Dawn Acevedo has built a remarkable career over the past two decades, establishing herself as a key figure in real estate and legal support. As the Managing Paralegal and Director of Business Development at
Kaplan, DiTrapani, Faria & Manin LLP, Dawn has showcased her ability to navigate complex real estate transactions with precision and strategic insight.
Her role involves guiding both attorneys and clients through detailed transactions from start to finish. Her deep understanding of cooperative transfers, purchases, and sales has made her a respected and trusted professional in New York’s dynamic real estate landscape.
Dawn is passionate about education within her field. As a
NAHREP 10 Certified Trainer, she uses her vast knowledge to educate other real estate professionals on financial literacy and wealth management, demonstrating her commitment to empowering her community.
Dawn also dedicates time to leadership and advocacy roles. Her positions, including the Director of Education for NAHREP Long Island and a member of the Regional Corporate Board of Governors, allow her to influence significant changes in industry policy and practice, aiming to boost homeownership and economic stability in Hispanic communities.
Dawn’s work goes beyond mere transactions; it is about making meaningful changes—improving practices, people, and their living environments. Her comprehensive approach ensures that clients not only find new homes but also gain insights into financial empowerment and community engagement.
What initially inspired you to enter the field of real estate and law?Dawn: What inspired me was once I saw how much I was able to assist people and serve communities in such a great way. Helping others achieve the dream of homeownership is truly a passion of mine. I have assisted buyers with their 1st coop purchase and then helped them sell to move onto a house and so on, it is beautiful to share a part of their family history.
Can you share how your role as a NAHREP 10 Certified Trainer has influenced your professional practices?Dawn: I have personally implemented all the NAHREP 10 disciplines, and it has helped me to push myself to be a life learner in all aspects. Sharing the NAHREP 10 has been wonderful in business development for me, as it allows me the opportunity to meet new people in all communities to help them with financial literacy education and building relationships, both professionally and friendships.
What are some challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?Dawn: The challenges I have faced is finding the time to do all that I want to do but the NAHREP 10 has helped me with having a strong foundation to build my business and continue on self-development as a whole.
As a Managing Paralegal and Director of Business Development, what strategies have you found most effective in developing new business?Dawn: I have learned being genuine and always doing good is never wrong. I want to see us all succeed and there is enough business out there to permit us all to do that. In business, I don’t consider anyone competition, I see everyone as someone I can collaborate with.
How do you balance the demands of your diverse roles within the real estate and legal fields?Dawn: A healthy schedule and calendaring keep me organized. I have developed strong shoulders that can carry a lot only because I have 25 years of experience in managing both a real estate law firm and a real estate brokerage. Experience gives me the advantage of knowing how to navigate and resolve all matters to get the closing done. Hence my IG and social media handle: “DawnTheCloser.” I am blessed to have the success I have and never take it for granted. I appreciate every deal entrusted to me and take referrals very seriously. My clients and referral partners that trust me know that that is not something I take lightly.
Dawn Acevedo continues to be a driving force in her field, striving to raise industry standards and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for her community. Her commitment is a testament to her dedication to service and excellence.