Nailah Flake

Describe the past 12 months in one word, then tell us the key lending opportunities you and your team have uncovered.

Progress. In the last 12 months, we have seen movement from a period of economic uncertainty and interest rate volatility to one of opportunity, with real estate fundamentals improving and the capital markets stabilizing. The prospects for creative financing solutions have increased meaningfully, and because of that we will continue more deal activity.

Are rate cuts the silver bullet the industry has been waiting for to solve all woes? 

There are no silver bullets. Rate cuts would ease some pressure, improve deal flow, increase transaction volumes, and generally support overall market stability. However, regardless of where rates are, underlying real estate fundamentals and a healthy economy are necessary to limit ongoing volatility.

How long will nonbank lenders continue to take increased market share? 

Nonbank lenders will continue to gain market share in the foreseeable future as traditional banks scale back direct commercial real estate lending due to capital constraints, regulatory oversight and other factors.

Alternative lenders will continue to be active, often working with the banks to offer innovative financing options, and that won’t end soon.

How does distress continue to play out in 2025, and how can lenders best protect themselves? 

Recovery still lags in certain markets and in certain asset classes. As an owner/operator, how we protect ourselves doesn’t change: local market expertise, hands-on asset management and thorough due diligence. That recipe works in all markets.

Who lent you your very first buck, and what was it for?

My parents. In high school, I was all about snagging the latest kicks and built up a seriously impressive sneaker collection. My parents would spot me the cash, but I had to pay it back with my allowance.

Tell us about a deal you’re especially proud of this past year.

We are in the process of closing on a loan portfolio purchase from a regional bank. This is a large and complex transaction that highlights several of Brookfield’s competitive advantages: access to substantial capital from diverse sources, speed and certainty in execution, and the ability to leverage the full depth and breadth of our organization to underwrite multiple assets across various geographies. We aim to deliver seamless and reliable execution for our clients.

Lightning Round:

If I could lend money to one person in the world, it would be…

Not a good quarter!

AI: Helpful or fad?

Helpful.

Celebrity you’re sometimes compared to?

Gina Torres (Jessica Pearson on “Suits”).  

How many days are you in the office today?

Five. 

 Pick a movie remake: “Beetlejuice” or “Twisters”? 

“Twisters.”

Pref equity or mezz?

Mezz. 

Class B office: Tear down and start over, or convert?

Convert if you can. Hard to do.

 Song title that encapsulates your current mindset?  

“Survivor” by Destiny’s Child.

Dream dinner date?

Denzel.