Meet The Next Generation of Leaders in MAREJ’s 30 Under 30: Justin Breslin

Justin Breslin | Vice President | Breslin Realty Development Corp.
Years with company/firm: 6 Years
Years in field: 6 years
Years in real estate industry: 6 Years
Real estate organizations/affiliations: ABLI, LIBI, LIREG, ICSC

In my first year out of undergrad, I joined the Breslin Organization which has for over 69 years been Long Island’s premier retail developer and brokerage. Seeing the tides of change in the retail world with the continuing rise in e-commerce, I successfully managed to lead a pivot along with David Orwasher, Chief Development Officer at Breslin into the multifamily world.

What is your most notable project, deal, or transaction?

My most notable project has been the development of the 201-unit Transit Oriented Development, formerly the Feather Factory in Lynbrook, NY.

How do you contribute to your company and/or the industry?

My biggest contribution to my company has been my ability to bring in new and fresh ideas to a company that has been very successful in doing the same thing for 69 years.

Who or what has been the strongest influence in your career?

The strongest influence in my career has definitely been my grandfather, Wilbur F. Breslin. He is a pioneer in the retail real estate industry on Long Island and at 95 years old is still successfully running our company on an everyday basis. Wilbur has taught me some of his most important philosophies and strategies that have made him the success he has been over his career.

What impact has social media/networking had on your career?

Social Media has been a great tool. Its ability to increase my reach and audience is only expanding the company’s business opportunities.

Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in, about your current position and why you choose the field/profession you are in today?

I began working in the Commercial Real Estate world as soon as I graduated from college, at 21 years old. I graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor of Science in Community, Environment and Development, with a focus on Economic Development. While working at Breslin Realty, I completed my law degree at Hofstra University, and was admitted to the New York State Bar in March of 2022. I had always planned on being the third generation at Breslin Realty, so the decision was easy.

What were some of your early goals and did anything happen to change them?

My early goal was to become the very best real estate professional I could be. After working as a licensed salesperson, I learned how hard the job could be, and I thought that a legal education could enhance my understanding of the real estate business.

What unique qualities and or personality do you feel makes you most successful in your profession?

Patience. Not many people in today’s world have the requisite patience needed in the Real Estate business. In today’s world everything is instant gratification. The Real Estate business is not like that, it takes both patience and perseverance to be successful in this industry.

What challenges and or obstacles do you feel you needed to overcome to become as successful as you are today?

Being the third generation in a real estate family I feel it’s important to distinguish myself from other generations. My goal was to introduce the family business to a new multifamily product.

What was the most defining moment for you?

The most defining moment of my career so far has been the final approvals related to the construction of a 201-unit multifamily project – The Langdon in Lynbrook, NY. Six years ago, the project was a dream with potential experienced partners thinking it would never get done. Today, those same would-be partners are now calling to get involved in our next multifamily project.

Who do you feel was most influential in your life when choosing this profession?

My grandfather, Wilbur Breslin. Seeing his legacy and all the work he has done sets the standard for me to strive for.

What outside activities do you enjoy during you free time?

During my free time, I mostly enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I grew up playing competitive hockey, and still enjoy playing recreationally, as well as tennis and golf.

What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young executive graduating from college?

Don’t be afraid. Use your twenties to explore.