Real Estate Forum Podcast S3E6: David Schwartz on Waterton’s Investment Strategy

Published on November 4, 2026

Inside New York’s Biggest Real Estate Deals with Jonathan Mechanic
In this episode of the Real Estate Forum Podcast, host Raphael Sidelsky sits down with David Schwartz, Chairman and CEO of Waterton, to discuss his career in real estate, the evolution of Waterton, and the investment strategies shaping today’s multifamily market. David shares lessons from influential mentors Sam Zell and Greg Mutz, the story behind Waterton’s growth since its founding in 1995, and the firm’s expansion into hospitality. He also reflects on key investments and the importance of operational expertise, disciplined underwriting, and long-term thinking.

Looking ahead, David offers his perspective on how elevated interest rates are reshaping valuations, cap rates, and investment opportunities. He discusses why NOI growth is increasingly important in today’s market, shares his outlook on major markets including San Francisco, Chicago, and New York, and explores what it takes to navigate the next phase of the real estate cycle.

Watch on YouTube here.

Listen to the Episode

Apple | Amazon | Spotify | YouTube | Wherever you get your podcasts

The Real Estate Forum podcast is produced by The Podcast Consultant with special thanks to Executive Producer Maria Fera.

Other news

Real Estate Forum Podcast S3E5: Inside New York’s Biggest Real Estate Deals with Jonathan Mechanic

October 28, 2026
Inside New York’s Biggest Real Estate Deals with Jonathan MechanicJonathan Mechanic, Chairman of the Real Estate Department at Fried Frank and incoming Chair of the Real Estate Board of New York, joins the Real Estate Forum Podcast as the show’s first guest from the legal profession. Hosted by Raphael Sidelsky, Jonathan shares his perspective on deal-making, the evolution of New York City real est