Lock In Buffalo

Are Erie County taxes really going down if your property tax bill keeps going up? And what can county government actually do about crime, rising costs, and the issues affecting Western New York families?

In Episode 23 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with Frank J. Todaro, Erie County Legislator for District 8, for a candid conversation about local government, public safety, taxes, affordability, and accountability.

Frank brings the perspective of a business owner and six-year county legislator as he explains how Erie County government works, where he believes oversight falls short, and which decisions could have the biggest impact on residents and homeowners.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Erie County's Budget: How spending decisions are made and what oversight the Legislature provides.
• Public Safety and Bail Reform: Frank's perspective on retail theft, vehicle theft, and accountability in the justice system.
• The County Jail Debate: Why lawmakers rejected a $20 million planning proposal and what comes next.
• Gas Taxes and Affordability: A proposal to limit the county sales tax collected on gasoline and what that could mean for drivers and businesses.
• Property Reassessments: Why a lower tax rate doesn't necessarily mean a lower tax bill.
• Buffalo City Services: Concerns about reassessments, bulk trash pickup, and cooperation between the mayor and Common Council.
• Natural Gas and Electrification: The debate over new-home energy requirements, utility costs, and grid readiness.
• A Rare Point of Agreement: What Frank praises about Gov. Kathy Hochul's school cellphone restrictions.
• The Seneca Nation Land Dispute: Sovereignty, development, and the controversy over a proposed gas station in Buffalo.
• The Wheel of Buffalo: Italian-American heritage and the debate surrounding the Christopher Columbus statue.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome and introduction

01:53 What the Erie County Legislature actually does

06:34 Public safety and the sheriff's office

09:09 The future of Erie County's jails

12:37 Bail reform, crime, and state politics

20:06 Gas taxes and proposed relief

24:44 County budget and property tax assessments

27:17 Buffalo reassessments and city services

31:03 Natural gas, electric homes, and the power grid

36:06 What has Gov. Hochul gotten right?

39:00 The Wheel of Buffalo and Columbus statue

42:51 Seneca Nation land and proposed gas station

49:45 Final thoughts

MEET OUR GUEST

Frank J. Todaro | Erie County Legislator, District 8

Serving communities including Alden, Cheektowaga, Depew, Lancaster, and Marilla.

Official website: https://www4.erie.gov/todaro/

ABOUT LOCK IN BUFFALO

Hosted by Michael Nanula and powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, Lock In Buffalo features candid conversations with the entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, elected officials, business owners, and community voices shaping Buffalo and Western New York.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Are local leaders doing enough to make Erie County more affordable and accountable? Which issue should the county prioritize first? Share your thoughts below, whether you agree or disagree.

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Stay informed. Stay involved. Stay Locked In.

#LockInBuffalo #FrankTodaro #ErieCounty #BuffaloNY #WesternNewYork

Buffalo homeowners are facing new property assessments, rising tax bills, and questions about what comes next. But are residents getting a fair deal — and why is it so difficult to put thousands of vacant properties back to productive use?

In Episode 22 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with Ahmad Nieves of Red Door Real Estate and Amanda Bernardini, Loan Officer with CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, for an eye-opening conversation about property taxes, reassessments, housing affordability, landlord challenges, and the future of Buffalo's neighborhoods.

From real-life squatter nightmares to an innovative proposal that could transform vacant lots into opportunities for homeowners, this episode delivers practical information, surprising stories, and some tough questions about the policies shaping our city.

IN THIS EPISODE:

🔹 Buffalo's 19% Property Tax Levy Increase — What the city's latest budget means for taxpayers and why rising costs are creating concerns for homeowners and investors.

🔹 Property Reassessments: Know Your Rights — How to check your property's new assessed value, determine whether it accurately reflects market conditions, and challenge an assessment you believe is too high.

🔹 Why Your Mortgage Payment Could Increase — Amanda explains how property taxes affect mortgage escrow accounts, why shortages can develop, and what homeowners can do to prepare.

