Shows
Shaping the NYC SkylineScouting the Skyline with Wilson Parry of PropertyScoutIn this episode, we sit down with Wilson Parry, CEO and Co-Founder of PropertyScout, the groundbreaking platform revolutionizing how New York City real estate professionals analyze zoning, air rights, and development potential. A Williamsburg resident and a true zoning and data enthusiast, Wilson’s unconventional path—from artist to real estate broker to tech entrepreneur—has given him a unique perspective on simplifying NYC’s notoriously complex development landscape.Our conversation explores the challenges of navigating zoning regulations and the transformative role of technology in streamlining property analysis. Wilson shares how his firsthand experience in brokerage exposed critical...
2025-03-0640 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Money Behind the Buildings: NYC Development Financing with Douglas Romero of Ponce BankIn this episode, we sit down with Douglas Romero, Vice President and Head of Construction Lending at Ponce Bank, to explore the critical role community banks play in shaping New York City’s built environment. A proud first-generation New Yorker, Douglas’s journey from the mailroom to a leadership position in real estate finance is a testament to perseverance, ambition, and the power of community-focused lending.With a deep commitment to responsible financing, Douglas ensures that small businesses, first-time developers, and affordable housing projects have the resources they need to succeed. His work extends far beyond loan appr...
2025-03-0441 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe True Price of Neglecting NYC’s Housing Crisis with HDC’s President Eric EnderlinIn this episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline, we sit down with Eric Enderlin, President of the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and a driving force behind the city’s affordable housing initiatives. With more than two decades of experience in urban planning, policy, and finance, Eric has played a central role in expanding and preserving affordable housing, from overseeing record-breaking affordable housing production efforts to securing transformative preservation deals across the City. His expertise in financing programs, zoning reforms, and tax incentives has helped shape the policies that define New York City's housing landscape today....
2025-02-2853 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Owner's Rep Playbook: A Candid Conversation with Matthew Tritt of Greenlight ConsultingIn this episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline, we explore the complexities of construction project management and development in New York City with Matthew Tritt, founder of Greenlight Consulting. With extensive experience in managing ground-up developments, major commercial renovations, and revitalizing stalled projects, Matt provides deep insights into the challenges and strategies that define the city’s evolving skyline. His discussion emphasizes the critical role of an owner’s representative—navigating intricate regulatory frameworks, ensuring IDA compliance, managing budgets, and mitigating construction risks. Matt highlights how early-stage planning, robust stakeholder engagement, and proactive problem-solving can distinguish a success...
2025-02-2531 minShaping the NYC SkylineFrom Dancing to Development with Lizzy Zevallos of MAG PartnersSkyliners, we’re back with Episode Two of Season Three! This time, we’re sitting down with Lizzy Zevallos, Assistant Vice President of Development at MAG Partners, whose unconventional path from contemporary dance to real estate development is as fascinating as it is inspiring. Raised by Peruvian parents in New Jersey, Lizzy’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability, blending creativity, architecture, and financial strategy to shape the future of New York City. After a career in dance, she transitioned into real estate, where her unique perspective and problem-solving skills have made her a rising...
2025-02-2040 min
Go Big! Live PodcastFrom Contracts to Conversions: The Legal Side of Real Estate with Alvin ScheinIn this episode of Go Big! Live Real Estate Investors podcast, host Matt Drouin welcomes Alvin Schein, a partner at Seiden & Schein, P.C. in New York City, with over 35 years of experience in real estate law. They discuss the critical role attorneys play in commercial real estate transactions, from land use to tax incentives. Alvin shares insights into co-op and condo conversions, the impact of the 2019 rent laws, and the importance of leveraging expertise for scaling real estate operations. They also explore innovative solutions for affordable housing, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the need for mixed-income communities...
2025-02-2039 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Art of Office-to-Residential Conversions with Toby Snyder of FXCollaborativeWelcome back, Skyliners! In this episode, we sit down with Toby Snyder, Design Director at FXCollaborative, whose career is a testament to the power of vision, adaptability, and purpose. From his early days as a cartographer at National Geographic to becoming a leading voice in urban planning and design, Toby has always been drawn to the way places evolve. To him, a city isn’t just an aggregation of people, policies, and capital—it’s an act of design, where buildings, neighborhoods, and communities must work together as part of a larger system.
