News: Spotlight Content

Professional Profile: Jean Friedman 2015

Name: Jean Friedman Title: Director of Planning Company: City of Peekskill Location: Peekskill, N.Y. Birthplace: New Rochelle, N.Y. Education: BA in Geography/Urban Studies from SUNY Albany and Master of Community Planning from University of Rhode Island First job outside of real estate: Land Use Planner in Bridgeport, CT First job in real estate or allied field: Program management director for the city of New Rochelle, N.Y. What do you do now and what are you planning for the future? I was recently promoted to director of planning for the city of Peekskill. Most of my career has been devoted to project management, and I will continue to manage project budgets, design and construction. As director, I now oversee planning and zoning for Peekskill, and I expect to complete the revitalization program for the waterfront within the next year. The long-term goal is to produce a comprehensive plan that covers the entire city. How do you unwind from a busy day in real estate? Listen to music and dance, dance dance! Favorite book or author: I enjoyed "The Glass Castle," by Jeanette Walls Favorite movie: "Forrest Gump" Last song you purchased/downloaded? "Get on Up" by James Brown
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Over half of Long Island towns vote to exceed the tax cap - Here’s how owners can respond - by Brad and Sean Cronin

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
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Columns and Thought Leadership
How much power does the NYC mayor really have over real estate policy? - by Ron Cohen

How much power does the NYC mayor really have over real estate policy? - by Ron Cohen

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
Oldies but goodies:  The value of long-term ownership in rent-stabilized assets - by Shallini Mehra

Oldies but goodies: The value of long-term ownership in rent-stabilized assets - by Shallini Mehra

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
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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”.