R
eal estate is a complex and dynamic industry that can be both fascinating and grueling to cover. At The Real Deal, our reporters and editors worked tirelessly this year to bring you over 7,500 stories on the latest trends and developments. As we reflect on the past year, several stories stand out for their impact, insight, and entertainment value.
One of the most compelling stories was Rich Bockmann's in-depth look at the Sol Goldman family feud. This sprawling feature explored a bitter dispute among the members of the multibillion-dollar real estate empire, shedding light on the complexities and challenges of family-run businesses. TRD Features Editor Cara Eisenpress praised Bockmann's skillful narrative, which brought the drama and personalities to life.
Elizabeth Cryan's story on the kingpins of Kings Point offered a unique glimpse into a tight-knit community of influential real estate players. Her reporting took her to Long Island, where she conducted extensive interviews and research to create a richly detailed portrait of this exclusive group. Senior Editor Rachel Stone commended Cryan for her dedication and skill in crafting an engaging story that resonated with readers.
Kate Hinsche's profile on Maria Mendelsohn, the top broker in Wellington real estate, was another standout piece. By delving into Mendelsohn's background and experiences, Hinsche created a nuanced and compelling narrative that moved beyond industry cliches. South Florida reporter Lidia Dinkova praised Hinsche for her ability to capture the essence of Mendelsohn and the world of Wellington real estate.
Katherine Kallergis and Sheridan Wall's investigation into allegations against top broker Oren Alexander was a major scoop, exposing the brothers' alleged crimes and shedding light on the consequences of underregulation in the brokerage industry. Bockmann highlighted this story for its impact and importance, noting that it broke open a complex issue and may have saved countless others from becoming victims.
Jessica Hardin's map-based story on Shaya Prager's real estate deals collapsing across the US was another favorite among TRD staff. By dedicating extensive time to learning the complex financial structures involved, Hardin created a compelling narrative that pulled together seemingly disparate elements into a coherent whole.
Keith Larsen's piece on Radical Development provided a fascinating glimpse into the infighting within Columbia University's Master of Science in Real Estate Development program. Cryan praised Larsen for his deep knowledge of the industry and his ability to craft an engaging story that reflected the complexities and challenges faced by this popular program.
Katherine Kallergis' investigative series on brokers behaving badly was a major undertaking, tracking underregulation across multiple states. Chicago Bureau Chief Sam Lounsberry commended Duncan's piece for its crucial exposure of the real consequences of underregulation in Illinois, while Senior Reporter Kathryn Brenzel praised Kallergis' work for shedding light on lax enforcement in South Florida.
Elizabeth Cryan's feature story on high-flying real estate executives dealing with disaster was a sensitive and thought-provoking exploration of failure and its impact on mental health. Several TRD staff members praised the story for its resonance and potential to inspire readers to seek help.
Emma Whalen's piece on CedarSt, a Chicago landlord facing financial struggles, was another standout story. Lounsberry commended Whalen for her skillful reporting and writing, which created a compelling narrative that highlighted the challenges faced by this company.
Keith Larsen's story on Boruch Drillman, who faces eviction due to chain smoking, was a humorous and engaging piece that stood out among TRD's coverage. Reporter Jacob Indursky praised the story for its ability to find humor in an unexpected place.
Kelli Duncan's report on Roscoe Village sellers trying to remove buyer agent commissions was another important story, highlighting the ripple effects of the National Association of Realtors' settlement and the changing landscape of residential commissions.
Emma Whalen's profile on Jay Shidler, a real estate executive with a unique approach to ground leases, was a fascinating exploration of an underreported player in the industry. Lounsberry praised Whalen for her skillful writing and reporting, which created a compelling narrative that shed light on Shidler's innovative business model.
As we look forward to the new year, these stories represent just a few of the many compelling narratives that TRD has brought to our readers. We're grateful for your support and look forward to sharing more engaging and informative content in the years to come.