2025-02-0638 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Business of Attention: Be Memorable to Succeed with Ryan SerhantAs we wrap up the Season 2 of Shaping the NYC Skyline, we couldn’t have asked for a more dynamic and inspiring guest to send us into the new year: Ryan Serhant. Known worldwide as a luxury real estate powerhouse, media personality and founder of SERHANT., Ryan has redefined the art of attention in business—and the power of personal branding.In this episode, Ryan reflects on his journey from aspiring actor to real estate mogul, navigating challenges like the 2008 financial crisis and founding his namesake firm during the pandemic. With his signature candor, he r...
2024-12-2628 minShaping the NYC SkylineCity of Yes: Mastering UAP & MIH to Boost Your Next ProjectAbout the HostsDavid Shamshovich, Brenda Slochowsky, and Camila Almeida are seasoned real estate attorneys at Seiden & Schein, P.C., specializing in New York City’s affordable housing programs, including Inclusionary and Mandatory Inclusionary Housing, from initial applications and approvals to final project completion. They also handle HPD initiatives and real estate transactions like buy-sell agreements, loans, and joint ventures. As the team behind the Shaping the NYC Skyline podcast, launched in April 2023, they manage everything from guest booking and hosting to editing and promotion.City of Yes for Ho...
2024-12-1536 minShaping the NYC SkylinePassive House, Active Impact: Redefining Sustainable Building with Deborah Moelis of Handel ArchitectsBuckle up, Skyliners, for an illuminating episode with Deborah Moelis, AIA, a Principal and founding member of Handel Architects, whose pioneering work is pushing the boundaries of sustainable design in urban environments. Deborah's journey takes us into the intricate world of Passive House design, a standard that dramatically reduces energy consumption by creating airtight, thermally efficient structures. She shares her experience managing Cornell Tech’s residential tower—once the world's largest building constructed to Passive House standards—where she led a team that set new benchmarks for energy efficiency and sustainability.Deborah’s current project...
2024-12-0545 minShaping the NYC SkylineTurning Challenges into Opportunities with James Nelson of Avison YoungGet ready, Skyliners! This week, we’re thrilled to bring you an episode spotlighting James Nelson, Principal and Head of Tri-State Investment Sales at Avison Young, WSJ bestselling author of The Insider’s Edge to Real Estate Investing, and host of a podcast by the same name. With over 25 years of experience and more than $5 billion in real estate transactions, James is an unparalleled source of expertise. From his early days as an English major at Colgate to becoming one of New York City’s most respected investment brokers, James shares his remarkable and hard-ea...
2024-11-2137 minShaping the NYC SkylineTitle Forensics with Zoy Balaskas of Commonwealth Title Insurance CompanyBuckle up, Skyliners, for a fascinating deep dive into the world of title insurance with Zoy Balaskas, Senior Vice President and Chief Underwriting Counsel at Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company’s New York National Commercial Services. With over 20 years of experience, Zoy takes us through her process of “title forensics”—a meticulous, investigative approach to uncovering and resolving the hidden complexities that go beyond basic title clearance.Zoy unpacks her methods for tackling intricate title issues, from untangling overlapping property boundaries to clearing old, unpaid mortgages and navigating tricky easements. Each problem demands a custom s...
2024-11-0735 minShaping the NYC SkylineWhen Common Sense Isn’t Common: Urban Planning and Housing Policy with Basha Gerhards of REBNYIn this episode, we are thrilled to feature Basha Gerhards, Senior Vice President of Planning at the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY). With her deep expertise and unique perspective, Basha sheds light on the intricate and ever-evolving landscape of real estate development in New York City. Drawing on her rich background in urban planning, land use, and zoning, she has successfully bridged the gap between government policy and community-driven urban initiatives.In this insightful conversation, Basha takes us through her career journey, which began with a Master’s in Urban Planning from Co...
