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Karl Finkelstein on How Appraisers Really Determine Value

Podcast

The Crexi Team

January 28, 2026

People meet reviewing building plans to calculate valuations

Karl Finkelstein shares 27 years of appraisal expertise, the importance of patience in valuation, and how tech and human insight shape CRE decisions.

The Crexi Podcast connects CRE professionals with industry insights built for smart decision-making. In each episode, we explore the latest trends, innovations and opportunities shaping commercial real estate, because we believe knowledge should move at the speed of ambition and every conversation should empower professionals to act with greater clarity and confidence.  

In this episode of The Crexi Podcast, Shanti Ryle, Director of Content Marketing at Crexi, sits down with Karl Finkelstein, VP of Marketing and Business Development at Valbridge Property Advisors. The conversation delves into Karl's impressive 27-year career in commercial real estate appraisals and his significant contributions to the field. 


Karl shares insights on the importance of patience and meticulous data verification in valuations, discusses the evolving landscape of commercial real estate in the context of new technology, and offers advice for young professionals entering the industry. Emphasizing the value of human interaction in the appraisal process and the future of the industry amidst technological advancements, the episode also highlights Karl's thoughts on the current market trends and the importance of professional development in real estate appraisal.


  • Welcome to The Crexi Podcast
  • Introducing Karl Finkelstein
  • Karl's Journey into Real Estate
  • Early Career and Appraisal Path
  • Earning the MAI Designation
  • Developing a Valuation Philosophy
  • What Valbridge Does Right
  • Advice for Aspiring Appraisers
  • Defining Valuation and Gathering Data
  • The Importance of Patience in Data Collection
  • Developing Your Appraisal "Spidey Sense"
  • Presenting the Valuation Opinion
  • The Role of Appraisers in an AI-Driven World
  • Trends in Commercial Real Estate
  • Capital Flow and Investment Opportunities
  • Rapid Fire Questions
  • Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Watch “Karl Finkelstein on How Appraisers Really Determine Value” on YouTube

About Karl Finkelstein:

Karl Finkelstein, MAI, is a seasoned real estate professional with over 27 years of experience, specializing in the appraisal of complex commercial properties. As the Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at Valbridge Property Advisors, he plays a pivotal role in redefining valuation through innovative technology and a broad network of appraisers. His leadership extends to serving on the Board of Directors and holding the prestigious MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute. 

Karl is committed to fostering client relationships nationally and internationally, leveraging his extensive background in finance and real estate. He has a strong focus on marketing initiatives and business growth, which has been instrumental in Valbridge's expansion. An active member of the appraisal community, he has previously held leadership positions, including President of the South Carolina Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. Karl's unique blend of technical expertise and strategic vision positions him as a key player in the real estate sector.

About Crexi’s Commercial Real Estate Podcast:

Crexi’s commercial real estate podcast features conversations across all aspects of commercial real estate with industry leading investors, developers, brokers, and professionals. Among the top 5% of commercial real estate podcasts, The Crexi Podcast sits down with industry experts to investigate trends, educate listeners, and uncover the latest happenings and news in the world of commercial real estate. To listen to all episodes for free, check out The Crexi Podcast's full library here.

Crexi is reimagining commercial real estate with an AI-powered platform built to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions at every stage of the deal lifecycle. From real-time data and market insights with Crexi Intelligence, to targeted property marketing and seamless deal management through Crexi PRO, and a transparent, time-bound bidding experience with Crexi Auction— Crexi enables users to evaluate opportunities, maximize exposure, and close with speed and confidence. To date, Crexi has facilitated over $1 trillion in transactions, 8.6 billion square feet leased, and supports a growing community of more than 2 million monthly active users. 

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