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FIRST WE HELPED READY SITES. NOW WE’RE HELPING READY COMMUNITIES. VIP by DRP removes barriers to industrial development by funding essential due diligence and speeding up project timelines. Then, we take your site to national and global stages. Now available, our Industrial Development Toolkit will give communities and developers practical tools to support modern manufacturing and move projects forward across the Detroit Region’s 11 counties. Because great development needs more than the right site. It needs the right support system.
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SMART GROWTH ISN’T ACCIDENTAL. 348 COMMUNITIES. 11 COUNTIES. ONE VISION. It’s about competing globally while aligning locally. At DRP, we believe momentum is key but it must be nurtured. Sites ready. Communities ready. Region ready.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025•••••• 6
MOST SIGNIFICANT LEASE TRANSACTION IN 2025••••••••••••••••••••• 34
GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 8
SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 36
REAL ESTATE LAWYER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••10
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••• 38
OWNER / LANDLORD••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••12
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 40
EDUCATION & DAYCARE••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••14
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 42
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••16
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 44
BUILDING SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 17
MULTIFAMILY••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 46
INTERIOR DESIGN••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••18
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 48
INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 20
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 50
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••• 22
OFFICE / MEDICAL PROPERTY••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 52
AFFORDABLE HOUSING••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 24
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 54
ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 26
INDUSTRIAL / MANUFACTURING / SCIENCE•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 56
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 27
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 57
HOTEL / HOSPITALITY•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 29
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 58
PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 30
WOMAN OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 60
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••• 31
DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 63
RETAIL / RESTAURANT / ENTERTAINMENT••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 33
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 64
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JUDGES LYNNSEY BAILEY
MOJAHED ABUBARS INSITE COMMERCIAL Mojahed Abubars has been in the real estate industry for over 10 years, beginning with his experience in real estate financing and then transitioning into brokerage. In the past few years as an associate broker with Insite Commercial, Mojahed developed strong relationships with leaders throughout the industry. He has built his reputation on the highest levels of integrity and service and knows what it takes to achieve the results that maximize his clients’ objectives. Mojahed is a CCIM designee and also serves on the CCIM-Michigan chapter board.
JILL FERRARI SCHENK & BRUETSCH Jill has 30 years of experience in private real estate development, legal practice, and consulting. She is a Partner at Schenk & Bruetsch, PLC where she leads the Real Estate & Economic Development practice group for the firm. She has also co-launched the Elevate practice group within the firm, focused on legal and advisory services for female executives and founders. The commercial real estate development company she cofounded in 2019, Renovare Development, was named the 2025 “Developer of the Year” by Michigan RE Journals and currently has several projects in development throughout Michigan.
NICK WEISE
RIGHTSIZE FACILITY Nick is Vice President & Principal at Rightsize Facility. He’s known for his strong product knowledge, large industry network, and impressive collection of bow ties. Outside of work he enjoys tennis, golf, mountain biking, cooking, and experiencing new restaurants.
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ETITLE AGENCY, INC. Lynnsey Bailey is an Account Executive at eTitle Agency, bringing expertise in real estate finance and client relationship management. Lynnsey has a background in business development and financial management, demonstrating capabilities in client engagement and portfolio growth. Their experience includes providing tailored financial solutions and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. They have a proven ability to manage relationships with financial institutions and streamline processes to support seamless transactions.
NANCY ALLEN COMMERCIAL BOARD OF REALTORS MICHIGAN Nancy Allen serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Commercial Board of Realtors Michigan (CBOR) and the Executive Director of the Commercial Property Information Exchange (CPIX).
SHANNON SELBY
DETROIT REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP Shannon Selby is Vice President of Real Estate for the Detroit Regional Partnership, leading the $17 million award-winning Verified Industrial Properties (VIP by DRP) program. Since 2022, she has grown VIP from nine pilot sites into a portfolio of more than 100 industrial sites and a national model for site readiness. She oversees strategy, investments, procurement, contracts, and 10 national consulting teams; in 2025, she directed $5 million in site studies across 38 VIP sites.
2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
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MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025 GRAND RAPIDS 440 PORTFOLIO NAI SIMTOB WAI-IAM RISE RECOVERY OXFORD POINT WILLOW CREEK SHOPPING CENTER
MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025
WILLOW CREEK SHOPPING CENTER
The sale was a 161,626-square-foot power center in Canton, MI, was a notable retail investment in Southeast Michigan, trading for approximately $23.8 million. The fully occupied center features national retailers including Marshalls, Michaels, Dunham’s Sports, Crate & Barrel, Dollar Tree, Five Below, Kirkland’s, and Direct Optical. Investor interest was driven by strong tenant stability, with several tenants in place for more than 20 years and an average tenure exceeding 11 years. Located along Ford Road in Canton’s main retail corridor and shadowanchored by Michigan’s only IKEA, the property drew competitive offers and sold to a private buyer completing a 1031 exchange.
MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025
OXFORD POINT
The sale of Oxford Point, an 84,752-square-foot office building at 26300 Northwestern Highway in Southfield, demonstrates the continued strength of quality office assets in today’s evolving market. Colliers’ Gary Grochowski, Bryan Barnas, John Fricke, and Jonathan Loos represented the seller in what marked the second time the Colliers Detroit team successfully sold the property. Acquired by an expanding owner-user, the transaction reflects renewed confidence in Southfield’s future and challenges the perception that demand for office space has disappeared. The sale stands as an important milestone for Oxford Point, the Southfield office market, and the continued resilience of suburban office investment.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025
MOST SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT SALE TRANSACTION IN 2025
GRAND RAPIDS 440 PORTFOLIO
NAI SIMTOB WAI-IAM RISE RECOVERY
The Walker & Dunlop Investment Sales team was engaged to market a three-property portfolio consisting of 440 units for the original developer/owner who had owned the assets for ~25 years. The properties were located in prime submarkets throughout West Michigan, with demonstrable value-add upside through unit renovations, capturing loss to lease, and operational efficiencies. After an exhaustive marketing process that included over one hundred tours, the Walker & Dunlop team brought the process to a head with 41 offers and a highly competitive Best & Final round that drove price and terms for the Seller.
NAI Mid-Michigan is submitting 826 North Walnut Street in Lansing MI for the Most Significant Investment Sale Transaction award. Representing the listing and advisory team, Dave Robinson and Cheri Loudenbeck at NAI Mid-Michigan collaborated with Chad Dutcher at RE/MAX, who represented WAI-IAM, Inc. founded by Jacque Liebner and Corey Warren supported by MSHDA. Essential to the success of this transaction was the proactive role played by Richard and Brad Simtob of Simtob Management, whose targeted property improvements ensured the asset was optimized for its new community-focused ownership providing a city anchor, ensuring the long-term viability of crucial local recovery housing.
HEALTHCARE PROPERTIES. EXPERTLY MANAGED. EXCEPTIONALLY MAINTAINED.
HEALTHCARE REAL ESTATE MI OFFICE: 400 WEST FOURTH STREET, SUITE 430, ROYAL OAK CORNERSTONECOMPANIESINC.COM | 248-630-3246 #rejournals | Find Us On
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GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY CITY OF CEDAR SPRINGS CITY HALL DDOT COOLIDGE TERMINAL AND MAINTENANCE FACILITY GENESEE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING OAK PARK EVENT HUB AND AMPHITHEATER
GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY
CITY OF CEDAR SPRINGS CITY HALL Construction Simplified transformed a 1929 Kent County Road Commission facility into Cedar Springs’ new City Hall through a design-build partnership with Post Associates (architect Andrew Post). The building now houses city administrative staff, including the City Manager, Assistant Manager, and Clerk, alongside the Department of Public Works. Developer: City of Cedar Springs Contractor: Construction Simplified Lead Architect: Post Associates
GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY
OAK PARK EVENT HUB AND AMPHITHEATER The $8.8 million Oak Park Event Hub and Band Shell is a transformative investment in placemaking, culture, and economic development. The 7,825-square-foot facility will feature a year-round farmers market with indoor/outdoor access, capacity for 30 vendors, and a shared-use commercial kitchen supporting food entrepreneurs. Developer: City of Oak Park Contractor: Frank Rewold and Sons, Inc. Lead Architect: Neumann/Smith
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY
GOVERNMENT / COMMUNITY FACILITY
DDOT COOLIDGE TERMINAL AND MAINTENANCE FACILITY
GENESEE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
The DDOT Coolidge Terminal and Maintenance Facility is a new 200,000-square-foot transit facility situated on a 22-acre site in Detroit. Built to replace the historic Coolidge Terminal that was lost to a fire in 2011, the campus serves as a centralized hub for DDOT’s operations, maintenance, dispatch, fueling, washing, and administrative functions.
The Genesee County Administration Building is a 144,816-squarefoot, $30 million adaptive reuse project that transformed a former downtown Flint banking and office tower into a modern government center. The 10-story facility consolidates 15 county departments and more than 320 employees, including public health, administrative, financial, planning, technology, and public-facing services.
Developer: Detroit Building Authority Contractor: Brinker-Christman Joint Venture Lead Architect: DLZ Michigan, Inc.
Developer: Genesee County Contractor: E&L Construction Group Lead Architect: THA Architects Engineers
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Would like to congratulate all finalists for the REjournal Real Estate Awards.
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REAL ESTATE LAWYER OF THE YEAR BRIAN HENRY, ETITLE JOSHUA SHILLAIR, COLLIERS DETROIT LISA BERDEN, LINCHPIN LEGAL PLLC
REAL ESTATE LAWYER OF THE YEAR
BRIAN HENRY ETITLE
Brian Henry is a nationally recognized expert and award-winning lawyer transforming commercial real estate in Michigan and beyond. He is constantly reaching higher for his clients, company, and fellow citizens of Michigan. As Senior Executive Counsel of eTitle Agency, Brian has represented commercial lenders and developers for over 40 years. Together, Brian and eTitle have been trusted with some of the most important commercial development projects in Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Deals that have transformed the city and skyline.
REAL ESTATE LAWYER OF THE YEAR
JOSHUA SHILLAIR COLLIERS DETROIT
Joshua T. Shillair, Esq. is Vice President of Tax Appeal at Colliers and leads the firm’s U.S. Property Tax Group. He specializes in property tax appeals, litigation, consulting, and incentive strategies, helping commercial real estate owners reduce operating costs and maximize asset value. A former Hearing Referee with the Michigan Tax Tribunal, Josh brings exceptional insight into the appeals process and has expanded his practice into a four-person team serving clients throughout the United States. His work has delivered millions of dollars in property tax savings while earning recognition as one of Colliers Detroit’s top-producing professionals
REAL ESTATE LAWYER OF THE YEAR
LISA BERDEN LINCHPIN LEGAL PLLC
Who I am: I love dogs, my two amazing nieces, and geocaching. I’ve done 2 cross country drives with my pups to Fairbanks, AK and have found geocaches in France, South Africa, and throughout the Carribean. I grew up Up North -Tip of the Mitt proud, but love Detroit!Things I’m Supposed to Tell You: I’ve amassed over 20 years of in-depth experience in tax-based real estate finance, commercial leasing of all product types, and commercial transactions. I’ve closed over $115 million in state and federal NMTC allocations across multiple states and have been involved in multiple public-private partnerships.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
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OWNER / LANDLORD BEZTAK LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY OXFORD COMAPNIES REDICO OWNER / LANDLORD
REDICO
Founded in 1967, REDICO is a vertically integrated real estate investment, development and operating company with a national footprint and a portfolio exceeding $4 billion. The firm owns and manages approximately 8,000 residential units and more than eight million square feet of commercial space across a diversified mix of office, retail, mixed-use, life sciences, industrial, and senior housing assets.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
OWNER / LANDLORD
OWNER / LANDLORD
Oxford Companies is a locally invested Ann Arbor commercial real estate company thatbelieves strong buildings help support strong businesses. With 40 owned buildings, 215 tenants and 2 million square feet of commercial space, Oxford serves businesses of all sizes, from local entrepreneurs and mom-and-pop shops to national brands and institutional users. Its portfolio includes office, retail, mixed-use, lab and other commercial properties across the greater Ann Arbor market. Through responsive service, in-house maintenance and HVAC teams, ongoing reinvestment and deep community involvement, Oxford helps create places where businesses can focus, grow and thrive.
