself is a huge professional accomplishment. I work with brilliant consultants and tax advisors that help our clients realize greater value from concept to completion of all kinds of projects. After 20 years in commercial real estate, I feel fortunate to have access to some the top RE consultants and tax professionals in the industry. I view this as my greatest accomplishment in 2019.

What was your most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2019?
In 2019, there were many projects and deals our firm has worked on that are confidential. I personally attended over a dozen real estate/private equity conferences across the U.S. and was involved in over 20. Listening to speakers, learning hot topics across asset classes was a phenomenal experience. Most notable project however was speaking on a finance panel at Harvard University’s BOLD Conference this past Fall to over 500 High School Young Women from across the country. I was so impressed with their questions and inquisitive minds. It was an honor and privilege.

What are your predictions for commercial real estate in 2020?
Everyone is concerned about cycles and where we are today. Fundamentals remain solid, lots of liquidity in the market and a lot of capital remains on the sidelines. Overall, commercial real estate continues to perform well and I believe we will see this continue. I believe the glass is half-full, no recession in 2020.