🔹 The Ripple Effect on Renters — Ahmad breaks down how increasing property taxes, insurance premiums, and operating expenses can influence rental prices across Buffalo.

🔹 Unbelievable Squatter Stories — From a police SWAT operation at a rental property to a squatter removing house numbers to delay an eviction, Amanda and Ahmad share some remarkable firsthand experiences.

🔹 Buffalo's Vacant Lot Problem — Why thousands of vacant parcels remain unused, the challenges residents face trying to purchase them, and the broader consequences for our neighborhoods.

🔹 Ahmad's Proposal to Transform Vacant Lots — An innovative idea allowing adjacent homeowners to lease vacant city-owned parcels and potentially purchase them through an expedited process after demonstrating responsible maintenance.

🔹 City Hall, Bureaucracy & Neighborhood Revitalization — Why efforts to improve Buffalo neighborhoods can become trapped in administrative red tape, and how increased homeownership could help strengthen communities and expand the tax base.

🔹 Teaching Buffalo Residents Property Management — Ahmad discusses his work educating residents through Buffalo Public Schools Adult Education, providing practical landlord education and hands-on property maintenance skills.

🔹 The Wheel of Buffalo — After discussing the city's challenges, Ahmad shares something he believes Buffalo consistently gets right!

IMPORTANT: BUFFALO PROPERTY OWNERS

If you received a new property assessment notice, review your information and understand your options.

2027 Assessment Cycle Key Dates:

• November 6, 2026 — Deadline for residential informal review applications.
• December 1–31, 2026 — Formal Board of Assessment Review grievance period.

Review your assessment, comparable property sales, and official appeal instructions here:

https://www.buffalony.gov/1810/Resources

A higher assessed value does not automatically translate into an identical percentage increase in your tax bill. Your actual taxes depend on the applicable tax rates, exemptions, and assessment.

ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Ahmad Nieves | Red Door Real Estate WNY

Ahmad is a Buffalo real estate professional with experience in residential properties, investment real estate, property management, and neighborhood development. Beyond his real estate career, Ahmad is working to create practical solutions for Buffalo's vacant properties and educate residents about responsible property ownership.

Amanda Bernardini | CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

Amanda is an experienced mortgage loan officer who helps buyers and homeowners navigate financing decisions, understand their mortgage obligations, and explore homeownership opportunities throughout Western New York.

ABOUT LOCK IN BUFFALO

Lock In Buffalo is a podcast and community-focused platform dedicated to meaningful conversations with the people shaping Buffalo and Western New York.

Hosted by Michael Nanula and powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, we bring together business leaders, real estate professionals, elected officials, entrepreneurs, and community advocates to explore the challenges and opportunities facing our region.

Our mission is to educate, inform, entertain, inspire conversation, and help build a stronger, more engaged Western New York.

CONNECT WITH LOCK IN BUFFALO

Instagram: @LockInBuffalo

Facebook: Lock In Buffalo

YouTube: @LockInBuffaloPod

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more conversations about Buffalo real estate, housing, politics, business, and community development.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Should Buffalo make it easier for homeowners to acquire and maintain vacant lots? Have you experienced a substantial property reassessment or an unexpected increase in your mortgage payment?

Share your experiences in the comments. We want to hear from you!

The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Lock In Buffalo, CrossCountry Mortgage, or affiliated organizations. Property owners should verify current assessment procedures and deadlines with the City of Buffalo.

#LockInBuffalo #BuffaloNY #BuffaloPropertyTaxes #BuffaloRealEstate #WesternNewYork

What happens when political complacency, questionable development decisions, and decades of missed opportunities collide with one of the greatest natural wonders in the world?

In Episode 21 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with Nate McMurray, former Grand Island Town Supervisor, two-time congressional candidate, and current Democratic candidate for New York State Assembly District 145, for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about politics, leadership, accountability, and the future of Western New York.

Never one to shy away from controversy, McMurray challenges the political establishment on both sides of the aisle, questions how Niagara County's extraordinary resources are being managed, and shares his vision for rebuilding one of America's most historically significant regions.

