Home2025A to FROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — A to F
Home2025A to FROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — A to F
2025A to FROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — A to F

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — A to F

As one of the most vibrant and dynamic real estate markets in the nation, New Jersey is home to a diverse group of professionals who are driving innovation, influencing trends, and shaping the industry landscape. Our annual feature on “Real Estate Influencers” shines a spotlight on over 200 key figures who stand out for their remarkable contributions and impact. These influencers encompass a range of roles. From developers and brokers to thought leaders and advocates, each plays a pivotal role in transforming the real estate sector across the state.

The selection of these influencers is based on criteria that reflect their level of impact and leadership within New Jersey’s real estate market. One of the key factors that contributed to their inclusion is their innovative practices. Many of these leaders are at the forefront of implementing cutting-edge technologies and approaches that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and overall customer satisfaction. They are adopting smart building technologies, green building practices, and data analytics to optimize both development and operational processes.

Market influence is another critical aspect of their selection. These individuals often hold significant sway in shaping trends within the industry. Whether through market strategies, investment decisions, or public advocacy, their actions directly influence housing availability, commercial development, and overall economic growth in New Jersey. A commitment to community engagement characterizes several of our influencers. They understand the importance of integrating local needs into their projects, advocating for affordable housing, and supporting economic initiatives that benefit underserved populations.

Included in this list are individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership by holding key positions in industry associations, participating in noteworthy panels, or mentoring emerging professionals. Their dedication to fostering the next generation of talent ensures the continued growth and evolution of the real estate sector. Notable achievements also bolster their profiles, with many having received industry honors, completed significant deals, or led transformational projects that invigorated neighborhoods and commercial districts throughout the state.

The impact of these individuals extends beyond mere transactions; they are essential figures in navigating the complex and often changing landscape of New Jersey’s real estate industry. Many real estate influencers are actively involved in urban redevelopment projects that breathe new life into aging infrastructure and bring economic vitality to struggling areas. By investing in these communities, they foster job creation, increase property values, and enhance community pride. Sustainability initiatives play a crucial role in their contributions as well. With an increasing focus on eco-friendliness and environmental stewardship, many influencers are leading the charge in developing sustainable projects that prioritize energy efficiency and resource conservation. These initiatives not only align with but also contribute to New Jersey’s goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting green living.

Further amplifying their impact, several are advocates for change at the legislative level, fighting for policies that encourage responsible development while balancing the interests of various stakeholders. Their voices help shape regulations affecting zoning, housing affordability, and urban planning, ensuring a comprehensive approach to real estate development.

The economic contributions of these business leaders are undeniable. Their work directly creates jobs, attracts investments, and generates tax revenues for the state. Their success stories serve as benchmarks for other professionals and inspire confidence in New Jersey’s real estate market. Additionally, by building networks and fostering collaborations among key stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and industry professionals, these influencers create opportunities for synergy that benefit the entire real estate ecosystem.

Highlighting New Jersey’s real estate influencers serves as an important reminder of the significant impact individuals can have within a community. As they continue to drive change and innovation, we not only celebrate their achievements but also recognize the vital role they play in shaping the future of real estate in New Jersey. Their combined efforts promise to elevate the industry, making it more resilient, equitable, and sustainable for generations to come. Through transformative projects, community engagement, and legislative advocacy, these influencers exemplify the best of what the New Jersey real estate sector has to offer.

ROI Influencers

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Sherif Abouzied

Sherif Abouzied Founder & managing principal The Jersey City Summits Creator of the two largest real estate summits of the year, successfully replicating his Jersey City achievements in Newark.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Rich Alderiso

Rich Alderiso Chief operating officer DIGroup Architecture DIGroup Architecture is an award-winning firm specializing in architecture, design, and environmental graphics, serving clients in education, civic, healthcare, and senior living sectors.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Leslie A. Anderson

Leslie A. Anderson President & CEO New Jersey Redevelopment Authority A quietly influential leader, she has driven her organization’s impactful work in underserved communities for decades, earning recognition for sustained contributions to the sector.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Andrew Atkins

Andrew Atkins Vice President Atkins Cos. West Orange–based, family-owned, and family-driven, this firm specializes in health care real estate, partnering with physician systems, networks, and practitioners—guided by their motto: 'Your handshake and your word are your bond.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Charles “Chick” Atkins

Charles "Chick" Atkins Principal Atkins Cos. West Orange–based, family-owned, and family-driven, this firm specializes in health care real estate, partnering with physician systems, networks, and practitioners—guided by their motto: 'Your handshake and your word are your bond.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Cory Atkins

Cory Atkins Principal Atkins Cos. West Orange–based, family-owned, and family-driven, this firm specializes in health care real estate, partnering with physician systems, networks, and practitioners—guided by their motto: 'Your handshake and your word are your bond.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jamie Atkins