Beztak is one of the country’s leading providers of real estate development, construction, investment and property management services.Whether developing a luxury residential community, building a suburban retail center or breathing new life into an underutilized urban space, our team has been celebrated for designing with creativity and innovation and providing our clients and communities with legendary customer service. Leveraging over 70 years of industry expertise, our team operates across the United States. In every location we serve, our reputation is strong for creating and sustaining long term value for investors while enriching the lives of our valued residents.
OXFORD COMAPNIES
BEZTAK
OWNER / LANDLORD
LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Lormax Stern Development Company is a fully integrated commercial real estate firm specializing in the acquisition, development, and operational oversight of commercial properties throughout the United States.Lormax Stern provides expert-level oversight across every component of the investment process , from acquisition and development through leasing, property management, and construction.Our team has supervised the acquisition and development of more than 150 large-scale commercial properties across the country, with an aggregate gross leasable area exceeding 30 million square feet. Today, our portfolio includes more than 40 properties located throughout the United States.
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EDUCATION / DAYCARE MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE & ART WINGS MONTCALM COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT HOUSING PRIMROSE SCHOOLS BLOOMFIELD MI EDUCATION & DAYCARE
MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE & ART WINGS The Marian High School Fisher Family Science Wing transformed aging classrooms and corridors into a contemporary learning environment while the campus remained fully occupied. Working within a tightly managed budget, the renovation balanced major infrastructure improvements—including new HVAC systems, replacement windows, asbestos remediation, ADA accessibility upgrades, and modernized laboratory equipment. Contractor: C.E. Gleeson Constructors Lead Architect: OX Studio
STRENGTH. EXPERTISE. SERVICE.
NATIONAL COMMERCIAL SERVICES | MICHIGAN
NATIONWIDE. Title Insurance | Closing & Escrow
Construction Disbursing | 1031 Exchange Recording & Special Projects | UCC Insurance
1050 Wilshire Drive, Suite 310 Troy, MI 48084 | 248-649-1555 DETROITNCS.FNTIC.COM
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
8/14/26 9:37 AM
EDUCATION & DAYCARE
EDUCATION & DAYCARE
MONTCALM COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT HOUSING
PRIMROSE SCHOOLS - BLOOMFIELD MI
Construction Simplified served as Construction Manager for Montcalm Community College’s first on campus student housing development, delivering a transformative residential community that expands the college’s student experience. The project includes 12 village-style units totaling 84 beds across six three bedroom and six four bedroom residences.
Primrose School of Bloomfield is a new ground-up early education childcare center located in Bloomfield HIlls, Michigan. The project was developed to create a safe, welcoming and engaging environment for children, families and staff. Developer: EIG14T | 814 CRE
Developer: Montcalm Community College Contractor: Construction Simplified Lead Architect: Mathison Mathison Architects
We take care of your building like it’s our own. Work with Ann Arbor’s most trusted property management firm. Tired of slow callbacks, deferred maintenance, and feeling like just another line item in a national portfolio? You deserve a management partner who treats your property like their own. Oxford Companies has been protecting and growing Ann Arbor real estate investments since 1998. Today, we’re the largest commercial real estate firm in the region, and we’ve never lost the hands-on approach we started with.
Find Out What Oxford Can Do For You.
oxfordcompanies.com | 734.747.6000 777 E. Eisenhower Pkwy Ann Arbor, MI 48108
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VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR RACHELE DOWNS, EDS INVESTMENT PROPERTIES VINESSA PALERMO, LASALLE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
VINESSA PALERMO
RACHELE DOWNS
LASALLE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES For Vinessa, giving back isn’t separate from leadership — it’s the foundation of it. Since taking over as CEO of LaSalle Construction Services in 2022, she’s built a company culture rooted in trust, well-being, and doubled the business’s revenue along the way. That same care shows up in her community involvement: she serves on the boards of the Oakland County Foster Closet and the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, showing up consistently for causes she believes in. Vinessa is known for her resilience, her curiosity, and her belief that real impact comes from investing in people, one relationship at a time.
EDS INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
Rachele Downs is a Vice President with JLL and a veteran commercial real estate and economic development leader. She is a past President of CREW Detroit and a long-time advocate for strengthening the pipeline of women leaders in commercial real estate. In 2025, she advanced statewide women-led development through her volunteer board service with the Women’s Sustainable Development Initiative (WSDI), to expand programs that provide mentorship, training, and early-stage funding for emerging women developers.
DESIGN. BUILD. DELIVER.
RED ARROW LOFTS Redevelopment/Reuse/Historic Nomination
• Build-To-Suit
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• Industrial
• Multifamily • Medical • Office
• Restaurants
www.premierconstruction.com 2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
BUILDING SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR CONTINUUM SERVICES ORION DIGITAL PVT LTD
BUILDING SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
ORION DIGITAL PVT LTD
Orion Digital Pvt Ltd is a specialized digital marketing and event management company serving real estate investment firms, syndicators, fund managers, capital raisers, and alternative investment professionals. The company helps clients attract accredited investors, build brand authority, and scale their businesses through lead generation, investor acquisition campaigns, CRM automation, webinars, virtual events, podcasts, content marketing, and paid advertising. Orion Digital is also the creator of the Raising & Investing Summit, a virtual event that connects investors and industry leaders to share insights, strategies, and opportunities within real estate and alternative investments across the United States.
BUILDING SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
CONTINUUM SERVICES
Continuum Services, headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, is a national leader in facilities and exterior services. We proudly serve a diverse range of industries including, Office, Education, Healthcare, Industrial, Retail, Multifamily, Hospitality, Self-Storage, Mixed Use, Land and Specialized, We deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of every client with comprehensive expertise infacility operations, maintenance and mobile services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, project management, engineering, HVAC/R, Day Porter, interior renovations and repair, painting, landscaping, snow removal, window washing and asphalt maintenance. At Continuum, we put our clients first, always, with a commitment to safety, quality, responsiveness and timeliness.
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INTERIOR DESIGN BAMBOO GRAND RAPIDS BASK DETROIT DE JONG DUKE SAM BERNSTEIN LAW OFFICE RENOVATION INTERIOR DESIGN
BAMBOO GRAND RAPIDS This long-vacant building was previously the Urban Institute of Contemporary Arts and is located at the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. Many of the open gathering spaces were lightly polished with fresh paint and left original, while the bulk of renovations came with adding functional offices, brainstorming/collaboration areas, and meeting spaces. Developer: Ferlito Group Contractor: Construction Simplified Lead Architect: Synecdoche
INTERIOR DESIGN
SAM BERNSTEIN LAW OFFICE RENOVATION The project relocated a large law firm tenant from outdated, cramped offices to a bright, modern space within the same community. Designed to support growth and collaboration, the new office features an open layout, flexible work areas, and a mock courtroom, replacing partitioned offices with inviting common spaces. Developer: REDICO Contractor: PCI Lead Architect: Dan Hamburg
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
INTERIOR DESIGN
INTERIOR DESIGN
BASK DETROIT
DE JONG DUKE
BASK Detroit is a flagship wellness club introducing a new model for contrast therapy through communal sauna, cold plunge, and ritual-based wellness experiences. Located in Detroit’s Brush Park neighborhood, the 2,300-square-foot new tenant fit-out transformed a raw retail shell into an immersive destination that balances hospitality, retail, and wellness.
The de Jong DUKE North American Headquarters reimagines a former automotive engineering facility into a modern, multifunctional workplace that serves as both a showroom, manufacturing facility and operational hub. Designed with a Scandinavian aesthetic inspired by the company’s Dutch roots, the light-filled space blends organic materials with transparency between office and production floor.
Developer: BASK Detroit
Developer: Signature Associates
Contractor: JJV
Contractor: PCI
Lead Architect: Studio BIGLIN
Lead Architect: Provoke Design
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INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR DAN HAMBURG, REDICO RYAN WRIGLEY, HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS
INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
DAN HAMBURG
RYAN WRIGLEY
REDICO
HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS
Dan brings more than 35 years of experience in commercial space planning, design, and construction, with a career spanning over 10 million square feet of completed projects. At Redico, he plays an integral role across the entire building process—from programming, estimating, and value engineering to design development, construction documentation, project management, and site supervision. His hands-on involvement is supported by long-standing relationships with high-profile tenants across finance, healthcare, legal, hospitality, retail, and technology sectors. A LEED-certified professional, Dan also champions sustainable design practices, emphasizing material reuse, lifecycle responsibility, and cost-effective solutions that reduce environmental impact while delivering high-quality spaces.
With more than 20 years of experience in the design industry, Ryan Wrigley is a collaborative and client-focused leader known for delivering innovative, high-quality design solutions across multiple market sectors. As Director of Interior Design at Hobbs+Black, she is passionate about mentoring emerging design professionals and fostering the next generation of talent. Ryan champions quality standards, exceptional customer service, and thoughtful design that aligns with client goals and enhances user experience. Her commitment to collaboration, professional development, and a client-first approach has earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor, creative problem solver, and respected industry leader.
2026 REJOURNALS MICHIGAN REAL ESTATE AWARDS
BUILDING COMMUNITIES. CREATING VALUE. SINCE 1978. Proud to Proud to celebrate celebrateAvant AvantAnn AnnArbor, Arbor,a a2026 2026 REjournals Michigan MichiganReal RealEstate EstateAwards Awards REjournals Development of the YearProject Finalist.of the Year Multifamily Development Finalist. 253 RESIDENCES | ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN 253 RESIDENCES | ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN
AVANT ANN ARBOR
2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | CommercialMULTIFAMILY Real EstateDEVELOPMENT Awards REjournals.com 20 SRJ.COM DEVELOPMENT OF THE| YEAR FINALIST PROJECT OF THE YEAR FINALIST
Detroit 5th Annual
SUBURBAN STATE OF THE MARKET SUMMIT
October 30, 2026
8:00 AM - Registration and Networking 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Program The San Marino Club (1685 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48083) 3 Hours of Real estate CE Credits have been approved by the CE Marketplace, a division of Michigan REALTORS®
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR BERNARD FINANCIAL GROUP FIDELITY NATIONAL TITLE, NATIONAL COMMERCIAL SERVICES MICHIGAN IDENTITY MARIS BROWN INSURANCE GROUP / FARM BUREAU INSURANCE RIGHTSIZE FACILITY
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
BERNARD FINANCIAL GROUP
Bernard Financial Group (ÒBFGÓ), founded in 1991, is Michigan’s largest commercial mortgage banking firm specializing in senior debt, mezzanine, preferred equity, institutional equity, and Primary Cashiering commercial mortgage loan servicing. Since its founding, BFG has closed more than $27,500,000,000 in total ($22,000,000,000 in Michigan) loans and structured commercial real estate capital, averaging more than $1,000,000,000 annually in closed transactions for the past ten (10) years. BFG loans often set the high-water standards for sophisticated commercial real estate capital markets transactions in Michigan. In today’s challenging capital markets environment, we are dedicated to providing the most competitive opportunities.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
22 2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
FIDELITY NATIONAL TITLE, NATIONAL COMMERCIAL SERVICES MICHIGAN At Fidelity National Title, National Commercial Services Michigan, we deliver comprehensive title and real estate support services locally in Detroit and nationwide. Our title insurance solutions provide clear evidence of ownership and protection for every transaction. We specialize in efficient closing and escrow services, ensuring accurate funds disbursement and seamless property transfers. Our construction disbursing services support project success through disciplined financial management and cash flow control. We also handle recording, search projects, and special initiatives to strengthen long-term asset security. Additionally, we facilitate 1031 exchanges and offer UCCPlus insurance to protect lenders’ interests in complex commercial transactions.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
RIGHTSIZE FACILITY
Rightsize Facility is a nationwide workplace services company providing turnkey solutions for corporate clients, landlords, and commercial real-estate partners, combining workplace strategy, furniture solutions, installation, relocation, and decommissioning, delivering a single point of accountability for workplace transitions, reconfigurations, and facility projects. A leader in ecofriendly decommissioning and furniture lifecycle management, decommissioned 115 million square feet of workplace space while helping organizations reuse, donate, liquidate, and recycle workplace assets. Rightsize helps clients execute complex projects efficiently, sustainably, and with confidence. Our Southfield showroom serves as a resource for clients and commercial real estate professionals, supporting workplace planning, collaboration, and industry events.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
IDENTITY
With more than 25 years of category-defining expertise, Identity has partnered with developers, investors, owners and property managers across all 50 states. As the country’s leading real estate PR firm, we’ve announced 500M+ square feet of development and $100B+ in real estate investments across every asset class , from mixed-use, industrial and retail to multifamily, hospitality and master-planned communities.Our work elevates the industry’s most recognizable names in development, design, construction, management and private equity. Through strategic PR and integrated communications, we connect clients with influential publications, partners and decision makers who impact approvals, leasing traction, investment interest and long-term visibility.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
MARIS BROWN INSURANCE GROUP / FARM BUREAU INSURANCE We are an insurance agency specializing in habitational, commercial and personal insurance. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and having a team of producers that conduct themselves with outstanding ethics.
