Rock the Closing

Going through a divorce and wondering what happens to your home, mortgage, or investment properties? In this episode of Rock the Closing , matrimonial attorney Meredith Singer explains how real estate is handled during divorce proceedings, from marital homes to rental and investment properties. Meredith breaks down equitable distribution , mortgage refinancing versus assumption, pendente lite carr...

Episode 24: How to Avoid Probate In Case of Co-Op Apartment Ownership Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing, hosts Orsolya Bartha, Esq. and Dalia Zaza, Esq. are joined by guest speaker Bracha Etengoff, Esq., a trust and estate attorney, to discuss practical strategies for avoiding probate when you own a co-op apartment in New York City. In this episode, you'll learn: What probate means...

Episode 23: How to Save Some Money If You Are Doing a Purchase in New York City Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing, hosts Orsolya Bartha and Dalia Zaza unlock one of NYC's best-kept secrets for saving thousands at closing: the Purchaser CEMA (Consolidation, Extension, and Modification Agreement). This powerful but little-known strategy allows buyers to take over the seller's exis...

Episode 22: Real Estate in Divorce Mediation – What You Need to Know Summary In this episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya Bartha and Dalia Zaza sit down with Alla Roytberg , founder and principal attorney at Good Law Firm , to explore the crucial intersection of real estate and divorce mediation. Alla shares her extensive experience in family law, explaining the role of mediators, the impor...

Episode 21: Real Estate Transaction Costs (Beyond Closing Costs) Summary In this episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya Bartha and Dalia Zaza take a deep dive into real estate transaction costs beyond traditional closing costs. Many buyers and sellers are prepared for closing costs, but additional expenses throughout the transaction process can catch them off guard. From inspections and permi...

Episode 20: Who Is Sitting at the Closing Table? Summary: In this episode of The Closing , Orsolya Bartha and Dalia Zaza break down the essential participants at a real estate closing. Whether you're buying or selling a property, understanding who needs to be at the table is crucial for a smooth transaction. The hosts discuss the key differences between co-op, condo, and house closings, the role o...

Episode 19: What Happens After the Contract is Signed and Before Closing? Summary: In this episode of The Closing , we break down the crucial steps that take place after the contract is signed but before the actual closing. Many buyers and sellers assume that once they’ve signed on the dotted line, it’s smooth sailing—when in reality, this period involves several key processes that can impact the...

Episode 18 - Chat with the Title Insurance Company Summary: In this episode of The Closing , hosts Dalia Zaza and Orsolya Bartha sit down with Stephanie Lenti from Newmark Title Services to discuss the critical role of title insurance in real estate transactions. Stephanie provides valuable insights into how title insurance protects buyers, sellers, and lenders, the common issues that can arise du...

Episode 17: Chat with a Trust and Estate Attorney Summary: In this special episode of Rock The Closing , we sit down with Bracha Etengoff, a trusts and estates attorney based in New York City and Long Island. She shares her expertise on how real estate and estate planning intersect, offering crucial insights for homeowners, buyers, and investors. From understanding what happens to real estate afte...

Episode 16: Talk with the Insurance Agency Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , we sit down with Paul Ranieri from DC Ranieri Insurance Agency, a family-owned business with four generations of experience in the insurance industry. Paul provides valuable insights into the importance of homeowner’s insurance, the different types of coverage available, and how his agency tailors policies to...

Episode 15: Talk with a Family Law Attorney Summary In this episode of Rock the Closing , we’re joined by family law attorney Diana Arnone, who is licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Michigan. Diana discusses the fascinating and sometimes complicated intersection of family law and real estate law, diving into issues like the division of real estate assets during divorce, selling properties amids...

Episode 14: Talk with a Property Manager Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , Orsolya and Dalia interview Robert Arnone, president and CFO of RCA Management Properties LLC. Robert shares expert insights on managing properties across New Jersey, New York City, and the Hamptons. He discusses the essential role of transparency, streamlined operations, and board relationships in property man...

