Boroughs & Burbs, the National Real Estate Conversation

Boroughs and Burbs Season 6, Episode #246 explores the art of client communication in luxury real estate with Alice Faggi of RealScout. How do successful luxury agents build lasting relationships with clients long after a transaction closes? Alice shares insights into thoughtful communication, consistent follow-up, personalization, and the tools agents use to stay connected with current and past clients. How can agents balance personal communication with automation and technology? What role do CRM systems, email marketing, and AI play in maintaining meaningful client relationships? From staying top of mind to creating personalized experiences, this episode explores how consistency, authenticity, and thoughtful...

Boroughs and Burbs Season 6, Episode #245 explores the psychology behind buying and selling real estate with mind reader and illusionist Gregory Dwyer of Diamond Mind Potential. What can an experienced mind reader reveal about how people communicate, make decisions, and reveal what they’re thinking without realizing it? Greg shares insights into attention, body language, hesitation, suggestion, and unconscious signals—and how they can apply to a real estate transaction. Can you tell when a buyer has fallen in love with a house? What does a buyer reveal when they’ve mentally decided to buy? How can agents distinguish genuine object...

Boroughs & Burbs Season 6, Episode #244 explores the growing world of glamping and hot spring resorts with Zander Kempf. Once a niche hospitality concept, outdoor lodging has evolved into an emerging real estate and investment opportunity, blending land, lifestyle, hospitality, and experience‑driven travel. Why are investors looking beyond traditional hotels and vacation rentals?  What makes glamping and hot spring resorts attractive investments? Zander shares his perspective on site selection, development, amenities, operations, guest expectations, and profitability. From luxury camping experiences to destination hot springs, this episode explores how travelers are redefining what they want from a getaway—and how investors are respo...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #243, “Santa Fe,” explores what makes Santa Fe one of the country’s most distinctive places to live, visit, and invest. With Paul D. Sidebottom joining the conversation, we’ll look at how Santa Fe’s unique architecture, rich cultural heritage, arts scene, outdoor lifestyle, and quality of life shape its real estate market. We’ll discuss what continues to attract buyers, the types of properties and neighborhoods generating interest, and how buyers approach the market for primary residences, second homes, and relocation. Britt will also share insights into the opportunities and challenges of owning property in...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #242 explores the evolution of luxury real estate in Coral Gables with Jay Parker, CEO of Brokerage Florida and President of Douglas Elliman Development Marketing, and Eduardo Otaola, Founder of Constellation Group. As luxury buyers increasingly prioritize health, wellness, and lifestyle, Coral Gables is emerging as a destination where sophisticated living goes beyond traditional amenities. We’ll discuss how wellness is reshaping luxury real estate, what today’s buyers are looking for, and how thoughtful design, amenities, and lifestyle experiences are influencing new developments. Jay and Eduardo share insights into the changing expectations of luxury buye...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #241, “Rezoning Property: Reaping Its Rewards While Minimizing Its Risks,” explores the opportunities and challenges that come with rezoning real estate. With John McNellis joining the conversation, we’ll look at how rezoning can unlock significant property value and development potential while also creating financial, regulatory, political, and community risks. We’ll discuss how developers evaluate rezoning opportunities, navigate local approvals and community concerns, manage uncertainty, and determine when the potential rewards are worth the risks. John will also share insights from his experience in commercial real estate, including lessons learned from past projects and mistakes...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #240, “Beyond the Listing: How AI and Property Intelligence Are Changing the Way We Evaluate Real Estate,” explores how AI and property intelligence are changing the way buyers, investors, agents, and real estate professionals evaluate properties. With Kole Johnson of BridgePoint Intelligence joining the conversation, we’ll look at what public property data can reveal beyond a traditional listing, from assessor and parcel records to permits, ownership changes, storm history, imagery, and property timelines. We’ll also discuss the challenges of fragmented, stale, or mismatched data and why automated scores can sometimes create false certainty. The conv...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #239, “The New 55+: How Lifestyle Is Reshaping Real Estate,” explores how changing lifestyle priorities are influencing today’s 55+ housing and rental market. With Mark Marasciullo and Russell Barksdale joining the conversation, we’ll look at how this generation is redefining what they want from where they live, from convenience and community to amenities, flexibility, and location. Drawing on their experience in 55+ rentals and master-planned communities, we’ll discuss the rise of lifestyle-driven housing, what today’s 55+ residents are looking for, and how developers and real estate professionals are adapting. We’ll also explore what these trends could m...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #238 takes a closer look at the trends, stories, and market forces shaping today's real estate landscape. In this special host-only episode, John Engel and Roberto Cabrera explore the ideas influencing buyers, sellers, investors, and industry professionals across today's evolving housing market. From changing consumer preferences and luxury market trends to community development and long-term investment strategies, the conversation offers practical insights backed by decades of experience. Along the way, they discuss the importance of relationships, local expertise, and adapting to an ever-changing industry. Whether you're a seasoned real estate professional or simply passionate about...

