Real Estate Chicago Style Podcast

Joe Smazal
  • 5.0 (14)
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Host Joe Smazal interviews the most prominent real estate developers and players in the ever-changing Chicago Real Estate Cityscape.

  1. Inside Cushman & Wakefield: From Career Beginnings to Major Deals in Chicago with Google

    4 SEP

    Inside Cushman & Wakefield: From Career Beginnings to Major Deals in Chicago with Google

    In this episode, we sit down with Tom Sitz and Cody Huntertmark from Cushman & Wakefield, one of the world's largest commercial real estate services firms, to dive deep into their professional journeys and get an insider's look at high-stakes commercial real estate. What We Cover: How Tom and Cody built their careers and landed at a top-tier commercial real estate firm. The unique challenges and opportunities in commercial real estate Behind-the-scenes insights into major deal-making processes The career defining Google building deal in Chicago What it takes to succeed in commercial real estate at the highest levels Industry trends and what's shaping the future of commercial property Whether you're interested in commercial real estate, considering a career in the industry, or just love hearing about major business deals, this conversation offers valuable insights from professionals working at the pinnacle of their field.

    48 min
  2. Building A $300M Portfolio | The good neighbor unpacks his 25-year experience investing, having fun, & giving back - Ron Abrams

    19 AGO

    Building A $300M Portfolio | The good neighbor unpacks his 25-year experience investing, having fun, & giving back - Ron Abrams

    Join host Joe Smazal for an entertaining and insightful conversation with Ron Abrams, owner of Silver Property Group and one of Chicago's most successful multifamily investors. With over 25 years in real estate and 30+ years as an attorney, Ron has built an impressive portfolio of 1,500+ units across 120+ buildings throughout Chicago's north and northwest sides. What You'll Learn: How Ron transitioned from practicing law to building a 1500 unit real estate empire Why he shifted from value-add renovations to acquiring larger, stabilized properties The secrets behind his successful equity raises with Chicago investors ($22M and $45M deals) His contrarian take on Chicago property taxes and why he thinks we've been "under-taxed" How vertical integration (brokerage, leasing, property management, construction) gives his team a competitive edge Why he believes Chicago neighborhoods are poised for an "explosion" Episode Highlights: Ron's creative LLC naming strategies (including the legendary "Jackass" partnership) His 9-to-5 work culture philosophy and focus on work-life balance Mentorship advice: "Go for it" - why low barriers to entry make real estate accessible The importance of replacement cost analysis in today's market Behind-the-scenes look at running 2,000+ units with a tight-knit team About Ron Abrams: Ron Abrams is the founder of Silver Property Group, a vertically integrated real estate company specializing in Chicago multifamily properties. Known for his straightforward approach, Ron has built lasting relationships with tenants, investors, and industry professionals while maintaining a reputation for transparency and fairness. When he's not yelling across the office to his team (in the most endearing way), you might find him coaching basketball or attempting Pilates. Interested in Chicago multifamily investment opportunities? Connect with Joe Smazal for expert brokerage services on the north side.

    1 h y 12 min
  3. The Healthcare Real Estate BLUEPRINT - The Commercial RE Firm Keeping the Pulse of Skilled Nursing.

    4 AGO

    The Healthcare Real Estate BLUEPRINT - The Commercial RE Firm Keeping the Pulse of Skilled Nursing.

    Join us for a conversation with Ben Firestone, CEO and Co-Founder of Blueprint Healthcare Real Estate Advisors, the leading advisory firm exclusively focused on Senior Housing and Healthcare real estate as he takes us from his beginnings at Marcus & Millichap to founding his own firm with $15B sold. Since founding Blueprint in 2013, Ben has driven the company's rapid growth and innovative approach, leveraging deep market expertise and analytics to lead over 800 transactions valued at more than $15 billion. With nearly two decades in the seniors housing and care industry, Ben shares his vision for healthcare real estate, leadership philosophy, and how Blueprint is elevating the market through collaboration and data. Based in Chicago, Blueprint is recognized as the #1 most active real estate advisor in seniors housing and care over the past decade.

