Season 5, Episode #203 – Pushing Your Client’s Boundaries

In this episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into the art of stretching creativity and redefining possibilities in design and construction. Our guests, Lindsay Biondo-Lugo, founder of Houz of Rebel, and Scott Hobbs, president of Hobbs Inc., share their expertise on guiding clients beyond their comfort zones to achieve truly exceptional results. From bold design choices to innovative construction methods, we’ll explore how top professionals push boundaries while still honoring client vision. How do you introduce risk while maintaining trust? Where’s the line between persuasion and partnership? Join us for a candid conversation about collaboration, vision, and the breakthroughs that happen when you go just one step further.

In Season 5, Episode #202, we head to Winter Park and Central Florida with Luz and Orlando Sanchez of Douglas Elliman to uncover why this region is one of the hottest real estate destinations today. Known for its charming historic homes, vibrant cultural scene, luxury lakefront living, and proximity to Orlando's thriving economy, Central Florida is attracting both locals and out-of-state buyers. Luz and Orlando share their insider perspective on what makes Winter Park unique, where the strongest demand is, and how new development, lifestyle amenities, and investment opportunities are shaping the market. This episode reveals why Central Florida is firmly on the

🎙 Boroughs & Burbs Podcast – Episode #201: Exploring Greece with Jeronymo Kontonis of JK Property and Yachting

In this episode, we set sail for Greece with Jeronymo Kontonis, founder of JK Property and Yachting, to explore one of the world’s most dynamic and alluring real estate markets. From Athens to the islands, Greece has become a prime destination for global buyers drawn to its lifestyle, investment potential, and Golden Visa opportunities. Jeronymo shares insider insights on where the best opportunities lie, how luxury buyers combine real estate with yachting culture, and what international investors need to know about navigating the Greek market. Whether you’re considering a second home, investment property, or lifestyle escape, this episode offers a front-row seat to Greece’s real estate renaissance.

We've reached our 200th episode of Boroughs & Burbs, and there's no better guest to mark the occasion than Jonathan Miller, President & CEO of Miller Samuel and one of the most trusted voices in real estate analysis. In this special episode, we step back and ask: What It Means? Jonathan helps us decode the data, trends, and sentiment shaping today's housing market. From affordability challenges and mortgage rates to inventory constraints and investor behavior, we dive into the forces driving real estate in 2025 and where the market might be heading next.

Season 5, Episode #199 - This week on Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into the art of outdoor living with two masters of luxury landscape design: Steve Griggs of Steve Griggs Design and Lisa Ricotta of Bella Garden Landscape Design. From sprawling estates to intimate gardens, these experts bring beauty, function, and harmony to outdoor spaces. We'll discuss the latest trends in high-end landscaping, how design enhances property value, and the creative process behind transforming backyards into lifestyle destinations. Whether it's pools, gardens, terraces, or full outdoor living environments, discover what makes luxury landscapes truly exceptional.

Season 5, Episode #199 - This week on Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into the art of outdoor living with two masters of luxury landscape design: Steve Griggs of Steve Griggs Design and Lisa Ricotta of Bella Garden Landscape Design. From sprawling estates to intimate gardens, these experts bring beauty, function, and harmony to outdoor spaces. We'll discuss the latest trends in high-end landscaping, how design enhances property value, and the creative process behind transforming backyards into lifestyle destinations. Whether it's pools, gardens, terraces, or full outdoor living environments, discover what makes luxury landscapes truly exceptional.

This week, Season 5, Episode #198 on Boroughs and Burbs, we dive into the intersection of healthcare, aging, and migration with Russell Barksdale, CEO of Waveny LifeCare Network, and Connecticut State Senator Ryan Fazio. Connecticut and New York face mounting challenges: rising taxes, high costs of living, shrinking housing inventory, and healthcare system pressures. Seniors—projected to grow by 57% in Connecticut by 2040—are becoming a powerful voting bloc, shaping policy and demanding more choices. Why are some retirees leaving for Florida, Arizona, or the Carolinas, while others are staying local and downsizing? And how will healthcare closures, policy shifts, and private equity restrictions affect communities? Join us for a candid discussion on the future of aging, housing, and healthcare in our region.

In this episode #197, Season 5 of Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into the art of simplifying, decluttering, and maximizing value. Stephanie Radman of Mayflower Home Organizing shares strategies for creating order and balance in your home, from taming closets and kitchens to preparing properties for market. Then, Grant Panarese and Christie Spooner of Black Rock Auctions explains how auctions can turn excess belongings, estates, and even luxury assets into opportunities for profit. Together, they reveal how organization and auctions complement each other, freeing up space while unlocking hidden value. Whether you're downsizing, preparing to sell, or simply looking to live with less, this conversation will leave you inspired to rethink your relationship with “stuff.”

In Episode 196 of Boroughs & Burbs, hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera sit down with Jonathan Tuttle and Alec McElhinny of Land Play to explore why flex space development has become one of the fastest-growing segments in commercial real estate.

Jonathan and Alec share how these multi-use properties—blending warehouse, office, and retail—are transforming communities while delivering strong ROI for investors. They explain how macroeconomic and demographic shifts are fueling demand, what metrics they analyze when evaluating a site, and why municipalities are embracing this hybrid model.

You’ll hear practical insights on:

The tenant mix that drives sustainable returns, from small businesses to larger corporate users.

How zoning laws, municipal incentives, and financing structures are shaping flex space projects.

The role of modular construction and ESG principles in keeping developments cost-effective and future-proof.

Why underserved markets present some of the biggest growth opportunities over the next five years.

Whether you’re an investor, developer, or business owner, this episode offers a masterclass in adaptive commercial real estate strategy.

🎥 Watch on YouTube: Flex Space Development | Boroughs & Burbs Ep. 196

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Ep. 195 – Integrated Planning & Design Services with Benjamin Watson & Vincent Yan

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Keywords

In Episode #195, we’re joined by Benjamin Watson and Vincent Yan of Douglas Elliman for a conversation about integrated planning and design services in real estate. From concept to completion, they guide clients through the intricacies of architecture, interior design, construction, and project management—often long before a home hits the market. We explore how their early involvement helps avoid costly mistakes, optimize layout and flow, and add long-term value. Whether it’s ground-up construction or transformative renovations, Ben and Vincent share how buyers and developers alike benefit from a unified vision, expert curation, and a design-first mindset. A must-listen for agents, investors, and anyone building their dream home.