Realty Speak

In this powerhouse episode of Realty Speak, I sit down with George Fontas and Frank Ricci of Fontas Advisors - two experts who've helped shape and navigate New York's most complex political and regulatory landscapes. We break down how public affairs strategy, political relationships and coalition-building directly influence real estate development, rent regulation and housing policy in NYC. George shares how he built Fontas Advisors into a trusted partner for zoning, lobbying and alliance-building. Frank reflects on decades of hands-on experience, from co-founding SPONY to advocating through the RSA and NYAA. This one's packed with real stories, sharp insights and must-hear takeaways for anyone who owns, manages, or influences housing in New York.

In this dynamic start to 2025, Amanda Gerome, CEO of A+ Electric, joins me as co-host for this special episode of Realty Speak. Together, we welcome Sadie McKeown, President of The Community Preservation Corporation, to discuss electrification and other critical upgrades driving the transformation of NYC buildings toward greater affordability and sustainability. Our engaging conversation delves into the challenges of complying with local laws like Local Law 88, uncovers how to unlock available rebates and offers actionable project and financing strategies for property owners pursuing sustainability for their buildings, both large and small. As a rising leader in the electrical industry, Amanda adds a fresh and insightful perspective, while Sadie brings invaluable expertise in affordable financing, grants and sustainability when collaborating with all stakeholders. And just when you think the conversation couldn't get more captivating, Amanda introduces a creative twist you won't want to miss.

As we say goodbye to 2024, this conversation weaves together the inspiring thoughts our guests shared at the close of each episode we had this year. Then, I add my own thoughts to the mix - words I composed before creating this year-end message. It all comes together as a shared hope for an even brighter 2025 and beyond. Enjoy! Wishing you and yours an amazing New Year celebration!

In this timely episode of Realty Speak, I'm joined by Guest Host Josh Blackman, CEO of Brownstone Property Group and Greg Krueger, SVP of LEW Environmental Services. Together, we dive headfirst into NYC's lead paint regulations, cutting through the noise to give you the straight facts on what you need to know. We cover everything from the looming August 9th, 2025 compliance deadline to how XRF lead paint testing is reshaping the way property owners approach lead paint compliance. What's the real difference between lead-free and lead-safe - lead abatement and lead remediation? We've got you covered. Whether you own, manage, or invest in properties, this episode is packed with actionable advice on avoiding penalties and protecting your building occupants.

In this special episode of Realty Speak, the tables are turned as I step in as a guest on Inside R&E, the podcast from the real estate law firm Rosenberg & Estis, P.C., hosted by Justin Weitzman. Justin and I dive into the critical topic of Local Law 152 - Periodic Inspection of Gas Piping Systems, focusing on what Coop and Condo Boards, building owners, and property managers need to know during the second 4-year compliance cycle, which began on January 1, 2024. We explore the fundamentals of the law, how to effectively prepare for inspections and the common challenges that stakeholders face along the way. I also offer key insights on upcoming legislative changes that will impact which inspection observations may no longer pose issues, as well as how buildings with commercial spaces could see an expanded scope in their inspections.

In the fast-paced world of New York City real estate, keeping up with the ever-changing local laws is more than just a challenge—it's a necessity. Don't get caught off guard! Join us as Adam Batista and John Longo from Prise lead us through NYC's most critical regulations, including lead paint safety, gas piping inspections, parapet and parking garage inspections. But that's not all—climate change expert Marc Karell makes a special appearance to shed light on the latest climate laws and what they mean for your buildings. This episode is your essential roadmap to staying compliant and ahead of the curve in NYC's complex regulatory landscape. Tune in now to safeguard your investments and ensure your buildings are safe today and ready for the future.