From the economic struggles of Niagara Falls to the future of artificial intelligence, data centers, energy production, and political accountability, this conversation goes well beyond traditional campaign talking points.

IN THIS EPISODE:

🔹 Political Accountability & One-Party Rule — Why McMurray believes entrenched political leadership, regardless of party affiliation, can breed stagnation, complacency, and corruption.

🔹 The Race for New York's 145th Assembly District — His campaign against Republican Becky Wydysh, his calls for a public debate, and why he believes voters deserve greater transparency from candidates.

🔹 Niagara Falls: A World-Class Destination with Unfulfilled Potential — How one of the world's most recognizable natural attractions continues to struggle to translate tourism into lasting economic prosperity.

🔹 The Seneca Niagara Casino & Local Economic Development — McMurray's controversial perspective on the casino's economic impact and whether surrounding businesses and communities have received the benefits once promised.

🔹 The New York Power Authority — Why McMurray believes more of the economic value generated by the Niagara Power Project should remain in Niagara County, including jobs, investment, and affordable energy.

🔹 Data Centers, Artificial Intelligence & Energy Demand — His opposition to proposed data center development near Niagara Falls, concerns about utility infrastructure, and questions surrounding tax incentives and community benefits.

🔹 The Future of Jobs in the Age of AI — A candid discussion about technological disruption, economic inequality, and whether government is prepared for the changes ahead.

🔹 Kathy Hochul, Bruce Blakeman & New York Politics — A lively exchange about the gubernatorial debate, Hochul's relationship with Western New York, and disagreements over the Buffalo Bills stadium.

🔹 The Buffalo Bills Stadium Debate — Why McMurray believes a downtown stadium near Buffalo's Central Terminal could have transformed the city's East Side.

🔹 Political Polarization & Finding Common Ground — Why disagreement doesn't have to mean division, and how political tribalism prevents meaningful conversations.

🔹 Reimagining Buffalo & Niagara Falls — A bigger vision for the Niagara River corridor, tourism, agriculture, waterfront redevelopment, and regional economic growth.

ABOUT NATE McMURRAY

A North Tonawanda native, attorney, former international business executive, and former Grand Island Town Supervisor, Nate McMurray has built a political career around challenging conventional thinking and taking on difficult races.

After working internationally, including in South Korea and China, McMurray returned to Western New York and entered public service. He served as Grand Island Town Supervisor from 2016 through 2019 and later ran for Congress against Chris Collins and Chris Jacobs.

Today, he is running for New York State Assembly District 145, representing communities including Grand Island, North Tonawanda, Niagara Falls, Lewiston, and Youngstown.

Learn more about Nate McMurray:
https://www.votenatemcmurray.com/

ABOUT LOCK IN BUFFALO

Lock In Buffalo is a podcast and community-focused platform dedicated to meaningful conversations with the people shaping Buffalo and Western New York.

Hosted by Michael Nanula and powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, the show brings together business leaders, elected officials, entrepreneurs, community advocates, and local changemakers to explore the challenges, opportunities, and untapped potential of our region.

Our mission is simple: inspire conversation, challenge conventional thinking, celebrate the people making a difference, and help build a more engaged, informed, and optimistic Western New York.

CONNECT WITH LOCK IN BUFFALO

Instagram: @LockInBuffalo

Facebook: Lock In Buffalo

YouTube: @LockInBuffaloPod

Subscribe for more conversations about Buffalo, Niagara Falls, business, politics, community development, and the future of Western New York.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Does Western New York need a fundamentally different approach to economic development and political leadership? Are we thinking big enough about Niagara Falls and our waterfront?

Share your thoughts in the comments. Respectful disagreement and open conversation are always welcome.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Lock In Buffalo, its host, sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Guest statements and allegations are presented as part of an open discussion and do not constitute independently verified findings or political endorsements.

#LockInBuffalo #NateMcMurray #BuffaloNY #NiagaraFalls #WesternNewYork

Would you list your house for $1? What if that strategy actually helped you sell it for more?