Jamie Atkins Vice President Atkins Cos. West Orange–based, family-owned, and family-driven, this firm specializes in health care real estate, partnering with physician systems, networks, and practitioners—guided by their motto: 'Your handshake and your word are your bond.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Robert E. Atkins

Robert E. Atkins Principal Atkins Cos. West Orange–based, family-owned, and family-driven, this firm specializes in health care real estate, partnering with physician systems, networks, and practitioners—guided by their motto: 'Your handshake and your word are your bond.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jeff Babikian

Jeff Babikian Vice chairman CBRE Promoted to vice chairman in 2022—the first New Jersey CBRE office leasing professional to attain the company’s highest rank, marking a historic achievement in leadership and industry excellence.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Ras Baraka

Ras Baraka Mayor City of Newark A visionary in commercial development, his impact on the city will be remembered for generations. As a gubernatorial candidate, he aims to bring that transformative leadership to the state level.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Joshua Baris

Joshua Baris Founder NJLux.com Joshua Baris is the founder of NJLux.com, a premier New Jersey lifestyle and luxury platform connecting audiences with high-end experiences, services, and brands across the state.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Brian Barry

Brian Barry Senior vice president LCOR Key driver behind Hoboken Connect, a transformative, multi-phase, transit-oriented development at the train station, turning decades of planning into reality. Set to become one of the state’s most significant projects in years to come.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — David Barry

David Barry President Ironstate Development Co. The 25-story, 265-foot Urby in Journal Square has launched leasing, marking the brand’s seventh location nationwide and its second in Jersey City.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Michael Barry

Michael Barry President Ironstate Development Co. The 25-story, 265-foot Urby in Journal Square has launched leasing, marking the brand’s seventh location nationwide and its second in Jersey City.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Adenah Bayoh

Adenah Bayoh Founder Adenah Bayoh and Cos. Whether creating affordable housing or new restaurant concepts, she pursues projects with meaningful community impact. Her bold leadership is a model for emerging female developers of color.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Lynda Bennett

Lynda Bennett Partner Lowenstein Sandler Chair of the firm’s Insurance Recovery Group, recognized for representing property owners in claims against insurance companies involving fire, water, financing, and construction non-coverage.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Joel Bergstein

Joel Bergstein Executive chairman Lincoln Equities Group Leading specialty manufacturing facilities for BeiGene at the Princeton West Innovation Campus in Hopewell, among other key sites, while guiding the transition to next-generation leadership.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Lance Bergstein

Lance Bergstein CEO Lincoln Equities Group Lance Bergstein drives acquisitions and development at Lincoln Equities, leading multi-billion-dollar projects for top-tier clients including UPS, Amazon, and Home Depot. Former UBS banker and Crossix Solutions strategist, he also races professionally worldwide.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Mitch Berkey

Mitch Berkey Chair, Real Estate Group CSG Law Chair of CSG’s Real Estate Group, with extensive experience spanning all asset types.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — David Bernhaut

David Bernhaut Executive vice chairmen Cushman & Wakefield Leader of C&W’s dynamic New Jersey investment sales team, overseeing property underwriting, marketing, and sales, while structuring joint ventures to maximize client investment opportunities.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jay Biggins

Jay Biggins Executive managing director Biggins Lacy Shapiro & Co. Jay Biggins, Managing Partner at Biggins, Lacy, Shapiro & Co., is a nationally recognized expert in corporate site selection and incentives strategy, advising companies on location, relocation, and multi-jurisdictional competitive projects.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Omar Boraie

Omar Boraie Founder & chairman Boraie Development An industry Hall of Famer with statewide influence, particularly notable in New Brunswick.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Sam Boraie

Sam Boraie Principal Boraie Development Boraie is a leading Newark developer, known for Iconiq777, 50 Rector Street, and a 333-unit McCarter Highway project, with additional high-profile developments across New Brunswick and Bayonne.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Wasseem Boraie

Wasseem Boraie Principal Boraie Development Boraie is a leading Newark developer, known for Iconiq777, 50 Rector Street, and a 333-unit McCarter Highway project, with additional high-profile developments across New Brunswick and Bayonne.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Reid Brockmeier

Reid Brockmeier Managing director & principal Gensler From commercial offices to sports facilities, healthcare centers to creative studios, Gensler delivers innovative design across New Jersey—bringing expertise and impact to every project, from Morristown to Bayonne.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Dave Brogan

Dave Brogan Executive director & CEO New Jersey Apartment Association A highly influential state-level advocate, Brogan is nationally recognized for his expertise, insights, and leadership in shaping policy and driving meaningful impact.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Peter Bronsnick

