New York City’s real estate market has seen it all, from the rise of its first skyscrapers to today’s constantly evolving landscape.

Over the decades, we’ve weathered economic crises, adapted to policy changes, and embraced new technologies, all of which have shaped the market into what it is today.

To understand where NYC real estate is headed, you first have to understand how it got here.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #NYCRE #RealEstateHistory #CREInsights #BrokerLife #InvestmentSales #CommercialRealEstate

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Turnover in New York City’s commercial real estate investment sales market is running at just 1.8% of total stock—close to historic lows. Many assume this is because buyers are sitting on the sidelines. But the truth is very different.

On this episode of A Walk Down the Street, I explain the real reason: Zombie Buildings.

These are multifamily buildings—heavily impacted by the 2019 rent law changes—that have lost 50–75% of their value. Owners have no equity left, banks don’t want them due to liability, and investors are wary because profitability is so difficult.

Here’s the belief shift: Low turnover isn’t about a lack of demand. It’s about a market filled with zombie assets that nobody wants—yet. The day of reckoning will come, and when it does, the smartest investors will be ready to seize market-clearing opportunities that shape the next cycle.

In this video, you’ll learn:
– Why NYC commercial real estate turnover is stuck at historic lows
– What “Zombie Buildings” are and why they’re paralyzing the market
– How rent regulation changes vaporized equity and created systemic challenges
– Why savvy investors should be preparing now for future opportunities

Want to learn more about the NYC Investment Sales Market?
Get in touch with Bob Knakal:
📧 Email: bk@bkrea.com
📱 Call/Text: (917) 509-9501

#CommercialRealEstate #NYCRealEstate #ZombieBuildings #InvestmentSales

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Looking back on Massey Knakal, I’m incredibly proud of what we built. We consistently outpaced the competition in building sales and left a lasting mark on New York City’s real estate market.

But what I value most is the legacy, the number of companies today being run by people who started their careers with us. Watching them grow into leaders is one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #MasseyKnakal #BKREA #CRE #NYCRE #RealEstateLegacy #BrokerLife #InvestmentSales

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In this episode of What Would BK Do?, legendary NYC investment sales broker Bob Knakal answers a foundational question from Billy Treadwell:

“What do I do when a seller seems motivated but won’t give me an exclusive? Do I take a shot at representing a buyer?”

Bob shares why, after 2,360 deals over 42 years, he has never closed a single non-exclusive listing — and why that principle has helped build his brand, reputation, and long-term leverage.

If you're a broker, agent, or advisor working in commercial real estate, this episode will challenge your thinking and help you define your value proposition with more clarity and confidence.

🔑 You’ll learn:
– Why working non-exclusive deals kills leverage
– The opportunity cost of chasing “easy” deals
– How to say no and mean it
– Why discipline is the foundation of elite brokerage
– What it really means to build a brand that lasts

📩 Got a CRE question for Bob? Drop it in the comments or send it to Bob or Mo Regalado — your question could be featured in a future episode.

👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔔 Subscribe
New episodes of What Would BK Do? drop weekly — get raw, real advice from one of the most experienced brokers in the game.

#WhatWouldBKDo #ExclusiveListings #RealEstateBrokerTips #BobKnakal #CREAdvice #NYCRealEstate #BrokerDiscipline #DealMaking #RealEstateStrategy #BrandBuilding

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COVID accelerated remote work, and its impact on New York real estate, especially Midtown, has been profound. With fewer people in the office, many businesses dependent on foot traffic have struggled.

But here’s an inconvenient truth: the office still matters.

For young professionals, being there means learning by osmosis, building relationships, and experiencing a company’s culture in ways Zoom will never replicate.

Yes, the commute can be tough. But if you want career growth, and if we want a vibrant city, being in the office is essential.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #CRE #OfficeLife #MidtownNYC #CommercialRealEstate #CareerGrowth #NYCRE

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What makes a great LinkedIn post in commercial real estate? In this video, Bob Knakal—NYC’s most prolific building sales broker—shares why authenticity beats promotion, and how going behind the scenes of your deals can separate you from every other broker in the business.

