About Us

The value of commercial real estate can’t be measured in dollars and cents alone. Beyond its investment potential, it has the power to shape communities in profoundly positive ways. Getting the most out of commercial real estate, however, requires vision and guidance you can trust. At Intersection, that’s what we provide.

We’re driven by the knowledge that the value of our services ultimately boils down to trust. We’re driven to enrich the lives of those we serve and enhance the communities where we live and work. And on every front—from investments to brokerage to property management—we’re driven to do what is right (even when no one is looking). At Intersection, we are Driven by Integrity.

Core Values

Equality

We believe that everyone deserves to compete on a level playing field.

Ingenuity

We are smart enough to know that the best solution isn’t always the most obvious one.

Determination

We are passionately committed to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of our goals.

Collaboration

We inspire our fellow team members and work collectively in the pursuit of excellence.

Wisdom

We are keepers of valuable industry knowledge and purveyors of practical insight.

Stewardship

We are steadfast in our commitment to protect the financial security of those we serve.

Team

FILTER RESULTS

Rocco Cortese
CEO/Co-founder
Mark Hoekstra
President/Co-founder
Karen Joy
Executive Director
Nadir Elfarra
Director of Construction Management
Jay Arnett
Senior Director
Natalie Baylon
Marketing Manager
Willie Blocker
Director
Eric Caballero
Associate
Nick Cardoso
Field Operations Manager
Kyle Clark
Senior Director
Eric DeWees
Senior Director
Alma Espejel
Property Accountant
MJ Fagan
Associate
Dan Gagon
Real Estate Manager
Steve Gildred
Senior Associate
Cody Holt
Chief Engineer
Steven Jacobson
Senior Associate
Robert Kerr
Senior Director, CCIM, AACI
Dan McCarthy
Senior Director
Tara Moore
Analyst
Dave Mortimer
Engineer
Anton Myskiw
Associate
Ethan Okazaki
Acquisition Intern
Scott Orr
Project Manager
Carolina Rivas
Property Administrator
Jonathan Schoch
Controller
Nicole Murphy-Schuck
Senior Real Estate Manager
Alec Spencer
Senior Associate
Ray Weamer
Senior Director
Nate White
Director
Doug Zabriskie
Engineer
Henry Zahner
Senior Director

Rocco Cortese

CEO/Co-founder

Rocco Cortese, CEO/Co-Founder of Intersection, formulates, guides and maintains the company’s strategic plan, which determines its overall direction and profitability.

Rocco has been an active California real estate broker since 1987. His 35 years of experience in the industry have enabled him to navigate through the ever-changing cycles of commercial real estate and establish strong relationships with private and institutional clients.

Rocco’s commitment to continuous improvement has led him to leadership roles in Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), serving in numerous board positions and culminating in his role as President of the San Diego Chapter in the 2021/2022 fiscal year. Today he continues his service sitting on the global leadership committee for EO.

An avid Bay Area sports fan, he’s waiting patiently for another 49er Super Bowl. He is a self-described learning junkie reading books and listening to numerous podcasts about leadership and business strategies. He spends the rest of the time keeping up with his 3 children and donating time as a mentor to young entrepreneurs and college students.

He graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Business Administration.

DRE Lic. #00969957
San Diego State University
P (415) 310-1450

Mark Hoekstra

President/Co-founder

As President/Co-Founder at Intersection, Mark Hoekstra is responsible for executing the long-term plan of the organization by formulating short strategies and overseeing daily business operations. Mark has more than 35 years in commercial real estate and an intimate, working knowledge of all facets of the industry. An effective communicator and leader, he ensures that his clients and team regularly set new standards of excellence within the Intersection CRE portfolio.

Mark shares a commitment to learning and growth as he is actively involved in several commercial real estate associations and philanthropic efforts. He has served as Past President of both the USD Alumni Association and the Escondido Sunrise Rotary Club. He also serves as a member of USD’s Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate – Commercial Real Estate Committee and is a past director of the San Diego County Commercial Association of Realtors and Center City Advisory Committee (CCAC).