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AFFORDABLE HOUSING DORSEY ESTATES LAKEWOOD PLACE APARTMENT VILLAGE MCDANIEL APARTMENTS VILLAGE OF VALOR WESTWOOD APARTMENTS AFFORDABLE HOUSING
DORSEY ESTATES Dorsey Estates proves that permanently affordable homeownership is possible. Located on a formerly city-owned brownfield adjacent to Ypsilanti’s Historic Depot Town, the 46-home community transformed contaminated land into a neighborhood of cottages, duplexes, and townhomes. Developer: Renovare Development Contractor: West Condstruction Lead Architect: Barry Polzin Architects
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
VILLAGE OF VALOR
WESTWOOD APARTMENTS
Village of Valor in Palm Springs, FL is a planned community featuring two new four-story apartment buildings dedicated to serving veterans and their families. The development will offer 54 units—comprising 26 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom apartments, providing safe, quality, supportive housing for those who have served.
184 newly-constructed units and 100% are deemed “affordable housing” (80% AMI) www.westwood248.com
Developer: Shelborne Development, Kathy Makino-Leipsitz
Lead Architect: Scott Monchnik
Developer: Cartessa Real Estate Company Contractor: DA Contracting
Contractor: American Platinum Builders/Megen Construction Lead Architect: The Berardi Group
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
LAKEWOOD PLACE APARTMENT VILLAGE
MCDANIEL APARTMENTS
Lakewood Place is a transformative $40 million mixed-income housing community delivering 190 new apartment homes for working families in Holland Charter Township. As the city’s first new affordable multifamily development, Lakewood Place represents a critical milestone in expanding high-quality housing options across a range of income levels in a rapidly tightening market.
McDaniel Apartments advances Michigan’s pioneering Permanent Supportive Recovery Housing (PSRH) model, expanding the nation’s first community to directly link long-term housing with recovery supports. Building on the success of Andy’s Place, the development adds 26 deeply affordable homes in Jackson for pregnant women and parents with infants undergoing treatment for opioid addiction.
Developer: Geerlings Development, KJK Real Estate Management, Inc.
Developer: Milner & Caringella; Community Action Agency
Contractor: Midwest Construction Group, Rockford Construction
Lead Architect: Wiltse Architects
Contractor: Oakwood Construction
Lead Architect: Integrated Architecture
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR JUSTIN ROBINSON, DETROIT REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP KATHY MAKINO-LEIPSITZ, SHELBORNE DEVELOPMENT SHANNON SELBY, DETROIT REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP
ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR
JUSTIN ROBINSON
DETROIT REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP Justin Robinson is a respected economic development leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing business growth and regional competitiveness in Southeast Michigan. In 2019, Robinson helped launch the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP), playing a key role in establishing the organization as the region’s economic development catalyst. Now serving as President and CEO, he is leading efforts to unite business, civic and community leaders around a shared vision for growth while strengthening collaboration across Southeast Michigan’s 11-county region. His leadership combines strategic economic development expertise with a commitment to creating opportunity and prosperity for all residents.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR
KATHY MAKINO-LEIPSITZ SHELBORNE DEVELOPMENT
Kathy Makino has spent more than four decades proving that affordable housing can do far more than provide a place to live—it can transform neighborhoods, restore historic landmarks, advance environmental sustainability, and change lives. An award-winning developer, she has led the creation of more than 2,000 affordable homes guided by a simple belief: every family deserves a beautiful home they are proud to call their own. Through innovative, award-winning communities, Kathy has challenged the stigma of affordable housing, creating places that inspire dignity, opportunity, and hope, where children are defined by their potential rather than their address.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR
SHANNON SELBY
DETROIT REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP Shannon Selby is a results-driven real estate and economic development leader with more than a decade of experience shaping transformative projects at the city, county, regional, and global levels. She currently serves as Vice President of Real Estate for the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP), where she oversees strategy and execution of the organization’s real estate operations, including its signature $17 million Verified Industrial Properties (VIP by DRP) Program. In this role, Shannon leads multi-disciplinary teams, negotiates multimillion-dollar development contracts, and partners with state, regional, and national stakeholders to ensure Southeast Michigan maintains a competitive inventory of industrial real estate.
26 2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR COUSINO LAW PLLC DICKINSON WRIGHT PLLC HANNA & JARBO HONIGMAN LLP WARNER NORCROSS + JUDD DAWDA PLC
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
COUSINO LAW PLLC
Cousino Law is a boutique real estate law firm serving as strategic counsel to funds, investors, developers, and owners executing sophisticated real estate transactions. We guide clients through every stage of the investment lifecycle,from acquisitions, financing, development, leasing, and dispositions to complex capital structures involving preferred equity, syndications, and tax credit investments. Our role extends beyond documenting deals: we help clients evaluate risk, solve complex business challenges, and execute transformative projects with practical, business-focused legal advice. We are trusted outside general counsel to numerous real estate companies, supporting long-term growth and value creation.
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
DAWDA PLC
DICKINSON WRIGHT PLLC
For more than three decades, Dawda PLC has offered clients the expertise of a large law firm with the flexibility of a small one. The Bloomfield Hills firm’s real estate group closes more than 900 transactions a year across retail, industrial, multi-family, hospitality, healthcare, solar, and automotive dealership property, serving Fortune 500 companies, national retailers, developers, REITs, hospital groups, and lenders nationwide. It also runs one of the largest residential development practices in the Midwest. Its work spans acquisition, entitlement, incentives, construction, finance, leasing, and disposition. Learn more at dawdalaw.com.
Dickinson Wright is a general practice business law firm with more than 550 attorneys among more than 40 practice areas and 16 industry groups. The firm has 23 offices across the U.S. and Canada. We offer our clients a distinctive combination of superb client service, exceptional quality, value for fees, industry expertise, and business acumen. Our lawyers are known for delivering commercially-oriented advice on sophisticated transactions and have a remarkable record of wins in high-stakes litigation. Dickinson Wright lawyers are regularly cited for their expertise and experience by Chambers, Best Lawyers, and other leading independent law firm evaluating organizations.
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REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
Hanna & Jarbo is reimagining how eviction and debt-collection law is practiced in Michigan. GetMyMoney.com, the firm replaced the traditional slow cycle of phone calls, faxes, and paperwork with a tech-driven intake system: landlords simply photo / upload a PDF of a lease, and the platform pulls the key details and prepares a same-day Notice to Quit. 24/7 client portal delivers real-time case status, online bill pay/ direct text access to a licensed attorney. The result is a faster, more transparent alternative to conventional legal representation built for landlords who expect the speed of software with the accountability of a real attorney.
Honigman is an Am Law 200 full-service firm with more than 400 attorneys advising clients across more than 60 practice areas. Real estate has been a core strength since 1948, and our Michigan Real Estate practice has been ranked Band 1 in Chambers since inception of the category in 2003. Our work spans every state and covers the full spectrum of real estate matters, including development, construction, financing, acquisitions and dispositions, leasing, incentives, environmental matters and real estate tax appeals.
HANNA & JARBO
HONIGMAN LLP
REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR
WARNER NORCROSS + JUDD Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is a full-service corporatelaw firm based in Michigan that serves clients around the world. As the state’s second largest law firm, Warner builds client partnerships by delivering practical, proactive legal solutions and exceptional service.Warner’s award-winning Real Estate Practice Groupbrings an efficient and pragmatic approach to complex real estate transactions, helping clients achievegoals and grow their businesses.Our attorneys are sought after for their experience ineconomicincentives, commercial leasing, acquisitions and dispositions, development, construction, energy and environmental matters, financing, tax, litigation and more. Warner’s success stems from its integrated, client-centered approach.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
HOTEL / HOSPITALITY BORN IN DETROIT HAMPTON INN ST. IGNACE LAKEFRONT MACKINAC
HOTEL / HOSPITALITY
BORN IN DETROIT Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar at Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s McNamara Terminal celebrates the city’s grit, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Designed by Hobbs+Black as lead architect for Delaware North, the space blends dining, retail, and brand storytelling, featuring Born in Detroit merchandise and locally crafted 8 Mile Vodka. Developer: Delaware North Contractor: The Peterson Company Lead Architect: Hobbs+Black Architects
HOTEL / HOSPITALITY
HAMPTON INN ST. IGNACE LAKEFRONT MACKINAC Hilton Award Winner for New Hampton Inn Development of the year. 100 Rooms overlooking Lake Huron and Mackinac Island. Rooftop area, Bar, Outdoor Spa and more. Developer: Northern Hotels Group Contractor: CPM Construction, Inc. Lead Architect: Barry J Polzin Architects, Inc.
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PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
TERRI BRUMLEY OXFORD COMPANIES
CHRISTIN BUTLER, BEZTAK TERRI BRUMLEY, OXFORD COMPANIES TREVOR DUKE, THOMAS DUKE COMPANY WILL GRUZWALSKI, KIRCO
Terri Brumley is a Commercial Portfolio Manager at Oxford Companies, where she has quickly become known for her hands-on leadership, tenant-first approach and ability to bring people together. Since joining Oxford in August 2025, Terri has overseen more than $1.25 million in capital improvements while strengthening communication between property management, maintenance and tenants. Her calm, responsive and transparent style has earned deep trust across her portfolio, resulting in tenant satisfaction scores 54% above the team average and a 100% renewal rate. Terri leads with kindness, accountability and genuine care, consistently going above and beyond for her tenants and team.
PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
TREVOR DUKE
WILL GRUZWALSKI
THOMAS DUKE COMPANY Trevor Duke is a Property Manager at Thomas Duke Company, a full-service commercial real estate firm serving Southeast Michigan for over 45 years, and the current President of BOMA Metro Detroit. The fifth generation of Dukes in Detroit real estate, Trevor manages and leases a portfolio of office properties across Troy, Livonia, Southfield, and Farmington Hills, including the firm’s headquarters. A licensed real estate professional, he combines hands-on building operations with tenant relations, leasing, and industry leadership.
KIRCO
Will Gruzwalski serves as Director of Property Management for KIRCO, where he leads the management and operations of a diverse commercial real estate portfolio, including landmark properties such as Columbia Center in Troy and Baldwin Commons in Lake Orion. With more than 25 years of property management and facilities leadership experience, Will is recognized for maximizing asset performance, fostering exceptional tenant relationships, and driving operational excellence. His collaborative leadership, financial stewardship, and commitment to delivering best-in-class service have helped strengthen KIRCO’s reputation as a trusted property management partner for owners and tenants across its portfolio.