    59 min
  4. The Revivalist Chicago Hotel Brand | The Neighborhood Hotel Founder Jonathan Gordon

    21 JUL

    The Revivalist Chicago Hotel Brand | The Neighborhood Hotel Founder Jonathan Gordon

    Join us for an exclusive conversation with Jonathan Gordon, Founder and CEO of The Neighborhood Hotel, a growing boutique hospitality brand rooted in community, comfort, and character. In this episode, Jonathan shares: The inspiration behind launching The Neighborhood Hotel in 2020. How he merges historic architecture with contemporary design across Chicago neighborhoods—Lincoln Park, Little Italy, and soon West Loop—and in Michigan. His philosophy of “lasting luxury”: thoughtful amenities, local partnerships, and a home-away-from-home vibe Stories behind the design choices—from heirlooms turned art to custom blankets and curated coffee experiences. The brand’s commitment to community giving and its mission to elevate every stay. His mission? Offer “lasting luxury”—quality craftsmanship, suite kitchens, premium linens, curated bath products, and coffee makers—all layered with local flair. Each property preserves historic elements (like the former Italian‑American Sports Hall of Fame in Little Italy) and partners with local artisans—from The Heirloomist and The Weaving Mill—to infuse spaces with personality and neighborhood identity. Beyond hospitality, Jonathan fosters community well-being. In 2022, The Neighborhood Hotel pledged 5% of profits to Chicago charities like the 100 Club of Illinois, supporting first responders and families Subscribe for more: entrepreneurship, hospitality design, and insider stories. #JonathanGordon #NeighborhoodHotel #BoutiqueHotel #Chicago #Entrepreneurship

    1 h y 3 min
  5. Journey to #1 Broker - What Hustle in Real Estate Looks Like w/ Matt Laricy

    16 JUN

    Journey to #1 Broker - What Hustle in Real Estate Looks Like w/ Matt Laricy

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Matt Laricy, Chicago’s TOP real estate broker and managing partner of Americorp Real Estate. A third-generation realtor and lifelong Chicagoan, Matt has built a reputation for his deep knowledge of the city’s neighborhoods, relentless work ethic, and commitment to professionalism. In this episode, we dive into the lost art of professionalism and determination, exploring how Matt’s journey from starting with zero clients to becoming Chicago’s #1 top-producing agent was fueled by grit, discipline, and a passion for his craft. Matt shares candid insights on what it takes to stand out in today’s competitive landscape, the habits that drive his success, and why professionalism still matters more than ever. Whether you’re in real estate or any field, this episode is packed with lessons on perseverance and the value of doing things the right way. Don’t miss this masterclass in determination from one of the hardest-working men in Chicago real estate.

    58 min
  6. Funding $10 Billion in Rehab & Construction Loans - Kevin Werner's Chicago Startup Unicorn: Renovo

    2 JUN

    Funding $10 Billion in Rehab & Construction Loans - Kevin Werner's Chicago Startup Unicorn: Renovo

    Join us for an exclusive interview with Kevin Werner, CEO and Co-Founder of Renovo Financial, as we dive deep into the incredible growth story of one of the nation's fastest growing rehab and construction lenders. Kevin, recently named CEO of the Year by the National Private Lenders Association, shares insights on how Renovo has expanded from a Chicago-based startup founded in 2011 to a national powerhouse with local lenders in over 15 markets across the country and over $10B earned. Renovo's motto is "We lend where we live" and they process hundreds of loans weekly in the areas they serve.

    1 h y 9 min
  7. Leasing Iconic Class A Office Space in Chicago - with Matt Pistorio

    13 MAY

    Leasing Iconic Class A Office Space in Chicago - with Matt Pistorio

    Join us for an engaging conversation with Matt Pistorio, founder of Madison Rose, a dynamic Chicago-based real estate firm revolutionizing agency leasing. Discover how Madison Rose has breathed new life into commercial properties, earning accolades like the 2018 NAIOP Chicago Award for Excellence for a landmark Walgreens lease at the Old Post Office. Matt shares insights on navigating the evolving office market, his passion for philanthropy through the Madison Rose Foundation, and innovative strategies that have raised over $490,000 for Casting for Recovery.

    1 h y 21 min
  8. Real Estate Success is SERVICE - Chicago's Sal Becovic on Building a Legacy of Community Investment

    28 ABR

    Real Estate Success is SERVICE - Chicago's Sal Becovic on Building a Legacy of Community Investment

    Our podcast with Sal Becovic, President of Becovic Management Group, is packed with value for the aspiring real estate investor who wants to build a legacy focused on service. Becovic is a family-owned real estate firm with deep roots in Chicago's North Side. Since taking the helm in 2003, Sal has expanded the company's portfolio from 400 to over 2,000 units, emphasizing community investment and sustainable growth . In this episode, Sal shares: The importance of doing as much yourself you possibly can and immersing yourself in the real estate, living among residents, etc. The importance of building solid fundamentals and surrounding oneself with great people. The importance of incentives for landlords to deliver quality to their residents. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the real estate scene, Sal's experiences and strategies offer valuable lessons on navigating the Chicago market. Connect with Sal Becovic: Website: becovic.com Joe Smazal: jsmazal@interrarealty.com Steven Caban: steven@fullbarsmedia.com Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes featuring industry leaders and innovators!

    1 h y 33 min
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Host Joe Smazal interviews the most prominent real estate developers and players in the ever-changing Chicago Real Estate Cityscape.

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