FEbrUarY

REALTOR
George Bookis, GRI, President • Vol. XXVI, No. 2 • FEBRUARY 2009 • NUNZIO DEL GRECO RCE, Chief Executive Officer
Expanded TALF
Will Encourage
Commercial Real
Estate Investment
continued on page 7
(Left to right) Ron Garfunkel, Service Directions, Inc.; Vincent Buccieri, Today Realty Corp.; Dan Margulies,
US Energy Group; Eliot Cherson, Counsel to the Board; Evelis Huaman, Aflac New York; Anthony Mormile,
Hudson Valley Bank; Joseph Kelleher, Hutchinson Metro Center; Gina Kuhlenkamp, AEC Engineering Design
& Construction Services PLLC; Christina Taylor, VP Bronx Residential Division; Frank Castellucci, Moments
To Remember Video Services; Sandra Erickson, Past President; Nunzio Del Greco, Chief Executive Officer; Pat
Logan, Community Preservation Corp.; Barbara-Ann Benson, Century 21 Wolff of Yonkers; Gary Jacobs, F & F
Supply; Neal Berman, Brainstorm Promotions; and Janine Schall, BMAR Marketing Assistant.
Real Estate Trade Show Planning Luncheon HELD
at the Pelham Split Rock Golf Course
A Trade Show Luncheon was held on Thursday, January 22, 2009 at the Pelham Split Rock
Golf Course. The luncheon was well attended by many of the Trade Show committee members
and a prior exhibitors. Below are important points which will be followed-up to the luncheon
and for planning for a successful 8th Annual Real Estate Trade Show.
• members were impressed with the facility, change of venue and service
• the revised 2009 Trade Show Brochure will include a photo of the facility
• it was discussed that the show should begin in the afternoon and continue into the
evening as a network
ing cocktail party
85th Annual Banquet Honorees......................................... 6
2009 Leadership ............................................................ 2
• additional members
Access Millions of Buyers................................................. 4
Active MLS Realtor Companies........................................ 15
volunteered to serve
Advantage Advertising.................................................... 14
on the committee to
Association Mission Statement ...................................... 13
Banquet Reser vation Form................................................ 7
make recommendaBenefits of the Bronx-Manhattan MLS................................ 8
tions to improve the
Calendar of Events ........................................................3-4
CEO Report .................................................................... 2
event
Housing Stimulus and Stabilization
Will Help Economic Recover y......................................... 9
• greater effort will be
Instructors Wanted......................................................... 13
made to increase atNew MLS Listing Opportunity.......................................... 14
Newsletter Product & Ser vice Providers............................. 5
tendance and traffic at
NYSAR Free Legal Hotline............................................... 13
the event
President’s Message . ..................................................... 3
Proposed Real Estate Industr y Regulation Changes for
• greater effort will
Rent Stabilized Buildings in NYC.................................... 9
Realtors Recognize Importance of Keeping Banks Out
be made to bring in
of Real Estate............................................................... 7
new exhibitors and
Realtors Welcome Efforts Towards Housing Stabilization... 11
Special MLS Announcement............................................ 10
assist all participating
What’s Inside
The
U.S.
Treasury’s
announcement that commercial
mortgage-backed
securities
will now be accepted as
eligible collateral for the Term
Asset-Backed Loan Facility
(TALF)
will
encourage
investment in the commercial
real estate market, according
to the National Association of
Realtors®.
Over the past year, the
broader credit crisis that has
permeated the world’s capital
markets
has
increasingly
curtailed commercial lending
activity. Banks have tightened
their credit standards and
reduced loan volume while the
commercial mortgage-backed
securities market has stopped
functioning
effectively.
Without liquidity, commercial
borrowers face a growing
challenge
of
refinancing
maturing debt and the threat
of rising delinquencies and
foreclosures.
“A severe lack of credit
threatens commercial real estate
and poses significant risks for
the whole economy,” said NAR
President Charles McMillan, a
broker with Coldwell Banker
Residential Brokerage in
Dallas-Fort Worth. “Expanding
the TALF and opening it up to
commercial mortgage-backed
securities is a movement in the
right direction, and welcome
news for the American
economy.”
The
announcement
implements policy directions
recommended and endorsed by
NAR’s Realtors® Commercial
continued on page 7
Susan E. Goldy Graduates Leadership Academy................. 5
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE OFFICERS
GEORGE BOOKIS, GRI
President
MATTHEW ENGEL, CPM
President-Elect
NUNZIO DEL GRECO, RCE
Chief Executive Officer
CHRISTINA TAYLOR
V.P. Bronx Residential Div.
