News:
Spotlight Content
Posted: August 26, 2025
2025 Women in CRE: Catherine Azevedo, Romer Debbas LLP
Partner
Romer Debbas LLP
If you could change one thing about the CRE industry, what would it be and why?
I would advocate for greater diversity at decision-making levels. Too often, those controlling capital share similar backgrounds, limiting perspectives and the communities funded. As a commercial real estate attorney, I’ve seen Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs drive affordable housing, but rigid approaches create challenges. Including a broader range of voices fosters innovative solutions that better reflect the realities of the communities we serve.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate?
First, know your worth and understand that your perspective is valuable. Second, build relationships early, nurture them consistently and engage in mentorship; in CRE, who you know is just as important as what you know. And finally, give yourself grace. This industry can be demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There’s room for you to build a career and live a full life, even if the balance looks different from day to day. I have learned that you can thrive by staying authentic and surrounding yourself with people who celebrate your success.
Tags:
Spotlight Content
MORE FROM Spotlight Content
Over half of Long Island towns vote to exceed the tax cap - Here’s how owners can respond - by Brad and Sean Cronin
When New York permanently adopted the 2% property tax cap more than a decade ago, many owners hoped it would finally end the relentless climb in tax bills. But in the last couple of years, that “cap” has started to look more like a speed bump. Property owners are seeing taxes increase even when an
.png)
.jpg)
Columns and Thought Leadership
Oldies but goodies: The value of long-term ownership in rent-stabilized assets - by Shallini Mehra
Active investors seeking rent-stabilized properties often gravitate toward buildings that have been held under long-term ownership — and for good reasons. These properties tend to be well-maintained, both physically and operationally, offering a level of stability
The strategy of co-op busting in commercial real estate - by Robert Khodadadian
In New York City’s competitive real estate market, particularly in prime neighborhoods like Midtown Manhattan, investors are constantly seeking new ways to unlock property value. One such strategy — often overlooked but
How much power does the NYC mayor really have over real estate policy? - by Ron Cohen
The mayor of New York City holds significant influence over real estate policy — but not absolute legislative power. Here’s how it breaks down:
Formal Legislative Role
• Limited direct lawmaking power: The NYC Council is the primary
Properly serving a lien law Section 59 Demand - by Bret McCabe
Many attorneys operating within the construction space are familiar with the provisions of New York Lien Law, which allow for the discharge of a Mechanic’s Lien in the event the lienor does not commence an action to enforce following the service of a “Section 59 Demand”.
.gif)