Boroughs and Burbs Season 6, Episode #237 explores one of real estate's oldest tricks: creating demand by inventing new neighborhoods. Nashville's explosive growth has transformed farmland, overlooked corridors, and emerging suburbs into some of the country's hottest real estate markets. Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera are joined by Nashville experts Erin Krueger of Compass and Josh Hunter of Magnolia Title to examine how infrastructure, lifestyle, migration, and strategic development reshape entire regions. From luxury penthouses and legacy estates to frontier communities poised for growth, they reveal where buyers are looking today—and where tomorrow's most desirable addresses may emerge. If yo...

On this Season 6, episode #236 of Boroughs and Burbs, we explore the art and economics of creating neighborhoods from the ground up with Brandon Cobb of HBG Capital. From overlooked corridors to emerging urban districts, Brandon shares how developers identify opportunity before the market sees it. We discuss placemaking, adaptive growth, infrastructure, retail strategy, and how new neighborhoods attract residents, businesses, and long-term investment. What transforms an area from “up-and-coming” into a destination? How do developers balance vision, risk, and community impact? Whether it’s mixed-use development, housing demand, or the psychology behind where people want to live, this episode offers...

In Season 6, Episode #235 of Boroughs and Burbs, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, and Scott Hobbs explore how today’s most effective professionals are leveraging AI to work with greater intention, precision, and efficiency. From intelligent meeting summaries and next-generation CRMs to content strategy and relationship management, this conversation examines how technology is becoming a trusted partner—not a replacement—for expertise. The professionals who thrive tomorrow will be those who embrace innovation while preserving the personal relationships that define exceptional service.

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #233 goes inside the process of Building Your Hamptons Dream Home with Scott Hobbs of Hobbs Inc. and Stuart Disston of Austin Patterson Disston Architecture & Design. In one of the most demanding luxury markets in the country, great homes do not happen by accident. They require vision, discipline, collaboration, and deep local knowledge. We’ll talk about finding the right site, designing for light, landscape, privacy, entertaining, and family life, then executing at the highest level. Scott and Stuart explain how architect, builder, client, and setting come together, what mistakes to avoid, and why the be...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #232 heads to Megève and the French Alps with Max Rains and Matt Edelsten of Douglas Elliman France. Long known as one of Europe’s most elegant mountain villages, Megève offers a rare mix of ski culture, old-world charm, discreet luxury, and year-round Alpine living. We’ll explore what makes the French Alps different from other second-home markets, from chalets and village apartments to family compounds, investment properties, and branded residences. Max and Matt help us understand who is buying, what international clients are looking for, how lifestyle drives value, and why access, hospit...

Boroughs and Burbs Season 6, Episode #230 asks a simple question with big consequences: why does the right partner matter so much in design, development, and luxury real estate? Daniele Busca of Scavolini and Tim Rooney of Jeffrey Beers International join us to discuss how trusted partnerships turn vision into value. From Italian kitchens and baths to hotels, restaurants, residences, and branded spaces, the best outcomes depend on collaboration, communication, execution, and shared standards. A great partner understands the client, protects the design intent, solves problems early, and elevates the final result. This episode looks at why materials, craftsmanship, project management...