RICHARD GUARINO
V.P. Manhattan Residential Div.
MATTHEW SCHMELZER
V.P. Owner‑Management Div.
KATHY ZAMECHANSKY
V.P. Commercial-Industrial Div.
DANIELLE ERICKSON NOAK
Treasurer
HATEMA NEZAJ
Secretary
ELIOT J. CHERSON, ESQ.
Counsel to the Board
GOVERNORS
FRANK BARBIERI
SHAUN BELLE
BARBARA ANN BENSON
PETER BOURBEAU
VINCENT BUCCIERI
KENNETH CODER, CPA
JAMES K. COLEMAN
JOSEPH W. COLONEL
FLOYD E. COOPER
VASCO DA SILVA
ELLEN FELD, GRI
WANDA FORDEN
JEFFREY GAULT
RICHARD GILIOTTI
RAM GUPTA
JOAN KUZNIAR, GRI
ANTHONY MORMILE
EUGENE REISMAN, ESQ.
HALE RICKMAN
SHIMON SHKURY
RANDOLPH J. SILVERSTEIN
JAMES SLATTERY
SONNY VATAJ
ARNOLD WALDMAN
EARL H. WASHINGTON
STEphen WOLINETZ
SENIOR COUNCIL
MARK F. ENGEL, CPM
SANDRA ERICKSON
JOEL T. FISHMAN
VIRGINIA M. GALLAGHER
PERRY GAULT
SUSAN E. GOLDY, CIPS, GRI
JACQUELINE KYLE KALL
BARRY H. LEVITES, CPM
JOSEPH F. LIMONGELLI
MICHAEL SCHMELZER, GRI
WILLIAM SCHUR
ERIC A. STERLING, IFA, ASA, GAA
JOSEPH A. VILLANI
CEO REPORT
2009 Leadership
Nunzio Del Greco RCE, Chief Executive Officer
with
“ Working
Today’s
New Business
Dynamics
”
The only thing that is certain these days is change and it’s happening faster than
ever. Most people I speak to these days are very stressed out with a sense of
uncertainty about their businesses and companies. I believe that “Uncertainty
is the New Business Dynamic” in our society. The continuing drop in the
Stock Market, economic instability, depreciation in real estate values, and
lack of consumer confidence compounds this uncertainty. The fact that we are
bombarded with endless sources of news, telephone calls, faxes, emails, and
noise 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week doesn’t help.
National leadership is necessary to boost consumer confidence to convince the
folks on Main Street that better days are ahead. Our elected representatives need
to get over partisan politics and work to solve the problems in our economy
and put America first. The rhetoric from most of the politicians is negative
in order to advance their agenda. Unfortunately, the recently passed Stimulus
Bill contains more social engineering, political payback, pork and not enough
economic stimuli.
I hope that President Obama and Congress are successful in getting the
economy moving again since we are all in the same boat. However at this time,
significant tax cuts on capital gains; cuts in personal income tax rates; cuts in
business taxes; cuts in inheritance taxes etc. would have done much more to
jump-start the economy and real estate industry. Tax reductions and incentives
are positive means to stimulate investments and business growth. A healthy
economy increases tax receipts on all levels of government. The $13.00 per
week per worker will do little to get most people to spend their money.
While frustration and stress is magnified by today’s new business dynamics,
we need to take personal charge of circumstances that are within our sphere of
influence. Balancing and juggling priorities is an on-going responsibility in this
ever-changing business, economic and business environment. Stay focused on
your priorities such as family, friends, business relationships and associations
such as the BMAR. With the challenges we are all facing on multiple levels,
the importance of membership and networking is more important than ever.
High on your priority list should also be health and taking care of you. It’s easier
than you think. Begin to make time for yourself by unplugging from all the
noise, news, telephone, computer, etc. for an hour a day. Treat yourself with
quiet time without interruptions, noise or worry. Just as the body needs rest
to recharge itself, so does the mind. Meditation and focusing on your breath
is a great way to take a break from the chatter. I started practicing yoga about
ten years ago and the benefits are priceless. Stretching and proper breathing is
also very important for health and balance. I added Qi Gong which is similar to
Tai Chi and Bagua martial arts to my routine. It works for me. It’s important
to find something that works for you. It may be taking a walk or reading a
book. With practice time, you will see positive results.