In Episode 20 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with John Spaschak of The Market Dominators Team at WNY Metro Roberts Realty and special guest Amanda Bernardini of CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo for an unfiltered conversation about the unconventional strategies, industry shortcomings, and economic forces shaping Western New York real estate.

John isn't afraid to challenge the way the industry operates.

A former Division I basketball coach with a master's degree in education, John has built his real estate philosophy around four words: Educate. Advocate. Negotiate. Dominate.

He explains how his controversial $1 listing strategy challenged conventional thinking about home values, why he faced pushback over delayed negotiations and offer deadlines, and why he believes too many real estate professionals enter the business without the practical knowledge necessary to properly represent their clients.

His central argument? Real estate agents don't determine what a house is worth. The market does.

And when it comes to mortgages, Amanda has an equally important message: Stop obsessing over interest rates and start focusing on affordability.

She explains why waiting for rates to fall isn't necessarily the smartest financial decision, why buyers should never depend on a future refinance, and how monthly payments, property taxes, existing debt, and lifestyle should drive a homebuying decision.

IN THIS EPISODE:

🏡 The $1 Listing: Why John marketed a house for just one dollar, the controversy surrounding the strategy, and how he says it ultimately sold for $20,000 above comparable neighborhood sales.

📈 Marketing Price vs. Market Value: Why John refuses to think of a listing price as an asking price, and how buyer search behavior influences his strategy.

⚖️ The Offer Deadline Controversy: John's account of challenging established real estate practices and the criticism he faced before those practices became widespread.

🎓 The Education Problem in Real Estate: Why John believes the barrier to entry is too low, how brokerage training can fall short, and what consumers should look for when choosing representation.

🤝 Working With Friends and Family: The uncomfortable reality of feeling obligated to use someone you know as your real estate agent—even when they may not be the most qualified.

💰 Interest Rates vs. Affordability: Amanda explains why the mortgage rate is only one piece of the equation and why the payment you can comfortably afford matters more than trying to predict the market.

🏦 The Refinancing Gamble: Why buyers should never purchase a home assuming they'll be able to refinance into a lower rate later.

🔑 The Real Reason People Move: John's perspective on the major life transitions behind real estate transactions—and why understanding a client's circumstances is more important than simply closing a deal.

🏆 The Market Dominators Philosophy: How John's coaching background influences his approach to educating clients, negotiating transactions, and mentoring other professionals.

MEET OUR GUESTS

JOHN SPASCHAK
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker
The Market Dominators Team
WNY Metro Roberts Realty

John combines a background in education, competitive athletics, and business with an unconventional approach to real estate marketing and negotiation.

His philosophy centers on empowering consumers with the information they need to make confident decisions.

📞 716-570-3298
📧 [email protected]
Agent Profile: https://www.zillow.com/profile/yourelitebroker
WNY Metro Roberts Realty: https://www.metrorobertsrealestate.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarketDominatorsTeam/

AMANDA BERNARDINI
Loan Officer | CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

Amanda brings years of mortgage lending and loan-processing experience to the conversation, offering practical insights into financing, affordability, and responsible homeownership.

CrossCountry Mortgage: https://crosscountrymortgage.com/

ABOUT LOCK IN BUFFALO

Hosted by Michael Nanula and powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, Lock In Buffalo features candid conversations with the business owners, entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, community leaders, and decision-makers shaping the future of Buffalo and Western New York.

We're here to ask better questions, challenge conventional thinking, and bring meaningful conversations to our community.

🎧 LISTEN & FOLLOW

YouTube: @LockInBuffaloPod
Instagram: @LockInBuffalo
Facebook: @LockInBuffalo
Podcast Episodes: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2604037/episodes

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Would you ever consider listing your house for $1?

And do you think New York should require more training before someone can represent buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction?

Let us know in the comments.

👍 LIKE the video
💬 SHARE your perspective
🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations about Buffalo, business, real estate, and the issues affecting Western New York.