PROPERTY MANAGER OF THE YEAR
CHRISTIN BUTLER BEZTAK
Christin is the property manager at Golf Villas in Tuscon, Arizona. She has been with Beztak for six years.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR BEZTAK CORNERSTONE COMPANIES FARBMAN GROUP FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE POGODA MANAGEMENT CO. DBA NATIONAL STORAGE MANAGEMENT CO. THOMAS DUKE COMPANY VILLAGE GREEN HOLDING LLC
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
CORNERSTONE COMPANIES
Cornerstone is a premier healthcare real estate company with more than 40 years of specialized experience. We support physicians, hospitals, and third-party owners nationwide by developing, building, leasing, managing, and optimizing medical office buildings and outpatient facilities, enhancing both patient and provider experiences. With over $2 billion in completed healthcare development and construction, we manage and/ or lease 350+ medical facilities totaling more than 15 million square feet across 40 states. In Michigan, Cornerstone manages a growing portfolio of healthcare assets and continues to invest in local teams and partnerships, delivering high-quality solutions that support operational performance and patient care.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
BEZTAK
Beztak is one of the country’s leading providers of real estate development, construction, investment and property management services.Whether developing a luxury residential community, building a suburban retail center or breathing new life into an underutilized urban space, our team has been celebrated for designing with creativity and innovation and providing our clients and communities with legendary customer service. Leveraging over 70 years of industry expertise, our team operates across the United States. In every location we serve, our reputation is strong for creating and sustaining long term value for investors while enriching the lives of our valued residents.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
FARBMAN GROUP
Farbman Group is a leading, full-service commercial real estate firm providing property management, leasing, brokerage, construction, development, and receivership services across the Midwest. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in metro Detroit, the company manages 35 million square feet of office, industrial, multi-family, retail space for a diverse mix of institutional and entrepreneurial owners. Known for its hands-on, relationshipdriven approach, Farbman Group emphasizes ethics, integrity, and forward-thinking solutions that align real estate strategy with clients’ business goals. With deep local expertise and the global reach of its NAI affiliation, the firm consistently delivers innovative, value-focused results in all market conditions.
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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE
As one of the nation’s largest privately held full-service commercial real estate organizations, Friedman Real Estate provides clients with a single point of contact for the full range of Advisory, Property Management, Multifamily, Brokerage, Financing, and Construction services.Friedman manages more than 200 commercial properties encompassing more than 20 million SF and over 15,000 apartment homes throughout the United States. Friedman’s brokerage team has over 600 current listings with more than $22 billion in closed transactions. As owners and managers of commercial property for over 38 years, Friedman understands what it takes to achieve results that maximize their clients’ objectives.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
POGODA MANAGEMENT CO. DBA NATIONAL STORAGE MANAGEMENT CO. Formerly Pogoda Management Co., National Storage Management Co. is actively seeking acquisitions or third-party management properties in the Midwest with 40,000 sq. ft. or more. We currently own/operate 70 locations with over 4.5 million sq. ft. and expect to buy five to seven properties each year.Services: Acquisitions, Development, Sales & Brokerage Services, Facility Management
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Thomas Duke Company is a full-service commercial real estate firm headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, serving Southeast Michigan for over 45 years. Spanning five generations of the Duke family, the firm provides brokerage, property management, leasing, and investment services across office, retail, industrial, land, and multi-family properties in Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Livingston, and Washtenaw counties. Thomas Duke delivers the premium services of a global firm with the personal experience only a smaller firm can provide , backed by a proprietary market database and thousands of completed transactions.
Village Green is a leading third-party property management company, founded in 1919 that manages over 50,000 units across 300 properties spanning 21 states throughout the Midwest, Northeast, South and Mid-Atlantic regions. Village Green has evolved from its roots in single-family homes beginning more than a century ago to a multifamily industry leader. Village Green prioritizes continuous innovation, community engagement and a people-first culture, prioritizing its property owners, residents and associates.
THOMAS DUKE COMPANY
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VILLAGE GREEN HOLDING LLC
2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
RESTAURANT / RETAIL / ENTERTAINMENT BOTTOM CREEK RESORT & BREWERY SUNDA NEW ASIAN UMBO RETAIL / RESTAURANT / ENTERTAINMENT
BOTTOM CREEK RESORT & BREWERY Bottom Creek Resort is a 461-acre multi-building hospitality destination in Lapeer County, Michigan, featuring a craft brewery, full-service restaurant, and open-air pavilion built simultaneously by C.E. Gleeson Constructors. The two-story brewery combines heavy timber and structural steel with a working production floor, tasting room, and bar. Developer: Iafrate Contractor: C.E. Gleeson Constructors Inc. Lead Architect: OPA Design Studio
RETAIL / RESTAURANT / ENTERTAINMENT
RETAIL / RESTAURANT / ENTERTAINMENT
Sunda New Asian Detroit introduces an elevated, modern Southeast Asian dining experience to 33 W. Columbia Street in The District Detroit, steps from Comerica Park, the Fox Theatre, Fillmore, Little Caesars Arena, and other downtown entertainment anchors. Contractor: Sachse Construction
Umbo, a 25-seat restaurant in downtown Traverse City, is an intimate dining destination. The owner and chef duo purchased the two-story salon building and paired the restaurant renovation with long-term ownership stability by using the upper floor as a residence. Designed by Synecdoche, the concept evokes dining inside a shell, using curving forms, warm wood, stone counters, and textured walls to create a softly enclosed, tactile space.
Lead Architect: McIntosh Poris
Developer: Cameron Rolka & Sarah Welch, Umbo
SUNDA NEW ASIAN
Developer: Rockit Ranch/Sunda New Asian
UMBO
Contractor: Cameron Rolka, Umbo Lead Architect: Adam Smith, Synecdoche
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MOST SIGNIFICANT LEASE TRANSACTION IN 2025 FIRST MERCHANTS LEASE KIRK GIBSON CENTER FOR PARKINSON’S WELLNESS/ WOODLANDS OFFICECENTRE MEANS LOGISTICS
MOST SIGNIFICANT LEASE TRANSACTION IN 2025
KIRK GIBSON CENTER FOR PARKINSON’S WELLNESS/ WOODLANDS OFFICECENTRE The Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness is located in REDICO’s Woodlands Officecentre, once an annex to the Compuware Corporate Headquarters. While refurbishing is a common occurrence, this 40,892 square foot space was dramatically transformed to become a fully functioning, state-of-theart Center for patients and their loved ones. To ensure a wide range of comprehensive programming for Parkinson’s patients, walls were removed and the space reimagined, creating a fitness room, spin studio, second-level walking track, locker rooms, boxing room, training rooms and offices. A cafeteria, music rooms, quiet spaces and social lounges bring patients, visitors and caregivers together.
MOST SIGNIFICANT LEASE TRANSACTION IN 2025
MOST SIGNIFICANT LEASE TRANSACTION IN 2025
The 444,153-square-foot lease at Means Logistics Park, 13751 Hamilton Avenue in Highland Park, represents one of Southeast Michigan’s most transformative industrial transactions. Colliers’ Gary Grochowski, Ryan Brittain, Peter J. Kepic, Peter E. Kepic, and Bryan Barnas represented the landlord in leasing the stateof-the-art facility to DTE Electric Company. The project capped a remarkable four-year redevelopment effort involving the assemblage of approximately 300 residential parcels, rezoning, environmental remediation, and major infrastructure improvements. Today, the highly visible development stands as a landmark industrial facility, bringing long-term investment, jobs, and renewed economic vitality to one of Detroit’s most important corridors.
Suite 450 at 400 W. Fourth Street in Royal Oak represents the continued evolution of the office market, where location and workplace experience are driving real estate decisions. Colliers’ Gary Grochowski and Bryan Barnas represented the landlord, while Steve Badgero represented First Merchants Bank in the 25,948-square-foot lease. The bank relocated from its former headquarters to downtown Royal Oak, embracing the city’s vibrant live-work-play environment to better attract and retain talent. The transaction highlights the enduring demand for high-quality, amenity-rich office space and demonstrates Colliers’ ability to successfully execute complex transactions that create long-term value for both landlord and tenant.
MEANS LOGISTICS
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FIRST MERCHANTS LEASE
2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
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SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR
SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR
JAIDYN SMITH FRIEDMAN
JAIDYN SMITH, FRIEDMAN MICHAEL FERLITO, FERLITO GROUP ROBERT PLISKA, SPERRY - PROPERTY INVESTMENT COUNSELORS
Jaidyn Smith is a Senior Investment Sales Associate at Friedman Real Estate, specializing in shopping centers and retail investment sales nationwide. Through her authentic and educational social media presence, she shares market insights, deal experiences, industry trends, and behind-the-scenes perspectives that help make commercial real estate more accessible.
SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR
SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR
MICHAEL FERLITO
ROBERT PLISKA
FERLITO GROUP
Michael Ferlito is CEO of Ferlito Group, a fullservice real estate development, construction, and property management company serving Southeast Michigan, and co-founder of Bamboo, Michigan’s largest coworking and entrepreneurial community. Under his leadership, Ferlito Group has expanded its construction and property management divisions while Bamboo has grown into a statewide platform supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses.
SPERRY - PROPERTY INVESTMENT COUNSELORS Commercial and investment real estate influencer with over 25000 connections over social media - LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook Instagram and other. Recognized by CREi each year for the past 5 years as a social media Top Influencer internationally.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
Detroit 7th Annual
APARTMENT & MULTIFAMILY
SUMMIT
November 13, 2026
7:30 AM - Registration, Networking & Hot Breakfast 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Program The San Marino Club (1685 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48083) 3 Hours of Real estate CE Credits have been approved by the CE Marketplace, a division of Michigan REALTORS®
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ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES FISHBECK HOBBS + BLACK ARCHITECTS MCINTOSH PORIS ARCHITECTS PEA GROUP
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR
ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
Albert Kahn Associates is a Detroit-based architecture and engineering firm founded in 1895. For 130 years, the firm has designed environments that advance industry, serve communities, and endure. Working across commercial, community, education, healthcare, and industrial sectors, Kahn brings fully integrated architecture and engineering expertise to some of the most technically complex and community-centered projects in the country. Rooted in Detroit and working nationally, the firm is guided by the values of ingenuity, curiosity, and belonging, designing spaces that are high-performing, human-centered, and built to adapt for the future.
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR
FISHBECK
MCINTOSH PORIS ARCHITECTS
Fishbeck is a professional consulting firm providing architecture, civil engineering, environmental, and construction services to a wide range of clients. Founded in 1956, Fishbeck operates as a 100% employeeowned corporation and employs more than 700 professionals across 18 locations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. Fishbeck’s industrial site readiness team offers expertise across specialized disciplines, including brownfield redevelopment, environmental due diligence, civil engineering, wetland/ecological assessment, and floodplain studies. Through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach, Fishbeck delivers precise, reliable, and comprehensive engineering and project management services that empower communities, accelerate industrial investment, and support transformative economic development projects throughout the region.
Detroit-based McIntosh Poris Architects believes that design is a catalyst for change, transforming communities through creative interactive city building. Since 1994, McIntosh Poris has delivered architecture, interior, and urban design services for commercial, residential, and institutional clients across the US. Led by founding partner Michael Poris, AIA, and principals John Skok, AIA, and Laurie Hughet-Hiller, AIA, McIntosh Poris Architects has won more than 160 design awards, including 35 regional and national AIA awards and 2024’s Michigan AIA Firm of the Year. Poris is a recipient of the Charles Blessing Award from Detroit AIA and the Hastings Award from Michigan AIA.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR
ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING FIRM OF THE YEAR
Hobbs+Black Architects is a full-service architecture, interior design, and planning firm with offices in Michigan and Arizona. For more than 60 years, we have partnered with clients to create innovative, people centered environments that strengthen communities and improve quality of life. Our multidisciplinary team serves the healthcare, civic, education, commercial, industrial, retail, mixed use, and living sectors, providing programming, planning, architecture, interior design, and construction administration. Guided by a collaborative approach and a commitment to lasting relationships, we deliver thoughtful, sustainable solutions that help our clients achieve their goals.
PEA Group is a collective of engineers, surveyors, landscape architects and consultants. They are contributors, creative thinkers, mentors, and teachers, working collectively to revitalize their communities. As an organization, they work together to promote an engaging culture with both coworkers and clients. The atmosphere at PEA Group is one of encouragement, creativity, and collaboration. Serving clients since 1947, their services have expanded nationally, and they are now licensed in over 20 states. Their team of knowledgeable and passionate professionals is committed to creating long-term value and sustainability, offering a full range of services to support their client’s projects.