With “Today’s New Business Dynamics”, BMAR provides valuable programs
and services for our members to maintain a competitive edge and generating
new business. You never know where your next big deal is going to come
from. Mark your calendar and plan on attending some of the major networking
events including the upcoming 85th Annual Banquet, April 23, 2009 at the
Marina del Rey Caterers. Use the reservation form on page 7.
PAGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
“
Better
Days
Will
Come!
Dear Colleagues
”
Winter is slowly loosening its grip on us just as the tight credit market is
slowly, very slowly loosening up.
In these times vision is very important; and in fact vision is not the same
as sight.
When our sight is in excellent health we can see all that occurs around us
and can take informed decisions as to which direction we follow. Sometimes
our sight becomes blurred and this hinders our ability to move forward
confidently.
Our vision embraces the longer term; the what can be; the distant future.
Our vision should not be affected by either good or poor sight. Our
vision must remain clear, keeping the horizon in focus whether it may be
approaching or receding.
Our sight today is blurred by the economic downturn, the financial crisis, the
lack of credit, the amount of distressed debt and increasing unemployment.
We move forward hesitating at every step, not sure of our direction as
though we are in a thick fog with no end in sight.
We all acknowledge that these troubling times will be behind us one day,
and having learned from them we will be in a superior position to take
advantage of what may lay ahead.
This is the vision we must all keep in focus. Better days will come!
Ideas come from seeds that may lead to changes that improve one’s
self, one’s environment, one’s business and one’s future. For these
ideas to be implemented and to effect change they must be put forth for
consideration.
The various committees of The Bronx Manhattan North association of
realtors are the forum for the exchange of ideas but the momentum required
to effect change is provided by the involvement of our members.
At this time it is very important that we all commit ourselves to serving on
committees to provide the focused vision for our members that will guide
us through the fog.
Many things have changed over the past three years and BMAR must adapt
to meet the challenges before us as we approach the clearing horizon.
Your leadership attended the NYSAR business meetings in Verona and the
committee chairs will be submitting reports at the next Board of Governor’s
meeting.
As always please direct any comments, suggestions or concerns you may
have to: info@bmar.org
President’s Message
CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
George Bookis, GRI, 2009 President
FEBRUARY 1-5, 2009
NYSAR Business Meeting
The Turning Stone Resort & Casino
Verona, New York
February 6, 2009
WCR Technology Seminar
BMAR Board Room
9:30 am
FEBRUARY 12, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
February 23, 2009
MLS Training Session
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
February 25, 2009
Trade Show Logistics Meeting & Walk
Through Pelham Split Rock Golf Course
9:30 AM
February 27, 2009
Realtor Associate Networking Event
Information Exchange & Member
Forum
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
March 4, 2009
Golf & Tennis Committee Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
March 4, 2009
Trade Show Committee Meeting
BMAR Board Room
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
March 12, 2009
Bronx Residential Division
Round Table Discussion & Member
Forum
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
March 14, 2009
WCR Fundraiser Bowling Event
Bowler’s Lanes in the Bronx
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
MARCH 19, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
APRIL 16, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
April 19, 2009
WCR Cultural Brunch
Lorraine Coyle’s Home
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE APRIL 23, 2009
85th Annual Banquet
Marina del Rey Caterers
MAY 11-16, 2009
NAR Business Meetings
Washington, D.C.
MAY 19, 2009
New Member Welcome Seminar/
Code of Ethics
(3 hours CE Credits)
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
MAY 21, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
JUNE 18, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
JUNE 29, 2009
74th Annual Golf & Tennis Outing
Fresh Meadow Country Club
Lake Success, New York
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2009
NYSAR Business Meetings
The Saratoga Hilton Hotel
Saratoga Springs, New York
SEPTEMBER 22, 2009
New Member Welcome Seminar/
Code of Ethics
(3 hours CE Credits)
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 24, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
OCTOBER 28, 2009
8th Annual Real Estate Trade Show
Location To Be Announced
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
OCTOBER 28, 2009
Board of Governors Lunch Meeting
12:00 PM- 1:30 PM
Access Millions of Buyers through www.Realtor.com
and over 20 premium internet search engines
NOVEMBER 11-16, 2009
NAR Annual Convention
San Diego, California
NOVEMBER 17, 2009
New Member Welcome Seminar/
Code of Ethics
(3 hours CE Credits)
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
NOVEMBER 19, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
DECEMBER 3, 2009
25th Annual Holiday Party
Marina del Rey Caterers
DECEMBER 17, 2009
Board of Governors Meeting
BMAR Board Room
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
PAGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
Newsletter Product
& Service Providers
BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES
Emigrant Mortgage.................................(718) 459-6556
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS
Al-Ghazai Construction............ (212) 410-6862
COPIERS, PRINTERS & FAX MACHINES
DEC Copiers...........................................(845) 942-1400
ELEVATOR
AL’AN Elevator Corp.............................(718) 792-9530
Ver-Tech Elevator...................................(212) 375-1900
Riverdale REALTOR® Susan E. Goldy graduates NYSAR
Leadership Academy
ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS,
HEATING CONTROLS
U.S. Energy Group..................................(718) 380-1004
Susan E, Goldy of Boston, MA, President and Principal Broker at SUSAN E.