Stay Locked In.

#LockInBuffalo #JohnSpaschak #BuffaloRealEstate #MarketDominators #CrossCountryMortgage

Does Buffalo need a different kind of political leadership? And are voters holding their elected officials accountable?

In Episode 19 of Lock in Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with DJ Bandana Black, also known as "Mr. I Am Buffalo," for a candid, outspoken conversation about Buffalo politics, community leadership, political loyalty, and the responsibility of elected officials to the people they represent.

Known for his unmistakable personality and strong connection to Buffalo, DJ Bandana Black doesn't shy away from controversial subjects.

We discuss the political culture of Buffalo, the influence of party loyalty, India Walton, the importance of authentic leadership, and why communities need to demand more from the people they elect.

The conversation explores the relationship between politicians and their constituents, why voter participation matters, and what happens when elected officials lose touch with the very communities that put them in office.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Buffalo politics and the influence of party loyalty
• DJ Bandana Black's perspective on India Walton
• Authenticity, leadership, and political credibility
• Why politicians owe accountability to their constituents
• Voter turnout, political apathy, and the consequences of not voting
• Supporting candidates versus blindly supporting political parties
• Why elected officials sometimes become inaccessible after winning office
• Community organizing and holding leadership accountable
• The difference between political popularity and meaningful progress
• What Buffalo residents should expect from their government
• The importance of community involvement and civic responsibility

Whether you agree or disagree, this episode offers an opportunity to hear a passionate Buffalo voice discuss the city's political landscape and the challenges facing its future.

Lock in Buffalo is about having the conversations Buffalo is already having — with the entrepreneurs, elected officials, community leaders, creators, and personalities shaping Western New York.

🎙️ Guest: DJ Bandana Black — "Mr. I Am Buffalo"
🎙️ Host: Michael Nanula
📍 Buffalo, New York
🏠 Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Are Buffalo voters holding their elected officials accountable? Or has party loyalty become more important than results?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Subscribe to Lock in Buffalo for more conversations about Buffalo politics, business, development, culture, and the people shaping our community.

Stay informed. Stay involved. Stay Locked In. 🔒

#LockInBuffalo #DJBandanaBlack #BuffaloPolitics #BuffaloNY #WesternNewYork

What really happened in the battle over Buffalo’s Cobblestone District — and what does it say about development in the city?

On Episode 18 of Lock in Buffalo, Michael Nanula sits down with Buffalo developer and business owner Darryl Carr for an in-depth conversation about his history in Buffalo real estate, his properties in the Cobblestone District, and the years-long dispute surrounding their future.

Carr shares his perspective on acquiring and attempting to redevelop the properties, the condition of the buildings, his proposed development plans, historic preservation, interactions with City Hall, and the eminent-domain process involving his South Park Avenue properties.

The conversation also goes beyond one development project. Darryl discusses the challenges of investing in Buffalo, working through the development process, public incentives and subsidies, preservation versus redevelopment, and what he believes needs to change to encourage investment in the city.

In this episode:

• Darryl Carr’s background in business and Buffalo real estate
• How he became involved in the Cobblestone District
• The history and condition of his South Park Avenue properties
• His original vision for redeveloping the site
• Historic preservation and rehabilitation challenges
• His interactions with the City of Buffalo
• The eminent-domain dispute
• Why the proposed project never moved forward
• Tax incentives and public subsidies for development
• The challenges facing developers in Buffalo
• Darryl’s perspective on the future of the Cobblestone District
• What Buffalo can do to encourage development while protecting its history

This episode presents Darryl Carr’s perspective on a long-running and contested Buffalo development issue. Where the conversation addresses disputes involving the City of Buffalo or other parties, statements reflect the views and recollections of the speaker.

🎙️ Lock in Buffalo brings you conversations with the people shaping Buffalo and Western New York — from business and real estate to government, development, neighborhoods and the community.

Hosted by Michael Nanula
Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

If you enjoy the episode, subscribe to Lock in Buffalo, like the video, and drop your thoughts in the comments.