Peter Bronsnick Executive Regional Director Cushman & Wakefield A respected industry veteran, he directs C&W’s market strategy and operations, consistently advancing performance and growth across the portfolio.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Eric Brophy

Eric Brophy Member/Co-Chair Government and Regulatory Law Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi PC A behind-the-scenes specialist, Brophy has consistently managed the essential operational and logistical work that ensures projects reach successful completion.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Danielle R. Brunelli

Danielle R. Brunelli President & principal R.J. Brunelli & Co. Danielle Brunelli launched her real estate career while in college and now serves as a key leader at her family-owned brokerage in Old Bridge, establishing herself as a rising influencer in the industry.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Richard J. Brunelli

Richard J. Brunelli Chairman/Principal R.J. Brunelli & Co. Richard Brunelli launched his real estate career while in college and now serves as a key leader at his family-owned brokerage in Old Bridge, establishing himself as a rising influencer in the industry.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Joshua Burd

Joshua Burd Editor Real Estate New Jersey Burd, widely recognized as New Jersey’s leading CRE journalist, consistently sets the standard in commercial real estate reporting.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Charles Burton

Charles Burton Head of government and community relations LeFrak As Managing Director at LeFrak, he oversees Newport in Jersey City, one of the nation’s most successful planned communities, guiding its development, operations, and strategic growth.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Arki Busson

Arki Busson Founder 1888 Studios The Global Entrepreneur highlights how government backing, including a $400M Aspire award, can revitalize Bayonne’s century-old industry, positioning the planned studio as a catalyst for sector-wide growth and innovation.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Becky Button

Becky Button Managing director & principal Gensler From Headquarters Plaza in Morristown to Iris in Montclair, the Red Bulls’ training facility in Morris Township, HMH Ambulatory Care at ON3, and 1888 Studios in Bayonne—Gensler delivers diverse projects nationwide.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jim Cahill

Jim Cahill Mayor City of New Brunswick City One of New Jersey’s most impactful mayors, recognized for economic development initiatives that serve as a model for municipalities statewide.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Elizabeth Cain

Elizabeth Cain Chief operating officer/broker Corcoran Sawyer Smith Former Executive Director of Exchange Place Alliance, now consulting while partnering with CEO Sawyer Smith at a century-old Jersey City firm specializing in mortgage, insurance, and title services.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Nicholas Cangelosi

Nicholas Cangelosi SVP of development The Michaels Organization The Michaels Organization leads transformative projects across Camden and South Jersey, driving meaningful community impact.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Vic Carstarphen

Vic Carstarphen Mayor City of Camden Partnering with the Sixers is underway, enhancing community engagement. Carstarphen drives meaningful improvements in local quality of life through dedicated, hands-on initiatives.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Monica Casiello

Monica Casiello Vice President/marketing & development U.S. Title Solutions A leading authority in the sector, she provides title insurance for major commercial, institutional, and industrial projects across the state.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Stephen Cassidy

Stephen Cassidy Managing partner Denholtz Properties Cassidy oversees the strategic refinement of Denholtz Properties’ operations to leverage emerging commercial real estate investment opportunities nationwide.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Sam Chapin

Sam Chapin Managing director LMXD, an affiliate of L+M Development Partners A national mixed-use development leader, he has overseen $500M in projects across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C., driving LMXD’s strategic growth and expanding its footprint in key markets.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Brian Cheripka

Brian Cheripka Principal Starfield Cos. He has played a pivotal role in Asbury Park’s waterfront redevelopment, driving successful projects such as the Asbury Ocean Club Surfside Resort and Residences.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Peter Cocoziello

Peter Cocoziello Principal Advance Realty Investors Legendary industry leader who remains highly active, exemplified by Freshpet’s new global headquarters in Bedminster, while guiding the firm’s transition to its next generation of leadership.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Edwin H. Cohen

Edwin H. Cohen Principal Prism Capital Partners Prism continues to advance its transformative ON3 development in Nutley/Clifton, driving significant impact in the region.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Christopher Coiley

Christopher Coiley First senior vice president Valley National Bank Coiley oversees the Wayne-based bank’s commercial mortgage portfolio, managing client relationships across the New Jersey and New York markets with expertise and strategic insight.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Tom Comiskey

Tom Comiskey EVP, Metro and Mid-Atlantic Commerical Area Executive M&T Bank Respected executive at a leading state bank, known for driving strategic growth and fostering strong industry partnerships.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Shane Connell

Shane Connell Executive vice president The Connell Co. Shane Connell, fourth-generation executive VP of The Connell Co., leads diversified finance and real estate ventures, including the $500M transformation of The Park at Berkeley Heights and New Jersey’s first work resort, RT Workspaces.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Anthony R. Coscia