GOLDY, INC. in Riverdale, successfully completed Leadership NYSAR, an intensive
one year academy designed by the New York State Association of REALTORS to
develop emerging REALTOR® leaders.
“As a graduate of Leadership NYSAR, Susan Goldy is recognized by the New York
State Association of REALTORS® as a distinguished member and as potential future
association leader.” said NYSAR President Daniel J. Hartnett. “We are fortunate to
count among our graduates accomplished real estate professionals such as Susan
Goldy, who are dedicated to the advancement of the association and the industry.”
The 14 participants of Leadership NYSAR’s inaugural class attended four twoday retreats throughout 2008, working their way to the much anticipated graduation,
which took place in early February at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Vernon,
NY.
The program’s curriculum focused primarily on leadership techniques and how
participants can establish effective procedures for goal-setting and problem solving.
In addition to a comprehensive overview of the industry and association, participants
explored proven strategies to both personal and professional success.
Susan Gold, President of SUSAN GOLDY, INC., has been an innovative Real
Estate professional since 1972, actively involved in the sale of residential properties
throughout Riverdale, Kingsbridge, and Yonkers.
The New York State Association of REALTORS® is a not-for-profit trade
organization representing more than 61,000 of New York state’s real estate
professionals. The term REALTOR® is a registered trademark, which identifies real
estate professional who subscribe to a strict code of ethics as members of the New
York State Association of REALTORS®. These REALTORS® are also members of
the New York State Association of REALTORS®.
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YOUR “AD”
FITS HERE
This monthly newsletter is sent to over 10,000
companies and professionals throughout New York City
for more information email: info@bmar.org
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Jerome Environmental Services, LLC....(718) 220-4200
Professional Environmental
Services, Inc........................................(718) 231-8399
EXTERMINATOR
Metro Pest Control..................................(718) 803-0000
INSURANCE
CBS Coverage Group Inc.......................(516) 938-9000
LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT
Service Directions Inc.............................(800) 666-0505
Mortgage Financing Services
Community Preservation Corp..............(718) 601-6600
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE (MLS)
Bronx-Manhattan North
Association Of Realtors......................(718) 892-3000
PRINTING
Beehive Press..........................................(718) 654-1200
Promotional Products
Brainstorm Promotions..........................(516) 681-3118
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT RENTALS
A. Schonfeld Property Management......(347) 275-3775
SPRINKLER COMPANY
Big Apple Fire Sprinkler Co...................(718) 205-8580
TITLE INSURANCE
Judicial Title Insurance Agency, LLC.....(914) 381-6700
WATER TREATMENT
OCS Chemical Engineering....................(914) 739-2676
PATRONIZE THE
ADVERTISERS
IN THIS NEWSLETTER!
*Tell them that you saw their “ad” in
the BMAR Newsletter
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE 85 Years of
Service
1924-2009
Attend the 85th Annual Banquet of the
Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors, Inc.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2009, 5:30 P.M.
Marina del Rey Caterers Bronx, New York
Network and join us in saluting outstanding individuals and Award Recipients
Elias
Karmon
Dr. Dr.
Elias
Karmon
Distinguished Service Award
Posthumously
James Alston
Community Service Award
McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home
Michael Berr
Affiliate Member of the Year
Goodhart National Gorman Agency
Richard Guarino
Realtor Associate of the Year
Extreme Realty LLC
Kathy Zamechansky
Realtor of the Year
KZA Friedland Realty Consulting Services
Michael Kesselman
Institutional Member of the Year
Meridian Capital Group LLC
Awards will also be presented to Members for years of service
Floyd Cooper ……...40 Year Member
Cooper Group & Associates, Inc.
