By JAMES FINK
Business First

The New York-based real estate firm of Newark Knight & Frank has been selected to help Kissling Interests find tenants for the soon-to-be-vacated Damon & Morey office space in Cathedral Place Tower.

The deal is Newark Knight & Frank's first in Buffalo, and it's one that company officials hope will open the door to future istings.

Damon & Morey occupies six floors - roughly 60,000 square feet - in the historic downtown Buffalo building. It will be moving this summer to anchor the Class A office component of the Avant building on Delaware Avenue.

"The building itself is in great condition," said John Mears, Newark Knight & Frank director. "The floors have been built out to a very high standard."

Mears and his partner, Paul Ippolito, the firm's executive vice president, said they are marketing the building to their vast network in New York City and other regions. Some interest has been generated, they added.

Despite a recessionary economy, the partners said they are optimistic that they will find a tenant, or tenants, for the space.

"Buffalo is not any tougher than any other market," Ippolito said.

"Everything is challenging right now," he added.

Encouraging sign

Anthony Kissling, Kissling Interests namesake and founder, said he is encouraged that a major New York firm would be willing to take on a project in Buffalo.

"They know of our assets including lower rents, a high quality of life and a great place to do business," Kissling said. "It wasn't a hard sell."

An advantage of bringing in Newark Knight & Frank, he said, is this: The New York firm is coming to Buffalo without any preconceived notions.

"Sometimes you need a new set of eyes and blood," Kissling said. "It's healthy."

Kissling Interests acquired the Cathedral Place Tower a decade ago. It is located at 298 Main St.