HOBBS + BLACK ARCHITECTS
PEA GROUP
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REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC 28N BAMBOO GRAND RAPIDS FORD PIQUETTE AVENUE PLANT RESTORATION JEFFERSON HUB RED ARROW LOFTS
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
28N
SHEETZ FRASER THE AMSTERDAM LOFTS THE RESIDENCES AT ST. MATTHEW VANDER
A century after it first rose above downtown Pontiac, this historic 15-story tower has been fully reborn by Blackacre Management as a vibrant live-work-play destination. The adaptive reuse redevelopment delivers 110+ market-rate loft residences alongside four floors of boutique offices and curated retail, anchored by two distinctive event spaces, a rooftop lounge, 24hour fitness center, coworking areas, and a resident lounge. Developer: Blackacre Management Contractor: Blackacre Construction
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
JEFFERSON HUB
The historic Thomas Jefferson Intermediate School has been reimagined as one of Detroit’s premier destinations for innovation, collaboration, and community impact. Redeveloped by Invest Detroit and renovated by Oliver / Hatcher Construction, the new Jefferson Hub is designed to give small businesses the space to grow, connect, and thrive. Developer: Invest Detroit Contractor: Oliver / Hatcher Construction Lead Architect: Push Design, LLC
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
CASA DEL RIO
BAMBOO GRAND RAPIDS Developer: Michael Ferlito Contractor: Construction Simplified Lead Architect: Synechdoche
Located in Peoria, Casa del Rio is just 30 minutes northwest of downtown Phoenix and features one and two bedroom floorplans ranging from 590 to 1,050 square feet. Redesigned as a multifamily community from senior living, Casa del Rio’s residents are now enveloped by plentiful amenities, climate controlled interior hallways, lush courtyards, outdoor entertainment spaces including fireplaces, patios, and a refreshing pool. Developer: Beztak, Wexford Contractor: Ionic Builder Lead Architect: Atmosphere Architects
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
The Red Arrow Lofts renovation transformed a historic Corktown structure into a fully revitalized part of the community. The project included major structural repairs, complete masonry restoration, historically accurate window replacements, new MEP systems, and extensive site improvements. Interior upgrades feature new demising walls, exposed ceilings, custom millwork, and refined modern finishes that also honor the building’s character.
PEA Group provided civil engineering services for the Sheetz Fraser location as part of our ongoing Sheetz Program. The new Sheetz gas station and restaurant was developed on the site of the former State Bank of Fraser. While several redevelopment efforts had previously been proposed for the long-vacant property, they were ultimately unsuccessful due to community concerns surrounding the historic bank building.
Developer: Hunter Pasteur
Developer: Skiliken Gold
Contractor: Premier Construction & Design
Contractor: Corrigan Oil
Lead Architect: Kraemer Design Group
Lead Architect: Convenience Architecture and Design
RED ARROW LOFTS
SHEETZ FRASER
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REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
The Residences at St. Matthew is a $20.49 million adaptive reuse of the former St. Matthew Catholic School in Detroit’s East English Village. The historic building was rehabilitated into 46 affordable apartments, including 21 units for households earning 30–60% AMI and 25 permanent supportive housing units for individuals who have experienced homelessness.
The Milwaukee Junction factory was built as electrical controls manufacturing (1935-41), machine shop (1946-56 ), distribution warehouse (1958-62) and lastly as printing, engraving, and graphic design (1963-2023)Each of the previous occupants was the sole user of the building. Today, the building serves an industrious community of creatives, including SYNECDOCHE, the architecture and design studio behind the building’s redevelopment and design updates.
THE RESIDENCES AT ST. MATTHEW
Developer: Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, Cinnaire Solutions, and Ethos Development Partners
VANDER
Developer: Lisa Sauve, Synecdoche
Contractor: O’Brien Construction Company, Inc.
Contractor: Lisa Sauve, Synecdoche
Lead Architect: Fusco, Shaffer & Pappas, Inc.
Lead Architect: Adam Smith, Synecdoche
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
REDEVELOPMENT / REUSE / HISTORIC
THE AMSTERDAM LOFTS
FORD PIQUETTE AVENUE PLANT RESTORATION
The Amsterdam Lofts is a 90-unit adaptive-reuse residential project located in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood. The project transforms the historic 1905 Cadillac Assembly Plant, the world’s first reinforced-concrete automobile factory, into modern loft apartments while preserving its industrial character. The three-story building features studio, one-, and two-bedroom units with open floor plans, high ceilings, exposed structure, and large warehouse windows.
Albert Kahn Associates partnered with the Model T Automotive Heritage Complex to preserve the historic Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, the birthplace of the Model T. Following significant water damage to the original heavy timber structure, our team completed architectural and structural assessments, developed a phased restoration strategy, and guided the project through construction.
Developer: Greatwater Opportunity Capital
Lead Architect: Albert Kahn Associates
Contractor: Jonna Construction Lead Architect: McIntosh Poris Architects
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR ANDREW STONE, ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES TIM MURDOCK, HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS DANIEL RHOTON, P.E., FISHBECK JASON RALEIGH, INTERSTATE CAPITAL
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
JASON RALEIGH
DANIEL RHOTON, P.E.
INTERSTATE CAPITAL
Jason Raleigh brings over 18 years of civil engineering experience to his role as Director of Engineering at Interstate Capital. Raleigh joined Interstate Capital after nine years at AR Engineering as Kalamazoo Team Leader and Senior Engineer. Raleigh’s experience includes work on municipal road, utility, commercial, and residential projects, following them throughout the design and permitting phases and overseeing construction to ensure compliance with municipal and state requirements. Raleigh’s portfolio ranges from small commercial and large industrial projects to complex residential developments, schools, and medical campuses. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Western Michigan University.
FISHBECK
Daniel Rhoton, a Senior Engineer with Fishbeck, whose technical expertise has been central to the success of the Detroit Regional Partnership’s award-winning industrial site readiness program, the Verified Industrial Properties (VIP) Program. He and his team lead critical due diligence across VIP sites, applying rigorous engineering judgment to evaluate complex physical conditions. A representative of Fishbeck—a valued VIP Provider —Daniel plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s industrial competitiveness. In 2025, he and his team contributed to due diligence tied to DRP’s $2.5 million investment across more than 40 industrial sites, showcasing his impact and commitment to engineering excellence.
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
ARCHITECT / ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
TIM MURDOCK
ANDREW STONE
With 29 years of experience in medical planning and architecture, Tim Murdock is recognized for his exceptional technical expertise, attention to detail, and ability to solve highly complex challenges. As a Senior Project Architect at Hobbs+Black, he is known for breaking complicated healthcare planning and design issues into clear, manageable solutions that support successful project delivery. Tim’s outstanding organizational skills, strong communication abilities, and collaborative approach enable him to work effectively with clients, consultants, and project teams alike. He also helps lead the firm’s Revit Committee, supporting innovation, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement across the organization.
Andrew Stone, AIA, NCARB, is Vice President and Director of Architecture Operations at Albert Kahn Associates, where he co-leads the Architecture Department and serves on the Board of Directors as the youngest elected member in the firm’s 130year history. A champion for equity and inclusion, Andrew leads Kahn’s DEI Committee, mentors emerging professionals, and currently serves as the 2026 AIA Detroit President.
HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS
ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
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CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR APEX MECHANICAL SOLUTIONS CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC KIRCO MANIX SERENUS JOHNSON CONSTRUCTION THE BOLDT COMPANY CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
APEX MECHANICAL SOLUTIONS Apex Mechanical Solutions is a rapidly growing mechanical subcontractor specializing in high-quality heating and cooling services for commercial properties. Over the past year, Apex more than doubled in both revenue and staff, a reflection of its reputation for reliability, technical excellence, and responsive service. The company delivers a full range of HVAC solutions, from system design and installation to retrofit, service, and maintenance, with a strong focus on schedule, safety, and coordination with other trades. Known for its professionalism in occupied environments and complex projects, Apex Mechanical Solutions has become a trusted partner to owners, property managers, and general contractors.
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
KIRCO MANIX
SERENUS JOHNSON CONSTRUCTION
KIRCO MANIX is a nationally recognized construction management and design-build firm specializing in technically demanding commercial and industrial facilities across the U.S. For over 50 years, the firm has partnered with leading organizations to deliver mission-critical, advanced manufacturing, energy storage, industrial, and corporate projects with precision and certainty. Combining technical expertise with a collaborative, client-focused approach, KIRCO MANIX excels in navigating complex construction challenges while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and schedule. The firm’s proven ability to deliver innovative solutions has earned the trust of clients nationwide and created lasting value for the industries and communities it serves.
For over 100 years, Serenus Johnson Construction has been a well-respected commercial construction company that proudly services the Great Lakes Bay Region and beyond. When you hear Serenus Johnson Construction, it is a company name that proudly upholds it founder’s belief in honesty, hard work, and quality.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC
THE BOLDT COMPANY
C.E. Gleeson Constructors is a fourth-generation, family-owned general contracting and construction management firm with more than 100 years of experience. Headquartered in Troy, Michigan, with regional offices in North Carolina, Texas, and Florida, Gleeson serves clients across the United States. The company provides preconstruction, general contracting, construction management, and design-build services from initial planning through project closeout. Its experience spans commercial, multifamily and senior living, hospitality, industrial, retail, municipal, and educational construction.
The Boldt Company (Boldt) is a leading, 100% employee-owned construction services firm delivering innovative solutions across the United States. Founded in 1889 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, Boldt has grown from a small carpentry shop into a nationally recognized builder known for its collaborative approach, problem-solving mindset, and commitment to partnership.A pioneer in Lean construction and industrialized building methods, Boldt provides preconstruction, construction management, and general contracting services. Boldt operates 17 offices across the U.S., serving customers in the automotive, industrial, manufacturing, power, healthcare, education, and commercial markets.
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MULTIFAMILY AVANT ANN ARBOR LOFTS AT IRONWORKS THE AMSTERDAM LOFTS
MULTIFAMILY
AVANT ANN ARBOR Avant is a newly completed 253-residence multifamily community in Ann Arbor, Michigan, featuring one-, two-, and threebedroom apartments and townhomes in more than 20 floor plan layouts. Located at 2501 Avant Avenue on South Maple Road, approximately two miles from the University of Michigan campus, the project blends premium rental housing with strong access to major employers, retail, dining, and recreation. Developer: S.R. Jacobson Development Contractor: Rhode Lead Architect: Hobbs & Black
MULTIFAMILY
MULTIFAMILY
LOFTS AT IRONWORKS
THE AMSTERDAM LOFTS
Construction Simplified served as Construction Manager for Ironworks, an adaptive reuse and vertical expansion project that transformed three historic downtown Kalamazoo buildings into an 82-unit residential community with ground-floor retail. The project preserved original heavy timber framing and historic masonry while adding three new steel-framed residential floors atop an existing concrete structure, supported by extensive structural reinforcement and new foundations.
The Amsterdam Lofts is a 90-unit adaptive-reuse residential project located in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood. The project transforms the historic 1905 Cadillac Assembly Plant, the world’s first reinforced-concrete automobile factory, into modern loft apartments while preserving its industrial character.
Developer: Plazacorp
Lead Architect: McIntosh Poris Architects
Developer: Greatwater Opportunity Capital Contractor: Jonna Construction
Contractor: Construction Simplified Lead Architect: Bosch Architecture
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
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BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR FARBMAN GROUP/ NAI FARBMAN FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE MARCUS & MILLICHAP MID-AMERICA REAL ESTATEMICHIGAN, INC SAVILLS THOMAS DUKE COMPANY
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
FARBMAN GROUP/ NAI FARBMAN Farbman Group is a leading, full-service commercial real estate firm providing solutions across the Midwest. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in metro Detroit, the company manages tens of millions of square feet of office, industrial, retail, and medical space for a diverse mix of institutional and entrepreneurial owners. Known for its hands-on, relationship-driven approach, Farbman Group emphasizes ethics, integrity, and forward-thinking solutions that align real estate strategy with clients’ business goals. With deep local expertise and the global reach of its NAI affiliation, the firm consistently delivers innovative, value-focused results in all market conditions.
