#21 Christopher Okada - Why Investors Are Betting BIG on Office Spaces in 2025

Is Office Real Estate Still Worth Investing In? 

Christopher Okada, prolific deal maker, entrepreneur, and CEO of Okada & Company, a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and investment company in New York City, joins us on the Broker Brunch podcast to uncover the future of office spaces and share his strategies for thriving in a challenging market. 

With over 121 office leases signed this year and two decades of experience in NYC’s real estate market, Chris knows what it takes to navigate volatility and turn challenges into opportunities.  

In this episode, we explore the shifting dynamics of office spaces post-pandemic, the rise of entrepreneurial tenants, and the incredible potential hidden within today’s market chaos. 

Chris dives into topics like:  

• The truth about the "death of office spaces" narrative  
• How hyperlocal expertise creates a competitive edge  
• Why storytelling is the secret weapon for marketing properties  
• Where the biggest opportunities in real estate lie right now  

Chris also shares his insights on navigating economic cycles, identifying undervalued properties, and why the current market presents a once-in-a-lifetime chance for savvy investors. 

Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of commercial real estate—subscribe for more expert insights and market strategies! 

Drop a like, share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know your biggest takeaway!


Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherokada

Our Socials:
Brian Whelan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-whelan-43155850/
Mitchel Flaherty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchel-flaherty-7b4b1064/


(00:00) Introduction
(00:50) Chris Okada’s Real Estate Journey 
(03:19) The Financial Struggles of 2020 
(06:25) Finding Opportunities in Crisis  
(10:30) Okada & Company’s Operations and Focus Areas  
(13:25) Hyper-Specialization in Commercial Real Estate  
(14:38) The Future of Office Spaces
(18:01) Who’s Leasing Office Spaces Now?  
(22:32) The Turning Point for Okada & Company  
(25:08) Investing in Office Buildings: Challenges and Opportunities  
(27:16) Residential Conversions: Hype vs. Reality  
(29:30) Inflation-Adjusted Real Estate Values and Market Cycles  
(32:12) Storytelling and Branding in Commercial Real Estate  
(38:20) Investing in The Bronx
(43:21) Successful Office Space Investments  
(50:12) Predictions for 2025: Interest Rates and Market Recovery