The bowery is a main thoroughfare and has wide pedestrian-friendly sized streets, perfect for shoppers and families.

Another neighborhood that could explode is Midtown East. The rezoning of this area will play a prominent role in the growth of this already significant business district and is an important area to watch.

Globest: Last year, you spoke with Globest about tapping retail sales. Will your strategy change this year, or is this still where your attention lies – and why?

Retail has been the driver of the real estate industry's most recent record breaking sale. The majority of my deals last year were retail related and the prices I was able to achieve for my clients was exceptional. As tourism continues to thrive, retail will become more significant and continue its upward trend.

I 'm a huge believer in creating opportunities in real estate where investors can utilize their talents and add value. I've orchestrated deals, both on market and off market in almost every market segment, such as retail, hospitality, garage, development, multifamily, office and joint ventures.

The strength of Eastern Consolidated's platform and all star lineup of brokers has presented an infusion of talent that has offered me unlimited potential for growth, creativity and deal making. My focus will continue to be on opportunistic situations while shifting slightly towards sourcing deals that are unique and out of the ordinary.

The best deals are the ones that are not obvious!

Globest: What new NYC commercial real estate development do you think will be biggest this year and beyond?

We have not one but two significant areas to be excited about. Hudson Yards will be our new city within a city once the government gives the green light to proceed towards development which will increase tax revenues and job creation. Additionally, once the Grand Central / Midtown East area begins its redevelopment , Manhattan will continue to dominate world markets as the premier city for business and tourism.

Globest: I'd like to hear a bit about your experience being a woman in the commercial real estate industry. What has been your biggest challenge and why?

While there are still remnants of an “ole boys' club” in the commercial real estate industry, being a woman has its advantages. It is easier to stand out from the crowd and be taken seriously when you have a deal-packed resume and history of successfully executing complex transactions.

Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary has enabled me to overcome impediments and earn a reputation as a successful deal maker.

Globest: How can women increase their visibility and presence in the industry, making more of their accomplishments and rising to positions of power?

You can stand out in the crowd in a male-dominated field and be successful as a woman while being a serious professional. If you are a woman, you're visible and your success will make you memorable. That's your advantage.

Globest: And, finally, what would you advise a younger woman just starting out?

To be successful in commercial real estate, a woman must have tremendous self confidence, a strong personality and resiliency.

For a woman starting out in real estate today, it is critical to align yourself with a firm where women are celebrated and encouraged to shine as industry superstars.

Always conduct yourself with dignity , self respect and a good sense of humor. You never know who is watching!