Let’s Lock In. 🔒🦬

What’s holding Buffalo back—and where is its biggest opportunity?

In Episode 17 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with Buffalo realtor Carmelo Parlato for a candid conversation about real estate, historic preservation, neighborhood investment, public safety and the politics shaping Buffalo’s future.

From historic tax credits and Opportunity Zones to the debate over eminent domain in the Cobblestone District, Carmelo shares his perspective on bringing new life to old buildings—and what he believes City Hall should prioritize to help Buffalo move forward.

We explore the transformation of Connecticut Street, investment in Broadway-Fillmore, the contributions of immigrant communities and why Carmelo believes thriving commercial corners can change an entire neighborhood. We also ask: If you had $100 million to invest in Buffalo, where would you put it?

The conversation gets outspoken as we discuss crime, policing, bail reform and Carmelo’s criticism of political activism that he feels falls short of delivering results for residents.

In this episode, we cover:

• Historic tax credits and preserving Buffalo’s architecture
• Opportunity Zones and attracting outside investment
• Eminent domain, private property rights and the Cobblestone District
• City government’s role in development and basic services
• Buffalo’s aging housing stock: opportunity and challenges
• Connecticut Street, the West Side and Broadway-Fillmore
• Immigrant communities and neighborhood revitalization
• Real estate education, mentorship and building opportunity
• Carmelo’s vision for a Buffalo film and soundstage industry
• Small businesses and what Buffalo gets right
• Crime, police funding, bail reform and local politics
• Community involvement and the debate over performative activism

🎙️ Guest: Carmelo Parlato — Buffalo Realtor
🎙️ Host: Michael Nanula
📍 Buffalo, New York / Western New York
🏠 Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

Lock In Buffalo brings you conversations with the realtors, developers, business owners, elected officials and community voices shaping Buffalo and Western New York.

If you had $100 million to invest in Buffalo, which neighborhood or project would you start with—and why? Tell us in the comments.

Subscribe and Stay Locked In. 🔒

#LockInBuffalo #CarmeloParlato #BuffaloRealEstate #BuffaloDevelopment #BuffaloNY

What will Buffalo look like 10, 20 or 30 years from now — and how do we prepare for it today?

On Episode 16 of Lock in Buffalo, Michael Nanula sits down with Dr. Leah Sciabarrasi for a conversation about artificial intelligence, futures thinking, education, leadership, workforce development and the changes that could shape Buffalo and Western New York.

Dr. Sciabarrasi’s work focuses on strategic foresight — identifying emerging trends and early signals to better understand what could be coming next.

Michael and Leah discuss:

• What futures thinking actually means
• AI and the future of work
• How technology could reshape jobs and education
• The skills tomorrow’s workforce will need
• Leadership during rapid change
• Buffalo’s workforce and talent pipeline
• How Western New York can better prepare for emerging opportunities
• Why Buffalo should think beyond short-term planning

The conversation ultimately asks a bigger question:

How do we make sure Buffalo is helping shape its future instead of simply reacting to it?

🎙️ Guest: Dr. Leah Sciabarrasi
🎙️ Host: Michael Nanula
📍 Buffalo, New York
🏠 Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

Lock in Buffalo features the entrepreneurs, business leaders, community voices and people helping shape Buffalo and Western New York.

Subscribe and Stay Locked In. 🔒

👇 What change do you think will have the biggest impact on Buffalo over the next 10–20 years?

#LockInBuffalo #BuffaloNY #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #WesternNewYork

What is really happening in the Buffalo housing market right now?

In Episode 15 of Lock In Buffalo, host Michael Nanula sits down with Cassandra Whitney, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker with MJ Peterson Real Estate, along with special guest Michael Burke, Originating Branch Manager and Loan Officer with CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo, for an on-the-ground conversation about the Buffalo and Western New York real estate market.

We break down what local real estate professionals are actually seeing in the market — from housing inventory, buyer and seller behavior, affordability and financing to the trends shaping where Buffalo real estate could be heading next.

