LISTEN: The RED Awards, a Night Unlike Any Other

There are plenty of real estate awards doled out every year. None are like the RED Awards, though.

In this week’s episode of “Deconstruct,” The Real Deal senior commercial reporter Keith Larsen joins the program to dive into the surreal world of the RED Awards, created by Selman Yalcin.

While the event bills itself as a prestigious industry gathering, it is perhaps better known for its eclectic mix of niche, obscure awards and bizarre, 90s-esque advertisements that may as well be AI-generated.

Despite the strange marketing, the black-tie event attracts major industry figures like Kent Swig and Bob Knakal, the latter of whom received a bombastic introduction from George Shea, known for his association with hot dog-eating champion Joey Chestnut.

The atmosphere brings together a high-energy mix of “hustlers and strivers,” featuring a demographic shift toward younger professionals and more women than typical industry galas.

Highlights from the night included appearances by colorful characters like event planner Alan Action and a networking event that stands in stark contrast to stuffier industry events with attendees trading Instagram handles rather than business cards.

While the unconfirmed pay-for-play nature of the awards remains a subject of debate, Larsen suggests the event’s true value lies in the fantasy it creates and the genuine sense of recognition it offers attendees.

With a Forbes partnership in place, the RED Awards are set to bring their unique brand of industry celebration to Romania next.

This episode of “Deconstruct” also breaks down the week’s top real estate news, including a staggering valuation drop of 599 Broadway, New York City’s “Block by Block” housing plan unveiled by Zohran Mamdani’s administration and the bombshell lawsuit filed by boxer and real estate investor Floyd Mayweather Jr. against his former confidante Jona Rechnitz.

Be sure to check out “Deconstruct” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever else you listen to podcasts.

— Holden Walter-Warner