The Real Talk on Multifamily Development
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Eugene Gershman of GIS Companies took the stage at the Bisnow Multifamily Conference in Seattle to deliver a sharp and humorous take on innovation in multifamily real estate development. From his candid thoughts on sustainable building practices and technological amenities to a critique of the often impractical allure of luxury finishes and rooftop decks, Eugene's insights brought laughter and valuable lessons to the crowd. This episode captures his dynamic session, offering a fresh perspective on what really matters in real estate development.

My BioEugene Gershman is the CEO of GIS Companies, a family-run real estate development firm with over 20 years of experience. GIS Companies specializes in partnering with property owners to develop projects that meet market demands while navigating complex zoning and regulatory landscapes. Eugene is a passionate advocate for pragmatic innovation in real estate, blending technology, sustainability, and market-driven decisions to create viable, future-ready developments.

Episode Highlights and Chapters

- [00:00:00] Introduction to Bisnow PanelEugene introduces the episode, recorded live at the Bisnow Multifamily Conference, explaining his excitement for the event and the opportunity to share unfiltered industry insights.

- [00:01:00] The Evolution of Tenant PreferencesDiscussion of changing demands for home offices, shared spaces, and amenities post-pandemic, highlighting the fickle nature of tenant desires.

- [00:02:00] Practical Innovations: Smart Access and Parcel LockersEugene talks about the growing prevalence of technological features like smart access control and parcel lockers, emphasizing their convenience and market viability.

- [00:04:00] Sustainable Building: Pragmatism vs. PassionA candid look at sustainability certifications, cost-driven decisions like choosing Built Green over LEED, and why tenants rarely pay more for green features.

- [00:05:00] Amenities and the Perception of LuxuryFrom rooftop decks to luxury vinyl plank flooring, Eugene critiques the industry’s obsession with luxury finishes and amenities, advocating for a more realistic approach.

- [00:07:00] Future of Multifamily DevelopmentEugene shares his vision for modular construction, streamlined permitting, and adopting off-the-shelf designs to reduce costs and speed up project timelines.

- [00:09:00] Value of Technological AmenitiesExamining the financial practicality of features like fiber internet, smart devices, and shared Wi-Fi, with a focus on balancing tenant expectations and developer budgets.

Contact InformationFor more on Eugene Gershman and GIS Companies, visit https://giscompanies.co/podcast/).

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