Anthony R. Coscia Partner Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf Recognized for leading the Gateway Tunnel project to completion, he is also a trusted advisor on numerous real estate deals, sought after by developers and elected officials for his strategic counsel and industry expertise.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Deidre Crockett

Deidre Crockett Executive director Exchange Place Alliance Former Mack-Cali officer, she is an experienced urban development professional driving downtown Jersey City to realize its full potential.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jose R. Cruz

Jose R. Cruz Senior managing director, capital markets JLL Cruz and his exceptional JLL capital markets team consistently close high-impact deals, setting the standard for prolific performance in the industry.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Stacie Curtis

Stacie Curtis President CW Solutions Inc. Curtis brings decades of real estate expertise, specializing in wireless telecommunications and utility projects, driving strategic growth and delivering impactful results across complex developments.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Gary Dahms

Gary Dahms President, CEO and chair T&M Associates Middletown-based, full-service engineering and environmental consulting firm, now a national leader with 350 professionals across eight states.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Stan Danzig

Stan Danzig Vice chairmen Cushman & Wakefield With over 100 years of combined experience, the duo leads a team—including Stephen Elman, Michael Terranova, Stephen Sander, Kimberly Bach, and Eric Schlett—specializing in industrial leasing and sales.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Morris Davis

Morris Davis Academic director Rutgers Center for Real Estate Leads the state’s top real estate school, focused on innovation and preparing the next generation of industry professionals.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Michael R. DeCotiis

Michael R. DeCotiis equity partner DeCotiis, Fitzpatrick, Cole & Giblin A leading real estate attorney in the state, specializing in brownfields, transit-oriented development, opportunity zones, redevelopment of blighted properties, and waterfront development.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Chris DeLorenzo

Chris DeLorenzo Vice President & Director of Leasing and Marketing Alfred Sanzari Enterprises Chris DeLorenzo, Vice President and Director of Leasing & Marketing at Alfred Sanzari Enterprises, drives strategic property leasing and marketing initiatives, enhancing portfolio performance and fostering strong client and tenant relationships.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Michael J. DeMarco

Michael J. DeMarco Board President Exchange Place Alliance Michael J. DeMarco serves as Board President of Exchange Place Alliance, providing strategic leadership and fostering partnerships to advance the organization’s mission of enhancing the Exchange Place district and supporting local business growth.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — David DeMatteis

David DeMatteis Executive managing director Cushman & Wakefield Recipient of the NAIOP NJ Office Deal of the Year Award for securing Bank of America’s 550,000-square-foot, 15-year lease in Jersey City.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Steven Denholtz

Steven Denholtz Chairman Denholtz Properties Denholtz oversees the strategic refinement of Denholtz Properties’ operations to leverage emerging commercial real estate investment opportunities nationwide.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Eugene R. Diaz

Eugene R. Diaz Principal Prism Capital Partners Prism continues to advance its transformative ON3 development in Nutley/Clifton, driving significant impact in the region.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Robert J. DiLeo

Robert J. DiLeo Principal NAI DiLeo-Bram& Co. With nearly 40 years in real estate, he is an expert in lease analysis, property valuation, space planning, mortgage financing, property management, and development, remaining an influential figure in the industry today.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Nathaniel Diskint

Nathaniel Diskint executive director Cohome Nate Diskint is a leader in New Jersey’s supportive housing sector, founding Cohome to create inclusive, community-focused living for adults with disabilities through innovative coliving models, affordable housing partnerships, and direct support programs.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Robert Donnelly Jr

Robert Donnelly Jr Vice chair Cushman & Wakefield A legendary industry figure and top global office broker at Cushman & Wakefield, specializing in major corporate advisory, as well as tenant and landlord representation.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Nancy Dougherty

Nancy Dougherty Principal Studio 1200 Named 2023 Architect of the Year by AIA New Jersey for her outstanding contributions to architecture, community service, and mentorship of emerging professionals.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Jeff Dunne

Jeff Dunne Vice chairman CBRE Brings over 37 years of experience in real estate investment banking, advising and facilitating transactions across office, apartment, retail, industrial, and new development projects.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Gerard J. Fennelly

Gerard J. Fennelly President Fennelly Associates In a challenging market, Fennelly successfully sold a former nuclear reactor and a fully vacant office building within the past year.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — Steve Fulop

Steve Fulop Mayor City of Jersey City A proven leader demonstrating that development can drive social progress, he’s leveraging his gubernatorial candidacy to expand this successful model from the state to a broader, statewide impact.

ROI Influencers: Real Estate 2025 — David Furgal

David Furgal Principal Starfield Cos. He has been instrumental in leading Asbury Park’s waterfront redevelopment, driving successful projects such as the Asbury Ocean Club Surfside Resort and Residences, and shaping the area’s transformation and growth.

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