Each year, Midwest Real Estate News elects the top CRE professionals into its Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. This year, we are running those profiles online, too, each Tuesday and Thursday. Here is our first, A.J. Weiner with the Royal Oak, Michigan, office of JLL.
A.J. Weiner, Managing Director JLL Royal Oak, Michigan
The biggest clients: During his real estate career of more than 20 years, JLL’s A.J. Weiner has represented a variety of Fortune 500 companies. In doing so, he’s completed transactions both domestically and around the globe. He’s also sold some of the landmark buildings in Detroit’s busy CBD. This includes the Old Wayne County, Detroit Free Press and David Stott buildings.
Weiner is also the lead leasing agent for the Grace Lake Corporate Center, Metro Area Commerce Center, Brewery Park and Detroit’s iconic Fisher Building. He has previously served as leasing agent for such notable Detroit high-rises as 150 West Jefferson, the Guardian Building and Chrysler House.
Opportunity knocks: There’s a reason why Weiner has so many Fortune 500 clients. Weiner is known for his creative approach to problems. Simply put, he works tirelessly to make sure that his clients benefit from the best real estate deals possible.
This approach has led to a steady stream of loyal clients.
When asked what he enjoys most about commercial real estate? Weiner says, “Creating opportunities and solutions. Commercial real estate is an industry that thrives on thinking ‘outside of the box,’ and I try to embrace that philosophy as often as possible.”
A love for the industry: There are plenty of additional reasons for Weiner’s success. For one thing, he’s passionate about commercial real estate. Weiner is one of the fortunate who works in a career that he loves.
“I enjoy the subject of commercial real estate,” Weiner said. “I relish discussing buildings, development, occupancy decisions, real estate statistics. The industry fascinates me, so I can easily say ‘I enjoy what I do for a living.'”
Studying: Weiner loves real estate so much, he doesn’t mind studying his craft. He considers himself a lifelong learner when it comes to commercial real estate. It’s why he ranks as one of the most knowledgeable practitioners in his market.
“I am a student of the industry and the marketplace,” Weiner said. “Amongst other traits, we are hired to be experts in our field and understand the trends of the market. To properly do so, I am always looking to learn more and refine my process.”
Out-of-office hours: In addition to commercial real estate, Weiner enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. He’s also a fan of spending some of his limited free time on the golf course.
