In a fiercely competitive (and lackluster) new development market, two real estate veterans are teaming up to gain an upper hand. Kevin Kurland, CEO of Kurland Realty, and Jan Sasson, head of E Property Group, have formed Kurland/Sasson Development Marketing Services group, which aims to shape developments from start to finish. The merger was announced early last month.
Kurland and Sasson said their differing expertise — Kurland has a brokerage background, while Sasson has worked more in development — led them to join forces. The team plans to assist developers in planning everything from mapping out floor plans to choosing kitchen cabinets.
Kurland argued that their business will save developers money: Rather than having to hire separate designers and marketers, developers could use the firm as a one-stop shop.
“Value’s the name of the game,” Kurland added. “We offer very competitive commission structures for developers.”
The pair declined to talk dollar figures on their upcoming developments, but they have two projects in the pipeline: a seven-floor luxury rental building at 196 Bowery Street, due to be complete in spring 2010, and a 56-unit condominium at 467 Keap Street in Brooklyn, due late 2010 or early 2011.
Kurland and Sasson plan to focus on Manhattan but hope to work in Williamsburg and Long Island City as well. They plan to retain their existing staffs and hire 10 team members. They will operate in independent offices, with Kurland at 20 West 23rd Street and Sasson at 105 Mulberry Street.
