Widely known across the entertainment industry as one of America’s top urban supermodels and celebs, Ford has already completed Blu Realty’s intensive training program. Ford will be working directly with veterans Alon Chadad (her mentor at Blu Realty) and Moshe Balalo, who are both founders at Blu Realty Group.

The pair are two of the Top 50 Real Estate Brokers according to The Real Deal, Chadad and Balalo closed over $100,000,000 in property deals in 2012. Chadad had this to offer about Melyssa’s coming on board:

“We are extremely excited to have Melyssa on board with Blu Realty. Ms. Ford will add a high net worth clientele base to our already diverse client list in New York.”

Blu Realty Group specializes in the sale, purchase and rental of luxury homes in New York City. Ford was Complex Magazine’s “Video Vixen of the Decade” as well as number 43 in their “100 Hottest Women of the Decade” list in 2012. But it is Ford’s philanthropic efforts for which she is perhaps more noted. In 2010, Ford created “L.E.S.S Is More”, a non-profit organization, and her HIV and other awareness educational efforts are well known.

Readers who want more information about Ms Ford of Blu Realty Group should contact the firm at: (212) 380-8879

Or alternatively,  Elyse Landwehr at Berk Communications at: 212-889-0440 ext. 220. The image below is an example of one of Blu Realty’s listings taken from their website.

80 Riverside Blvd #PH2A • Blu ID: 1893

Avison Young has grown from 11 offices to come 43 in the last four years. The firm has over 1100 agents across Canada and he US. On the Mason Partners deal, Rose had this to add:

“Houston is the energy capital of the world and a critical growth market for Avison Young. The acquisition of Mason Partners allows us to partner with some of the top brokers in Houston, and immediately creates a strong presence for Avison Young in Houston’s robust land market.”

Another news release from Avison Young last week predicted stability for the 2013 Canadian and US markets. The extensive report tied to the release examines major city markets across North America. The gist of the report forecasts the need for patience by investors and sellers, in particular where the US market is concerned.

In the extensive Canada forecast (PDF) Mark Rose’s personal message to readers includes this advice for 2014 and beyond:

“…Focus on building capital positions in 2013, perhaps selling non-strategic assets to fund a war chest; and arrange for access to additional
debt and equity, as 2014 appears bright…”

The office vacancy graphic from the above report defines areas of Canada commercial which will probably dictate investing trends there for the coming months.

Image credit: Mark Rose – courtesy Commercial Property Executive

Yesterday Inman News announced the addition of David Stein as their new GM. Stein has more than 16 years experience with more than 16 years experience with startups and the web. 

Prior to this position with Inman, Stein worked with Inman News founder and publisher Brad Inman at HomeGain and Turn Here. Stein was also VP of real estate at Reply Inc., according to this Inman News post. Also, Stein had this to offer on the new position:

“I’m excited to join one of the most trusted brands in real estate, and work again with Brad.”

Looking past the Inman release, Stein’s recommendations are stellar where managing expertise is concerned. Peter Christy, Sr. Director of Technology & Development at SmartShoot, offered this via Stein’s LinkedIn profile:

“David has a unique ability to manage both upwards and downwards. In the six years that I have worked with him and for him, I have been continually impressed with his steady focus on company objectives while simultaneously ensuring that individual team members opinions and input are not ignored.”

Stein graduated from the California State University-Fullerton – College of Business and Economics, with a BA in Entrepreneurial Management.