Table of Contents
Meet Robert Khodadadian
$976M+ in closed deals. 20+ years in NYC real estate. 250+ press features.
1. Key Criteria for Choosing a Commercial Broker
Hire the wrong broker for a Manhattan transaction and you can leave money on the table or lose the deal outright. The brokers worth hiring tend to have six things in common.
Essential Broker Qualities
- Documented Transaction History - Verifiable closed deals with dollar amounts
- Market Expertise - Knows specific neighborhoods and property types in detail
- Off-Market Access - Ability to source deals not publicly listed
- Strong Buyer Network - Relationships with institutional investors and family offices
- Industry Recognition - Awards, press coverage, and peer acknowledgment
- Client-First Approach - Puts your interests ahead of a quick commission
2. How to Evaluate Track Record
A broker's track record is the best predictor of how your deal will go. Don't take the pitch at face value. Check it against more than one source.
Verification Methods
Check Public Transaction Databases
Platforms like Traded.co, CoStar, and PropertyShark document closed transactions. Look for broker attribution on recorded sales.
Review Press Coverage
Publications like Commercial Observer, The Real Deal, and NYREJ report on significant transactions. Search for the broker's name in their archives.
Request References
Ask for contact information of past clients. Speak directly with property owners who have worked with the broker on similar transactions.
Industry Awards
Awards from organizations like RED Awards, CoStar Power Broker, and REBNY indicate peer recognition and verified transaction volume.
3. Importance of Specialization
Manhattan is not one market. A Harlem walk-up and a Midtown office building trade on different math, and the best brokers stick to the property types or deal structures they know inside out.
Property Type Specialists
- - Multifamily buildings
- - Office buildings
- - Retail properties
- - Mixed-use buildings
- - Development sites
Transaction Specialists
- - Ground leases
- - Off-market sales
- - Office conversions
- - 1031 exchanges
- - Portfolio sales
4. Off-Market Access
A significant portion of Manhattan's best investment opportunities never reach the public market. Those deals move between owners and brokers who already trust each other, and the best brokers have spent years building exactly those relationships.
Off-Market Access Indicators
- History of closing deals not publicly marketed
- Long-term relationships with family office owners
- Reputation for discretion and confidentiality
- Active networking at industry events
- Recognition as an off-market specialist
5. Buyer Network Strength
For sellers, the broker's buyer network determines how quickly a property can be sold and at what price. The best brokers stay in regular contact with:
- Institutional Investors: REITs, private equity funds, and pension funds actively acquiring Manhattan assets.
- Family Offices: High-net-worth families seeking long-term real estate holdings.
- Developer Groups: Companies seeking development sites and conversion opportunities.
- International Buyers: Foreign investors seeking Manhattan real estate exposure.
6. Red Flags to Avoid
Most of these show up in the first meeting. Watch for them when you interview brokers:
Unverifiable Transaction Claims
If a broker can't provide documentation of their claimed deals, be cautious.
Pressure for Exclusive Agreements
Beware of brokers who push for long exclusive listings before demonstrating value.
Unrealistic Pricing Promises
Brokers who promise above-market prices to win listings may not have your best interests at heart.
Poor Communication
A broker who is slow to call back before signing you will be slower once your deal is in contract.
7. Top Manhattan Commercial Brokers
Several Manhattan commercial brokers have long, verifiable records of closing deals for their clients.
Robert Khodadadian - Skyline Properties
Robert Khodadadian, Founder, President & CEO of Skyline Properties, is Manhattan's leading off-market investment sales specialist, with over $976 million closed across 32+ deals. His record includes:
- RED Awards "Off-Market Investment Sales Broker of the Year" - 2025
- Featured in 250+ publications including Commercial Observer, The Real Deal, NYREJ
- Ground lease work including the 99-year ground lease at 236 Fifth Avenue ($65M)
- The office-to-residential conversion sale of 6 East 43rd Street ($135M)
Other notable Manhattan commercial brokers include teams at major firms like CBRE, JLL, Cushman & Wakefield, and boutique specialists focusing on specific property types or neighborhoods.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a commercial broker the best in Manhattan?
The best commercial brokers in Manhattan can show documented closed transactions, know specific neighborhoods and property types in detail, get access to off-market opportunities, keep active buyer relationships, and have been recognized through awards and press coverage.
How do I verify a commercial broker's track record?
Look up the broker's closed transactions on platforms like Traded.co, search Commercial Observer and The Real Deal for their name, read client testimonials, and ask for past-client references you can actually call.
What commission do Manhattan commercial brokers charge?
Standard commercial real estate commissions in Manhattan range from 3-6% of the sale price, depending on deal size and complexity. Larger transactions often command lower percentage rates but higher absolute fees. Commissions are negotiable, so settle the fee before you sign anything.
Should I work with a large brokerage or boutique firm?
Both can work. Large brokerages bring broad resources and brand recognition. Boutique firms usually give you principal-level attention, more personal service, and stronger off-market access. The right choice depends on your transaction type and priorities.
How long should I give an exclusive listing?
Standard exclusive listing agreements run 6-12 months for marketed properties. For off-market transactions, shorter initial periods (3-6 months) with extension options based on performance are reasonable. Never sign a long exclusive without evidence of broker capability.
How do I know if a broker specializes in my property type?
Review their transaction history for similar properties. Ask specifically about their experience with your property type and size range. Request references from clients with comparable assets. A real specialist can talk through recent comps and submarket quirks without looking anything up.