2024-10-241h 03Shaping the NYC Skyline485-x and 467-m Proposed Rules: What Developers Need to Know with Jason Hershkowitz of Seiden & ScheinIn this bonus episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline, we’re once again joined by Jason Hershkowitz, Partner at Seiden & Schein, P.C., to analyze the newly proposed rules from the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) for the 485-x and 467-m tax exemption programs. Jason walks us through the key differences between the proposed rules and those under the now-expired 421-a tax exemption program. With these rules still in the public comment phase, Jason emphasizes the importance of developers taking an active role in shaping the final rules before the November deadline.
2024-10-1018 minShaping the NYC SkylineConstructing Influence: 485X and Construction Wages with Kevin Elkins of the NYC Carpenters UnionGet ready, Skyliners, for an eye-opening exploration into the heart of labor and advocacy with Kevin Elkins, Political Director of the New York City District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC). In this episode, we dive into Kevin’s remarkable journey from running political campaigns to becoming a pivotal voice in the fight for construction workers in NYC. Kevin takes us behind the scenes of the intense battles surrounding the inclusion of construction worker wage requirements as part of the new 485X statute, offering an insider’s perspective on the high-stakes negotiations that are reshaping the future of real estate development in NY...
2024-10-0743 minShaping the NYC SkylineBuilding Charter Schools and Harnessing the Power of a Growth Mindset With Andrew Esposito of Apex DevelopmentGet ready, Skyliners, for an inspiring episode featuring Andrew Esposito, Founder of Apex Development. Andrew's journey is a remarkable tale of strategic pivots and relentless ambition. His transition from a top law graduate to a trailblazer in real estate development is both inspiring and instructive. Despite his impressive academic achievements, graduating summa cum laude from Fordham University and St. John's University School of Law, Andrew chose a different path, one that led him to become a significant force in the real estate landscape of New York City.Our conversation uncovers Andrew’s unconventional shift from practicing law to...
2024-09-191h 02Shaping the NYC SkylineUncovering the Whole Elephant: The Evolution of Real Estate with Professor of Law David ReissBuckle up, Skyliners, for an illuminating episode featuring Professor David Reiss, formerly of Brooklyn Law School and now at Cornell Law School and Cornell Tech. Renowned for his expertise in real estate finance and community development, Professor Reiss has shaped countless legal minds, including our very own David Shamshovich, with his practical approach to complex concepts. This episode offers a rare glimpse into his journey from NYU Law School and prestigious law firms to his influential role in academia, where he has spent over two decades demystifying real property law.Starting as an associate...
2024-09-0552 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Hands-On Developer: Building Trust through Authenticity with Richie ZavJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Richie Zav, the Head of Development at Diamond Dev Group. Richie, a self-taught developer from Queens, New York, has made a remarkable journey from real estate broker to a key figure in the development industry. With a business administration degree from Queensborough Community College and advanced studies in real estate development from Baruch College, Richie’s hands-on and innovative approach sets him apart.In this episode, Richie shares his insights on the complexities of construction and development, and how he is making these topics accessible through his popular Instagram videos. He...
2024-06-0649 minShaping the NYC SkylineBringing Real Estate Ideas to Life with David Schwartz of Slate Property GroupWelcome to another compelling episode of “Shaping the NYC Skyline,” where we had the privilege of sitting down with David Schwartz, Co-Founder and Principal of Slate Property Group. David's journey in real estate is nothing short of remarkable, filled with transformative projects that have left a significant mark on New York City's landscape. His impressive portfolio includes transitional housing, hotel-to-residential conversions, and innovative subsidized projects, all reflecting his deep commitment to meeting the evolving needs of communities.Raised by a traffic commissioner father (Sam Schwartz, AKA Gridlock Sam) and a social worker mother, David embo...
2024-05-231h 23Shaping the NYC SkylineThe Benefits of Asset Proximity with Jed Resnick of Douglaston DevelopmentGet ready, Skyliners, for an engaging episode with our distinguished guest, Jed Resnick, the CEO of Douglaston Development. Jed brings a wealth of experience in real estate development, acquisitions, and finance, positioning him as a pivotal player in New York City’s real estate market.In today’s discussion, we delve into the critical role of asset proximity in the real estate development process, construction dynamics, and the essential elements for successful housing initiatives in NYC. We explore the diverse range of projects developed by Douglaston, including mixed-income, Mandatory Inclusionary Housing, fully-affordable, senior living, and...