Most recently Mark earned his Master’s Degree in Entrepreneurial Leadership from his alma mater, the University of San Diego, where he earned undergraduate degree in Business Administration.

DRE Lic. #00950923
University of San Diego
P (619) 819-6114
M (858) 254-0690

Karen Joy

Executive Director

With more than a decade of experience in Operations, Sales, and Business Development with a demonstrated history of success at scaling large enterprises. Karen comes to Intersection bringing skills in Leadership, Operational Planning, Sales Enablement Mastery, Training, Marketing Communications Planning, and Staff Development/ Coaching. With her highly strategic, results-driven, and people-first approach, Karen is an invaluable asset to the Intersection team. In her spare time, Karen enjoys practicing meditation, traveling, and exploring new spots in town with her husband.

P (619) 239-1788

Nadir Elfarra

Director of Construction Management

Nadir oversees all construction and development activity including both ground-up and adaptive reuse projects for Intersection. His construction management experience includes over 3 million square feet of new ground-up construction, over half a million square feet of tenant improvements, and full redevelopment of both office and hotel properties, primarily in California. His acquisition due-diligence and entitlement experience spans most property types including industrial, commercial, office, multifamily, and hospitality. Nadir’s development experience includes obtaining entitlements at all levels, up to and including full environmental impact reports and parcel map creation.

University of Southern California

Jay Arnett

Senior Director

Jay brings more than 45 years of experience to Intersection’s brokerage division, specializing in commercial brokerage tenant representation and investment sales. His extensive market knowledge enables him to identify sound sales and leasing opportunities that are both value-enhancing and strategic investments. Jay is certified with the prestigious SIOR Designation representing the highest level of knowledge and ethics in the industry. Outside of work, he is an active member of the local Rotary Club and enjoys vacationing abroad.

DRE Lic. #00482177
University of California - Santa Barbara
P (619) 541-8711
M (619) 889-5710

Natalie Baylon

Marketing Manager

Natalie brings more than eight years of marketing experience, providing support to both brokerage and investment divisions through the creation of marketing materials, email campaigns, and social media strategy. She also plays an integral role in corporate marketing, leading strategic marketing initiatives to meet company business objectives. When she’s not at work, she enjoys traveling, gardening and spending time with her husband and their two dogs.

DRE Lic. #02048243

Willie Blocker

Director

With more than 32 years of experience in the real estate industry, Willie first worked on the residential side of the business, switching to commercial in 1986. He has been directly involved in the acquisition, management, operation and leasing of residential, industrial, retail and Class A office properties across the country. Now, Willie brings his expertise to the Intersection Utah team as the Director, managing the overall operations of the office. In his free-time, Willie sits on the board of directors for a non-profit orphanage in Africa. He has a passion for travel and loves to encourage others to explore the world.

DRE Lic. #5452141-PB00
Brigham Young University
P 801-932-6122
M 801-301-7780

Eric Caballero

Associate

San Diego State University Alumni, Eric Caballero has a combined 15 years in sales and marketing within the specialty wine and spirits industry. Previously, Eric managed on-premise distribution teams for major San Diego restauranteurs to build and scale their businesses. Utilizing his sales experience, Eric transitioned sectors and ventured into commercial real estate. With 5 years in multi-family leasing and experience in managing light industrial and retail, Eric is a versatile asset to Intersection’s brokerage team. Outside of work, Eric is a devoted dad to three children and enjoys coaching their youth baseball and basketball teams.

DRE Lic. #02118253
San Diego State University
P 619.239.1788
M 858.337.0135

Nick Cardoso

Field Operations Manager

An Electrician by trade with over fifteen years of commercial experience, Nick holds a current California Electrical Certification and C10 Contractors License. In addition, Nick’s construction experience has encompassed everything from roofing to foundation repairs. He has held roles as both a superintendent and project manager handling multiple construction projects simultaneously. Living an active and healthy lifestyle Nick is an avid gym goer, enjoys outside activities especially kayaking with his daughter and visiting North County’s local wineries with his wife.