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE As one of the nation’s largest privately held full-service commercial real estate organizations, Friedman Real Estate provides clients with a single point of contact for the full range of Advisory, Property Management, Multifamily, Brokerage, Financing, and Construction services. Friedman manages more than 200 commercial properties encompassing more than 20 million SF and over 15,000 apartment homes throughout the United States. Friedman’s brokerage team has over 600 current listings with more than $22 billion in closed transactions. As owners and managers of commercial property for over 38 years, Friedman understands what it takes to achieve results that maximize their clients’ objectives.
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2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
MID-AMERICA REAL ESTATE-MICHIGAN, INC
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
SAVILLS
Mid-America Real Estate is #1 in retail real estate services in the Midwest, with full-service offices in Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Our exclusive focus on retail property, combined with cutting-edge technology and unsurpassed service, distinguishes Mid-America within the industry and provides clients with a competitive edge. The total consideration value of leasing and investment sales transactions facilitated in 2025 was $2.6 billion. Mid-America leases and manages more than 50 million square feet of retail space, provides comprehensive self-performing facility services, and represents over 270 retailers and other tenants.
For over 170 years, Savills has been helping people thrive through places and spaces. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, we have more than 42,000 professionals collaborating across over 70 countries, delivering unrivaled coverage and expertise to the world of commercial and prime residential real estate. By applying world research data and trends to local and global settings, we empower our clients with insights from the forefront of the industry, bringing their aspirations to life through innovative, tailor-made solutions.
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
BROKERAGE FIRM OF THE YEAR
MARCUS & MILLICHAP
THOMAS DUKE COMPANY
Marcus & Millichap, Inc. is a leading brokerage firm specializing in commercial real estate investment sales, financing, research and advisory services with offices throughout the United States and Canada. Marcus & Millichap closed 8,818 transactions with a sales volume of $50.8 billion in 2025. The company had 1,808 investment sales and financing professionals in more than 80 offices who provide investment brokerage and financing services to sellers and buyers of commercial real estate at year end.
Thomas Duke Company is a full-service commercial real estate firm headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, serving Southeast Michigan for over 45 years. Spanning five generations of the Duke family, the firm provides brokerage, property management, leasing, and investment services across office, retail, industrial, land, and multi-family properties in Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Livingston, and Washtenaw counties. Thomas Duke delivers the premium services of a global firm with the personal experience only a smaller firm can provide, backed by a proprietary market database and thousands of completed transactions.
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PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
BECKY KLEIN PEA GROUP
BECKY KLEIN, PEA GROUP ERIN ROBERSTON, KIRCO MANIX JENNIFER MORIARTY, WALBRIDGE MAJD ALSAHWY, BEZTAK STEVEN FARRELLY, HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS TODD GRIFFIN, COLLIERS DETROIT
Becky Klein, PE, LEED AP BD+C, is a licensed Professional Engineer in Michigan with more than 25 years of civil engineering experience. Throughout her career, she has worked on a wide range of projects across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and other Midwestern states. Her experience spans residential, commercial, and industrial developments, with a particular specialization in retail and fuel center projects. Becky’s extensive technical expertise and industry knowledge have contributed to the successful delivery of projects throughout the region.
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
MAJD ALSAHWY BEZTAK
Majd Alsahwy is a Senior Project Manager at Beztak with extensive experience leading complex construction and real estate development projects. He provides strategic oversight across all phases of project delivery, from preconstruction through execution and closeout, ensuring alignment with quality, schedule, and financial objectives. Known for his disciplined, results-driven leadership style, Majd emphasizes risk management, cross-functional coordination, and operational excellence. His work is grounded in accountability, precision, and collaboration, enabling teams to deliver high-performing projects that meet both technical and business goals.
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
TODD GRIFFIN COLLIERS DETROIT
Todd Griffin is Director of Project Management at Colliers, specializing in industrial, logistics, R&D, and corporate headquarters projects throughout North America. With more than 46 years of experience, he guides clients through every phase of the project lifecycle, from feasibility and due diligence to construction, technology integration, and occupancy. His expertise spans the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, delivering projects that align operational goals with long-term business strategy. Todd’s collaborative leadership, technical knowledge, and commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget have earned him a reputation as one of the region’s most trusted project management professionals.
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
STEVEN FARRELLY HOBBS+BLACK ARCHITECTS
With more than 30 years of experience in the architecture and construction industry, Steven Farrelly is a respected leader known for his teamoriented approach, commitment to mentorship, and dedication to professional development. As Vice President and Project Manager at Hobbs+Black Architects, he is recognized as a trusted advisor, skilled problem-solver, and passionate teacher. Steven serves as an instructor at Lawrence Technological University, where he shares his expertise with future design professionals. Always willing to step up and support colleagues, clients, and communities, he has built a reputation for leadership, collaboration, and helping others succeed.
50 2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
ERIN ROBERSTON
JENNIFER MORIARTY
KIRCO MANIX
WALBRIDGE
With over 20 years of construction industry experience, Erin Robertson has built a reputation for exceptional project leadership, technical expertise, and client service. As a Project Manager at KIRCO MANIX, she successfully leads projects from concept through completion, balancing quality, budget, and schedule while fostering strong relationships with clients, partners, and project teams. Erin’s proactive leadership, attention to detail, and collaborative mindset have contributed to the successful delivery of numerous high-profile projects. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is committed to strengthening her community through board service and volunteer coaching.
Jennifer Moriarty is an exceptional Project Manager whose leadership has shaped high_impact projects across mission critical, automotive, commercial, federal, healthcare, and transportation sectors. Since joining Walbridge in 2010, she’s been recognized for driving complex programs from concept to completion with a focus on collaboration and customer-centered solutions to keep scope, cost, and schedule aligned. Jennifer excels in strategic planning, safety and quality oversight, budget and GMP development, and guiding teams to deliver excellence. Her portfolio includes nationally recognized facilities and major corporate programs that demonstrate her ability to move projects forward and build trusted partnerships at every stage of construction.
SMART GROWTH ISN’T ACCIDENTAL. 348 COMMUNITIES. 11 COUNTIES. ONE VISION. It’s about competing globally while aligning locally. At DRP, we believe momentum is key but it must be nurtured. Sites ready. Communities ready. Region ready.
BE PART OF WHAT’S NEXT.
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OFFICE / MEDICAL PROPERTY CORKTOWN HEALTH HAZEL PARK HEALTH CLINIC HENRY FORD MEDICAL CENTER INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTS
OFFICE / MEDICAL PROPERTY
CORKTOWN HEALTH HAZEL PARK HEALTH CLINIC The Corktown Health Hazel Park Health Clinic is a 17,500 sf adaptive reuse of a warehouse vacant for four years, transforming it into Corktown Health’s second Michigan location. The facility brings stigma-free, inclusive healthcare to Hazel Park, particularly serving the LGBTQ+ community. Contractor: Turner Construction Company Lead Architect: Albert Kahn Associates
OFFICE / MEDICAL PROPERTY
OFFICE / MEDICAL PROPERTY
HENRY FORD MEDICAL CENTER
INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTS
Henry Ford Plymouth is a 120,000-square-foot ambulatory care facility that transformed a vacant former Kmart site into a vibrant healthcare destination serving western Wayne County. The center provides emergency, surgical, imaging, laboratory, and specialty care services in a convenient outpatient setting. Designed to enhance patient experience, the facility features abundant natural daylight, intuitive wayfinding, and dedicated entrances for key service lines.
Completed in January 2025, this 10,000-square-foot showroom was designed for 70–75 employees utilizing a hybrid free-address workplace model. The space balances a modern minimalist aesthetic with biophilic elements, creating a welcoming environment that supports employee wellbeing and client engagement.
Developer: Gensler Contractor: Roncelli-Wallbridge-DIG
Developer: Interior Environments Contractor: SHAW Construction & Management Co. Lead Architect: Hobbs+Black Architects
Lead Architect: Tom Dillenbeck
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Detroit 7th Annual
APARTMENT & MULTIFAMILY
SUMMIT
November 13, 2026
7:30 AM - Registration, Networking & Hot Breakfast 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Program The San Marino Club (1685 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48083) 3 Hours of Real estate CE Credits have been approved by the CE Marketplace, a division of Michigan REALTORS®
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EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR ALEX SALLOUM, REDICO ANDREW BELL, LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY CHARLES GLEESON III, CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC CHRISTPHER DEBS, FARBMAN GROUP CHRIS HILL, NEWMARK GREGORY DILONE, JR., INTERSTATE CAPITAL DEREK DICKOW, POWER CONNECTIONS JAHMAR RASHAD, BEDROCK DETROIT JASON KOHLER, BEZTAK JILL RAMIREZ, THREE SQUARED, INC. JOE BIANCHINI, EIG14T | 814 CRE STEPHANIE MEIERS, ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
JASON KOHLER BEZTAK
Jason Kohler is a forward-thinking senior living executive who leads Beztak Companies’ multistate portfolio of independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. Under his leadership, occupancy increased through data-driven performance frameworks, enhanced digital platforms, and the implementation of an AI-powered sales partner that improved lead quality and conversion. Jason’s people-centered approach reduced employee turnover by 25% over three years while fostering accountability and performance alignment. He successfully integrates development, operations, and sales to accelerate new community launches without sacrificing resident experience. His portfolio earned top national satisfaction rankings and recognition, and Jason remains an active industry voice and advisor.
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EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
ALEX SALLOUM REDICO
Alex Salloum is an investment manager specializing in senior housing acquisitions and development. In his current role, he supports executive leadership in executing enterprisewide investment strategies while helping bridge the gap between investments and operations. Known for an operator-minded investment approach, Alex is frequently involved in high-stakes go/no-go decisions and cross-functional coordination to ensure strategic alignment from deal evaluation through execution. Alex is recognized internally as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, contributing to strategic planning and growth initiatives as the company continues to scale its senior housing platform in a complex and evolving environment.
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
CHRISTPHER DEBS FARBMAN GROUP
Christopher Debs serves as a General Manager in Property Management at Farbman Group, where he plays a key leadership role overseeing a diverse portfolio and driving operational excellence. He brings more than 13 years of multi-unit operational experience, primarily from the hotel and hospitality industry, where he held roles including General Manager and Regional/Task Force leader for major brands. Christopher is known for his strength in team leadership, asset transitions, and process improvement, as well as his hands-on approach to property performance and client service. Based in Michigan, he is recognized internally as a rising, results-driven leader.
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
JILL RAMIREZ THREE SQUARED, INC.
Jill Ramirez is Director of Projects at Three Squared Inc., where she leads multidisciplinary teams delivering modular, prefabricated, and lowcarbon developments across the Midwest, with a focus on implementing alternative construction strategies. With over 10 years of experience, she oversees projects from early feasibility through construction, aligning design through delivery to improve performance, reduce risk, and enhance development outcomes. Jill holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and a Master of Architecture from SCI-Arc. She is an active member of the Urban Land Institute and advances equitable development through collaborative, systems-driven leadership.
2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
ANDREW BELL
LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Results-driven commercial real estate executive with over 12 years of experience in acquisitions, development, and portfolio strategy. Currently serving as Managing Director at Lormax Stern Development Company, a fully integrated commercial real estate firm with a portfolio of 40+ properties and over 100 million square feet of developed commercial space across the United States.Prior to this role, Andrew built his expertise at a leading publicly traded net lease REIT. He closed over $1.7B in acquisitions volume encompassing single-tenant, multitenant, and portfolio transactions. His experience spans market analysis, asset valuation, business development, and investment execution across diverse properties and markets.
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
CHARLES GLEESON III CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC
Charles Gleeson III serves as Director of Business Development at CE Gleeson Constructors, where he has expanded his role across projects and preconstruction. He represents the company as a public speaker, recently presenting at Power Connections, and has stood in for the firm at numerous groundbreaking ceremonies across the region. Charles is an active participant in the Retail Contractors Association (RCA) and has grown his involvement with ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers). Beyond his professional work, he serves as a Board Member for Leaders for Kids, supporting the organization’s mission in the community.
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
GREGORY DILONE, JR.
