Profiles of local brokers and other dealmakers in commercial real estate still making a go of it despite the down market:

KEVIN SHANNON

, 50

Vice Chairman

CB Richard Ellis Group Inc., Torrance

The veteran real estate broker has spent the better part of three decades in the business, with a focus on investment sales. He is CB’s top West Coast producer for three years running.

Biggest Challenge: To convince capital to get off the sidelines. A lot of capital is trying to time the bottom. I truly believe the buyers that are stepping up today on the few deals being sold are getting great long-term value.

Notable Deals: The $73 million sale of the Ford Design Center is the second largest office sale in Orange County in 2009. The pending 2 North Lake office sale in Pasadena may be the largest in Los Angeles year-to-date when it closes in September.

Secret of Success: I do deals all over the West Coast and I think that the macroview of the capital markets is frequently an advantage. I also have a great sales team that does a great job of making me look good. This business is about hard work, teamwork, integrity and a little bit of Irish luck.

Reliable Advice: The best time to be greedy is when everyone has the most fear.

Stress Release: I’m the new president of Lunada Bay Little League, which I clearly have more time for in this current environment. I’ve been able to go to every summer ballgame and club soccer match my 9-year-old son has played in. I love taking the family to Dodger and Galaxy games as well.

Recession’s Silver Lining: I’ve gotten to spend more time with my family, which is great. I have four children, ages 9, 7, 5 and 3, so there is always plenty to do on the home front.

Recent Splurge: I haven’t cut back on any of the family indulgences, though my closing-party and limo tabs are off by over 80 percent. My office manager is rooting hard for those expenses to go up.