2024-05-091h 12Shaping the NYC SkylineThe 485-x Tax Exemption Explained: A Deep Dive with Jason Hershkowitz of Seiden & ScheinIn this special bonus episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline, we welcome back Jason Hershkowitz, Partner at Seiden & Schein, P.C. and head of the firm’s real estate tax incentives group. Jason's extensive knowledge of New York's complex property tax exemption programs makes his expertise crucial for anyone navigating the city’s evolving real estate landscape. During this episode, Jason dives into the intricacies of the newly enacted 485-x real estate tax exemption, the replacement for the expired 421-a tax exemption program. He thoroughly discusses the statute’s updated affordability requirements and tax benefits, and new...
2024-05-0333 minShaping the NYC SkylineCrafting a Career in Condo and Coop Law with Jane Rosenberg of Seiden & ScheinDive into another compelling episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline. This time we are joined by Jane Rosenberg, Partner at Seiden & Schein, whose illustrious career is a mosaic of ambition, happenstance, and strategic brilliance in New York's real estate sector. Jane's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to making a difference. From her early aspirations in journalism instilled by her father's maxim to ‘do good,' Jane's voyage has been anything but ordinary. A serendipitous conversation transformed her journalistic endeavors into a pioneering journey through law school, leading to a crucial stint in...
2024-04-251h 03Shaping the NYC SkylineEconomic Development Essentialism: The Bedrock of Housing Production with Jamie Smarr of the NYC Housing PartnershipDive into the inspiring journey of Jamie Smarr, the President and CEO of the NYC Housing Partnership, an entity originally established by David Rockefeller and Edward Koch to address the challenges New York City faced with tax-foreclosed properties and returning these properties to their intended use. Jamie Smarr’s career is a testament to his deep commitment to economic development and fostering collaborative efforts between the private sector and government to create housing and build communities.Jamie’s leadership roles, from directing the housing incentives division at the New York City Department of Housing Pres...
2024-04-1146 minShaping the NYC SkylineBuilding Bridges in Business and Law with Margaret Ling of AmTrust TitleBuckle up, Skyliners, for a riveting episode featuring Margaret Ling, NYC Agency Business Development and Underwriting Counsel for AmTrust Title. Spanning three decades, Margaret’s career is a testament to resilience, sharp acumen, and a profound commitment to enriching communities and individuals alike.Margaret's extraordinary journey commenced with clerking for Chief Judge Constance Baker Motley, the first African American woman to serve on the federal bench, laying the foundation for a career replete with significant achievements and relentless advocacy for justice. Although her stint in immigration law following her clerkship was brief and fraught wi...
2024-03-281h 00Shaping the NYC SkylineThe Essential Tools for Building Affordable Housing with Eli Weiss of Joy ConstructionIn this episode, we sit down with Eli Weiss, Principal of Joy Construction Corp., a key player in New York City's dynamic housing landscape. Eli, a native Brooklynite, shares his insightful journey into the world of real estate, starting with his formative years at the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), where he worked on subsidized affordable housing transactions, witnessing first-hand the critical importance of synergistic public-private partnerships for fostering sustainable housing growth.After transitioning into the private sector, Eli expanded into construction and worked on affordable housing and other types of real...
2024-03-141h 05Shaping the NYC SkylineHPD's Housing Pioneers: Kim Darga on Leading the Charge for AffordabilityIn this episode, we had the privilege of talking to Kim Darga, Deputy Commissioner for Development at the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). With an impressive tenure of over 16 years at HPD, Kim offers an unparalleled insight into the agency's dedicated efforts to combat the affordable housing crisis facing New York City.Our conversation delves into the innovative solutions and creative problem-solving that Kim and her team are relentlessly pursuing to navigate the complex landscape of urban development and housing affordability. Despite facing numerous challenges and legislative hurdles, HPD...