JAHMAR RASHAD
INTERSTATE CAPITAL
BEDROCK DETROIT
Gregory Dilone, Jr. is Managing Partner of Interstate Capital, an industrial real estate development platform focused on revitalizing mid-sized Michigan markets. He leads a vertically integrated team across acquisition, entitlements, construction, capital, brokerage, technology, and tenant management. His platform controls more than 4,200 acres, has delivered more than 2 million square feet of Class A industrial space, and manages more than $250 million in assets. In 2025, Dilone was named to Crain’s Detroit Business 40 Under 40 for his role in transforming West Michigan’s industrial real estate market.
Jahmar is a rising leader in Michigan’s commercial real estate community, known for his commitment to mentorship, innovation, and community engagement. As Property Manager at Chrysler House, he brings a forward-thinking approach to building operations and tenant experience, consistently seeking new ways to elevate the role of real estate in the city. Beyond his day-to-day responsibilities, Jahmar is deeply invested in developing the next generation of CRE professionals. Through leadership roles and hands-on engagement with students and young professionals, he is helping shape a more inclusive, energized, and future-focused industry.
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
EMERGING LEADER OF THE YEAR
JOE BIANCHINI
STEPHANIE MEIERS
EIG14T | 814 CRE
Joe Bianchini is the COO of EIG14T, a commercial real estate company serving operators in the education, healthcare and wellness sectors. Joe has grown from Project Engineer to executive leadership, helping build the construction team, internal processes and scalable operating platform that support EIG14T’s continued growth. Today, he works across construction, acquisitions, development and operations, helping lead long-term strategy. Joe is known for practical problem-solving, steady leadership and his commitment to building a culture where employees feel ownership in the company’s growth and the impact of its work.
ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
Stephanie Meiers is Director of Marketing & PR at Albert Kahn Associates, where she leads brand and storytelling for a firm carrying 130 years of legacy into a new era of innovation. For fifteen years she has built marketing teams that do more than produce, shaping how firms position themselves and win. Her work helped earn Albert Kahn back-to-back Best of Detroit recognition and AIA Michigan’s Firm of the Year. She was selected for the Detroit Economic Club’s Emerging Leaders Academy and the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Future Leaders cohort at the Mackinac Policy Conference.
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INDUSTRIAL / MANUFACTURING / SCIENCE MERSEN USA BN CORP EXPANSION SHED 7 - EASTERN MARKET
INDUSTRIAL / MANUFACTURING / SCIENCE
MERSEN USA BN CORP EXPANSION A multi-phase expansion has recently been completed in Bay City, MI, as global advanced materials manufacturere Mersn USa bn Corp invested more than $40 million to significantly grow its existing production facility. The project expands an active industrial site as a response to an increase in demand and strengthens their long-term presence in Michigan. Developer: Mersen USA Contractor: Serenus Johnson Construction Lead Architect: WTA Architects
INDUSTRIAL / MANUFACTURING / SCIENCE
SHED 7 - EASTERN MARKET The EMDC completed a $16.85 million renovation of Shed 7, a 60-year-old wholesale produce building at the heart of Detroit’s historic Eastern Market District. The project will transform the outdated 38,000-square-foot structure into a 43,000-squarefoot cold chain- and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)compliant wholesale distribution center, providing modernized refrigerated and docked suites at below-market rents. Developer: Eastern Market Development Corporation Contractor: The Alan Group Lead Architect: Ware Malcomb
56 2026 Michigan Real Estate Journal | Commercial Real Estate Awards | REjournals.com
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
BROKER OF THE YEAR
CARY BELOVICZ
GREA: GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISORS
CARY BELOVICZ, GREA: GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISORS
Cary Belovicz is a Founding Partner of GREA, bringing over 25 years of real estate experience across multifamily finance, development, and asset management. In 2025, he led the expansion of GREA’s Midwest platform into St. Louis while his team closed 45 multifamily transactions worth $274 million.
ERIC SZERLAG, THOMAS DUKE COMPANY KEVIN JAPPAYA, KJ COMMERCIAL MARC HILDENBRAND, FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
PATRICH JETT, COLLIERS DETROIT
KEVIN JAPPAYA KJ COMMERCIAL
SIMON JONNA, JONNA GROUP OF COLLIERS
Kevin Jappaya is a seasoned real estate professional with 20 years of experience. Known for his exceptional work ethic and professionalism. His entrepreneurial vision led him to establish KJ Commercial, a full-service brokerage built to be inventive, strategic, and adaptive in an everchanging real estate market.
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
ERIC SZERLAG
THOMAS DUKE COMPANY Eric Szerlag is a Vice President at Thomas Duke Company, a full-service commercial real estate firm serving Southeast Michigan for over 45 years. Licensed in real estate at 18 and a marketing graduate of Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business, Eric has closed over nine figures in career transactions across retail, office, industrial, and multifamily investment sales and multi-tenant leasing. BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
MARC HILDENBRAND FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE
Marc Hildenbrand is an accomplished VP of Investment Sales Advisory at Friedman Real Estate with nearly a decade of experience specializing in single-tenant and net-lease investment sales. Recognized nationally for his expertise in automotive-related real estate, Marc represents national operators, REITs, family offices, and private investors across the United States.
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
PATRICH JETT COLLIERS DETROIT
Patrich Jett, SIOR, MCR, LEED AP, is a Senior Vice President with Colliers based in the Detroit– Ann Arbor market. With more than 18 years of experience, he specializes in complex, multimarket real estate transactions, corporate site selection, and strategic advisory services for companies executing projects across North America and internationally.
BROKER OF THE YEAR INDIVIDUAL
SIMON JONNA
JONNA GROUP OF COLLIERS Simon Jonna is the Founder of Jonna Group, a national commercial real estate investment and advisory firm. He is widely recognized as one of the industry’s leading dealmakers, with a career spanning multi-billion-dollar transactions across the U.S. Known for executing complex assignments and achieving record-setting results,
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BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR COLLIERS DETROIT NAI MID-MICHIGAN FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE KJ COMMERCIAL FARBMAN GROUP. NAI FARBMAN SAVILLS
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
FARBMAN GROUP. NAI FARBMAN Todd Szymczak is Executive Vice President of Investment Sales at NAI Farbman, where he leads the firm’s investment property sales and business development efforts. With NAI Farbman since 2005, he has built a strong reputation for accurate valuations and strategic guidance for owners seeking direction on their real estate holdings. Todd’s experience spans distressed and stabilized assets across office, industrial, retail, multifamily, senior living, manufactured housing communities, hospitality, and specialty properties. Known as a trusted advisor in complex and challenging assignments, he combines deep capital markets expertise with a practical, solutions_oriented approach to maximize value for clients.
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
FRIEDMAN REAL ESTATE Marc Hildenbrand is an accomplished VP of Investment Sales Advisory at Friedman Real Estate with nearly a decade of experience specializing in single-tenant and net-lease investment sales. Recognized nationally for his expertise in automotive-related real estate, Marc represents national operators, REITs, family offices, and private investors across the United States. He began his career as a public accountant, building a strong financial foundation that informs his disciplined underwriting and strategic advisory approach. Through extensive industry relationships and market insight, Marc consistently delivers execution certainty and value-driven outcomes for clients navigating complex investment transactions.
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BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
KJ COMMERCIAL
NAI MID-MICHIGAN
The broker team of Kevin Jappaya, CCIM, David Jappaya, and Preston Rabban brings decades of commercial real estate experience through KJ Commercial, a full-service brokerage built on innovation, financial expertise, and disciplined execution. The team provides tailored solutions across all major asset classes, including retail, office, medical, industrial, hospitality, and land. Leveraging longstanding relationships with lenders, receivers, developers, REITs, brokers, and investors, the team specializes in both investment and owner-user transactions, with over $700 million in completed transaction volume driven by a loyal and repeat client base.
Dave Robinson, Ryan Shapiro, and Cheri Loudenbeck form a dynamic commercial real estate team at NAI Mid-Michigan, combining leadership, market expertise, and multifamily specialization. Dave brings decades of leadership and complex transaction experience, while Ryan leverages deep market relationships across industrial, retail, and investment sectors. Cheri adds multifamily operational and advisory expertise, driving asset performance and value creation. Together, they have expanded the firm’s multifamily platform, secured 85 new listings and delivered strong results through strategic marketing, data-driven execution, and a highly client-focused approach.
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
BROKER TEAM OF THE YEAR
SAVILLS
COLLIERS DETROIT
For over 170 years, Savills has been helping people thrive through places and spaces. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, we have more than 42,000 professionals collaborating across over 70 countries, delivering unrivaled coverage and expertise to the world of commercial and prime residential real estate. By applying world research data and trends to local and global settings, we empower our clients with insights from the forefront of the industry, bringing their aspirations to life through innovative, tailor-made solutions.
The Book-Jett Occupier Advisors Team specializes in tenant representation and corporate real estate advisory, helping companies optimize their real estate strategies across local, national, and global markets. Based in the Detroit and Ann Arbor region and supported by the Colliers platform of more than 19,000 professionals in 66 countries, the team provides transaction management, site selection, portfolio strategy, and project management services. Their integrated approach combines market intelligence, financial analysis, and strategic planning to help clients reduce costs, improve efficiency, and position their real estate portfolios for long-term success while delivering creative solutions and measurable results.
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WOMAN OF THE YEAR ERIN ROBERSTON, KIRCO MANIX FILZA WALTERS, ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES KAREN BURTON, SPACELAB DETROIT KATHY MAKINO-LEIPSITZ, SHELBORNE DEVELOPMENT LYNN DRAKE, COMPASS COMMERCIAL, LLC & TRUE NORTH PUBLISHING MAHA BANNO, BLACKACRE MANAGEMENT MARIA D’AGOSTINI LUKOSAVICH, D’AGOSTINI COMPANIES & NAIOP DETROIT MARIE MAURO, FARBMAN GROUP MELISSA DITTMER, SONG UNITED SAMANTHA ECKHOUT, REDICO/ AMERICAN HOUSE THERESA SOPATA, RPM LIVING THERESE PEACE AGBOH, KIRCO
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
VINESSA PALERMO
LASALLE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES For Vinessa, giving back isn’t separate from leadership — it’s the foundation of it. Since taking over as CEO of LaSalle Construction Services in 2022, she’s built a company culture rooted in trust, well-being, and doubled the business’s revenue along the way. That same care shows up in her community involvement: she serves on the boards of the Oakland County Foster Closet and the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, showing up consistently for causes she believes in. Vinessa is known for her resilience, her curiosity, and her belief that real impact comes from investing in people, one relationship at a time.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
FILZA WALTERS ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
Filza H. Walters, MBA, FESD, FASHRAE, is a Principal and Senior Engineering Leader at Albert Kahn Associates with more than 30 years of experience advancing engineering, education, and sustainable design. A nationally recognized leader, she was recently honored with the 2026 Engineering Society of Detroit John G. Petty Image Award and elected as ASHRAE’s Director-at-Large. Throughout her career, Filza has championed interdisciplinary collaboration, mentored future engineers, and developed innovative engineering programs that have transformed higher education. Her leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to service continue to shape the built environment and inspire the next generation of industry professionals.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
MAHA BANNO
BLACKACRE MANAGEMENT Maha Banno is President & Managing Partner of Blackacre Management, real estate firm specializing in adaptive reuse transforming distressed and vacant office buildings into vibrant residential and mixed-use communities. Banno oversees finance, leasing, and marketing across Blackacre’s growing portfolio, which spans well over 1 million square feet of redeveloped space, including 28N, Pontiac’s tallest building and a historic 15-story former bank tower now reborn as luxury lofts, retail, and commercial space. She is also leading Blackacre’s expansion into Detroit with the redevelopment of the Detroit Executive Office Plaza, one of the region’s most ambitious adaptive reuse projects to date.
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VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
RACHELE DOWNS
ERIN ROBERSTON
EDS INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
Rachele Downs is a Vice President with JLL and a veteran commercial real estate and economic development leader. She is a past President of CREW Detroit and a long-time advocate for strengthening the pipeline of women leaders in commercial real estate. In 2025, she advanced statewide women-led development through her volunteer board service with the Women’s Sustainable Development Initiative (WSDI), to expand programs that provide mentorship, training, and early-stage funding for emerging women developers.