📈 Most brokers post, “Just listed this,” or “Just sold that.” But Bob says: go deeper. Share the story behind the deal. What made the seller lose sleep? How did you overcome buyer objections? What actually got the deal done?

This is your roadmap to leveling up your personal brand, attracting real engagement, and building trust in today’s noisy social landscape.

📌 Who This Is For:
– Commercial real estate brokers and agents
– Business professionals growing on LinkedIn
– Content creators in real estate
– Entrepreneurs and brand builders

✅ Subscribe for More on CRE, Sales Strategy & Branding
🔔 Turn on notifications to get weekly videos from Bob Knakal
📩 For speaking engagements or consulting: info@bkrea.com

📣 Leave a comment:
What’s one behind-the-scenes story from your business you’ve never shared before? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

#LinkedInTips #CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateMarketing #CREBrokerage #PersonalBranding #SocialSelling #BobKnakal #BKREA #NYCRealEstate #BuildingSales

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When my first broker couldn’t get the job done, I turned to Ryan Serhant. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first.

But Ryan’s market knowledge and commitment won me over quickly. In just 28 days, he and his team had my property under a hard contract at the asking price.

The experience was a powerful reminder: choosing the right agent makes all the difference.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #CRE #BrokerLife #RealEstateSales #BrokerAdvice #InvestmentSales

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Two books had a major impact on my career: Good to Great by Jim Collins and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.

Both reinforced lessons I’ve carried throughout my life: the power of focus, the value of relationships, and the importance of continuous learning.

In this business, you never stop improving. The day you think you know it all is the day you fall behind.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #GoodToGreat #BrokerAdvice #CRE #RealEstateWisdom

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In this episode of What Would BK Do?, Bob Knakal answers a smart question from Daniel Strongin:

"Where can I go to better understand NYC zoning changes beyond the DOB website?"

Bob shares decades of frontline knowledge in NYC investment sales, highlighting the two most effective strategies for staying informed on zoning and land use proposals:

✔️ Checking the NYC Department of City Planning for official updates
✔️ Attending local community board meetings to get early insights

Whether you're a broker, investor, or developer, understanding where changes are first discussed gives you a major edge. Learn how zoning updates flow from planning to implementation — and how to position yourself for maximum upside.

🎯 Stay informed. Stay strategic.
📩 Have a question for BK? Drop it in the comments or message the team directly.

🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on NYC commercial real estate.

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On September 11, 2001, I was in my office at 18 East 41st Street when I first saw smoke rising from the North Tower. At first, it didn’t feel real. But as the day unfolded, reality set in with a weight I’ll never forget.

With the city shut down, we gathered supplies for those stranded overnight. I remember the silence on the streets, people walking home across the Queensboro Bridge, many covered in ash. The smell of electrical fire lingered in the air.

That day left an indelible mark on New York City, and on me personally. It was a moment that changed everything.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #NYC #BrokerLife #CRE #BKREA

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Are the biggest real estate deals really the hardest? Think again. In this video, NYC real estate icon Bob Knakal shares hard-won insights from 40 years in the trenches of commercial real estate investment sales. From $100 million buildings to multi-family walkups, Bob explains why deal size doesn’t equal complexity — and what really drives a transaction across the finish line.

Whether you're a commercial broker, real estate investor, or simply someone looking to understand the inner workings of the New York City real estate market, this is a must-watch.

➡️ Learn how to navigate deal dynamics that don’t show up on a BOV
➡️ Discover why middle-market deals ($20M–$100M) require elite strategic thinking
➡️ Understand how experience and pattern recognition beat dollar signs every time

📌 Subscribe for more commercial real estate insights from Bob Knakal:
🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a weekly Knakal Knugget!

📞 For investment sales or advisory services, contact:
📧 BK@BKREA.com
| 🌐 https://www.bkrea.com

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At Massey Knakal, Paul and I believed that every single person mattered, whether they were in the mailroom, at the front desk, or out in the field.

When you recognize people’s contributions and invest in their growth, you create a culture where everyone wants to go the extra mile.