This isn't a national housing-market conversation applied to Buffalo. It's a look at what is happening right here in Western New York from professionals actively working with buyers, sellers and homeowners every day.

In this episode, we cover:

• The current Buffalo and Western New York housing market
• What local buyers are experiencing right now
• What sellers should understand about today's market
• Housing inventory and competition
• Buffalo home prices and changing buyer expectations
• Real estate trends across Western New York
• Affordability and the financing side of buying a home
• How buyers can position themselves more effectively
• How sellers should approach the current market
• What real estate professionals are seeing on the ground
• Where the Buffalo housing market may be heading next
• And much more

Guest: Cassandra Whitney — Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, MJ Peterson Real Estate
Special Guest: Michael Burke — Originating Branch Manager, CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo | NMLS #680412
Host: Michael Nanula
Show: Lock In Buffalo
Powered by: CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo
Location: Buffalo, New York / Western New York

Lock In Buffalo brings you conversations with the realtors, mortgage professionals, developers, investors, business owners and community leaders shaping Buffalo and Western New York.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Buffalo, selling a home, investing in Western New York real estate, getting a mortgage, or simply trying to understand what's actually happening in the local housing market, subscribe to Lock In Buffalo.

New episodes, local conversations and clips every week.

In this episode of Lock In Buffalo, Michael Nanula sits down with Buffalo Common Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski, who represents the Fillmore District and serves as Chair of the Common Council’s Finance Committee, for a wide-ranging conversation about development, housing, politics, public safety, and some of the biggest issues facing the City of Buffalo.

And we don’t avoid the controversial stuff.

We get into eminent domain and the battle over the Cobblestone District, including the debate over when government should have the power to take privately owned property in the name of redevelopment.

We also dig into one of Buffalo’s biggest challenges: how do you actually get development to happen?

Should developers receive tax credits and incentives to take on difficult projects? How much public assistance is too much? And what happens when buildings sit vacant for decades because the economics simply don’t work?

Mitch gives his perspective from inside City Hall on the policies, projects, neighborhoods and controversies he deals with every day.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Eminent domain and Buffalo’s Cobblestone District
• The debate over private property rights vs. redevelopment
• Infill housing and Buffalo’s vacant lots
• Why building new housing in Buffalo can be so difficult
• Tax credits and incentives for developers
• Historic rehabilitation and saving Buffalo’s aging buildings
• Development throughout the Fillmore District
• Broadway-Fillmore and the East Side
• Downtown Buffalo and adaptive reuse
• Club Marcella and public safety concerns
• Entertainment districts, nightlife and policing
• The challenges facing Buffalo neighborhoods
• What City Hall can — and cannot — do to encourage investment
• Mitch Nowakowski’s perspective on where Buffalo goes next

The Fillmore District is one of Buffalo’s most diverse council districts, stretching through neighborhoods and destinations including Broadway-Fillmore, downtown, Chippewa, Canalside and the Cobblestone District — putting Nowakowski directly in the middle of many of the development and public-policy debates shaping Buffalo right now.

Whether you agree with him or disagree with him, this is an opportunity to hear directly from one of the people making those decisions.

Lock In Buffalo is about having the conversations Buffalo is already having — with the developers, business owners, elected officials, community leaders and personalities shaping Western New York.

🎙️ Guest: Mitch Nowakowski — Buffalo Common Council, Fillmore District
🎙️ Host: Michael Nanula
📍 Buffalo, New York
🏠 Powered by CrossCountry Mortgage Buffalo

If you care about Buffalo development, housing, politics, real estate, downtown Buffalo or the future of Western New York, subscribe to Lock In Buffalo and join the conversation.

What do you think? Should Buffalo be more aggressive about using eminent domain to spur redevelopment — or should private property rights win out? Drop your opinion in the comments.

HASHTAGS

#LockInBuffalo #BuffaloNY #BuffaloPolitics #BuffaloDevelopment #MitchNowakowski