Shaping the NYC Skyline

In 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 hi...

This 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 nuanc...

In 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 B...

Join 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/SeidenSchein YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@...

In 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 organ...

In 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 insig...

In 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 Partne...

We 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...

In 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...

Brenda, 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 s...

Brenda, 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 in...

Brenda, 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 pub...

Brenda 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 skyscrap...

In 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...

In 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 narrativ...

Jason 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...

Join 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 employe...

From 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...

If 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...

In 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 es...