KIRCO MANIX
With more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Erin Robertson is recognized not only for delivering complex projects, but for the way she leads people. As a Project Manager at KIRCO MANIX, she combines technical expertise with empathy, collaboration, and unwavering integrity to build trusted relationships and successful teams. Erin’s leadership extends beyond the jobsite through her commitment to mentoring, community involvement, and volunteer service. She exemplifies the qualities of a leader who inspires others, strengthens her profession, and creates a positive impact wherever she serves.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
KAREN BURTON
KATHY MAKINO-LEIPSITZ
SPACELAB DETROIT
Karen Burton is an architecture and creative industry leader with over 35 years of experience shaping places, businesses, and communities. She is Co-Founder & CEO of SpaceLab, a shared workspace and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Detroit and St. Petersburg, FL that cultivates designers, innovators and city builders. Karen is also a Principal Partner at A/E Collaborative, an architecture and engineering consulting firm, as well as Co-Founder of Noir Design Parti, a research institute preserving Michigan’s Black architects’ legacy. A passionate advocate for collaboration and inclusion, she mentors emerging real estate developers as a founding board member of the Women’s Sustainable Development Initiative.
SHELBORNE DEVELOPMENT
Kathy Makino has spent more than four decades proving that affordable housing can do far more than provide a place to live—it can transform neighborhoods, restore historic landmarks, advance environmental sustainability, and change lives. An award-winning developer, she has led the creation of more than 2,000 affordable homes guided by a simple belief: every family deserves a beautiful home they are proud to call their own. Through innovative, award-winning communities, Kathy has challenged the stigma of affordable housing, creating places that inspire dignity, opportunity, and hope, where children are defined by their potential rather than their address.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
MARIA D’AGOSTINI LUKOSAVICH
MARIE MAURO
D’AGOSTINI COMPANIES & NAIOP DETROIT
Maria D’Agostini Lukosavich, Esq., LEED AP, is a Michigan developer and project manager with D’Agostini Companies and the President-Elect of NAIOP Detroit—NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association. She holds a B.S. in Construction Management from Michigan State University and a J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School, with experience spanning construction, development, and regulatory practice. In 2025 she served on the inaugural leadership team for NAIOP Detroit, supported the chapter’s launch and advocacy programming, and served on Michigan State University’s School of Planning, Design, and Construction Industry Advisory Board. She is a licensed Michigan builder and SEMBOIA member.
FARBMAN GROUP
Marie Mauro is a dedicated Accounting Supervisor at Farbman Group and a passionate champion for women’s leadership. With a longtenured history at the company, she brings deep institutional knowledge, strong technical expertise, and a calm, solutions-focused approach to every challenge. As head of GLOW (Growing Leadership of Women), Marie has become a visible and trusted leader, creating programs that promote mentorship, professional growth, and connection among women at all levels of the organization. She leads with empathy, integrity, and authenticity, inspiring others to step forward, develop their strengths, and embrace leadership opportunities.
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WOMAN OF THE YEAR
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
MELISSA DITTMER
THERESA SOPATA
SONG UNITED
As an accomplished senior design-forward real estate professional with 20+ years of experience, Melissa specializes in place-based development. She aims for every physical and interactive real estate experience to be welldesigned for all who live, work, and play within a city, while simultaneously solving long-standing urban issues. As a senior leader, she excels at utilizing inclusive design processes to operationalize company-wide strategic visions and managing multi-disciplinary creative and development teams to achieve yearly OKRs and KPIs. Her thought leadership on architecture, urban design, planning and innovative development has been featured in global publications and speaking engagements.
RPM LIVING
Theresa Sopata joined the company in 2022 and maintains identification and oversight of all new Midwest business opportunities. She is also responsible for establishing and nurturing client relationships. She has nearly 20 years of successful property management and business development experience that includes multifamily, student housing, commercial and new developments. Prior to joining RPM, Theresa has served in various client services roles where she has been responsible for facilitating key communication with clients to drive portfolio growth, assisting clients with their strategies for asset renovation, consulting on lease-up assets, tracking changing market conditions, and tracking new management technologies.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
SAMANTHA ECKHOUT
THERESE PEACE AGBOH
REDICO/AMERICAN HOUSE
As Managing Director, Samantha Eckhout leads Investments for American House Senior Living within REDICO, where she and her team source, structure, and close senior housing acquisitions and ground-up developments that deliver value for residents, staff, owners, and capital partners. Covering the Midwest, Southeast, Florida, and New England, she brings an operator-informed, investor-first perspective grounded in disciplined underwriting and long-term strategy. Over 25+ years, including nearly 15 at REDICO/American House, Samantha has developed or acquired 10,000+ units, partnering with owners and institutional capital. She is known for decisive execution and collaborative leadership–with seniors in mind. Active in ULI Michigan and ASHA.
KIRCO
Therese Peace Agboh is Vice President of Talent & Culture at KIRCO, where she leads talent strategy, workforce planning, leadership development, and organizational culture. With more than 25 years of executive leadership experience, she has been instrumental in supporting KIRCO’s continued growth by attracting exceptional talent, developing high-performing leaders, and fostering an inclusive, people-first culture. A trusted advisor and executive coach, Therese is passionate about helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the workplace through longstanding service with healthcare, education, and community organizations, creating lasting impact both professionally and personally.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR
LYNN DRAKE
COMPASS COMMERCIAL, LLC & TRUE NORTH PUBLISHING As the owner of Compass Commercial, I exclusively represent business owners in leasing and purchasing commercial real estate, providing a conflict-free, advisory approach. With experience managing over 1,700 transactions across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, I guide clients through site selection, financial analysis, and negotiations. I am also the founder of True North Publishing, where I develop practical education for real estate professionals and business owners. My upcoming book, True North Success; Navigating Life & Business, reflects my focus on resilience, growth, and helping others make confident, informed decisions.
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DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR EIG14T | 814 CRE LLC LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR
EIG14T | 814 CRE LLC EIG14T is a leading national commercial real estate partner specializing in turnkey, single-tenant facilities for essential service operators in the Education, Health, and Wellness sectors. With a full-service approach spanning site acquisition, entitlements, construction management, and asset management, EIG14T delivers strategic real estate solutions that support scalable growth and operational success. Headquartered in Berkley, Michigan, with an additional office in Chicago, EIG14T is guided by its mission of Enriching Communities Through Real Estate.
DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR
LORMAX STERN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY Lormax Stern Development Company is a fully integrated commercial real estate firm specializing in the acquisition, development, and operational oversight of commercial properties throughout the United States.Our team has supervised the acquisition and development of more than 150 large-scale commercial properties across the country, with an aggregate gross leasable area exceeding 30 million square feet. Today, our portfolio includes more than 40 properties located throughout the United States.
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EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR ADORNO PICCININI, WALBRIDGE ALISON ORLANS, ETITLE & ORLANS LAW GROUP BRAD BAKER, CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC JOE MIFSUD, OXFORD COMPANIES KIMBERLY MONTAGUE, ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES MICHAEL FERLITO, FERLITO GROUP
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
ADORNO PICCININI WALBRIDGE
With nearly four decades of experience across industrial, institutional, commercial, and residential development, Adorno Piccinini has shaped millions of square feet of built environments and over a thousand acres throughout Michigan and beyond. As Walbridge Assistant VP of Real Estate Development, he has led complex projects from land acquisition and entitlements through financing, planning, engineering, design, and construction. His portfolio includes residential towers like The Griswold and The Plaza, major industrial and logistics campuses, mixed_ use and multifamily communities, and essential institutional and civic developments. A licensed builder and real estate broker, he’s recognized for his technical expertise and strategic perspective.
MICHAEL KALIL, FARBMAN GROUP REED FENTON, EIG14T | 814 CRE
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
SAM BEZNOS, BEZTAK
JOE MIFSUD OXFORD COMPANIES
Joe Mifsud serves as Chief Operating Officer of Oxford Companies, where he leads with a property manager’s mindset, a problem-solver’s instincts and a deep commitment to helping teams succeed. Since joining Oxford in 2016, his role has evolved from director of property management to president of Oxford Property Management and now COO of Oxford Companies. A longtime real estate asset management professional, Mifsud is known for connecting people, systems and ideas to improve how work gets done. He also serves on the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce board.
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
REED FENTON EIG14T | 814 CRE
Reed Fenton is the Founder and CEO of EIG14T, a commercial real estate company that serves as a multi-site growth partner for operators in the education, healthcare and wellness sectors. His passion for success has led the company to complete more than 200 projects across 37 states, putting EIG14T on a path to achieving over $1 billion in single tenant developments. His drive for professional achievement is matched only by his effort to create a strong sense of community at EIG14T through promoting a positive office culture, regular employee events, volunteer efforts, and social connections amongst team members.
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EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
ALISON ORLANS
ETITLE & ORLANS LAW GROUP Alison Orlans is a nationally recognized leader who has transformed commercial real estate. As President and CEO of eTitle Agency, Alison is constantly reaching higher. She has created a core-purpose-driven organization, grounded in a unique corporate culture, setting the gold standard in client service, technology, and performance. And last year, Alison and her incredible team supported hundreds of commercial developments and hundreds of millions in commercial transactions.
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
BRAD BAKER
CE GLEESON CONSTRUCTORS INC Brad Baker serves as Vice President of Operations for C.E. Gleeson Constructors and brings more than 25 years of construction experience. He has delivered over $550 million in completed projects across commercial, multifamily, industrial, retail, hospitality, and institutional sectors. Brad leads a team of 25 superintendents and 10 project managers and project engineers overseeing more than 25 active projects annually across multiple U.S. regions. He provides executive project leadership, supports field operations, resolves project challenges, and maintains high standards for schedule, budget, quality, safety, subcontractor performance, and client satisfaction.
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
KIMBERLY MONTAGUE
MICHAEL FERLITO
ALBERT KAHN ASSOCIATES
Kimberly Montague, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, EDAC, is President and CEO of Albert Kahn Associates, the first woman to lead the Detroit firm. In 2025, she was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows, and under her leadership Albert Kahn was named the 2026 AIA Michigan Firm of the Year and Hour Detroit’s “Best of Detroit” Architecture Firm two years running. A Director of the Detroit Regional Chamber Board and 2026 Women in Business Hall of Fame inductee, Kimberly also chairs the American Heart Association’s Detroit Go Red for Women campaign and mentors emerging architects at her alma mater.
FERLITO GROUP
Michael Ferlito is CEO of Ferlito Group, a fullservice real estate development, construction, and property management company serving Southeast Michigan, and co-founder of Bamboo, Michigan’s largest coworking and entrepreneurial community. Under his leadership, Ferlito Group has expanded its construction and property management divisions while Bamboo has grown into a statewide platform supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. Michael is passionate about creating spaces that drive economic growth, foster connection, and strengthen communities. His work has been recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business, DBusiness, and Northwood University.
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
MICHAEL KALIL
SAM BEZNOS
Michael Kalil serves as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Revenue Officer at Farbman Group/NAI Farbman, where he also leads the brokerage platform. Since joining the firm in 1993, he has overseen leasing and management responsibilities for millions of square feet of office, industrial, medical, and retail properties across the Midwest. Michael is widely recognized for his expertise in receivership, distressed asset repositioning, asset management, and business development, helping lenders and owners navigate complex assignments. A Hall of Fame–level industry leader, he is equally known for his relationship-driven, client-first approach and for mentoring teams that consistently deliver strong results.
Beztak is one of the country’s leading providers of real estate development, construction, investment and property management services. Whether developing a luxury residential community, building a suburban retail center or breathing new life into an underutilized urban space, our team has been celebrated for designing with creativity and innovation and providing our clients and communities with legendary customer service.Leveraging over 70 years of industry expertise, our team operates across the United States. In every location we serve, our reputation is strong for creating and sustaining long term value for investors while enriching the lives of our valued residents.
FARBMAN GROUP
BEZTAK
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SMART GROWTH ISN’T ACCIDENTAL. 348 COMMUNITIES. 11 COUNTIES. ONE VISION. It’s about competing globally while aligning locally. At DRP, we believe momentum is key but it must be nurtured. Sites ready. Communities ready. Region ready.
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THE NEXT FEATURE
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