Rob Karin, New York Mastermind Group co-champion and partner at Davis & Gilbert, sparked discussions on recent commercial real estate hot topics. The Amazon buy of Whole Foods drew speculation that the Internet giant is ramping up its online grocery presence with brick-and-mortar locations in a bid to take on #1 U.S. grocer Wal-Mart. The increase in mobility and flex time options is impacting the design and size of office space as well as trends on the nature of work and collaboration. The shrinking of conglomerates was another topic following the announcement of GE’s downsizing.

Guest Michael Zeldes, senior vice president at HUB International Northeast, kicked off a discussion on the complexities of insurance to meet various real estate scenarios. Members also focused on new and potential hotspots for the mixed use and residential markets. Areas to watch ranged from Queens along the No. 7 subway line’s express stops; the gentrification of older Westchester County areas like Yonkers and the conversion of former river front industrial properties to residential in Hudson River towns like Tarrytown; and the resurgence of old upper Manhattan neighborhoods of Inwood, Washington Heights and Morningside Park for affluent down-sizing empty nesters. The trend to GO SMALL was also discussed: (1) the downsizing of bank properties in favor of ATMs; (2) tiny, ship-like studio apartments for single Millennials; (3) sleek Euro-style hotels with smaller guest rooms and more amenities; and (4) smaller offices with shared work space to induce collaboration.