On Boroughs and Burbs Season 6, Episode #230, “The Home Photo Test,” we look at the pre-listing fixes that matter most on camera. Ed Quinlan, President of Chem-Dry, joins us on carpets, rugs, and soft surfaces. Chris Seman, President of N-Hance Wood Refinishing, explains how cabinet color, finish, and condition shape kitchen impressions. Nathan Willard, President of The Patch Boys, adds the wall and ceiling repair perspective, where bad patches often jump out in photos. This is a practical “before you list” conversation about what buyers actually see first, what sellers overlook, and which targeted updates deliver the biggest visual impact without...

Boroughs and Burbs, Season 6, Episode #229 takes us to New Jersey with Danielle Lacko and Andre Di Stefano of Douglas Elliman for a closer look at one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the country. From commuter towns with direct access to Manhattan to waterfront communities, historic suburbs, luxury new construction, and lifestyle-driven relocations, New Jersey is not one market, it is many. Danielle and Andre help us understand where buyers are moving, what sellers need to know, and how pricing, inventory, taxes, schools, and transportation shape decisions across the state. We’ll talk strategy, local nuance, and wh...

On Season 6, episode #234 of Boroughs and Burbs, we dive into one of the most important trends shaping today’s built environment: adaptive reuse. Joined by Bob Diamond of Diamond Law Center, we explore how outdated office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial properties are being transformed into residential and mixed-use assets. As cities grapple with shifting work patterns and housing shortages, adaptive reuse offers both opportunity and complexity. Bob breaks down the legal frameworks, zoning hurdles, and regulatory challenges that can make or break these projects. From feasibility to financing, we examine what it takes to unlock value in existing st...

On this episode of Boroughs and Burbs, we explore one of South Florida’s most coveted beachfront corridors, Bal Harbour and Surfside with Rita Collins and Ray Jacomo of Douglas Elliman. These neighboring communities offer a unique blend of ultra-luxury living, walkability, and international appeal. From Bal Harbour’s iconic high-end condominiums and world-class retail to Surfside’s evolving residential landscape and family-friendly vibe, our guests break down what’s driving demand. We dive into pricing trends, limited inventory, new development, and the shifting buyer profile shaping the market today. Whether you’re seeking privacy, lifestyle, or long-term value, this episo...

On Season 6, Episode #227 of Boroughs and Burbs, we explore the powerful intersection of real estate and design with two leaders in their fields: Louise Phillips Forbes of Brown Harris Stevens and Dahlia Jacob of Dahlia’s Day Interiors. From preparing listings to maximizing value, their collaboration shows how thoughtful design can transform a property and the outcome of a sale. We discuss how staging, renovation strategy, and aesthetic vision influence buyer perception, pricing, and speed to market. Where does design end and marketing begin? And how can agents and designers work together more effectively? Whether you’re selling, buying, or a...

On Season 6, episode #226 of Boroughs and Burbs, we sit down with Jonathan Miller of Miller Samuelfor a clear-eyed look at the Q1 housing market. With headlines dominated by interest rates, inventory constraints, and shifting buyer behavior, what is actually happening beneath the surface? Jonathan breaks down the data versus the narrative, highlighting where markets are tightening, where they’re softening, and how pricing is really being set in today’s environment. We discuss the impact of policy, consumer sentiment, and regional divergence and what it all means heading into the rest of the year. If you want a fact-based pers...

On Season 6, episode #225 of Boroughs and Burbs, we explore one of the most coveted segments of the market, waterfront living, with a side-by-side look at Long Island vs. coastal Connecticut. Joined by Maria Babaev and Tom Tripodi of Douglas Elliman, we break down the key differences in lifestyle, pricing, inventory, and buyer demand across both shorelines. From sandy beaches and Hamptons estates to Connecticut’s quieter harbors and commuter-friendly towns, our guests share where value is emerging and what today’s buyers are prioritizing. We also tackle insurance, flood zones, and long-term investment considerations. If you’re considering a move t...