Jacqueline Kyle Kall……….….40 Year Member
Port of Kall Realty LLC
Richard Goodman…….…....35 Year Member
Goodman Management Co., Inc.
Eric Sterling……..…...35 Year Member
Sterling Appraisals Associates, Inc.
Eugene Reisman…………….30 Year Member
Novick, Edelstein, Reisman, Lubell,
Wasserman, & Leventhal, P.C.
Nicholas Chimienti…………..25Year Member
Chimienti Realty Corp.
For reservations or more information call Janine Schall, Marketing Assistant
(212) 242-4343, (718) 892-3000, or email: Info@BMAR.org
AN INDUSTRY EVENT FOR YOUR NETWORKING SUCCESS
PAGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
Realtors® Recognize
Importance of Keeping
Big Banks
Out of Real Estate
th
85 Annual Banquet of the
Bronx - Manhattan North Association
of Realtors,Inc.
“We thank Sens. Barbara Boxer,
D-Calif., and Richard Burr, R-N.C.,
for their leadership in introducing
legislation to prevent big banks from
expanding their business to act as real
estate brokers and managers,” said
NAR President Charles McMillan.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Networking Cocktail Hour: 5:30 P.M.
Formal Program, Dinner and Entertainment: 7:00 P.M.
It’s an Excellent Networking Opportunity!
Marina del Rey Caterers, Bronx, New York Dress: Black Tie Preferred
I will attend the 85th Annual Banquet on April 23, 2009 at the Marina del Rey, Bronx, New York
Name
Company
Address
Billing Zip
Telephone
No. of Reservations
Amount Enclosed $
Date
Charge my Visa
MasterCard
Discover
AMEX
Card #
Expiration Date
Signature
*CVN
*CVN is the last 3 or 4 digits off of the back of the card.
Referred or recommended by
______
______
Attach the names of your guests. Printer’s deadline for Seating List is March 25, 2009.
*PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR PROCESSING RESERVATIONS*
Reservations Price Schedule Before March 25, 2009 are:
Reservations By Members:
$200 each ticket
Table of 10 - $1,800
Allowing large national banks
to enter into real estate brokerage
and property management could be
devastating to the safety and security of
the nation’s economy, which is why the
National Association of Realtors® has
been calling for legislation that would
permanently ban banks from entering
into real estate transactions.
Reservations By Non-Members:
$250 each ticket
Table of 10 - $2,500
*Add Optional RPAC (Realtors Political Action Committee) Contribution of $10 or More
$275. For Each Reservation Received After March 25, 2009
$500 each ticket at the door if available * NO CANCELLATIONS AFTER APRIL 16, 2009
PAGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
During the introduction of the
Community Choice in Real Estate Act
on Friday, Sen. Boxer said, “Permitting
banks to engage in commerce could
compromise their lending decisions
and create conflicts of interest while
restricting consumer choice and
competition among mortgage lenders.”
Some national banks had petitioned
the federal government for the power
to own and operate local real estate
brokerage or property management
companies. Since 2003 language has been
included in annual appropriations bills
to temporarily block implementation of
these actions. The Community Choice
in Real Estate Act would make the
prohibition permanent.
“Imagine how much worse the crisis
in the financial sector and our overall
economy would be if banks had been
permitted to enter into commercial
activities such as real estate,” McMillan
said. “We hope that Congress will work
quickly to close any loopholes and pass
laws that maintain the separation of
banking and real estate and protect our
nation’s economy from unnecessary
and avoidable risks.”
Expanded TALF Will Encourage
Commercial Real Estate Investment
continued from front cover
Alliance through its Commercial
Economic Stimulus Work Group. The
work group developed a plan to address
high-priority issues like lack of credit to
avoid further losses in the commercial
real estate markets as a part of the
national economic recovery plan.
“Though much still remains to be done,
this policy decision will help reassure
investors in the vital commercial real
estate sector, which provides more than
9 million jobs and generates roughly
70 cents out of every dollar in local
government budgets,” said RCA Chair
Robert Toothaker. “There is no secondary
market for commercial mortgages, so it
is important to encourage lenders and
investors whose activity will be essential
in refinancing the performing commercial
real estate loans in the marketplace, many
of which are due to reset soon.”