2024-02-2950 minShaping the NYC SkylineBuilding Success with Andrew Barrocas of MNS Real EstateIn this captivating episode, we had the privilege of delving into the extraordinary journey of Andrew Barrocas, the Founder and CEO of MNS Real Estate. Andrew's evolution from newcomer to industry luminary in the real estate brokerage sphere is a narrative teeming with ambition, creativity, and unwavering determination. Guided by the wisdom of his father, a steadfast confidant, and propelled by his innate business acumen and relentless work ethic, Andrew has surmounted a plethora of challenges, turning setbacks into invaluable learning experiences and, ultimately, triumphs.Andrew's strategic prowess shines brightly in his pivotal decision...
2024-02-151h 13Shaping the NYC SkylineThe Empire State Strikes Back: Moving from 421-a to 485-x with Jason "the Tax Incentives Jedi" HershkowitzThis episode features Jason Hershkowitz, a returning guest and partner at Seiden & Schein, P.C. who spearheads the firm’s Tax Incentives Group, along with Scott Schreiber, his associate attorney, as they guide us through the proposed tax exemption, 485-x, the governor's replacement to the now-expired 421-a housing program. Get ready for a thought-provoking dialogue as they delve into the nuances of the proposal, elucidate its distinctions from the previous program, and offer insightful speculation on its framing. As they navigate through the intricacies of the proposed program, Jason and Scott provide a comprehensive ove...
2024-02-0818 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Vorea Vision: Embracing Flexibility in Development with Peter PapamichaelIn this episode, we are thrilled to welcome the extraordinary Peter Papamichael, founder and principal of The VOREA Group. A real estate development, construction management, and brokerage firm, The VOREA Group stands out in the industry thanks to Peter's innovative approach. His creative thinking, a thesis-based development philosophy, and adaptability – deeply influenced by martial arts legend Bruce Lee – have been instrumental in his successful navigation through the complex terrains of real estate transactions. Join our insightful discussion with Peter, a down-to-earth and brilliant mind, as we explore his journey from engineer to renowned developer, his profe...
2024-02-011h 12Shaping the NYC SkylineThe Vorea Vision: Embracing Flexibility in Development with Peter PapamichaelIn this episode, we are thrilled to welcome the extraordinary Peter Papamichael, founder and principal of The VOREA Group. A real estate development, construction management, and brokerage firm, The VOREA Group stands out in the industry thanks to Peter's innovative approach. His creative thinking, a thesis-based development philosophy, and adaptability – deeply influenced by martial arts legend Bruce Lee – have been instrumental in his successful navigation through the complex terrains of real estate transactions. Join our insightful discussion with Peter, a down-to-earth and brilliant mind, as we explore his journey from engineer to renowned developer, his profe...
2024-02-011h 11Shaping the NYC SkylineFrom the Ground Up: A Season 1 Highlight ReelJoin us as we re-listen to some of the highlights of Season 1’s awesome episodes and mark the beginning of Season 2.More on Shaping the NYC Skyline:Website - https://seidenschein.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/seiden-&-schein-p-c-/Instagram - Shaping the NYC Skyline (@shapingthenycskyline)Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SeidenScheinYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShapingtheNYCSkylineEmail - shaping
2024-02-0111 minShaping the NYC SkylineWorking Together to Achieve Great Things with Tucker Reed of Totem BrooklynIn this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Tucker Reed, Co-Founder and Principal of Totem Brooklyn. Tucker’s career, which spans nearly two decades across both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, is truly remarkable.His journey in real estate development began in 2006 when he assumed the role of founding executive director of the DUMBO Improvement District—a non-profit organization with a mission to enhance the DUMBO neighborhood in Brooklyn. Subsequently, Tucker contributed his talents to Two Trees, a Brooklyn-based real estate developer renowned for transforming Brooklyn neighborhoods like DUMBO and Williamsburg. Nota...
2023-12-141h 06Shaping the NYC SkylineA Broker’s Tale with Bryan Hurley of Cushman & WakefieldIn this episode, we spoke with Bryan Hurley, an experienced professional serving as Director in the Capital Markets Group of Cushman & Wakefield, with an impressive track record in investment sales, most notable multi-family residential and inclusionary housing air rights. Bryan stays on top of the latest dynamics and trends in his area of the New York City real estate market, making his insights (and this episode) invaluable. Join us as Bryan recounts his journey navigating the competitive brokerage field, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs shaping his success and Shaping the NYC Skyline....
