Shapiro of Massey Knakal: If you aren't networking you aren't working!

Name: Robert Shapiro Title: Vice President of Sales Company/firm: Massey Knakal Realty Services Year Company was founded: 1988 Years with company/firm: 13.5 Years in field: 13.5 Years in real estate industry: 13.5 Address: 275 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016 Telephone: 212.696.2500 Email: [email protected] URL: www.masseyknakal.com Twitter: @RobShapiroMKRS Real estate organizations / affiliations: * Bronx Northern Manhattan Board of Realtors * Real Estate Board of New York * Washington Heights / Inwood Chamber of Commerce * Real Estate Board of New York Northern Manhattan Committee * Young Mens/Womens Real Estate Association Which project, deal or transaction was the "game changer" in the advancement of your career? The 2013 sale of the Hamilton and Dunbar portfolio on behalf of Lehman Brothers for a combined $139 million was the most pivotal moment in my career. We were able to dissect this portfolio of 20 buildings to optimize investor interest through our marketing efforts conducting 65 inspections, collecting 99 offers, and achieving top values for our client. The success of this sale ultimately led to being hired on numerous other property and portfolio sales including the recent 2014 sale of the 10 building, 404-unit Upper Manhattan portfolio for $72.5 million. What advice would you give to those just starting out in commercial real estate? I would tell those who are new to the business that this can be one of the most exciting and rewarding career choices one could make. This is an ever evolving and dynamic industry filled with the smartest minds in business. Reputation and relationships are everything. Networking is the best way to obtain longevity in the brokerage business. I like to tell new folks in the business if they aren't networking they aren't working!