Get ready for an electrifying episode as we unpack New York City's ambitious "City of Yes" initiative! Hear from Rob Holbrook, Executive Director of the Get Stuff Built initiative for NYC Mayor Eric Adams. Rob outlines the ambitious plan to generate 500,000 housing units over the next decade, addressing the housing crisis and the initiative's innovative zoning reforms. Discover how these changes will open new doors for businesses and rejuvenate NYC's commercial landscape. Adding to the excitement, we have Sarah Levinson of L+M Development Partners and David Court of VHB. Sarah dives into the benefits of carbon-neutral buildings and shares insights into the Arverne East project, highlighting its role as New York City's first Net Zero community. She discusses the development's focus on sustainability, affordability, and community engagement. David emphasizes the importance of strategic public-private partnerships and how these collaborations are key to advancing projects in the complex NYC built environment. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of New York City's initiatives for Carbon Neutrality Opportunity, Economic Opportunity, and Housing Opportunity, and how YOU can help make this a reality! All Realty Speak episodes are also available on SPOTIFY, Apple Podcasts, and all Android podcast apps.

In this captivating episode, Robert Levine, the visionary founder and CEO of RAL Companies, who is renowned for transforming New York City's skyline with iconic developments like Brooklyn's Quay Tower, shares his extraordinary journey from launching an innovative architectural firm in 1979 to becoming a present-day real estate luminary. Robert captivates us with tales of development in New York City, ambitious mountain and resort projects in Vail and Telluride, and the audacious conversion of a commercial barge into a luxury river cruise vessel in France, all while often navigating economic turbulence. Don't miss this riveting conversation filled with dramatic insights and bold strategies from one of real estate's most dynamic leaders.

Has the recent 24/25 New York State budget brought significant changes to housing laws? Absolutely! Ann Korchak, President of SPONY, leads a riveting webinar, unpacking these crucial updates with attorney Craig Gambardella from Kucker Marino Winiarsky & Bittens, LLP. Together, they dissect the latest amendments to the rent stabilization law, highlighting the increased allowances for Individual Apartment Improvements (IAIs). They also delve into the newly enacted Good Cause Eviction (GCE) legislation, exploring its far-reaching implications for non-stabilized/market-rate apartments. But this webinar goes beyond mere explanations. Ann and Craig equip landlords with actionable strategies to navigate these legislative changes. From mastering lease renewals to efficiently managing month-to-month tenancies, they offer invaluable insights to help property owners remain compliant and sidestep legal pitfalls.

Join us in the pulsing heart of Times Square, Manhattan, for a special Fair Housing Month episode with Neil Garfinkel, a leading authority on fair housing and the managing partner at the law firm of Abrams Garfinkel Margolis Bergson. Neil dives deep into the essential facets of fair housing laws, highlighting their pivotal role across the real estate spectrum and offering a guide to navigating these laws for the promotion of equality and fairness in housing. Explore the significant impact of these laws on real estate professionals, tenants, and property owners. Delve into the history and gain insights from Neil's perspective on how updates to certain systems could shape the future of fair housing. By tuning into this concise yet thorough exploration of fair housing laws, you'll not only expand your understanding but also grasp the severe personal, professional, and financial repercussions that can arise from a lack of knowledge. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their comprehension of this vital topic and safeguard against the potential pitfalls of non-compliance.

Has the leading NYC real estate law firm Kucker, Marino, Winiarsky & Bittens taken action against NY Housing Court delays? Yes, it has! Three of the firm's partners, Nativ Winiarsky, Craig Gambardella, and Eric McAvey, are challenging the status quo with this groundbreaking lawsuit. Together, they offer an insider look at their fight for swift justice in NYC's Housing Court. Beyond dissecting systemic flaws, they share groundbreaking insights and propose reforms that promise a fairer future for all stakeholders. Don't miss this deep dive into a battle for justice that could reshape New York's real estate landscape

Delve into the inspiring journey of Anthos|Home with Laura Lazarus, as she reveals the driving force behind this mission-driven organization she co-founded with Leslie Abbey. Their mission? To tackle the challenges faced by property owners and rental voucher holders head-on, crafting innovative solutions that can revolutionize the landscape of affordable housing. Joined by Courtney Nelson, VP of Housing Acquisition, they debunk common myths, offering a fresh perspective on this frequently misunderstood topic. Get ready for a transformative experience - a paradigm shift in your understanding of vouchers that will not only tug at your heartstrings but will ignite a desire in you as a building owner to be part of the Anthos|Home mission.