P 619-636-9166
M 619-239-1788

Kyle Clark

Senior Director

During his 30-plus-year career, Kyle has completed more than $500 million in real estate sales. He continues to list an extensive portfolio of San Diego commercial properties at Intersection. Kyle engages in all aspects of commercial brokerage at the firm, representing landlords and tenants alike. A prolific sailor, he has participated in yacht races to Mexico, Hawaii, Bermuda, the Great Lakes, and more.

DRE Lic. #00867784
San Diego State University
P 619-577-4558
M 619-997-.9537

Eric DeWees

Senior Director

Eric brings more than 12 years of institutional commercial real estate experience to the Intersection platform, spanning acquisitions, development, capital raising, and investment banking. Throughout his career, he has completed over $1.4 billion of real estate transactions and he maintains broad expertise across asset classes, geographies, and risk/return profiles. As Senior Director, Eric oversees the day-to-day operations of the investment management team along with sourcing and structuring new investment opportunities for the company. Eric is an alumnus of both Ohio State University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Outside of the office, Eric enjoys running, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology
P 619.659.7675

Alma Espejel

Property Accountant

Alma handles the day-to-day financial duties across the portfolio at Intersection. She is an integral part of the Accounting Department and helps to ensure real estate services runs smoothly. Alma enjoys the outdoors and is passionate about serving in her community. She also likes traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her family.

Mesa College San Diego
P 619-503-3989

MJ Fagan

Associate

MJ comes to Intersection from a career in digital marketing. She joins a power-house team of Industrial commercial real estate experts who specialize in the North County, San Diego market.

MJ brings a unique understanding of the legal system, graduating in 2019 with her Master’s in the Study of Law from the University of Georgia School of Law. She is motivated and looks forward to focusing on tenant representation in North County Industrial deals. She has experience working directly with business owners to fulfill their needs and visions for their companies.

She was an NCAA DI National Champion and 3X All American in track and field, so she is always prepared to embrace challenges and places value on focus, attention to detail, and performance. Since hanging up her track spikes, she spends her free time catching waves over at Tourmaline Surf Park and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs football team.

DRE Lic. #02206811
University of Georgia
P 619-719-5696

Dan Gagon

Real Estate Manager

Dan is the property manager for Intersection Utah, managing the day-to-day operations of several office buildings consisting of 17+ tenants at any given time. Prior to working at Intersection, Dan has worked in various assistant property manager roles, holds experience in carpentry, and has supervised a variety of building construction projects. Outside of work, Dan explores his love for the culinary arts, enjoys biking, and spending time at the theater with his family.

DRE Lic. #5487634-AB00
P 801-822-2741
M 801-932-6126

Steve Gildred

Senior Associate

Steve graduated with a B.S. in International Relations from Stanford University and is currently attending Burnham-Moores School of Real Estate at USD. In addition to sourcing potential investment opportunities and creating investment memorandums, Steve assists the Brokerage team with various special projects. When he’s not at work or school, Steve enjoys golfing, hiking and cheering on his alma mater’s football team.

DRE Lic. #02090734
Stanford University
P 619-541-8355
M 858-395-2121

Cody Holt

Chief Engineer

Cody graduated college with an emphasis in HVAC. With 12 years of experience ranging from assistant engineer to chief engineer and many certifications in between, Cody brings well rounded experience to the team and is always encouraging others to go above and beyond expectation. Cody grew up a farmer and holds true to that lifestyle today. He participates in local stock shows and helps his children show their sheep.

P 801-932-6124

Steven Jacobson

Senior Associate

Steve has been involved in the commercial real estate industry since 2014. While attending the University of Denver, his career began with underwriting for a variety of assets in the credit department of Citywide Banks. Following graduating from the University of Denver, Steve was launched into a career specializing in office/industrial valuation at a large international firm. Since 2018, Steve has been an active office, industrial, and investment real estate advisor. Recently relocating to San Diego, Steve is excited to leverage his experience and team at Intersection to service his clients. Outside of commercial real estate, he is an active golfer, fisher, snowboarder, and aspiring surfer.

