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VanRockCRE is making its debut on New Jersey’s commercial real estate scene, introducing a new brokerage from industry vets CJ Huter and Marc Palestina.
Midland Park-based VanRockCRE specializes in landlord representation, tenant representation, investment sales, development and property management for New Jersey clients across retail and mixed-use properties. The firm announced its launch Nov. 3.
The team brings decades of combined experience and market expertise. Both Huter and Palestina made the leap from The Goldstein Group to start the new venture.
“VanRockCRE was born from the vision of seasoned professionals who recognized the need for a more focused and results-driven approach to retail sales and leasing in New Jersey,” Huter said. Both he and Palestina serve as founding principals of the new firm.
The VanRock team says it has collectively completed more than 2,000 transactions. That roster represents more than 10 million square feet of sold or leased real estate. It also exceeds $1.5 billion in lifetime deal volume.
That vast experience and understanding of the local market allows the firm to deliver strategic solutions for property owner, retailer or investor clients. “Our passion for commercial real estate and dedication to delivering exceptional results define who we are,” Palestina said. “VanRockCRE represents not just a new firm, but a renewed standard of service and execution in New Jersey’s commercial real estate landscape.”
Team closeup
Huter brings 24-plus years of retail-focused sales, leasing and development expertise. Most recently, he served as vice president at The Goldstein Group. He joined that Paramus-based retail real estate services leader in 2008.
To date, Huter has led more than $800 million in transaction volume. Additionally, he’s closed over 10 million square feet of retail transactions across New Jersey and the surrounding region, according to VanRock.
Palestina most recently also served as vice president at The Goldstein Group. He joined that firm in 2016. Palestina has successfully completed more than $500 million in deal volume as well as 6 million square feet in retail transactions, VanRock said. He offers deep expertise in representing quick-service restaurants, medical tenants, financial institutions, large-format dining concepts and big-box retailers.
In July, the pair were part of the team representing the seller in the disposition of River Road Shopping Center in Fair Lawn.
VanRock did not immediately return a request for comment on the decision to exit The Goldstein Group or for additional details regarding the new business.
Palestina celebrated the launch on LinkedIn Nov. 3. “In this business, nothing is given. You start from the ground up, no handouts, and you have to earn every client, every deal, every bit of trust. I’m proud of where I started, proud of where I am, and excited to bring VanRockCRE to life,” he wrote.