Whether you are a NIMBY or a YIMBY, you'll still agree that increasing the options for housing, hospitality, entertainment, historical exhibits and open space will economically stimulate a local economy. Enter Freedom Plaza, a visionary project by the Soloviev Group, spearheaded by Stefan Soloviev, Chairman, and CEO Michael Hershman. Just south of the United Nations on the East River in Manhattan, Freedom Plaza, would not only generate quite a pot of money for NYC and NY State but add much needed rental housing of which 38% will be affordable. Bonus? It would pay for and support itself while providing many other perks for the local community. Enjoy this candid conversation with Michael on episode 50 of Realty Speak.

Lindsay Liu of Super Software joins Realty Speak as my co-host with City University of New York Building Performance Lab Project Manager Jim Lane as our guest. We talk about the impending enforcement of the NYC climate laws and how this will impact all buildings across the state and city. After listening you will have a better understanding of what to expect around your particular situation. You'll also know what resources are available to you and how you, as an individual, a building owner, a building manager or a member of a condominium or a cooperative board can be part of the solution to climate change.

After a 7 month break Realty Speak is back on air with Val, Lincoln and Irving, 3 NYC property owners, who are part of the leadership of Small Property Owners of New York aka SPONY. Val, Lincoln and Irving discuss the last 4 years and what legislative mistakes have led up to this present day intolerable rental housing crisis in NY City. More importantly they share the needed corrections to evolve from this socially dire predicament.

Melissa Román Burch, EVP and COO of The New York City Economic Development Corporation and I talk about the future of this great city. You'll be surprised how much this not for profit organization is driving change and progress across so many different economic sectors. The impact the NYC EDC will have on the future of this great city and how they do it? It is a story you do not want to miss. Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Federal, State and Local Lead Laws that dictate how to deal with lead based paint and lead dust in residential rental property are often jurisdictionally inconsistent and confusing. In New York City, the ongoing changes to existing protocols create additional confusion. Enter LEW Environmental Services where Lee Wasserman and Karrie Munoz share important details and clarify requirements. Knowledge is power and by the end of this episode of Realty Speak you will know what to do and when to do it so that you can successfully comply with the lead laws.

If you don't plan for the sale of real estate then you risk a big capital gain tax bill. Today Michael Burwick, Partner, Greenspoon Marder LLP and Kent Fitzpatrick, Managing Director, Asset Strategy Advisors not only review for us the many capital gain deferral strategies you have heard about before on Realty Speak but also share another strategy you'll want to understand completely. What you will discover in this episode is how to plan in advance of a sale and keep more of what you have worked so hard for.

As part of a series with NYARM on the NYC emissions laws; Margie Russell, Executive Director of the New York Association of Realty Managers and I moderated a webinar addressing NYC Local Law 97 which will be enforced starting in 2024. On Tuesday 04/12/2022 we went live and asked very pointed questions to the Local Law 97 expert and Licensed Professional Engineer, Marc Karell. Then on 05/23/2022 I gave him a call to include some updates that surfaced after the original recording. Do you want to understand Local Law 97 and how the looming fines may impact your building portfolio and bank account? That and much, much more is all right here in the podcast version of the webinar.

Margie Russell, NYARM and Anne Korchak, SPONY team up with me to chat about Good Cause Eviction; NY Senate Bill 3082/Assembly Bill A05573. Real Estate Attorney Alexander Lycoyannis explains in detail what Good Cause Eviction is and what it is not. After listening you will clearly understand why passage of this Bill will be GOOD for nothing! You will also know how to easily voice your opposition and help ensure that the current NY Legislative session ends in June without this Bill being made law.

Earlier this month Margie Russell, Executive Director of the New York Association of Realty Managers (NYARM) invited me to join her in moderating a webinar addressing NY City's Local Law 87. On Friday, 03/18/2022, we went live and along with the audience, asked very pointed questions to the Local Law 87 expert and Licensed Professional Engineer, Marc Karell. He didn't flinch. He knows his stuff. Do you want to understand Local Law 87 and how it correlates with Benchmarking and the very fast approaching NYC Local Law 97 and learn how the recent change that requires a PE or RA to be part of the reporting team affects the process? That and much, much more is all right here!

