PropertyShark Staff 
Michael J. Daniels specializes in Residential and Commercial sales and New Development at Bold New York, and is responsible for identifying properties and advising clients on leasing and investment sales in Manhattan and Brooklyn. His background in business began when he became a partner of an entertainment booking agency for high profile artists and the co-owner of an independent venue sales booking agency called MDA, INC., which became the driving engine for venue sales within the downtown hotel logging industry. Mr. Michael J. Daniels has been in the hotel industry for 14 years and worked in many sectors of hospitality, building a successful reputation and fostering relationships within the entertainment, hotel & real estate industries.
A native New Yorker, born in Harlem, raised in the Bronx and currently living in Brooklyn, Michael majored in Communications with a Business minor at the prestigious Howard University in Washington, D.C. Over the years, his interest in investing in real estate and his ability to negotiate sales contracts has lead him to develop a unique skill set as an advisor in the commercial real estate sales and leasing world.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your background and why you chose a career in real estate.
I chose a career in real estate because, for one, I believe in homeownership and I feel that real estate is an important industry to build a career in. My goal is to develop and build on land and to create sustainable living environments as far as clean air, clean water and non-GMO crops are concerned. I truly believe that it is our birthright to have quality of life. I feel like it’s a part of my purpose.
Q: Do you have any mentors / people you look towards for inspiration?
My grandmother was always my inspiration, and she still is even though she is no longer here with us. There are builders and architects on my watch, for example, but I still haven’t met the man or woman that could help me fulfill my purpose or at least help me try to enhance it. Maybe I’ll be that mentor for someone!
Q: What do you think has made you successful throughout your career?
Living and learning. I have been in real estate for 3 years, almost 4 years, and I have learned a lot and I am still learning. You have to be consistent, persistent and patient – learn to follow through and don’t be afraid to pick up that phone.
Q: How would you describe the real estate market in the U.S. today in terms of trends and challenges?
The real estate market in New York City has appreciated on average 3% a year even when we are down, and overall we are still good. There are so many ways to skin a cat in a large metropolis like New York, Indiana, Pennsylvania or places like Ohio (Midwest or Southern Cities), well, that all depends.
Q: How do you think the real estate industry will evolve in the coming years?
It will evolve into creating sustainable living environments. This will be the next trend, though maybe not right now because everyone is looking to cut costs. But you will have sustainable living quarters and maybe grow crops on roofs by putting the air rights to use. Some how, some way, I want to spear-head this activity and be in the forefront of that revolution.
Q: What are some things you do to keep yourself interested, updated and inspired?
Read a lot, research, and have fun with real estate.
Q: If you could give advice to those who are just starting, what would it be?
Don’t take yourself too seriously, but become disciplined and persistent in your work. Pick a niche; pick a neighborhood!
Q: What are some of the most surprising lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Stay within your niche and don’t be all over the place. There is so much money to be made in your two block radius.
Q: What would you recommend to beginners in the industry?
Study and learn from successful people, the ones that are successful in their own way; and if you start with residential, build relationships with owners/landlords – everything else is a waste of time.
Q: Any other insights you’d like to share?
No, I don’t think so. Thanks for the opportunity!
About Michael J. Daniels
As a licensed real estate salesperson for Bold New York, Michael J. Daniels is set on helping his clients with their real estate needs and, eventually, helping build a greener future for everyone. Having spent more than 14 years in the hotel business, he learned the value of building long lasting relationships, using his communication and negotiating skills to their fullest. Find out more about him here.
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