Shaping the NYC Skyline

Dive into another compelling episode of Shaping the NYC Skyline. This time we are joined by Jane Rosenberg, Partner at Seiden & Schein, whose illustrious career is a mosaic of ambition, happenstance, and strategic brilliance in New York's real estate sector. Jane's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to making a difference. 

From her early aspirations in journalism instilled by her father's maxim to ‘do good,' Jane's voyage has been anything but ordinary. A serendipitous conversation transformed her journalistic endeavors into a pioneering journey through law school, leading to a crucial stint in public service where she championed legislative reforms. In the 1980s, Jane played a pivotal role in drafting legislation for co-op conversions.  She later went into private practice where she found success in multiple law firms, the most recent of which is our very own Seiden & Schein.

Throughout her career spanning over three decades, Jane has navigated challenges with grace and determination, emerging as a beacon of knowledge and advocate in the world of NYC cooperatives and condominiums. Jane's path has been marked by resilience and a commitment to effecting positive change in NYC housing.

Don't miss this opportunity to delve into Jane's captivating career to being a brand name in the real estate legal business. Jane’s tale is sure to inspire, taking us deep into Jane’s insights, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to Shaping the NYC Skyline.

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich - [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

You can Reach Jane Rosenberg by email:

Jane Rosenberg - [email protected] 

Dive into the inspiring journey of Jamie Smarr, the President and CEO of the NYC Housing Partnership, an entity originally established by David Rockefeller and Edward Koch to address the challenges New York City faced with tax-foreclosed properties and returning these properties to their intended use. Jamie Smarr’s career is a testament to his deep commitment to economic development and fostering collaborative efforts between the private sector and government to create housing and build communities.

Jamie’s leadership roles, from directing the housing incentives division at the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to his impactful tenures at the NHP Foundation and the New York City Education Construction Fund (ECF), have contributed to the creation of thousands of affordable housing units and public school seats, and the development of a million square feet of other spaces. These achievements underscore his influence in redefining the city’s landscape and enhancing the lives of its residents. His commitment to utilizing economic growth for community betterment continues at the NYC Housing Partnership, where he champions initiatives in the affordable housing sector.

Tune in as Jamie Smarr shares his profound insights and rich experiences, offering a compelling narrative on the synergy of business, government, and community in Shaping the NYC Skyline. 

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich - [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

Buckle up, Skyliners, for a riveting episode featuring Margaret Ling, NYC Agency Business Development and Underwriting Counsel for AmTrust Title. Spanning three decades, Margaret’s career is a testament to resilience, sharp acumen, and a profound commitment to enriching communities and individuals alike.

Margaret's extraordinary journey commenced with clerking for Chief Judge Constance Baker Motley, the first African American woman to serve on the federal bench, laying the foundation for a career replete with significant achievements and relentless advocacy for justice. Although her stint in immigration law following her clerkship was brief and fraught with challenges, it ignited her determination to discover her true passion. 

That resolve led her to real estate law, where she not only thrived but also became a formidable force, eventually being recruited for a role with a title agent and, in record time, thereafter obtaining an esteemed position with a title underwriter, a testament to her exceptional expertise and talents. Beyond her professional triumphs, Margaret's influence deeply resonates within the community, underscored by her dedication to mentorship and legal education. 

More than a chronicle of career achievements, this episode embodies the spirit of resilience and motivation and the critical importance of building bridges in Shaping the NYC Skyline. 

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

In this episode, we sit down with Eli Weiss, Principal of Joy Construction Corp., a key player in New York City's dynamic housing landscape. Eli, a native Brooklynite, shares his insightful journey into the world of real estate, starting with his formative years at the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), where he worked on subsidized affordable housing transactions, witnessing first-hand the critical importance of synergistic public-private partnerships for fostering sustainable housing growth.

After transitioning into the private sector, Eli expanded into construction and worked on affordable housing and other types of real estate developments. Throughout our discussion, he explains the strategic significance of real estate proximity to transportation and the dire need for ongoing housing production, an issue made more acute by the lapse of the 421-a real estate tax exemption.

Eli speaks openly about the array of challenges faced when building in New York City's current environment, from soaring interest rates to community opposition and political obstacles. He also shares personal stories of determination, including how he navigated the repercussions of a judicial ruling that annulled the Inwood rezoning previously approved by the City Council (a decision that was later overturned).

Join us as we delve into Eli’s illustrious career and how his steadfast commitment to creating affordable housing is Shaping the NYC Skyline.