Under the new approach, TALF credit
facilities will be extended to newly
originated AAA-rated securities backed
by commercial real estate loans. “This
important measure will enhance liquidity
and ease the lending crisis facing
commercial markets,” said Toothaker.
Expanding the TALF program to
include commercial mortgage-backed
securities has been a key part of NAR’s
message to policymakers and is integral
to the commercial economic stimulus
plan developed by the association’s
commercial leaders.
“NAR is encouraged by this positive
announcement and will continue to work
with Congress and the regulatory agencies
as further policy options are considered
to address the crisis in the credit market
and ensure overall economic recovery so
that real estate will once again lead the
economy to recovery,” Toothaker said.
YOUR “AD”
FITS HERE
This monthly newsletter is sent
to over 10,000 companies and
professionals throughout
New York City for more
information email: info@bmar.org
Benefits of the Bronx-Manhattan
Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
• FREE unlimited listings are featured on over 20
premium internet search engines
• No charge to member agents for unlimited MLS
access 24 hours per day
• Realtors can choose to pay MLS dues annually,
quarterly or a monthly flat fee
• Companies do not have to have an office in the
Bronx or Manhattan to participate
• Put thousands of real estate agents to work on selling
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• Realtor Associate dues are the lowest in the New
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For more information email: info@bmar.org
Real Estate Trade Show Planning Luncheon Held
at the Pelham Split Rock Golf Course
continued from front cover
exhibitors in maintaining and
cultivating business contacts
• a successful Trade Show benefits
members, the participating
exhibitors and the organization
• committee members will visit
the facility to map the locations
for the exhibit booths, floor plan
set-up, etc.
• a committee meeting will be
scheduled to confirm the date,
location, schedule, discuss
logistics, floor plan, potential
seminars, other attractions, etc.
For more information on the 2009 Real
Estate Trade Show or to serve on the
committee, contact Janine Schall at (212)
242-4343; (718) 892-3000 or email:
J.Schall@bmar.org.
Make your
reservations
to attend the
85th Annual
Banquet
April 23, 2009
**********
For more information or
reservations contact Janine
Schall at: j.schall@bmar.org
(718) 892-3000 or (212) 242-4343
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE Housing Stimulus and
Stabilization Will Help
Economic Recovery
The following is a statement by
National Association of Realtors®
President Charles McMillan:
“The American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act is important for
the U.S. economy and contains
some important housing provisions.
Eliminating the repayment provision
in the $7,500 first-time home buyer
tax credit will help bring buyers to the
market and reduce housing inventory.
NAR has been advocating that this
provision be improved – the change
will stimulate more than 200,000
additional home sales, which will help
stabilize home values.
“Reinstating the higher loan
limits for FHA, Fannie Mae and
Freddie Mac for mortgages in highcost areas is also important and will
help reduce inventory and improve
liquidity in the overall mortgage
market. The allocation of resources
for neighborhood stabilization efforts
to help communities purchase and
rehabilitate foreclosed and vacant
properties is also very promising for
the housing market. This funding will
help protect communities across the
country and preserve home values
from further decline.
“As the leading advocate for
homeowners and the real estate
industry, NAR will continue to
address issues facing Americans
who are trying to purchase a home,
protect their current home or preserve
investment opportunities in residential
and commercial properties. NAR
recognizes the efforts of the members
of Congress who understand that
without a housing recovery, an overall
economic recovery is impossible.
“NAR believes that positive steps
are being taken to improve the housing
market and will continue to work
with President Obama, Congress
and regulators to make housing
stabilization a key component of any
federal recovery plans.”
PROPOSED REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY REGULATION
CHANGES FOR RENT STABILIZED BUILDINGS IN NYC
Owners and property managers of rent stabilized buildings in New York City need to be
aware of proposed regulations impacting the industry and your bottom line. Below is a
letter from Billy Schur past President of the association and recommended action you can
take today.
Dear BMAR Member,
My involvement with various other real estate industry trade organizations results in my
frequently being introduced to proposed legislation that can adversely affect our industry.
As a result of the Democrats finally obtaining a majority in the NYS Senate, there are
a number of bills that have been proposed or already passed through the NY State Assembly and may pass through the Senate. A particular bill affecting MCI increases would
change their status from “permanent” to “temporary” in all instances. This means that
the permitted 1/40th MCI increases which currently result in a permanent increase in rent
would now become temporary and would drop off the rent when the amount spent was
recouped As passage of this bill will result in less MCI type of work being done in the
buildings, the vendors who actually do the work will be adversely affect and lose business
as will their suppliers.