That’s what servant leadership is all about, putting your team first so the whole organization can thrive.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #Leadership #ServantLeadership #CRE

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Is social media a waste of time for commercial real estate brokers? Bob Knakal didn’t think it was worth it—until it generated $55 million in listings. In this video, Bob shares his real-world experience with social media ROI in NYC real estate, including how strategic posting, consistency, and content visibility led to three listings directly traceable to online presence.

Whether you're a broker, investor, or business owner wondering if your LinkedIn or Instagram efforts are paying off—watch this. You’ll hear about:

How a client used AI to find Bob on perplexity.ai

The power of omnipresence in the feed

What happens when digital reputation precedes your pitch

Why commercial brokers must stop ignoring social platforms

📌 Key Takeaways:

Social media isn’t about vanity metrics—it’s about visibility, credibility, and accessibility.

Business today comes from where attention lives.

The ROI is not just real—it’s measurable.

💼 About Bob Knakal:
Chairman & CEO of BKREA, Bob Knakal is the #1 building sales broker in NYC history, with 2,342 buildings sold and $21B+ in sales. With 40 years in the business, Bob brings hard-won lessons, market wisdom, and tactical advice in every video.

🔔 Subscribe for more:
https://www.youtube.com/@bobknakal

📚 Preorder the book “Selling Buildings”:
https://www.sellingbuildings.com

📱 Follow Bob on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobknakal/

🏙️ Learn more about BKREA:
https://www.bkrea.com

#SocialMediaROI #CommercialRealEstate #BobKnakal #NYCREalEstate #BrokerTips #LinkedInMarketing #BuildingSales #InvestmentSales #KnakalKnuggets

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Real estate is local. Always has been. Always will be.

In investment sales, success comes from knowing a market inside and out, the streets, the buildings, the people. That local expertise gives you an edge over anyone relying only on national or global platforms.

This business is personal, and the brokers who understand that are the ones who win.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BobKnakal #BKREA #CRE #LocalExpertise #InvestmentSales

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On this episode of What Would BK Do, Lev Cohen asked me:
“Do people in New York City commercial real estate still respond well to cold calls?”

Most brokers today believe cold calling is dead. They think owners won’t pick up, that email and LinkedIn have replaced the phone. But that belief is wrong—and it’s costing them deals.

Cold calling isn’t dead—it’s just misused.

When you open with “Do you want to sell your property?” you’ll get hung up on. That’s the kiss of death. But when you bring value, listen, and build rapport, that “cold” call becomes a prospecting call. Over time, prospecting calls turn into relationships, and relationships turn into deals.

The real problem isn’t that cold calling doesn’t work—it’s that most brokers don’t actually make the calls. Few have a formal prospecting plan, which is why those who do consistently pick up the phone gain the edge.

In this video, you’ll learn:
– Why cold calling still works in NYC commercial real estate
– The biggest mistake brokers make when they call owners
– How to turn cold calls into prospecting calls (and deals)
– Why consistency and a plan are the difference-makers

If you’re serious about building a career in commercial real estate investment sales, it’s time to shift your belief: cold calling isn’t dead—it’s your most underused competitive advantage.

Keywords: cold calling real estate, NYC commercial real estate, Bob Knakal, WWBKD, brokerage tips, investment sales NYC, prospecting real estate, commercial property sales, real estate broker advice

#WWBKD #CommercialRealEstate #Brokerage #ColdCalling

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In real estate, numbers without context can do more harm than good.

A cap rate or price per square foot doesn’t mean much unless it’s grounded in consistent methodology. That’s why at BKREA, we’ve built our entire approach around disciplined data analysis.

We’re taking decades of historical data and applying AI to it not to chase headlines, but to spot real trends.

The goal is simple: help clients make better decisions by giving them clearer, more accurate insights.

When data is structured right, it doesn’t just describe the market. It helps you see where it’s going.

Watch the rest of the podcast here:
https://youtu.be/YRaKpbzMjiQ?si=2ntpeeZvHIGZO6L0


#BKREA #NYCRealEstate

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Are you just starting your career in commercial real estate? Or are you an aspiring broker wondering what it takes to become one of the most successful dealmakers in the industry?

In this episode of Joe Killinger’s podcast, Bob Knakal, legendary NYC real estate broker who’s closed over $24 billion in building sales, shares the defining moment that changed his career trajectory — and his life.