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

In this episode, we had the privilege of talking to Kim Darga, Deputy Commissioner for Development at the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). With an impressive tenure of over 16 years at HPD, Kim offers an unparalleled insight into the agency's dedicated efforts to combat the affordable housing crisis facing New York City.

Our conversation delves into the innovative solutions and creative problem-solving that Kim and her team are relentlessly pursuing to navigate the complex landscape of urban development and housing affordability. Despite facing numerous challenges and legislative hurdles, HPD is forging ahead, actively collaborating with developers and property owners, seeking their input in an effort to tailor programs to the community's needs. Kim highlights HPD’s deep commitment to addressing the housing crisis in the ever-expanding city, emphasizing HPD’s diverse departments and the critical partnerships forged with the development community that are vital to the city's housing future.

We also explore HPD's latest initiatives, illustrating the agency's remarkable adaptability and responsiveness to the evolving housing landscape. This conversation offers listeners a rare opportunity to gain profound insights from Kim Darga's wealth of experience, shedding light on HPD's instrumental role in spurring the building of affordable housing and Shaping the NYC Skyline.

Our conversation with Kim is packed with valuable insights, including:

• The complexities and challenges of building and financing affordable housing
• HPD's cutting-edge approaches for addressing NYC's affordable housing crisis
• The crucial role of public-private partnerships in facilitating housing development
• The anticipated impacts on housing of various proposed regulatory reforms
• and more . . .

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

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 his innate business acumen and relentless work ethic, Andrew has surmounted a plethora of challenges, turning setbacks into invaluable learning experiences and, ultimately, triumphs.

Andrew's strategic prowess shines brightly in his pivotal decision to specialize in rentals, a testament to his deep understanding of the ever-evolving real estate landscape. Moreover, his role as a mentor underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation, sharing his wealth of knowledge to empower others to succeed.

Beyond personal achievement, Andrew's story embodies resilience, foresight, and an unyielding dedication to excellence. It's more than just a tale of success—it's a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and vision. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of this industry leader and his indelible contribution to Shaping the NYC Skyline.

Contact Andrew from MNS Real Estate at 917-902-7080

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

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 nuances of the proposal, elucidate its distinctions from the previous program, and offer insightful speculation on its framing. 

As they navigate through the intricacies of the proposed program, Jason and Scott provide a comprehensive overview for developers and housing advocates alike. Tune in to stay informed on the latest developments in housing incentives that serve as catalysts to Shaping the NYC Skyline.

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Tax Incentives Group by email:

Jason Hershkowitz - [email protected] 

Scott Schreiber - [email protected] 

Tax Incentives - [email protected] 

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

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 Bruce Lee – have been instrumental in his successful navigation through the complex terrains of real estate transactions.

Join our insightful discussion with Peter, a down-to-earth and brilliant mind, as we explore his journey from engineer to renowned developer, his professional influences, the culture he fosters at The VOREA Group and his impactful projects that have contributed to Shaping the NYC Skyline.

Our conversation with Peter is packed with valuable insights, including:

• Peter's inspiring educational and career journey, transitioning from engineering to real estate development.
• the innovative real estate development strategies he implements at The VOREA Group.
• his approach to cultivating a strong company culture, essential for sustainable business growth.
• insights into navigating the unique landscape of NYC real estate development.
• Peter’s distinctive methodology in handling real estate deals
• and more . . .

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022

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 organization with a mission to enhance the DUMBO neighborhood in Brooklyn. Subsequently, Tucker contributed his talents to Two Trees, a Brooklyn-based real estate developer renowned for transforming Brooklyn neighborhoods like DUMBO and Williamsburg. Notably, at the age of 31, he was appointed President of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, a not-for-profit local development corporation that serves as the primary champion for Downtown Brooklyn.

Through these diverse experiences, Tucker gained a profound understanding of real estate development as a team sport, realizing the pivotal role of community feedback and input and engagement from various other stakeholders. This insight laid the foundation for Totem's core philosophy—that "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts." It's this very principle that continues to drive the success of Totem Brooklyn as a unique and impactful developer.

Join us as we explore Tucker's unparalleled journey, his philosophy on real estate development, and the compelling story behind Totem's innovative approach to creating housing and Shaping the NYC Skyline.

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/@ShapingtheNYCSkyline

Email - [email protected]

Info Email - [email protected]

Phone -  212-935-1400

You can Reach our Hosts by email:

David Shamshovich [email protected]

Brenda Slochowsky - [email protected]

Camila Almeida - [email protected]

SEIDEN & SCHEIN, P.C.

570 Lexington Avenue, 14th Floor

New York, NY 10022