Rent Stabilization Association of New York (“RSA”) is an organization of much larger
size than ours is reaching out to owners and managers for support in defeating this bill.
As such, RSA’s campaign involves reaching out to these vendors to educate them on
the bill and the potential negative impact on their business and employees so that they
will join this campaign. The hope is to broaden the base of opposition beyond those in
the Real Estate industry and demonstrate to the legislature that passage of this bill will
impacts many other businesses and industries. RSA wishes to compile a listing of companies that service residential multi-family buildings with MCI types of improvements and
outreach to them so they can be part of this opposition effort.
Hence, I am asking for your help with the following:
1. Review your current listing of vendors who provide MCI types of services to your
buildings:
a. Window installers
b. Roofing/Pointing contractors
c. Plumbing & Electrical contractors
d. Intercom & Entrance door installer
e. Boiler installers
f. Apartment Rehabilitation Companies
g. Appliance Suppliers
2. Compile a listing of these companies including
a. Contact name
b Company name
c. Mailing Address
d. Telephone #
e. Email address if available
3. Forward your listing of vendors fitting this criteria directly to RSA:
Frank P. Ricci
Director of Government Affairs
Rent Stabilization Association of NY
123 William Street, 14th Fl.
New York, NY 10038
(212) 214-9266
ricci@rsanyc.org
At some point in the near future, RSA will reach out to you and/or your vendors with
direction as to how to assist in this effort – likely with a letter writing campaign to local
NYS senators and Assembly members. I expect they would be able to provide a draft
letter and the proper elected official’s mailing information.
It is not often we reach out to you for your support in such matters but in this instance, it
is critical. Your support in this effort is appreciated both by RSA as well as your fellow
Real Estate owners and managers.
Sincerely,
Billy Schur
Past President
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PAGE 10 • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
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Realtors® Welcome Renewed
Efforts Toward Housing
Stabilization
Congress and the U.S. Department
of the Treasury must enact legislative
and regulatory priorities to stabilize the
housing market and help stop the U.S.
financial market’s rapid deterioration, and
on Friday, five freshman U.S. senators took
decisive action toward this goal.
“For months the National Association
of Realtors® has urged the importance
of stabilizing the housing market to help
the nation’s economic future,” said NAR
President Charles McMillan. “Although
steps have been taken, the focus has not
been on housing in the way it needs to
be. We thank and congratulate five of
our country’s newest senators for their
leadership in pushing for decisive action
to, in their words, ‘restore vigor to our
nation’s slumping housing industry.’”
Last November, NAR presented a fourpoint plan developed to spur home sales
and stem the rapid rise in foreclosures
by lowering mortgage interest rates and
unclogging the credit market, extending
the home buyer tax credit, making the
increased loan limits permanent, and
increasing liquidity in the both the
commercial and residential real estate
market.
On Friday, Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, N.H.,
Kay Hagan, N.C., Mark Udall, Colo.,
Tom Udall, N.M., and Mark Begich, Ark.,
called for their Senate colleagues to focus
on housing in the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009, S. 1,
and to expand the home buyer tax credit
through the end of 2009. In a letter to their
colleagues, the senators noted that the
housing industry has long been the engine
that drives our economy and recommended
extending the tax credit until the end of
2009 to encourage aspiring and qualified
home buyers to come off the sidelines
and significantly reduce the nation’s high
housing inventory.
NAR agrees with and supports the
senators’ actions and vows to work
with Congress and the administration to
establish strong housing legislation that
will help bring stability to home values,
prevent foreclosures and put the U.S.
economy on the road to recovery.
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE 11
PATRONIZE THE
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IN THIS NEWSLETTER!
*Tell them that you saw their
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PAGE 12 • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org
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Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE 13
NEW MLS LISTING
OPPORTUNITIES
Non-member MLS Realtors
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Appraisers are extended a
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membership dues $350 plus a one
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call (212) 242-4343, (718) 892-3000
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*187 Realty Corp........................................................................................................................... 718-562-1000 NameAmerihome Realty.........................................................................................................................
Phone #
914-494-5822
Better Homes Realty, Inc............................................................................................................... 718-931-3317
Century 21 Wolff of Yonkers, Inc..................................................................................................