2023-11-3059 minShaping the NYC SkylineDoing Well While Doing Good With Richard RobertsIn this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Richard Roberts, a seasoned expert in affordable housing and urban market investments with over 25 years of experience. With an extensive background spanning government, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors, Richard's contributions are nothing short of remarkable. As the Principal and Chief Business Development Officer for Red Stone Equity Partners, LLC, he's deeply involved in affordable housing and urban market investments, employing innovative strategies to make a positive impact.During his tenure as the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Richard...
2023-11-091h 17Shaping the NYC SkylineLearning from Others' Mistakes: Ariel Aufgang's Approach to Building BetterWe had the pleasure of sitting down with Ariel Aufgang, the visionary architect and owner of Aufgang. Unlike other architectural firms that often focus on projects like hotels and courthouses, Ariel's passion lies in designing multifamily buildings. From a young age, he knew that his destiny was to become an architect and he's not only realized that dream but surpassed it. Tune in as Ariel shares his extensive knowledge and experience, including progressive and cost-sensitive design strategies that he employed in designing his own office building. His meticulous approach and unwavering commitment have resulted in n...
2023-10-261h 15Shaping the NYC SkylineFrom Governor to Groundbreaker: The World According to Eliot SpitzerIn this candid conversation with Eliot Spitzer, a genuine luminary of New York, we explore the diverse chapters of his professional journey. Beginning with his early days as an attorney in private practice, transitioning into the public sphere as Attorney General and Governor, and culminating in his present pursuits as a real estate developer in New York City, his unwavering commitment to the law radiates through it all.Join us as we uncover Eliot’s distinctive perspective, modest approach, and steadfast commitment to New York City. Whether it's combating crime or rejuvenating the city, hi...
2023-10-121h 14Shaping the NYC SkylineHillary Potashnick: A Seiden & Schein TreasureBrenda, David, and Camila engaged in a compelling conversation with their esteemed colleague, Hillary Potashnick, who is Senior Counsel at Seiden & Schein, P.C. Hillary boasts decades of experience in real estate development, with a particular focus on condominium and cooperative matters. She also serves as a dedicated mentor to the younger generation of attorneys within our firm.What truly sets our discussion with Hillary apart is the unique perspective she brings to the table as a female attorney who embarked on her legal career back in the 1970s, a time when there were significantly fewer women...
2023-09-281h 11Shaping the NYC SkylineReal Estate Justice with Adam Leitman BaileyBrenda, David, and Camila had the pleasure of interviewing the one and only Adam Leitman Bailey. With a name as remarkable as his, Adam imparts a distinctive influence on the realm of real estate. More than just an attorney, he stands as a self-made businessman, driven by a fervor for justice and an awe-inspiring personal journey. Adam's wealth of experience lends a litigator's insight into the intricate landscape of New York City real estate.We delve into Adam's unwavering commitment to justice and his endeavors in navigating the high-stakes world of New York real estate and landlord-tenant...
2023-09-1456 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Politics of Real Estate with Ken FisherBrenda, David, and Camila had a captivating conversation with Ken Fisher, a distinguished partner at Cozen O'Connor. Ken’s professional journey lies at the dynamic intersection of real estate and politics, encompassing diverse areas of expertise such as real estate development, zoning and land use, and governmental affairs. A master at skillfully identifying, reconciling, and articulating both public and private interests, Ken possesses an exceptional ability to navigate this delicate balance. Drawing from his rich background in public service, Ken has emerged as the foremost socio-political strategist for some of New York's most prominent real estate developers and industry pl...
2023-08-3157 minShaping the NYC SkylineBalancing Sustainability and Community: The Art of Alloy with David McCartyBrenda and David had an incredible conversation with David McCarty from Alloy Development, uncovering their unique approach to real estate. Alloy stands out for its focus on both financial success and community enrichment—a refreshing departure from the norm. Their commitment to sustainability is truly remarkable. Notably, they're pioneering change by constructing the first fully electric skyscraper, a project that reflects their forward-thinking ethos. This endeavor showcases not only their innovation but also their dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and their neighborhoods. We explore their distinctive approach to involving the community, welcoming feedback, and...
