Avison Young expands net lease investment expertise with addition of Michael Watson as Senior Vice President in Atlanta

Atlanta, GA – Global real estate advisor Avison Young has hired Michael Watson, a net lease investment expert, as Senior Vice President in the firm’s Atlanta office. Watson brings nearly a decade of national net lease investment experience across retail, industrial, medical office, multi-tenant, sale-leaseback and zero cash flow assets. In his new role, Watson will focus on the acquisition and disposition of net lease investment properties nationwide, further strengthening the firm’s capital markets capabilities.
“Michael’s proven transaction experience, leadership background and deep understanding of the net lease landscape make him an exceptional addition to our Atlanta team,” said Brad Sinclair, Principal & Managing Director of Avison Young’s Atlanta office. “He brings the type of strategic insight and client-first mindset that aligns with Avison Young’s culture and national growth strategy.”
Watson joins Avison Young from Northmarq (formerly Stan Johnson Company), where he was instrumental in completing more than $2 billion in transactions across 43 states. Over the course of his career, he has led and supported high-performing sales teams of over 45 professionals and has consistently delivered record-setting outcomes for clients.
“Avison Young’s collaborative environment and commitment to building long-term value for clients were major draws for me,” said Watson. “I’m excited to contribute to such a dynamic team and to continue helping investors navigate opportunities across the net lease sector.”
About Avison Young
Avison Young creates real economic, social and environmental value as a global real estate advisor, powered by people. As a private company, our clients collaborate with an empowered partner who is invested in their success. Our integrated talent realizes the full potential of real estate by using global intelligence platforms that provide clients with insights and advantage. Together, we can create healthy, productive workplaces for employees, cities that are centers for prosperity for their citizens, and built spaces and places that create a net benefit to the economy, the environment and the community.
Avison Young is a 2025 winner of the Canada's Best Managed Companies Platinum Club designation, having retained its Best Managed designation for 14 consecutive years.
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