Jonathan Luljak
Jonathan is an associate at Michael Best & Friedrich where he is a member of the firm’s transactional practice group. In addition to advising clients on the purchase, sale and leasing of both commercial and residential properties, Jonathan drafts and negotiates construction contracts on behalf of both project owners and contractors. Another key component of Jonathan’s practice involves advising lenders in federal new markets tax credit transactions. Jonathan earned his J.D. and LL.M in Tax Law at Loyola University Chicago, and graduated with a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Jonathan was born and raised in Milwaukee where he attended Whitefish Bay High School, and currently resides in Wauwatosa with his wife, Cami, and dog, Rockwell.
6 Questions with Jonathan
Q: Which projects are you most excited about?
A: I am extremely excited about the planned development in the Milwaukee Harbor District, which will feature the new headquarters for Michels Corp. and Komatsu Mining Corp. I’ve long felt that this particular area was ripe for development and both projects will transform the under-utilized riverfront space.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant?
A: La Merenda. The menu is extremely diverse and fun to explore with a group of friends. Plus, the restaurant has one of the most relaxing outdoor patios in the city.
Q: What made you choose commercial real estate?
A: I’ve always been fascinated with city planning and development. I attended law school with this interest in mind. After focusing my legal practice in general corporate and tax law, I received an opportunity to join the real estate group at Michael Best & Friedrich where I now contribute to construction and real estate development projects throughout the City of Milwaukee, State of Wisconsin and beyond. I enjoy a great sense of accomplishment in seeing the tangible impacts my work helps to create.
Q: What is one word that comes to mind when you think of CARW?
A: Connectivity. I’ve participated in a number of CARW events in the past, and have noted the broad range of real estate professionals which CARW draws attendance from. The organization provides a tremendous platform to make new connections and build upon those I’ve already created.
Q: What is your biggest takeaway from our NextGen meetings?
A: The inspiration to continue to learn from and meet new people across the spectrum of the real estate industry. The meetings have demonstrated that professionals in each subsect of the industry can offer insights that will enhance my knowledge and skillset.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone in the world, who would it be?
A: Robin Williams. I love to laugh and he was constantly driven to brighten everyone’s day. I probably wouldn’t get much eating done, though.