DRE Lic. #02135788
University of Denver
P 619.566.7878

Robert Kerr

Senior Director, CCIM, AACI

Robert has more than 20 years of commercial real estate experience, both in brokerage and appraisal capacities. His broad expertise offers valuable insight on both property acquisition and disposition as well as investment sales, including NNN, retail, industrial, and multi-family. Robert and his wife Collette have three college-graduated and active children and enjoy their family time watching and participating in sports and hiking.

DRE Lic. #01402162
University of Alberta
P 619-369-2400
M 858-354-5722

Dan McCarthy

Senior Director

With over 32 years of commercial real estate experience in San Diego, Dan has completed more than $800 million in leasing and sales, and built many long-standing relationships along the way. He has held listings in all sectors, with expertise in office, healthcare, and R&D. In his spare time, Dan leads the local San Diego band “Phil N The Blanks.” Keep an eye out for him at your next SDSU tailgate.

DRE Lic. #00928868
University of California Irvine
P 619-577-4557
M 619-261-3687

Tara Moore

Analyst

As an Analyst, Tara assists with the preparation of the monthly asset reports, engages in investor relations and conducts market-level research for potential investment opportunities. In her spare time, Tara enjoys hiking, indoor cycling, and playing tennis.

California State University San Marcos
P 678-206-6858

Dave Mortimer

Engineer

Dave brings vast knowledge to the Intersection Utah team as a facilities technician. Prior to joining Intersection, Dave has worked as a carpenter which led to a career in construction, specializing in plumbing and HVAC. He takes pride in his work, is very responsive and driven by integrity. In his spare time, Dave rides motorcycle and enjoys going wherever the road takes him.

Anton Myskiw

Associate

Anton joined intersection in 2018 as an Analyst on the Investment Management team. His strong understanding of portfolio and property-level valuation, as well as debt and equity markets, put a spotlight on him early in his tenure.

After graduating with honors from University of San Diego with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2017, Anton went on to complete his Master of Science in Finance (MSF) from Villanova University in 2018.

Anton’s inherent ability to communicate with clients and establish lasting relationships with prospects to drive future business, make him a strong leader and integral member of the Investment and Equities team.

In his free time, Anton enjoys playing baseball, watching soccer and trading stocks.

Villanova University
P (619)340-0977
M (602)803-6922

Ethan Okazaki

Acquisition Intern

As a current San Diego State University student, Ethan was selected for an internship with Intersection not only because of his academic performance but also his tenacious and ambitious career goals within the commercial real estate and investment sectors. Learning alongside our team of analysts, Ethan is posed to not only learn the acquisition process in its entirety but gain essential technical and soft tools he will be able to use in his future endeavors. Beyond school, Ethan enjoys skiing, spending time with friends and family, and cheering on the Padres.

Scott Orr

Project Manager

An electrician by trade, Scott brings light to his team and encourages others to do the best job possible. In previous roles, Scott worked as head electrician and assistant chief engineer and now oversees numerous projects as a licensed electrician and project manager. Scott enjoys long motorcycle trips and traveling with his wife. He is also an avid golfer and skier depending on the season.

P 801-932-6120
M 801-319-7418

Carolina Rivas

Property Administrator

Carolina recently graduated from University of San Diego with her Master’s in Business Administration. During her collegiate years, she worked as an Assistant Property Manager for a local firm in San Diego county. At Intersection, Carolina assists real estate managers with the day-to-day management of client portfolios. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, and outside of work she enjoys reading, hanging out with friends, and holds her teaching certification in Pilates.

