35 Facts About Steve Witkoff

Early Life and Education

Steve Witkoff's journey began in the Bronx, New York, where he was born into a Jewish family. His upbringing in Baldwin Harbor and Old Westbury shaped his early years.

1. Witkoff was born to a Jewish family in the Bronx and raised in Baldwin Harbor, New York, and Old Westbury, New York.
2. His father, Martin Witkoff, was a manufacturer of ladies' coats in New York City.
3. Witkoff earned a J.D. from Hofstra University's Maurice A. Deane School of Law.

Career Beginnings

Witkoff's career started in law, but his passion for real estate quickly took over. His early experiences laid the foundation for his future success.

4. After graduating from law school, Witkoff worked for the real estate law firm Dreyer & Traub, representing large developers and investors.
5. In 1985, Witkoff partnered with Laurence Gluck to found Stellar Management, focusing on buying and flipping properties in Washington Heights, Manhattan.
6. Witkoff and Gluck accumulated a small portfolio of buildings and expanded into lower Manhattan, purchasing several cheap office buildings.

Major Milestones

Witkoff's career is marked by significant milestones that highlight his strategic thinking and business acumen.

7. In 1996, Witkoff secured financing from Credit Suisse First Boston to purchase 33 Maiden Lane, a 27-story tower designed by Philip Johnson.
8. In 1998, Witkoff and his partner Rubin Schron purchased the historic Woolworth Building for $137.5 million.
9. Due to the collapse of the real estate market in 1998, Witkoff and Gluck dissolved their partnership, leading to the founding of the Witkoff Group.

Witkoff Group Expansion

Under Witkoff's leadership, the Witkoff Group has grown into a major player in the real estate industry, with projects across the United States.

10. The Witkoff Group expanded its portfolio to include real estate purchases in Chicago, Dallas, and Philadelphia.
11. Witkoff is currently overseeing several high-profile projects, including One Highline in Manhattan’s West Chelsea neighborhood.
12. He is also involved in the development of 700 North Miami Avenue, a transit-led residential project adjacent to Miami Central Station and Miami World Center.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Witkoff's commitment to philanthropy and community involvement is evident through his various charitable efforts and leadership roles.

13. Witkoff is involved with several charitable organizations, including the City of Hope and the Jeffrey Modell Foundation.
14. He has fundraised for the ASPCA and the Humane Society.
15. Witkoff has served on the Executive Committee for the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) and as a trustee for the Intrepid Foundation.

Personal Life

Witkoff's personal life has seen both joy and tragedy, shaping his perspective and approach to business and philanthropy.

16. Witkoff lives on the Upper East Side in Manhattan.
17. He married Lauren Rappoport in 1987, and they have three sons.
18. Their eldest son, Andrew, tragically passed away in 2011 due to an OxyContin overdose at a sober living facility in California.

Leadership and Business Philosophy

Witkoff's leadership style and business philosophy have been key to his success in the real estate industry.

19. Witkoff’s business philosophy emphasizes taking leadership positions in asset classes and markets he knows well.
20. He is known for his inventive thinking and ability to create unique partnerships that drive project success.
21. Witkoff’s success is often attributed to his ability to form strategic partnerships.

High-Profile Projects

Witkoff has been involved in several high-profile projects that have made a significant impact on the real estate landscape.

22. Witkoff’s project, The Drew Las Vegas, opened in 2022 after a significant delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
23. One of Witkoff’s notable projects is the revitalization of the historic Shore Club in Miami Beach.
24. He is developing The Park Santa Monica, a new neighborhood concept in Downtown Santa Monica that combines residential towers, retail, and public spaces.

Public Speaking and Industry Recognition

Witkoff is a sought-after public speaker and has received recognition for his contributions to the real estate industry.

25. Witkoff is a widely sought-after public speaker on trends in global real estate.
26. His insights and experiences have been featured in various industry publications and events.
27. Witkoff has held various leadership roles within the real estate industry, including serving as Chairman of the University of Miami Business School Real Estate Advisory Board.

Presidential Appointments and Special Roles

Witkoff's influence extends beyond real estate, with appointments and roles that highlight his versatility and connections.

28. In October 2019, Witkoff was honored with a Presidential appointment to the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
29. In 2024, Witkoff was appointed as Special Envoy to the Middle East by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
30. Despite lacking prior experience in diplomacy or the Middle East, Witkoff was chosen for his business acumen and close relationship with Trump.

Community Development and Historic Property Revitalization

Witkoff's projects often focus on community development and the revitalization of historic properties.

31. Many of Witkoff’s projects focus on creating holistic visions for new neighborhoods, combining residential towers, retail, and public spaces.
32. Witkoff has been involved in the acquisition and redevelopment of several historical landmarks, including the Woolworth Building and the Shore Club in Miami Beach.
33. His approach aims to inspire and inform every facet of property development.

Personal Interests and Relationships

Witkoff's personal interests and relationships have played a role in his career and public life.

34. In July 2024, Witkoff gave a speech on night four of the Republican National Convention, highlighting his close friendship with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
35. On September 15, 2024, Witkoff was playing golf with Trump at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, when a suspected assassination attempt on Trump occurred.

Steve Witkoff's Impact on Real Estate

Steve Witkoff has made a significant mark in the real estate world. From his early days as a lawyer to founding the Witkoff Group, his journey is filled with strategic moves and innovative projects. His knack for forming partnerships and his deep understanding of the market have driven his success. Witkoff's projects, like the Woolworth Building and One Highline, showcase his ability to blend historic charm with modern luxury.

Beyond business, Witkoff's philanthropic efforts highlight his commitment to giving back. His involvement with organizations like the City of Hope and the Jeffrey Modell Foundation shows his dedication to making a difference.

Witkoff's influence extends beyond his company, shaping the broader real estate industry. His legacy is one of innovation, strategic thinking, and community development. Steve Witkoff continues to inspire new generations of developers and investors.