Steve Sallen
Shareholder
Maddin Hauser
Southfield, Michigan
Steven Sallen stands as a pillar in Southeast Michigan’s commercial real estate sector, renowned for his legal acumen and unwavering dedication.
Over a career spanning four decades, he has cemented his reputation at Southfield, Michigan-based law firm Maddin Hauser, serving as President, CEO, Environmental Law Group Chair and Real Estate Practice Group Co-chair. His work is characterized by integrity, professionalism and a genuine commitment to his clients and community.
Sallen began his journey in the legal field in 1984, joining Maddin Hauser when it was primarily a boutique real estate firm. Born and raised in Southeast Michigan, Sallen has devoted his career to enhancing the region’s economic and community landscapes. His work encompasses an impressive array of accomplishments that mark his career milestones.
Prominent among these achievements is his role in assisting a real estate entrepreneur in acquiring a major shopping center. His adept negotiations led to the buyout of the existing national retailer’s lease, allowing the client’s vision to thrive with new leases secured for three national big-box retailers. Another hallmark transaction involved representing a client in ending a long-term ground lease with a regional superstore, resulting in a lucrative sale for the client and the referring broker.
Beyond transactions, Sallen has shown innovation through the development of the Commission-Safe® Marketing Program, a comprehensive system for commercial real estate brokers that enhances efficiency and effectiveness, earning widespread adoption in Southeast Michigan.
Sallen’s expertise has been fundamental in numerous landmark projects, from office buildings to retail properties and industrial parks. His meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills have helped navigate regulatory complexities and mitigate potential risks. A particularly personal and significant achievement was leading the negotiation for Maddin Hauser’s move to a new Class-A office location in 2024, an initiative that represented a new chapter for the firm after 40 years at its previous site.
Outside the realm of real estate, Sallen treasures time spent with his family. He is a proud father and a devoted grandfather, with family gatherings bringing him immense joy. Summers are spent enjoying the tranquility of their West Michigan cottage, while canoeing adventures in the Canadian wilderness with his son add an adventurous twist to his life outside the office.
Looking back on his career, Sallen attributes his success to his ethos of doing things the “right” way and fostering supportive relationships within the industry. He highlights the joy of forming friendships with a wide network of brokers, title agents, surveyors, attorneys, and clients over the years.
“The personal interactions with those I admire and respect are among the most rewarding aspects of this industry,” Sallen said.
In addressing the challenges inherent in real estate, Sallen emphasizes the importance of education and trust-building, especially with those less experienced in the field. His approach serves not only to ease transactions but also to enhance the wide-reaching respect he commands in the industry.
