Steve Lerner

Real Estate Asset Manager | Portfolio Strategy & Lease Negotiation | Broker & Corporate Facilities Leader | Client-Focused Problem Solver

Overview

Welcome to the intersection of strategic insight and real estate excellence. Based in the vibrant city of Chicago, I specialize in driving portfolio growth and optimizing operations as a dedicated real estate asset manager. With a broad spectrum of experience managing assets and real estate across the country, I bring a strategic lens to every project, ensuring a balanced approach that meets both financial goals and the unique needs of tenants and clients.

My professional philosophy is built on a foundation of data-driven analysis, deep operational insight, and a people-first leadership style. This approach allows me to make informed, lasting real estate decisions that stand the test of time. I thrive in environments that prioritize clarity and precision, ensuring that every project, regardless of location, is executed with excellence and strategic foresight.

Join me in exploring how we can achieve exceptional results in the world of real estate, where every decision is an opportunity for growth and success.

About Me

Steve Lerner Professional Photo

Based in Chicago, I am a dedicated real estate asset manager with a passion for driving portfolio growth and optimizing operations. I thrive in environments that prioritize clarity and precision, and I specialize in negotiating leases that create value while balancing financial performance with the unique needs of tenants and clients. I approach every asset with a strategic mindset, ensuring sustainable success.

My professional philosophy is rooted in leveraging financial acumen and expert negotiation skills to make informed, data-driven real estate decisions. I believe in the power of cross-functional collaboration and a people-first leadership style to achieve lasting outcomes. By combining rigorous analysis with deep operational insights, I strive to deliver exceptional results.

Outside of my professional life, I have a strong interest in technology and enjoy exploring the latest innovations. In my free time, you can find me experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, as I have a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. Above all, I cherish the moments spent with friends and family and love to travel, immersing myself in new cultures and experiences.

Work Experience

Managing Director, Asset Management

Bradford Allen Realty Services | 2021–2025

Led portfolio strategy and leasing across multiple states, increasing annual portfolio revenue above $21M. Collaborated on acquisitions and capital markets activity totaling $300M+.

Director, Consulting Services

Bradford Allen Realty Services | 2012–2021

Directed global brokerage and lease advisory, delivering $1M in annual savings and reducing client rental costs by $1.5M through strategic relocations and negotiations on 300+ lease transactions.

Senior Manager, Real Estate

Hudson | 2009–2012

Directed North American real estate leasing for 26 locations housing 1,600+ employees. Negotiated an additional 17% discount on average rental rates and reduced the portfolio by 130,000 RSF by closing underperforming offices.

Financial Analyst, IT/HR/Legal

Hudson | 2007–2009

Conducted financial analysis and budgeting for IT, HR, and Legal departments, contributing to quarterly Wall Street guidance. Achieved $720,000 in yearly savings and cultivated 15% comparative savings through strategic implementations.

Education & Professional Development

Education

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Dual Degrees in Finance and Accounting

Nichols College

Dudley, MA

Certifications & Licenses

Licensed Real Estate Broker

State of Illinois

Operations Management Professional Certificate

Jack Welch Management Institute

Professional Training

Mastering Microsoft 365 Copilot & AI Agents

Udemy

Prompt Engineering

Sololearn

Skills & Expertise

Asset Management

Strategic oversight and optimization of diverse real estate portfolios to maximize value.

Lease Negotiation

Expertise in creating value through effective, data-backed lease negotiations.

Cross-Functional Leadership

Leading diverse teams to achieve common goals with a focus on collaboration.

Financial Analysis

Proficient in financial modeling, budgeting, and custom reporting in Excel.

Operations Management

Certified expertise in streamlining processes and improving operational efficiency.

Real Estate Software

Proficient with MRI, Microsoft Project, AvidXchange, and other industry tools.

Consulting Engagements

Explore a selection of consulting projects where I've provided strategic insights and solutions across various real estate sectors. These engagements highlight my ability to analyze complex situations, offer actionable recommendations, and drive successful outcomes for clients nationwide.

Disposition Analysis (Mixed-Use)

New Jersey

Provided strategic analysis for the potential off-market sale of a mixed-use industrial/office park, including valuation and hold/sell analysis.

Purchase Option Analysis (Retail)

New Jersey

Evaluated a purchase option for a vacant big-box retail center through in-depth market and property analysis.

Valuation & Purchase Option (Office)

Texas

Formulated a Broker Opinion of Value (BOV) and provided strategic counsel on a Class A office building purchase option.

Owner-Occupant Acquisition

Iowa

Conducted due diligence and financial modeling for a client seeking to acquire a property where they were the majority tenant.

Industrial Dispositions

Florida

Provided strategic advisory on marketing and disposition assignments for multiple industrial assets, including preparing offering memorandums and directing marketing campaigns.

Industrial Sale-Leaseback

Illinois

Conducted valuation and provided market substantiation to support the execution of an industrial sale-leaseback transaction.

Acquisition Feasibility (Single-Family Rental)

California

Conducted a comprehensive analysis of market conditions, projected rehabilitation costs, and rental income potential.

Acquisition Due Diligence (Multifamily)

Illinois

Led in-depth due diligence for an investor group, focusing on deferred maintenance, mechanical systems, and long-term operating costs.

Let’s Connect

Open to new opportunities, partnerships, or conversations around asset management and real estate strategy. Reach out below or connect on LinkedIn.

Email: 1steven.lerner@gmail.com

Phone: (312) 725-9992

Based in Chicago, IL