S
teve Sallen, a shareholder at Maddin Hauser in Southfield, Michigan, has been a cornerstone of Southeast Michigan’s commercial real estate for four decades. As President, CEO, Chair of the Environmental Law Group, and Co‑Chair of the Real Estate Practice Group, he has guided the firm with integrity and a client‑first ethos.

    Sallen joined Maddin Hauser in 1984 when it was a boutique real‑estate practice. A native of the region, he has devoted his career to strengthening the local economy and community. His résumé includes landmark transactions such as securing a major shopping‑center acquisition for a developer, negotiating the removal of a national retailer’s lease, and closing a ground‑lease termination that yielded a profitable sale for a client and broker.

    He pioneered the Commission‑Safe® Marketing Program, a tool that streamlines broker operations and has become a standard in the area. His expertise spans office, retail, and industrial projects, where he tackles regulatory hurdles and risk mitigation with precision. In 2024, he led the firm’s relocation to a new Class‑A office, marking a new chapter after 40 years at the former site.

    Beyond the office, Sallen values family time. He is a devoted father and grandfather, enjoying summer retreats at a West Michigan cottage and canoe trips in Canada with his son.

    Sallen credits his success to doing business the “right” way and building supportive industry relationships. “The personal interactions with those I admire and respect are among the most rewarding aspects of this industry,” he says. He stresses education and trust as keys to overcoming real‑estate challenges, a philosophy that has earned him widespread respect.