14B — October 2025 — Women in Business — M id A tlantic Real Estate Journal
www.marej.com
W omen in B usiness
B Firm expands presence into Hudson County, NJ Mandelbaum Barrett PC adds Hockstein as partner AYONNE, NJ — Man- delbaum Barrett PC , headquartered
continued from page 2B Kristen Wolansky, Director . . .
more supportive work environ- ments, which lead to greater risk taking, enhanced personal development, and ultimately better outcomes, especially in sectors like environmental planning and real estate de- velopment. While structural obstacles remain, the growing presence and solidarity among women professionals continue to reshape these industries in meaningful ways. CREW NJ epitomizes a support network for women real estate profes- sionals that provides a great platform for showcasing exist- ing and emerging talent and one of the many reasons why serving on the CREW NJ board has been so rewarding. Do you feel there are any differences in the way that men and women develop business relationships and if so, what activities or ven- ues do you participate in? In my experience, I have observed that men and women often develop business rela- tionships through distinctly different approaches and social settings. I tend to build con- nections with men through activity-based networking, such as golf outings, mountain bik- ing, or sporting events, where business is discussed in shorter, more transactional bursts dur- ing shared experiences. In contrast, I find that women are more likely to foster business relationships through intimate, conversation-focused settings like wine tastings, yoga or pi- lates classes, where dialogue tends to be more in-depth and personal. These conversations often extend beyond business to include topics such as family, health, and personal well-being, creating a deeper personal con- nection. I think that both styles are effective, and is by no means a one size fits all, so initial meet - ings are important in determin- ing what method/s is going to be the most effective way to make a connection. I have noticed that in general, gender tends to reflect differing values in re - lationship-building—men often prioritize efficiency and shared interests, whereas women typi- cally emphasize trust, mutual understanding, and emotional intelligence. Having the ability to recognize and navigate both of these styles has definitely contributed to my network- ing and relationship building success. MAREJ
stumbled into this career—but I genuinely don’t think I could have chosen a better path. De- spite the stress and challenges that come with the territory (and there have been plenty!), I thoroughly enjoy what I do. I believe the key to a successful career isn’t just hard work—it’s finding something you enjoy that pushes you to grow. What unique qualities and/or personality do you feel makes you most suc- cessful in your profession? Being true to myself has been instrumental in my suc- cess, even when my qualities didn’t always align with tradi- tional expectations of women in business. I’m naturally competitive, driven, decisive, and fiercely independent—with a strong sense of conviction, sharp sales instincts, and yes, the occasional foul mouth. These traits, while not always considered “typical” for women, are who I am at my core. The turning point came when I stopped trying to soften or hide these aspects and instead focused on channeling them in a more positive and profes- sional way. By doing so, I’ve been able to create meaningful impact and achieve outcomes I’m truly proud of. I’ve learned that success doesn’t come from changing who you are, but from identifying and elevat- ing your best qualities. People respond to authenticity—it’s what builds trust, respect, and lasting relationships. Do you feel being a wom- an is an advantage, disad- vantage or no advantage in today’s business world? Why? Why not? Being a woman in the en- vironmental and real estate sectors comes with both ad- vantages and challenges. On one hand, women often face limited access to C-suite posi- tions, which can hinder their credibility and reduce opportu- nities to engage with high-level decision-makers or influential counterparts. This underrep- resentation at the top not only results in salary differentials, but can also create barriers to advancement and industry impact. However, women in these fields also bring valuable strengths—empathy, collabo- ration, and a strong willingness to support one another. I have found these traits tend to foster
builds physical spaces and the other builds digital spaces that shape brands. Together, they’ve given me a broader perspective as a leader and strategist who helps others turn ideas into reality. What unique qualities and/or personality do you feel makes you most suc- cessful in your profession? My love for business - the strategy, the relationship building, and the ability to bring ideas to life has always driven me. Coupled with my passion for technology and innovation, I’m constantly inspired by how new tools and fresh concepts can transform the way we work and connect. I bring a unique blend of corporate and entrepreneurial experience, with expertise in both commercial real estate and digital marketing. This combination gives me a well- rounded perspective that al- lows me to view business from every angle. I’m equally com- fortable and enjoy analyzing data as I develop strategies, which helps me guide clients toward measurable, sustain- able success. Founding Hockstein Law in 1996, Hockstein focuses her practice on both commercial and residential real estate transactions. On the residential side, she handles hundreds of real estate closings per year in the purchase and sale of real property that includes condominium units, single and multi-family homes, and rental and investment properties. Her extensive experience and trusted counsel to our real estate team. It’s a natural step in our firm’s commitment to delivering top-tier legal services across New Jersey.” According to the City of Bayonne, new apartment buildings in the city are leas- ing up within four months of getting their CO’s. Further, a study by the city also re- vealed that Bayonne’s overall residential occupancy rate is currently 94.6%.