🔑 What you’ll learn in this video:
– How Bob accidentally discovered commercial real estate
– Why happiness doesn’t require Wall Street
– The mindset shift that leads to massive success
– Real estate career advice for Gen Z and young professionals
– How passion + hard work prestige every time

🎯 Whether you’re in school, stuck in a job you don’t love, or already in real estate and looking for your next edge — Bob’s story will inspire you to rethink what’s possible when you follow your passion and stay committed.

🧠 QUOTE FROM BOB:

"If you find something you love, you're really lucky. Because if you love it and you're passionate about it, you're gonna rise to the top."

🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more real estate success stories and insights.
💬 What’s your biggest takeaway from Bob’s story? Drop it in the comments!

#BobKnakal #TheKnakalMapRoom

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The Knakal Map started with one question: how do you really understand New York City’s development pipeline?

During the pandemic, I spent 220 hours walking the city, documenting every construction site by hand. The result was a 24-foot-long map, something no database could give me.

Today, that map has become a cornerstone of my brokerage practice, giving clients insights into development and competition that they can’t find anywhere else.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BKREA #CRE #MapRoom #NYCDevelopment #RealEstateInsights #CommercialRealEstate

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While most people were checked out for Labor Day weekend, I was heading into the office. Why? Because the seeds of 2026’s real estate success are planted today.

In this episode of A Walk Down the Street, I share why September is the most critical month for brokers, investors, and property owners in New York City commercial real estate. The work you do in the fall—prospecting, planning, strategizing—is what determines your results not only for year-end but for the following year.

In this video, you’ll learn:
– Why brokers should focus on 2026 now
– How planting seeds in Q3 and Q4 drives long-term deal flow
– Why most people waste Labor Day weekend—and how to use it strategically
– The difference between brokers who finish strong and those who fall behind

Whether you’re a property owner thinking about selling in NYC or a broker building your pipeline, this advice will help you finish 2025 strong and set yourself up to dominate in 2026.

Keywords: NYC commercial real estate, investment sales broker, Bob Knakal, commercial property sales, how to finish strong in real estate, brokerage strategy, real estate deals NYC, A Walk Down the Street

#CommercialRealEstate #InvestmentSales #BrokerTips #NYCRealEstate

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In a business as competitive as real estate, the key is specialization.

Jim Collins said it best in Good to Great: you don’t have to be the best at everything, you have to be the best at one thing.

That’s how you gain a true competitive advantage. Narrow your focus, build deep expertise, and dominate your niche.

Watch the full video now on YouTube.


#BKREA #CRE #Specialization #CompetitiveAdvantage #BrokerAdvice

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In this episode of What Would BK Do?, Zasha Smith asks a powerful question:

“What’s the most surprising insight you’ve uncovered in the Map Room that actually won a deal?”

Bob Knakal — Chairman & CEO of BKREA and NYC’s most prolific building sales broker — shares why the Map Room isn’t just a tool… it’s a strategy.

With 56 wins out of the last 57 competitive pitches, Bob explains how constant data updates, a visually immersive experience, and hyper-local expertise turn the Map Room into a client-convincing machine.

➤ If you're in commercial real estate, development, or investment sales, this is one you don’t want to miss.

💬 Got a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments with #WWBKD or DM us!

🔔 Subscribe for more actionable insights from NYC’s top real estate strategist.

📈 More from Bob Knakal:
– Tuesday Testimonial Series
– Motivational Monday
– Throwback Thursday
– Knakal Knuggets

#WWBKD #BobKnakal #ZashaSmith #MapRoom #RealEstateStrategy #CommercialRealEstate #NYCLandSales #InvestmentSales #RealEstateBrokerTips #LandDevelopment #BrokerageSuccess #DataDrivenSales

💼 Want to learn more about how BKREA is helping clients close smarter deals in NYC?
📧 Contact us: BK@BKREA.com
| 📱 Text Bob: 917-509-9501

—

🎯 What Would BK Do? is your go-to series for real estate insights straight from Bob Knakal, the man who’s sold more buildings in NYC than anyone in history.

Subscribe. Ask. Win.

#NYCRealEstate #WhatWouldBKDo #RealEstateInsights

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