David Kazaros is an experienced real estate investment strategist who brings a consultative approach to portfolio optimization, balancing aggressive growth with calculated risk management. Drawing on his extensive experience as an asset manager with Alto Real Estate, David Kazaros introduced predictive analytics and efficiency models that dramatically reduced operational costs while maximizing asset performance. His ability to align cross-functional teams toward common business objectives resulted in exemplary compliance records and enhanced stakeholder value across more than 2.5 million square feet of industrial space.
Mr. Kazaros honed his entrepreneurial mindset during his time as a land acquisition manager, where he developed innovative approaches to identifying high-potential land parcels. By building strategic relationships with community stakeholders and government agencies, he facilitated the acquisition of over 1,500 lots.
While serving in positions at Ellis Creek and LNR Partners, Mr. Kazaros processed over 200 CMBS loans and closed approximately $295 million in transactions. This experience provided him with uncommon insight into market cycles and risk assessment that informs his current advisory approach to real estate investment.
A licensed Florida Real Estate Broker, Mr. Kazaros holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Central Florida. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys strength training and traveling.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
Every day is different. I like to start early with a little exercise. I like to read current news via social media and review national articles. I like to make my weekly calls with local colleagues and clients.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I enjoy sharing ideas with relationships in the industry. I typically write it down and then approach it with a SWOT analysis and then present it to others for another point of view before moving towards a decision.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I am currently studying AI. I am also excited about the opportunities that nuclear power provides for the future.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I like to wake up early and believe physical exercise and good diet help me to start the day. I then like to go over the day prior to review what went well and what could have been performed better.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Patience and keep picking yourself up when you don’t quite make the wanted results. Always listen more than talk because you can learn something from everyone.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
Dennis Rodman was one of the best to play the game. A lot agree he was good defensively, but he provided more in my opinion.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I believe physical exercise early in the morning is a benefit. I also believe that a mid-day break is needed to complete the day.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I like to go for a long walk to clear my head. I also call on prior mentors if an issue becomes too difficult.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
I believe in persistence, respect, and asking questions to make sure that all parties are aligned. I always try to stay positive when something doesn’t work or told “no” and look for a creative solution to resolve the problem. I want to look at a problem from the perspective of the other sides and figure out a solution.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my career, I spoke ill of someone and to this day I regret it. I apologized to them and to this day want to be respectful of everyone I meet.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I typically use Excel and Argus to underwrite properties quickly. I believe time is of the essence in CRE. The software helps me review a property or client quickly to provide my opinion.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I have several books and podcasts that I enjoy. The book Greenlights and Can’t Hurt Me are books I relate to. I also enjoy the Joe Rogan and Huberman Lab podcasts, because I believe I pick up something new from them all the time.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently finished the Apple TV series Your Friends & Neighbors. It demonstrates a man’s resilience and loyalty to his family.
Key learnings
- Healthy relationships are the key to life—show respect to everyone.
- Persistence, resilience, creativity, and diverse perspetives are building blocks for bringing ideas to life, developing solutions, and advancing your career.
- Seeking insight and advice from others fosters knowledge, personal growth, better relationships, and stress management.