Episode 13: The Role of the Coop and Condo Board Summary In this episode of Rock the Closing , we dive into the vital functions of co-op and condo boards, particularly their management roles in residential buildings. We explore the key responsibilities, membership qualifications, and differences between co-ops and condos, while also addressing common questions regarding board operations and their...

Episode 12: Contract Negotiations Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya and Dalia dive into the complexities of contract negotiations in real estate transactions. They explore the journey from offer acceptance to a fully binding contract, detailing the steps that ensure both parties are in agreement before signing. Listeners will gain insights into the contract review proces...

Episode 11: Contract Negotiations Process Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , real estate attorneys Dalia and Orsolya guide you through the intricacies of the contract negotiation process. From the initial deal sheet to the final signing, they explain how negotiations unfold, who is responsible for preparing the contract, and the key differences between contracts and riders. You'll also...

Episode 10: PCDS - Property Condition Disclosure Statement Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya and Dalia delve into the new Property Condition Disclosure Statement (PCDS) which took effect on March 20, 2024. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the PCDS, detailing its requirements, purpose, and implications for both sellers and buyers. The discussion covers wh...

Episode 9 - Maintenance, common charges, assessment explained. Summary In this episode of Rock the Closing , Orsolya and Dalia discuss essential real estate concepts including maintenance, common charges, assessments, and taxes. They explain the distinctions between maintenance and common charges, how taxes are paid for condominiums and houses, and the effects of tax exemptions and abatements. The...

Episode 8: The Contract Deposit Summary: In this episode of Rock The Closing , hosts Orsolya and Dalia dive into the crucial topic of the contract deposit, a key component in real estate transactions. They explain what a contract deposit is, its standard amount, and its purpose. The episode covers when and how the deposit should be provided, including the differences between wire transfers and che...

Episode 7: Closing Costs! Be Aware! Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , real estate attorneys Dalia and Orsolya dive deep into the world of closing costs and what buyers and sellers need to prepare for beyond the purchase price. Discover the various costs associated with closing a real estate transaction, how to estimate them, and the differences between costs for buyers and sellers. Th...

Episode 6: What is the Due Diligence Process for a House? Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing, real estate attorneys Dalia and Orsolya dive deep into the due diligence process for purchasing a house. Unlike condos or co-ops, buying a standalone house involves a unique set of inspections, reviews, and checks to ensure that you are making a sound investment. They guide you through each step...

Episode 5: What is the Due Diligence Process for Condos and Co-ops? Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , real estate attorneys Dalia and Orsolya break down the due diligence process when buying a condo or co-op. They cover essential steps such as property inspections, document reviews, and reading board minutes, helping buyers understand how to avoid potential pitfalls and make informed...

Episode 4: How Long Does the Transaction Take, and What is the Process and Timeline? Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya and Dalia delve into the intricacies of real estate transaction timelines. They break down the process and discuss how long different types of transactions typically take, from cash deals to mortgage-financed purchases. The episode also covers key steps...

Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , Dalia and Orsolya dive into the key differences between cooperatives (co-ops), condominiums (condos), and houses, breaking down the unique aspects of each ownership type. They cover everything from how ownership is held, to the differences in insurance, carrying costs, taxes, and the advantages of each type. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just c...

Episode 1: What is Rock the Closing? Summary: In our debut episode of Rock the Closing , hosts Orsolya Bartha and Dalia Zaza introduce themselves and explain what this podcast is all about. They share their unique backgrounds and experiences in real estate, offering a glimpse into the wealth of knowledge they bring to the show. Discover why this podcast is a must-listen for anyone involved in real...

Episode 2: What is Rock the Closing? Summary: In this episode of Rock the Closing , Orsolya and Dalia break down everything you need to know about the deal sheet, also known as the transaction sheet. This key document outlines the agreed-upon terms between a buyer and seller in a real estate transaction and sets the stage for the rest of the closing process. We cover who typically fills out the de...