Joe Willen is the CEO at the Advantage Group of Affiliated Companies, Huntington, N.Y.
What was one of your corporate or career highlights of the decade?
Two months after the Dow's crash in '87, I launched Advantage Title. Bad timing? It turned out to be perfect timing. The market had nowhere to go but up. I credit my success to three key things: impeccable service, a great supporting cast, and diversification of services. While the economy crushed other title companies, Advantage continued to thrive. Over the past 20 years the company has built a strong foreclosure business, (counter cyclical to title) along with mortgage, settlement and incorporation services.
When New York permanently adopted the 2% property tax cap more than a decade ago, many owners hoped it would finally end the relentless climb in tax bills. But in the last couple of years, that “cap” has started to look more like a speed bump. Property owners are seeing taxes increase even when an
Many attorneys operating within the construction space are familiar with the provisions of New York Lien Law, which allow for the discharge of a Mechanic’s Lien in the event the lienor does not commence an action to enforce following the service of a “Section 59 Demand”.
In New York City’s competitive real estate market, particularly in prime neighborhoods like Midtown Manhattan, investors are constantly seeking new ways to unlock property value. One such strategy — often overlooked but
The mayor of New York City holds significant influence over real estate policy — but not absolute legislative power. Here’s how it breaks down:
Formal Legislative Role
• Limited direct lawmaking power: The NYC Council is the primary
Active investors seeking rent-stabilized properties often gravitate toward buildings that have been held under long-term ownership — and for good reasons. These properties tend to be well-maintained, both physically and operationally, offering a level of stability