Northmarq expands Pacific Northwest Investment Sales platform with addition of SVP RJ Vara and team

SEATTLE (Oct. 22, 2025) — Northmarq is pleased to announce the addition of RJ Vara as senior vice president of Commercial Investment Sales, further expanding the firm’s presence across the Pacific Northwest. Based in Seattle, Vara will lead Northmarq’s office and industrial investment sales practice in the region, joined by a seasoned team of professionals who bring deep market experience and client relationships.

“RJ and his team represent the next chapter of our strategic growth,” said Sean Tufts, managing director of Commercial Investment Sales. “His leadership, client focus and track record across the office and industrial sectors make him an ideal fit for Northmarq. We’re excited to welcome RJ and his team as we continue to build a best-in-class Investment Sales platform nationwide.”

Vara specializes in advising clients on the acquisition and disposition of office and industrial assets throughout the Pacific Northwest. His experience spans a broad range of ownership profiles including private capital, family offices, owner-operators, institutions and developers. Known for his data-driven approach and collaborative client service, Vara brings a consultative perspective informed by his background in commercial lending, private equity and EB-5 investment.

“What drew our team to Northmarq is the culture and momentum you can feel throughout the company,” said Vara. “It’s rare to find a firm where collaboration, respect and innovation truly drives performance. Northmarq’s privately held structure and national platform give us the freedom to focus entirely on clients, and the leadership is committed our success.”

Prior to joining Northmarq, Vara led the office and industrial practice at Marcus & Millichap, where he served as managing director for six years and was consistently recognized among the firm’s top five office and industrial brokers nationwide. His multifaceted background enables him to approach each assignment from the vantage point of all involved stakeholders, ensuring innovative and results-oriented strategies. 

Vara is joined at Northmarq by his Seattle-based team, including:

• Matt Herman, Associate Vice President.
• John Marks, Associate Vice President.
• Mike Babicz, Associate Vice President.
• Jack Hinchcliffe, Associate.
• McKinnon Smith, Associate.