914-771-6300
Island Advantage Realty
631-351-6000
*187 Realty Corp.
718-562-1000
*Charles G. Brophy & Associates, Inc.......................................................................................... 718-601-6100
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877-996-5728
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718-543-2200
Better Homes
718-931-3317
CooperRealty,
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Laujel Realty Corp.
718-239-0890
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516-826-2100
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Parkchester Preservation Company L.P.
718-536-2031
Century 21 Wolff of Yonkers, Inc.
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Exclusive Properties Sotheby’s International Realty.................................................................... 718-513-5812
Powertec Realty LLC
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Prudential Action R.E
718.835.8800
Seasons
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CooperFour
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718-329-2400
Frontier
718-491-9100
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516-826-2100
Get Green Real Estate Services.....................................................................................................
914-395-0176
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Dream Realty Corp.
718-882-3300
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Robert E. Hill, Inc.
718-884-2200
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212-567-7113
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Roy Holmes Realty, Inc.
718-653-3100
Fieldston
Properties
718-601-1000
*Home
Buyers Marketing II, Inc...................................................................................................
888-566-7737
The Best Hope Realtly
718-584-8600
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Lawrence......................................................................................................................914.699.1471
Four Seasons
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914-667-6767
Parnes Realtors..............................................................................................................
914-641-4351
S & G Realty
212-828-0312
FrontierHoulihan
Group Properties,
Inc.
718-491-9100
Island Advantage Realty................................................................................................................
631-351-6000
*Susan E. Goldy, Inc.
718-549-4116
Get Green
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914-395-0176
*Joe Hasselt Real Estate................................................................................................................ 718-892-1700
Today Realty Corp.
718-597-1777
Go Real*Koppell
Estate, Inc.
718-863-8778
River Realty, Inc............................................................................................................
718-543-2200
*TransUnion SSI
256-536-5330
Realty Corp........................................................................................................................
718-239-0890
*GrandLaujel
Lux Realty
914.273.9688
Triton Reo Management Corp.
646-478-7818
*MProperty
P RealtyRiverdale,
Group Corp..
718-597-1600
*Halstead
LLC .............................................................................................................
718-878-1700
Parkchester Preservation Company L.P.........................................................................................
718-536-2031
*United Realty Services
718--405-2266
*Home Buyers Marketing II, Inc.
888-566-7737
*Prestige Properties........................................................................................................................860.829.8000
Weichert
Realtors-House
&
Home
718-432-5000
*Houlihan
Lawrence
914.699.1471
Prudential
Action R.E.....................................................................................................................718.835.8800
World Savings Bank
516-832–4102
Houlihan
Parnes Realtors
914-641-4351
*RealEstate.com............................................................................................................................
516-965-3414
Realtyspan.com Inc....................................................................................................................... 718-231-8900
Robert E. Hill, Inc......................................................................................................................... 718-884-2200
Roy Holmes Realty, Inc................................................................................................................. 718-653-3100
The Best Hope Realtly................................................................................................................... 718-584-8600
S & G Realty................................................................................................................................ 212-828-0312
*Susan E. Goldy, Inc..................................................................................................................... 718-549-4116
Today Realty Corp......................................................................................................................... 718-597-1777
*TransUnion SSI........................................................................................................................... 256-536-5330
Triton Reo Management Corp....................................................................................................... 646-478-7818
*United Realty Services...............................................................................................................718--405-2266
WW Realty Services Inc................................................................................................................ 212-283-7966
Weichert Realtors-House & Home................................................................................................ 718-432-5000
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Look for the
1867 Williamsbridge Road
Bronx, NY 10461
718-892-3000 * 212-242-4343
Fax: 718-892-9181
E-mail: info@bmar.org
logo
Visit www.bmar.org • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • FEBRUARY 2009 • PAGE 15
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REALTOR ®
An Official Publication Of The
Bronx-Manhattan N.
Association of Realtors, Inc.
1867 Williamsbridge Road
Bronx, NY 10461-6298
718.892.3000
212.242.4343
Nunzio Del Greco RCE.... Editor &
Chief Executive Officer
Make your reservations
to attend the
85th Annual
Banquet
April 23, 2009
For more information or
reservations contact Janine
Schall at: j.schall@bmar.org
(718) 892-3000 or (212) 242-4343
Visit us at www.bmar.org
PAGE 16 • FEBRUARY 2009 • REALTOR PROFESSIONAL EDGE • Visit www.bmar.org