When NYREJ radio emcee Rick Kaplan suggested Realty Speak moderate a live panel of 4 very astute investment real estate industry professionals, the answer was an emphatic, YES! In the is episode Attorney - Michael Sahn, JLL Chairman of NY Investment Sales - Bob Knakal, Lendlease Executive General Manager - Melissa Román Burch and Attorney - Gary Meltzer shine a bright light of optimism on what otherwise could be perceived as dark days ahead. They share actual examples of how New York is not already making a big come back, but also moving forward as we embrace new ways and ideas of how to get from here to the future..

In this short 4 minute episode, Bill Weidner shares some info about the last year of Realty Speak® and his 2021 year end message to you, the Realty Speak® guests and listeners.

In June of 2019 the NY State Legislature passed the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (HSTPA). Now 2.5 years later, while the constitutional challenge to HSTPA makes it way through the courts, there exists another attempt by the Legislature to enact a “Good Cause Eviction” Bill that will further encroach on the rights or property owners. My Co-Host Nativ Winiarsky and guests Craig Gambardella and Jim Burling, all attorneys, and I get into the weeds about the future of these draconian laws and how they will negatively impact not just property owners but the millions of people who choose to rent instead of own. If you care about property rights and the quality of housing and whether you are an owner or a renter you'll want to listen to this entire episode and then share with everyone you know!

Just when you thought you knew everything about using your real estate to create liquidity, Stuart came along with more insights for you. Stuart Gelb, President at The Liquidity Source shares his depth of knowledge around the many options available to property owners to create liquidity from real estate assets. A timely and important episode that you won't want to miss.

Are you wondering about The American Families Plan, aka Biden Tax Proposals, and how it will impact real estate gains? What are some of the things you can do now? What if you want to liquidate a long term owned real estate portfolio but are worried about the tax on what will be a large capital gain. What if you would like to retire and no longer manage the properties? In this episode, accountant Bob Russo, aka CPABOB and Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) expert Rob Pecha, aka 1031ROB discuss planning for the future and explain terms like stepped up basis, boot, depreciation recapture and more. This is a must listen for those considering a sale out of an existing real estate investment portfolio using the 1031 like kind exchange and also everyone else that one day may be doing the same.

In condominiums and cooperatives there is a mix of owners and renters. Michael Rogoff, President of AKAM, shares his take on how an air of hospitality coupled with a smile can simplify the management of this dynamic and enhance the quality of life for everyone.

Happy 3rd Birthday Realty Speak! Tina Larsson and Matt McCue share intel in this episode that looks into the future of energy consumption in New York City. Not only will you learn how to save dollars but also how you’ll get paid dollars while doing your part to impact climate change and contribute to the campaign to mitigate global warming driven by the human emissions of greenhouse gases. And as if that was not enough, we demystify NYC Local Laws 33, 84, 87, 92 and 94.

Happy 3rd Birthday Realty Speak! Tina Larsson and Matt McCue share intel in this episode that looks into the future of energy consumption in New York City. Not only will you learn how to save dollars but also how you'll get paid dollars while doing your part to impact climate change and contribute to the campaign to mitigate global warming driven by the human emissions of greenhouse gases. And as if that was not enough, we demystify NYC Local Laws 33, 84, 87, 92 and 94.

The narrative around an Eviction Moratorium communicates a false positive that amounts to no more than a strategy to boost political popularity while failing to explain or plan for what happens in the future. The accumulation of an obligation with no relief or assistance is a plan to fail all the stakeholders of rental housing. Especially when the debits far exceed the credits. Who are the stakeholders? Far more reaching than just landlords and tenants. Joanna Wong, my Co-Host on this episode of Realty Speak, and I are joined by Attorneys Nativ Winiarsky, Jim Marino and Lisa Faham-Selzer of Kucker Marino Winiarsky & Bittens and they expertly lead us to an understanding of what is really happening here. Tenant, landlord or otherwise; this is a must listen that will hopefully get you talking - to each other.

