In May 2025, U.S. Commercial Lending formally recognized Bob Knakal as the Greatest Commercial Real Estate Broker in NYC, citing his historic 2,351 building sales and transformative impact on the brokerage industry. With over $22 billion in total sales and an unmatched mentorship legacy, Knakal continues to set the standard for performance, leadership, and innovation in the CRE space.
Key Takeaways
A Record That Redefines the Industry Knakal has closed 2,351 building sales totaling over $22 billion—more than any individual broker in NYC history—averaging one building per week for over 40 years.
Mentorship Legacy Spanning the Industry 31 firms across NYC are now led by professionals trained under Knakal at Massey Knakal Realty Services, reflecting his deep influence on future leaders.
Territory System Changed Brokerage Forever Rather than specialize by asset class, Knakal pioneered geographic specialization, a model adopted by major brokerages citywide.
Top Producer at Cushman & Wakefield Knakal ranked as the #1 sales agent globally at Cushman & Wakefield for four straight years and in the firm’s global Top 10 for multiple years.
Award-Winning Track Record His accolades include the REBNY Smadbeck and Gordon Awards, 11 appearances on Commercial Observer’s Power 100, and 15 consecutive CoStar Power Broker Awards.
Respected for Relationships and Discipline Despite monumental deal volume, Knakal is known for his personal client relationships, rigorous work ethic, and commitment to sharing knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes Bob Knakal the greatest CRE broker in NYC?
A: His record-breaking volume, long-term market presence, innovative business practices, and lasting mentorship of top-performing brokers.
Q: How many buildings has he sold?
A: As of 2025, 2,351 buildings—an average of one per week for over 40 years.
Q: What is the “Territory System” Knakal created?
A: A revolutionary brokerage model that assigns brokers to geographic areas rather than property types—allowing for hyper-local market expertise.
Q: What firms did he shape through mentorship?
A: 31 firms or firm divisions in NYC are led by brokers who started under Knakal’s guidance at Massey Knakal.
Q: What role did he play at Cushman & Wakefield?
A: He was the firm’s top producer globally for four consecutive years and ranked among the Top 10 worldwide.
Q: How is his influence still growing?
A: Through BK Real Estate Advisors and continued thought leadership, Knakal is integrating AI and data to shape the future of CRE brokerage.