At the heart of it all is my commitment to making a difference, helping people, building relationships, and delivering results with preci- sion, care, and purpose. What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young woman about to go into the field of com- mercial real estate or your allied field? Network, build relation- ships, never stop learning, and dive in. Experience will be your best teacher, and the relationships you build along the way will be the foundation of your success. Commercial real estate, like many industries, can feel intimidating at first. However, when you believe in yourself, surround yourself with the right people, and go all in, you won’t regret it. The world and the market are constantly changing, yet you will acquire an advantage when you un- derstand the market, adapt when necessary, and build genuine relationships. Above all, be intentional about how you show up and al- ways lead with integrity. MAREJ commercial real estate practice supports clients in the acquisi- tion and sale of investment properties, as well as mixed- use, industrial, and warehouse buildings. She is also frequent- ly retained to represent borrow- ers, developers, and purchasers to handle complex transactions, including construction loans and refinancing. “Mandelbaum Barrett’s ex- pansion into Bayonne under- scores the Firm’s commitment to meeting the legal needs of individuals, families, and businesses in Hudson County by providing comprehensive counsel across more than 30 practice areas. The Bayonne office marks a significant mile - stone in Mandelbaum Barrett PC’s ongoing growth, reinforc- ing its presence in one of New Jersey’s most dynamic and diverse communities,”. said Mandelbaum Barrett CEO
in Roseland, NJ, has an- nounced that Linda J. Hockstein , a respected H u d s o n County real estate at- torney and
Linda J. Hockstein
and connecting with profession- als in the industry. Through that process, I gained a tre- mendous amount of knowl- edge about real estate, the importance of informed deci- sion-making, and having the right people in your corner. That experience changed everything for me. It sparked a passion to help others avoid the same obstacles I faced and to empower them to make confident, informed choices. Combined with my love for business and my drive to guide others toward success, I discovered that commercial real estate was the perfect fit, a field where I could turn vision into reality and make a mean- ingful impact along the way. Over time, that same passion for growth and transforma- tion carried into my work as the Founder and CEO of Epic Transformation, a social media agency. While commercial real estate and digital strategy may seem like different worlds, they both require vision, creativity, and a deep understanding of people and business. Each complements the other as one According to Mandelbaum Barrett PC Chairman and long-time Real Estate Part- ner Barry R. Mandelbaum , “This expansion of our prac- tice into Hudson County al - lows us to better serve clients in a growing and dynamic market, while adding Linda’s founder of Hockstein Law , has joined the firm as a part - ner and will continue to work out of her Bayonne, office lo - cated at 660 Broadway.
continued from page 2B Birdia Chambers, Advisor at eXp Commercial . . .
Kristine B. Hurlbut, Senior VP, Leasing at Denholtz . . .
Sarah Finney Miller, Senior VP . . . perspective, and presence mat- ter much more than you realize. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and support your growth. Learn everything you can, stay curious, and don’t shy away from the room just because you might be the only woman in it. Walk in knowing you belong and never let anyone make you question that. MAREJ continued from page 12B
I enjoy volunteering because helping others gives me a sense of fulfillment. My dog and I are therapy certified, and I love volunteering with her. I also support causes like Toys
for Tots, shopping year-round so I can donate the toys during the holidays. When I retire, I hope to expand this commit- ment to community service into my second career. MAREJ
continued from page 2B every task is done to the best of my ability. What outside activities do you enjoy during you free time?
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