The narrative around an Eviction Moratorium communicates a false positive that amounts to no more than a strategy to boost political popularity while failing to explain or plan for what happens in the future. The accumulation of an obligation with no relief or assistance is a plan to fail all the stakeholders of rental housing. Especially when the debits far exceed the credits. Who are the stakeholders? Far more reaching than just landlords and tenants. Joanna Wong, my Co-Host on this episode of Realty Speak, and I are joined by Attorneys Nativ Winiarsky, Jim Marino and Lisa Faham-Selzer of Kucker Marino Winiarsky & Bittens and they expertly lead us to an understanding of what is really happening here. Tenant, landlord or otherwise; this is a must listen that will hopefully get you talking - to each other.

In this short 4 minute episode, Bill Weidner reflects on 2020 and shares the future theme of Realty Speak and of course a little wisdom for you, the Realty Speak guests and listeners.

In this short 4 minute episode, Bill Weidner reflects on 2020 and shares the future theme of Realty Speak and of course a little wisdom for you, the Realty Speak guests and listeners.

The signs were there in late February and early March. Now what?! In this episode of Realty Speak, Rick Kaplan - Media Director, shares how the New England and New York Real Estate Journals made the pivot during the Covid-19 Pandemic and continued to publish without missing a beat. While continuing to get the news out as normal they also explored new ways to serve their readers, contributors and sponsors. Rick unravels Rolly's story from 1963 and brings us forward to now

The signs were there in late February and early March. Now what?! In this episode of Realty Speak, Rick Kaplan - Media Director, shares how the New England and New York Real Estate Journals made the pivot during the Covid-19 Pandemic and continued to publish without missing a beat. While continuing to get the news out as normal they also explored new ways to serve their readers, contributors and sponsors. Rick unravels Rolly’s story from 1963 and brings us forward to now

New multifamily housing development is clearly in Scott's DNA. His ability to see a little into the future while being mindful of the past and careful about the present is his superpower as he innovates workforce housing. Not only has he not shut down, he is accelerating the model. Great stories and insights that you will be glad we shared.

New multifamily housing development is clearly in Scott’s DNA. His ability to see a little into the future while being mindful of the past and careful about the present is his superpower as he innovates workforce housing. Not only has he not shut down, he is accelerating the model. Great stories and insights that you will be glad we shared.

When you think of apartment buildings in New York City you imagine them owned by large Real Estate Corporations, Private Equity Companies and publicly traded Real Estate Investment Trusts. However, when you pause and look closely you will find that there is a group of dedicated families who operate legacy multifamily real estate across many celebrated communities in our big pond of a town. These individuals who represent the fabric of the diverse cultural enclaves provide much of the affordable regulated apartments and they do it with heart! Recorded, on Juneteenth, they raised their voices and candidly shared the inequity of their contribution to housing in NYC while having to operate under a barrage of regulatory burden and a lack of social and financial recognition. SPONY.ORG members Joanna from Soho, Jan from Chinatown and Sharon from East Flatbush are Real New Yorkers telling it like it is. Do not miss this one!

When you think of apartment buildings in New York City you imagine them owned by large Real Estate Corporations, Private Equity Companies and publicly traded Real Estate Investment Trusts. However, when you pause and look closely you will find that there is a group of dedicated families who operate legacy multifamily real estate across many celebrated communities in our big pond of a town. These individuals who represent the fabric of the diverse cultural enclaves provide much of the affordable regulated apartments and they do it with heart! Recorded, on Juneteenth, they raised their voices and candidly shared the inequity of their contribution to housing in NYC while having to operate under a barrage of regulatory burden and a lack of social and financial recognition. SPONY.ORG members Joanna from Soho, Jan from Chinatown and Sharon from East Flatbush are Real New Yorkers telling it like it is. Do not miss this one!

For Tom Carroll investing in real estate while working in the financial markets was an exercise in diversification. It eventually became his journey from active limited partner to a managing general partner with a team that has scaled real estate assets under management 16x since 2014. Strategic financial and demographic analysis around acquisitions, back office and property level efficiency along with superior management of their investor's expectations and user experience is the basis for their success as a private equity real estate syndicator. After listening to this episode that is jam packed with all the hows and whys - you find yourself saying - “Yes, I can try this at home.”

