The Trifecta in CRE: Data, AI, and Relationship Building — A Recap of The Not Podcast Podcast with Bob Knakal, Founder of BKREA

SKIP AHEAD TO

• Embracing AI in Commercial Real Estate
• The Power of Data in Decision-Making
• Building and Maintaining Relationships
• Navigating Market Challenges

In today’s CRE market, where tech tools are booming and relationships still reign supreme, few people embody that balance better than Bob Knakal. In this episode of The Not Podcast Podcast, host Michael Mandel, CEO and Co-Founder of CompStak, sits down with the legendary broker and founder of BK Real Estate Advisors to talk about what’s shaping brokerage today — and where the industry is headed next.

From mapping Manhattan’s development pipeline to embracing AI and doubling down on relationships, Knakal shares his take on what it takes to stay ahead in CRE — and why the fundamentals still matter more than ever.

Embracing AI in Commercial Real Estate

Knakal discusses how BKREA is leveraging AI to enhance various aspects of their operations, including prospecting, deal execution, and data interpretation. He emphasizes that while AI offers significant efficiencies, it serves as a tool to augment, not replace, the human elements of brokerage.​

---

The Power of Data in Decision-Making

The conversation highlights the critical role of data in today’s CRE market. Knakal shares insights into how accurate and granular data can inform better decision-making, from understanding market trends to evaluating property values. He also touches on the creation of his “Map Room,” a resource developed to visualize and analyze development pipelines in Manhattan.​

---

Building and Maintaining Relationships

Despite technological advancements, Knakal and Mandel agree that personal relationships remain at the heart of successful brokerage. They discuss strategies for building trust with clients and the importance of consistent communication and follow-up.​

---

Navigating Market Challenges

The episode also addresses current challenges in the CRE market, such as rising interest rates and regulatory changes. Knakal offers his perspective on how brokers can adapt to these shifts by staying informed and flexible in their approaches.​

---

For a deeper dive into how data, AI, and relationships intersect in the world of commercial real estate, listen to the full episode of The Not Podcast Podcast featuring Bob Knakal:​