Michael Testa
As a Property Manager and Commercial Leasing Agent with Wangard Partners, Inc., Michael provides first-class management services to Freshwater Plaza and Avenir Apartments, implements commercial leasing activities and participates actively in the new development process. Mike manages leasing, tenant build-outs, and property operations, as well as partners with local organizations in order to stay on top of what’s happening within the communities he serves. He is a graduate of Marquette University with a dual degree in Commercial Real Estate and Marketing and began working for Wangard Partners as an intern. After implementing successful lease-up activities at four properties, he moved up the ladder to his current roles. He is affiliated with REALM (Real Estate Alumni of Marquette), Marquette University’s mentorship program, and was recently awarded the Best On-site Property Manager of the Year Award at the 2017 AOMA TOBY Awards and was one of IREM’s 30 under 30 for 2018.
6 Questions with Michael
Q: Which projects are you most excited about?
A: I’m obviously biased here – but I’m really excited about a few of the projects we are working on at Wangard right now. Our office development at 507 S 2nd Street in Walker’s Point is an existing building that offers so much character and class – it’s going to be such a great catalyst for that neighborhood. Brady & Water condos are exciting too – MKE hasn’t seen a significant condo development like this in 15+ years! Aside from Wangard projects, I’m excited about projects like HUB640, the new BMO Tower, and the Grand Avenue renovation. There is a lot of change going on in Milwaukee right now and it’s incredible to be a part of it.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant?
A: I’ve got a lot of favorites, it depends on my mood! MoMo Mee in Walker’s Point has unbelievable dumpling and noodle dishes, Screaming Tuna has killer sushi, and Fuel Café has this incredible chicken and French toast that I can’t get enough of. That being said, the Italian in me can’t deny that the pasta flights at Dorsia on Brady Street are some of the best dishes in town.
Q: What made you choose commercial real estate?
A: The CRE program at Marquette has had 100% job placement for 9 years straight now, it was only 3 when I made the decision, but it sounded interesting and like it could get me a job, so I picked it up as a second major my Junior year. After my intro to real estate class with the infamous APC, I was hooked!
Q: What is one word that comes to mind when you think of CARW?
A: Influential. I feel that CARW is a strong group as a whole, but is also made up of a lot of very powerful people within our community. We have the ability to make decisions that can change the landscape of this city and influence development for the significant future.
Q: What is your biggest takeaway from our NextGen meetings?
A: It’s great to hear from professionals who have been around for 30-40 years – they offer insights as to how the industry has changed and where it might be going, as well as different perspectives on our industry and the way deals are put together. It’s very interesting to hear how they have adapted and overcame obstacles over the years.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone in the world, who would it be?
A: Donald Trump – all politics aside, I think he’s a very interesting individual. He’s a strong personality and thinks outside of the box to find creative solutions, though isn’t without his flaws. I’d love to pick his brain to see what makes him tick. Also, I love Big Macs.