2023-08-1758 minShaping the NYC SkylineWorking with the 421-a Workaround with Jason “the 421-a Jedi” HershkowitzIn this captivating episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of the Gowanus Neighborhood Mixed Income Housing Development Program. This initiative, spearheaded by Governor Kathy Hochul, is an innovative response to the New York State legislature's recent refusal to enact a replacement for the now-expired 421-a Real Estate Tax Exemption Program.Steering the conversation with an expert's touch on all matters related to 421-a and NYC's various other real estate tax abatements and exemptions is none other than Jason Hershkowitz. A distinguished partner within the Tax Incentives group at Seiden & Schein, P.C., Jason...
2023-08-0428 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Gold Standard of Silverstein with David MarksIn this episode, we had the privilege of talking to David Marks, the Senior Vice President and Head of Acquisitions at Silverstein Properties. For over sixty years, Silverstein Properties has been the bedrock of NYC's real estate development, investment, and management industries. Prepare to be captivated as David Marks shares a wealth of insights and experiences, unveiling the intriguing narratives that formed the foundation of his remarkable achievements in Shaping the NYC Skyline. Some of the topics Brenda and David explore with David Marks in this episode include:his incredible journey fro...
2023-08-0354 minShaping the NYC SkylineThe Big Dubowski: A Hill West StArchitectJason Dubowski’s impressive portfolio featuring many notable projects speaks for itself. From his early years, Jason displayed a passion for architecture and design, leading him to a thriving career in New York, where he moved from Texas after having graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Texas in Arlington. We're thrilled to have Jason on the show and for the opportunity to delve into his remarkable journey, helping us gain insights into his path to success. Join us as we explore the realities of an architect's day-to-day work, how Jason's experiences have shaped hi...
2023-07-2044 minShaping the NYC SkylineCity of Hell Yes: Takeaways from the NYS Affordable Housing ConferenceJoin Brenda and David as they recap their experience at the Annual New York State Affordable Housing Conference, including the solutions and strategies presented by government and other real estate professionals to try and ease the City’s housing shortage.In this episode, you will learn about the: City’s views on the affordable housing crisis and the various methods that need to be employed to resolve it. Arguments made by the City to convince the State of the critical nature of the 421-a real estate tax exemption. The essential role that pr...
2023-06-2719 minShaping the NYC SkylineYou Gotta Fight for Your Right to Develop Property: An Avery Hall Investments Story by Brian EzraFrom childhood memories to creating a renowned real estate development company, Brian Ezra's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. With Avi Fisher and Jesse Wark by his side, Brian created a company that will leave a lasting impact on the Brooklyn skyline. Their complementary skill sets, shared values, and deep seated trust in each other's abilities were the keys to unlocking opportunities that they never thought possible. This is an origin story you won't want to miss.In this episode, Brenda and David talk to Brian about:The importance of strategic partnerships...
2023-06-2047 min
Shaping the NYC SkylineTax-tastic! A Fireside Chat with Jay SeidenIf you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the complex and ever-changing real estate tax incentives in NYC, then you are not alone!
One of the major obstacles to developing and preserving housing and affordable housing in New York City is the exorbitant real estate taxes. Tax incentives are critical to ensure that a new multi-family development generates positive cashflow and is thereby able to secure construction and permanent financing. Likewise, tax incentives are necessary to encourage developers and landlords to maintain and repair existing residential buildings.
But what are some tax i...
2023-05-2655 min
Shaping the NYC SkylineSchein-ing a Light on the State of NYC HousingIn the first episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline, David Shamshovich and Brenda Slochowsky sit down to chat with Alvin Schein, a NY real estate attorney and one of the founders of Seiden & Schein, P.C., a boutique real estate law firm in New York.
Alvin discusses the NYC real estate industry from a historical perspective, dating back to the 1970s, and his thoughts on the current state of real estate development in New York, including the development of market rate rental apartment and affordable housing in New York City and what needs to be...
2023-04-2045 min