NewMark Merrill had a record-breaking 2017. The firm completed $82 million in transactions, two development projects and $104 million in refinancing transactions in 2017, bringing its total assets under ownership to $2 billion. We sat down with Sandy Sigal, president and CEO of NewMark Merrill to find out more about the firm's activity last year, and what it is expecting to do in 2018.

GlobeSt.com: You had another record-breaking year in 2017. Tell me about some of your milestones this year.

Sandy Sigal: It was a tale of two realities with the first being strong leasing, two great acquisitions, a bunch of investment in our assets, great financings, and new developments. We finished the redevelopment of Crenshaw Imperial Plaza in Inglewood which proved again that well thought-out, properly tenanted, shopping centers that are local and unique do very well. We have been 100% leased in the property since before completion. Our new center in Longmont, Colorado, Village at the Peaks had an increasing visitor base, with tenants having their top 10% stores right off opening. And swing sets, playing fields, and marketing events create heartwarming experiences, which create great loyalty.