What was your most notable project, deal, transaction or professional achievement in 2018?
The most notable project and transaction of the year was closing on a 36 MW solar project for a 109-acre solar farm for $14 million on Long Island, Suffolk County, Calverton, Town of Riverhead, NY. This new solar development is part of the largest solar portfolio in New York State.
What market trend(s) will impact your industry in 2019?
Being competitive in the world of commercial real estate is challenging. Planning ahead and anticipating what the market has in store is just one way of maintaining a competitive edge. In my humble opinion, the commercial real estate sector has not kept up with the times with respect to digitalization and social media platforms.
What was an unexpected event that occurred in 2018, and how did it impact your career or personal life?
My Dad passed away earlier this year. He was my best friend and biggest supporter, so it was a particularly difficult year but living with the values my Dad taught me has helped me realize my Dad is with me everyday.
What was your most notable project, deal, transaction or professional achievement in 2018?
We closed sixty new loans this year which is a record for Emerald Creek. But what we’re most proud of is the fact that 25% of this year’s closings were to repeat borrowers.
What was the best decision that you made in 2018 and how did it impact your business?
One of my 2018 decisions I am especially pleased with, was participating in CREW Network’s Leadership Certificate Program, providing advanced leadership training and skills to experienced CRE professionals.
What was your most notable project, deal, transaction or professional achievement in 2018?
This year we were fortunate enough to design the new 36,000 s/f Corporate Headquarters for Hellen Keller Services in Brooklyn, NY.
What was the best decision that you made in 2018 and how did it impact your business?
This year I launched a comprehensive restructuring of our product offerings and services in light of market, design, and construction code trends. Our goals were better overall energy efficiency, greater customization for specific projects, and enhanced energy and structural testing certification by national independent laboratories.
What market trend(s) will impact your industry in 2019?
In 2018, there was a resurgence of the economy and that impact has been directly felt in the construction industry. AKF has seen a nice backlog of work for the coming year and we are excited for these opportunities. However, we are beginning to see a slowdown on the multifamily sector, particularly in the condominium development market.
What was your most notable project, deal, transaction or professional achievement in 2018?
In conjunction with San Diego-based Davidson+Powers, LLC, we worked with the executives of a major U.S. REIT to analyze its retail real estate asset in the San Francisco Bay Area from a remerchandising, redevelopment and income enhancement perspective.
What was your most notable project, deal, transaction or professional achievement in 2018?
Starting two ground-up residential developments with two different developers was my most notable achievement in 2018.