For Tom Carroll investing in real estate while working in the financial markets was an exercise in diversification. It eventually became his journey from active limited partner to a managing general partner with a team that has scaled real estate assets under management 16x since 2014. Strategic financial and demographic analysis around acquisitions, back office and property level efficiency along with superior management of their investor’s expectations and user experience is the basis for their success as a private equity real estate syndicator. After listening to this episode that is jam packed with all the hows and whys - you find yourself saying - “Yes, I can try this at home.”

This episode is the lightly edited audio of a Virtual Summit I moderated on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. The free online event “Virtual Summit for the Landlord and Real Estate Professional of New York City and Beyond - Coronavirus & Your Rental Cash Flow” was produced by the law firm of Kucker Marino Winiarsky & Bittens, LLP. Live attendees were able to hear and interface with thought leaders in various roles in the real estate industry addressing the pressing topic of what landlords should be expecting in relation to rent payments in the view of the ongoing pandemic and how to financially prepare for a possible significant drop in rental receipts. In additional we answered many questions around the CARES act and the financial resources available to successfully navigate this unparalleled time.

This episode is the lightly edited audio of a Virtual Summit I moderated on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. The free online event “Virtual Summit for the Landlord and Real Estate Professional of New York City and Beyond - Coronavirus & Your Rental Cash Flow” was produced by the law firm of Kucker Marino Winiarsky & Bittens, LLP. Live attendees were able to hear and interface with thought leaders in various roles in the real estate industry addressing the pressing topic of what landlords should be expecting in relation to rent payments in the view of the ongoing pandemic and how to financially prepare for a possible significant drop in rental receipts. In additional we answered many questions around the CARES act and the financial resources available to successfully navigate this unparalleled time.

In June of 2019 the laws that regulate rents in NY swung 180 degrees to the left. Now after that recipe has simmered for almost a year we are experiencing the Real Consequence of its bitter brew. Not just for property owners, but all stakeholders. Join attorneys Nativ Winiarsky and Jim Marino as they share the stories of what was, what is and what to expect as we tread down this path. And this is NOT just a NY thing. It could come to a location near you soon! Listen, learn and share EVERYWHERE. It's time to stop the proliferation of this form of regulation in its tracks.

In June of 2019 the laws that regulate rents in NY swung 180 degrees to the left. Now after that recipe has simmered for almost a year we are experiencing the Real Consequence of its bitter brew. Not just for property owners, but all stakeholders. Join attorneys Nativ Winiarsky and Jim Marino as they share the stories of what was, what is and what to expect as we tread down this path. And this is NOT just a NY thing. It could come to a location near you soon! Listen, learn and share EVERYWHERE. It’s time to stop the proliferation of this form of regulation in its tracks.

Listen and learn from Jim Costello, SVP at Real Capital Analytics as he takes us on a journey through the trends and tools available to make sense of transactional real estate data. Jim is brilliant and we touch on everything from alternative property types, leverage, transportation infrastructure, local national and global markets, the aftermath of impactful economic events and so much more.

Listen and learn from Jim Costello, SVP at Real Capital Analytics as he takes us on a journey through the trends and tools available to make sense of transactional real estate data. Jim is brilliant and we touch on everything from alternative property types, leverage, transportation infrastructure, local national and global markets, the aftermath of impactful economic events and so much more.

What a difference a DECADE makes. In this episode - Ellen Baer, Hudson Square BID - President and CEO, will share with you the why, what and how of creating and executing a Business Improvement District! Whether you are contemplating a BID in your community or not; you'll want to listen to Ellen's process for transforming a neighborhood's vision into a reality in which all the stakeholders reap rewards.

What a difference a DECADE makes. In this episode - Ellen Baer, Hudson Square BID - President and CEO, will share with you the why, what and how of creating and executing a Business Improvement District! Whether you are contemplating a BID in your community or not; you’ll want to listen to Ellen’s process for transforming a neighborhood’s vision into a reality in which all the stakeholders reap rewards.

In this short 5 minute episode, Bill Weidner reflects on year 2 of Realty Speak® and shares his 2019 year end message to you, the Realty Speak® guests and listeners.

In this short 5 minute episode, Bill Weidner reflects on year 2 of Realty Speak® and shares his 2019 year end message to you, the Realty Speak® guests and listeners.