Tecnológico de Monterrey, University of San Diego
P 619-452-3494

Jonathan Schoch

Controller

Jonathan excels at handling day-to-day financial duties for Intersection. Previously, he was a property accountant at Realty Income, where he managed monthly accruals for their portfolio as well as reconciliations of several other accounts. Over the past 5-plus years, Jonathan has run financials for investors, processed year-end financial packets for auditors, and performed technical accounting work. Jonathan is also a San Diego State graduate, go Aztecs! Born and raised in northern California he is an avid Giants and 49ers fan. He enjoys playing basketball, golf, and spending time with his family.

San Diego State University
P 619.239.1734

Nicole Murphy-Schuck

Senior Real Estate Manager

Nicole has been an emerging leader in San Diego’s commercial property management for the last decade. Her previous roles enabled her to work with a diverse portfolio of everything from small industrial parks to Class-A office buildings with over 1-million-square feet of portfolio space. Her active leadership with BOMA San Diego has helped her create strong relationships within the industry and community.  She spends her free time jewelry making and going on outdoor adventures with her dog.

DRE Lic. #01947263
P 619.541.8288

Alec Spencer

Senior Associate

Alec comes to Intersection after an Associate position for 4 years with St. Croix Capital Realty Advisors in Austin, Texas. Alec graduated with a Business Administrations degree from the University of La Verne in 2017 and has extensive experience in tenant and landlord representation for various types of commercial property.  Alec worked with local and national landlords representing 14 buildings totaling 288,866 SF throughout Austin and San Antonio and now represents 8 buildings totaling 206,230 SF across San Diego county as he returned to his home city in early 2021. Alec looks to continue his Landlord Representation and intends to help build Intersection’s Tenant Rep practice. Alec enjoys competing in Amateur Golf Tournaments to test his game and caddying for professional golfers on various Tours

DRE License #02140776
University of La Verne
P 858-354-0577

Ray Weamer

Senior Director

Ray Weamer is an industry veteran with over 40 years’ experience in the commercial real estate industry. Ray began his career in brokerage at John Burnham & Company, later joining McKellar Development of La Jolla, in the development of commercial properties, eventually leading him to the banking industry where he specialized in helping is clients secure financing through the Small Business Administration for nearly 29 years. During this time, Ray worked closely with brokers, CPA’s and relationship managers within similar fields with whom he has formed strong professional relationships.

Ray earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Real Estate from San Diego State University. He has been on the Board of the San Diego Chapter of the National Association of Office and Industrial Properties for eight years and was voted by his peers a “Top Finance Influential” by the San Diego Daily Transcript.

DRE Lic. #00559414
San Diego State University
P 619.819.6114

Nate White

Director

Nate brings more than 12 years of experience to Intersection’s brokerage division, specializing in commercial tenant representation. A recent transplant from Seattle, Washington, he has represented companies of various sizes ranging from startups to Fortune 500. Nate will have a critical role in laying the foundation for Intersection’s tenant rep practice. Outside of the office, he enjoys golfing, snowboarding, and playing the drums.

DRE Lic. #02108142
University of San Diego
P 619-880-4650
M 206-240-1060

Doug Zabriskie

Engineer

Doug is very knowledgeable in the construction industry, with over 20 years of experience as a B100 general contractor. In addition to his independent projects, he worked maintenance for the Low-Income Housing Authority. Doug has earned his title of “Jack-of-all-trades” managing numerous tasks as a facilities technician. Outside of work, he’s an outdoorsman who enjoys everything Utah’s landscape has to offer, especially if he gets to ride in his side-by-side.

Henry Zahner

Senior Director

Henry has over 30 years’ experience, specializing in Industrial properties in North County, San Diego. Henry has experience in all aspects of commercial real estate brokerage, representing clients in sale, lease, sale-leaseback, and investment transactions. Henry has completed over 650 transactions in his core market area, successfully finding solutions to his clients’ Industrial Real Estate needs.

DRE Lic. #00887367
University of San Diego
M 760-889-7943

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Do you share our values and have a talent for real estate or investment? We want to hear from you.

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