As AIR CRE enters its 65th year, I am filled with optimism about the future and the significant milestone that 2025 represents in our organization’s history. This optimism is rooted in the hard work and dedication that we have collectively invested over the past few years in bringing our Members some of the most cutting-edge resources available in the industry.
Our annual Board of Directors meeting took place in mid-January, against the backdrop of the devastating wildfires that have impacted so many lives across Southern California. While the scale of this tragedy is unimaginable, the resilience, ingenuity, and unity we have witnessed from people throughout the region give me great confidence that Greater Los Angeles will not only recover but thrive in the years ahead. It is this steadfast commitment to our homes, communities, and businesses that drives us forward and reflects the spirit and determination at the heart of AIR CRE.
AIR CRE 2025 Initiatives
Our focus remains resolute in advancing the organization’s mission and delivering exceptional services and value to our Members. This year, six major initiatives are at the forefront of our efforts:
- Completion of the New AIR CRE Contracts Application
The completion and rollout of the next-generation Contracts application remains AIR CRE’s top organizational priority and will be completed in 2025. As we near the end of the development phase, we will assemble an external end-user test group to support the internal team in the testing process. Pricing models and subscription options are being finalized to meet the diverse needs of our Contracts customers, and we are excited to be able to launch this significant new resource.
- Deployment Strategy and Marketing Plan for the Contracts App
A strategic deployment plan is being developed to guide the transition to the new Contracts system. This includes a robust communication plan, targeted marketing strategies, user training programs, and support for legacy systems.
- Customization of AIR CRE Contracts for All States
We are in the final stages of this multi-year initiative, which will allow users to execute any type of commercial real estate transaction across the country, using an AIR CRE Contract. Currently, AIR CRE Contracts are available in 48 states. Wisconsin will be launched in February 2025, with Iowa and Vermont following shortly thereafter. This expansion will solidify AIR CRE’s presence nationwide.
- Marketing Plan for Out-of-State Expansion
With a focus on leveraging existing partnerships and pursuing new opportunities, our aim is to expand AIR CRE Contracts adoption throughout the US in 2025. Although the Contracts are currently used by thousands of CRE professionals across the country, we believe there is a unique opportunity for significant growth with boutique brokerages, industry newcomers, and attorneys.
- Creative Space Data Build and Roll-Out
The Creative Space dataset for West LA will be completed by mid-2025, filling a critical gap for brokers in this niche market. Once launched, this initiative will position AIR CRE as the premier resource for creative space data, with plans to expand into additional markets.
- Quarterly President’s Message
To foster greater transparency and engagement, a Quarterly President’s Message will be introduced. These updates will keep members informed about key AIR CRE initiatives, legislative changes impacting the CRE industry, highlights from recent events, previews of future events, and updates on Member benefits.
Leadership Perspective: Board of Director Updates
Welcome to Our New President
We are thrilled to introduce Natalie Bazarevitsch as AIR CRE’s 2025 President/Executive Chair. Natalie is making history as the organization’s third woman President and its first office broker in this role. With nine years on the Board and over 30 years of experience as a Senior Managing Director at CBRE, as a NAIOP Inland Empire Chapter Past-President, and as one of CBRE Women’s Network founding partners and Advisory Board Members, Natalie brings a wealth of expertise to her leadership position.
“As AIR CRE celebrates its 65th year, I am proud to lead an organization that has grown beyond being ‘by brokers, for brokers’ to one that serves everyone in CRE – ‘by brokers for everyone’. My focus is on building upon the incredible successes of my predecessors and ensuring AIR CRE remains an essential resource for commercial real estate professionals in Southern California, and with our Contracts, across the country. Together, we will continue to strengthen our network, enhance member opportunities, and uphold the standards that make AIR CRE a cornerstone of our industry.”
Natalie Bazarevitsch, CBRE
AIR CRE 2025 President/Executive Chair
Natalie’s initiatives for the year include hosting live Q&A sessions to complement the Quarterly President’s Message, expanding AIR CRE’s presence on LinkedIn to connect with Members and share exclusive content, and spearheading efforts to grow the membership base. She encourages every Member to invite a colleague to join, emphasizing how collective growth will strengthen the organization and create greater opportunities for all.
2025 AIR CRE Board Members
AIR CRE’s Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the organization’s vision and ensuring its continued success. Our Board Members are a group of distinction in the Southern California real estate industry, representing the top echelon of brokers from multinational firms like CBRE, JLL, and Cushman & Wakefield, as well as leaders of boutique and regional firms that have flourished in the industry. This diverse cross-section of talent reflects the breadth of our membership and brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to advancing AIR CRE’s mission.
Officers:
- President/Executive Chair: Natalie Bazarevitsch, CBRE
- President Elect/Long Range Planning: John McAniff
- Vice President/MULTIPLE Director: Rusty Smith, Cushman & Wakefield
- Vice President/Education Chair: Jon Reno, JLL
- Secretary/Treasurer/Budget & Finance: Casey Mungo, DAUM
Directors:
- AIR CRE>Next Chair: Rob Antrobius-Past President, Prologis
- Contracts Chair: Patrick DuRoss, Newmark
- Dispute Resolution Chair: Jim Sullivan-Past President, Gateway Business Properties
- Finance Committee Co-Chair: Justin Altemus-Past President, The Altemus Company
- Governmental Affairs Chair: Sharon Wortmann, JLL
- Marketing Chair: Nick Spatafore, CBRE
- Nominating Chair: Tibor Lody-Past President, Lee West LA
- Orientation Chair: Adam Deierling, West Harbor Capital
- Senior Advisory & Ethics Chair: I. Hassan-Past President, The Quantum Associates
- Special Events Chair – Golf, Dinner Meetings: Corey Spound-Past President, Tamarack Real Estate Services
- Technology Co-Chairs: Danielle Bray, Rexford; Jodie Poirier, Colliers
Legal Advisor:
- Advisory Member/Legal Counsel (Non-Voting): Lee Dresie, Greenberg Glusker
Looking Ahead
We extend our deepest gratitude to all current and past Board Members, Advisory Board Members, Contracts Committee Members, and the AIR CRE staff for their invaluable contributions to AIR CRE. Your dedication ensures the organization continues to thrive and adapt to the evolving needs of the CRE industry. To our Members, thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we look forward to making 2025 a year of growth, innovation, and success.
Very truly yours,
Timothy Hayes
Executive Director, AIR CRE