Woman-Owned Business Featured Company: Skyqueen Realty

What inspired you to start your firm, and how has your vision evolved over the years?

I founded SkyQueen Realty to bridge the two worlds I know well — real estate and aviation. Early on, my vision focused on connecting aviation companies with properties tailored to their operational needs. Over time, that vision expanded to include creating developments that transform underutilized assets into vibrant hubs.

Today, SkyQueen Realty works across commercial, industrial, and aviation markets to provide clients with strategic insights and specialized expertise. We don’t just broker deals — we help shape projects that have lasting impact for businesses, communities, and the broader economy.

What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for success at your firm?

Success at SkyQueen Realty depends on persistence, deep industry knowledge, and trust. Aviation real estate is a niche market, so we must understand both property fundamentals and the specific operational requirements of aviation users. Negotiation skills are essential, as deals often involve multiple decision-makers and long timelines. Patience, adaptability, and problem-solving are equally important.

Above all, integrity guides our work. In our world, reputation is everything, and we work every day to maintain it.

What role does collaboration play in your work, and how do you build strong relationships with clients and colleagues?

Collaboration is the core of our business. Aviation real estate deals involve owners, operators, municipalities, engineers, and financiers — aligning these stakeholders requires diplomacy and vision. I build strong relationships by listening first, setting clear expectations, and delivering on commitments. Over time, these relationships turn into partnerships that open doors to future opportunities.

Our affiliate partnership with RM Friedland has also been a mutually beneficial relationship where we have been able to capitalize on each other’s expertise for both commercial and municipal opportunities.

In my experience, success is rarely a solo achievement — it’s the result of trusted teams working toward a common goal.

What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in running your firm, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges has been explaining the value of specialized aviation properties to decision-makers unfamiliar with the sector. Unlike traditional real estate, these assets don’t fit standard comps. I overcame this by becoming an industry educator — presenting market data, case studies, and economic impact analyses that illustrated long-term value. By shifting the conversation from price to potential, I’ve been able to secure stakeholder alignment and close transformative deals.

What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and what made it stand out?

One of my most rewarding projects was structuring long-term leases for aviation hangar campuses that became major economic drivers. These were complex deals requiring coordination with municipalities, regulatory agencies, and private stakeholders. What made them stand out was the transformation they brought — turning vacant land into thriving centers for business aviation, creating jobs, and attracting investment. Seeing these projects go from concept to reality, knowing they will serve the aviation community for decades, was both professionally and personally fulfilling.

What advice would you offer to women who aspire to lead and succeed in your field?

Know your craft. Believe in your expertise. Don’t be afraid to claim your seat at the table. Commercial real estate—especially aviation real estate—can be male-dominated, but that’s an opportunity to stand out. Build credibility by mastering your market and your numbers, and back your opinions with data. Network relentlessly, but also contribute generously to the success of others.

Always remember: You belong in every room where decisions are made.

What trends or challenges are you currently seeing in the New York commercial real estate market, and how are you or your firm adapting?

New York’s market is evolving — office demand is recalibrating, industrial demand is surging, and infrastructure projects are unlocking new opportunities. In aviation, we’re seeing heightened demand for secure, modern, and tech-enabled facilities. SkyQueen Realty is helping clients adapt by repositioning assets, advising on redevelopment for emerging needs like last-mile logistics, and integrating sustainability and technology into facility design.

How do you see technology and innovation shaping the future of your industry?

Technology is changing everything — from how we market properties to how facilities operate. In aviation real estate, innovations like advanced security systems, sustainable building materials, and smart hangar technology are becoming standard.

While technology enhances speed and transparency, relationships remain the foundation — innovation works best when paired with trust and expertise.