Markets in the Garden State are strong and Newark is an exciting example of progress! New retail, hospitality, bio-tech, senior housing-nursing homes, rentals, children's activity centers, office market - prime examples of development in New Jersey.

Transit oriented developments: the house or apartment, the store, the train, the bus are familiar to most New Yorkers. The concept is moving into the suburbs, where there is significant demand for transit available-affordable housing.

Not wanting empty offices, panelists discuss historically large concession packages: 10-12 months free rent - depending upon location and market, demanded by tenants. Sophisticated renters require upgraded space and technology.

Discussing lower interest rates, high employment, a strong rental but lackluster condo market, bankers feel some stress in lending. Panelists agreed there are areas of opportunity for development in government designated Opportunity Zones.

Describing the Housing Act of 2019 as a big mistake for NY owners, renters and the city, panelists believe that the law creates uncertainty and is retroactive as much as 23 years; predicting fewer property improvements and fewer jobs as owners, builders and bankers continue to discuss this legislation.

Developers discuss difficulties in doing business on Long Island that still exist: regulations differ in each municipality; communities fear congestion; school boards worry about enrollment. Yet, retail is strong; old stock makes rentals attractive.

Mid-term investment sales market reports show fewer transactions compared with 2018. New regulations may have slowed sales in multi-family, while other asset classes are doing well. The Bronx, Westchester, "affordable" condo projects are of great interest.

Herbert Lepor, MD and James S. Wysock, MD, urologists at NYU Langone Health, discuss the aid of the PSA test in identifying early stage prostate cancer and the MRI and diagnostic tests to better targeted biopsies, leading to the successful treatment of prostate cancer.

Ask restaurateurs about opening a fine-dining restaurant in New York City today and you may hear a firm, NO, THANK YOU! With progressive labor policies, high rents, overhead that's out of sight, better to consider quick-serve, fast-food establishments.

Brian C. Halpern, MD, colleagues Dr. Rock Positano and Dr. Douglas Seckendorf, the Hospital for Special Surgery, agreed that 90% of orthopedic patients do not need surgery and can be helped with a variety of treatments. All agreed-as all parts of the body are connected, the entire body must be considered in treatment.