On season 6, episode #224 of Boroughs and Burbs, we head to one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing markets in the country: Houston, Texas. Joined by Stephanie Aron-Weiss of Douglas Elliman and Casey Schrade of The Greater Houston Partnership, we unpack what’s driving Houston’s continued growth. From a booming energy sector and expanding medical and tech corridors to population influx and business-friendly policies, Houston is attracting both companies and homeowners at scale. We explore how these economic forces translate into housing demand, what types of properties are in highest demand, and how infrastructure and development are shaping the city...

On this episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we head to one of the most exclusive residential enclaves in the country: Fisher Island, Florida. Accessible only by ferry, private boat, or helicopter, this ultra-private community has become a global destination for wealth, discretion, and luxury living. Joining us are Lourdes Alatriste of Douglas Elliman and Karla Abaunza of Luxury Living Realty, who offer an insider’s view into this rarefied market.

We explore who is buying, why Fisher Island continues to command premium pricing, and what makes its lifestyle—from private beach club to marina and golf—so unique. If you...

On this episode of Boroughs and Burbs, we tackle one of the most powerful and often misunderstood tools in real estate investing: cost segregation. Joining us are Jason Melillo and Sumit Sharma of KBKG, a firm that has helped investors unlock billions in tax savings through strategic depreciation analysis. They explain how cost segregation works, why it can dramatically accelerate tax deductions, and which property types benefit the most. We also discuss bonus depreciation, IRS compliance, and common mistakes investors make when leaving money on the table. Whether you own multifamily, commercial, or short-term rental property, this episode breaks...

On this episode of Boroughs and Burbs, we step into the high-energy world of sports marketing with Don Davis of Douglas Elliman and branding strategist Tony “The Tycoon” Hills. From athlete endorsements and sponsorship strategy to personal brand building and media exposure, we explore how sports marketing has evolved into a powerful business engine. How do athletes turn performance into long-term equity? What makes a partnership authentic—and profitable? And how does real estate intersect with sports influence in today’s market? Don and Tony break down the playbook behind positioning, visibility, and monetizing reputation in a competitive landscape. Whether...

On this episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we head to one of South Florida’s most distinctive lifestyle markets: Wellington. Known globally as the equestrian capital of the world, Wellington blends luxury estates, seasonal international buyers, and year-round family living. Joining us are Martha Jolicoeur and Mark Norman of Douglas Elliman, who share insider insight into what makes this community unique. From horse properties and gated enclaves to golf communities and new development, we explore who is buying, why they’re coming, and how Wellington fits into the broader Palm Beach County market. Whether you’re an equestrian enthusiast, investor, or rel...

Season 6, Episode #219 of Boroughs and Burbs dives into a topic every investor, lender, and property owner should understand: distressed properties and property assessment. We’re joined by Greg Trotter of Commercial Building Consultants, who has built a career evaluating buildings before small problems become catastrophic ones. From deferred maintenance and structural red flags to environmental risks and capital planning, Greg explains how proper assessment can protect your investment — or reveal opportunity where others see trouble. In a market where interest rates, insurance costs, and aging assets are colliding, knowing how to analyze risk is critical. Whether you’re buying, refina...

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, Season 6, Episode #218, we sit down with Stephen Kliegerman, President of Development Marketing at Brown Harris Stevens, for a deep dive into the state of NYC’s new development market. From shifting buyer demand and rising construction costs to financing hurdles and political headwinds, Stephen breaks down what’s really happening behind the cranes. What projects are selling? What’s stalled? Where is opportunity emerging? We explore the pipeline, pricing strategies, and how developers are adapting to today’s economic climate. If you want a clear look at Manhattan’s future skyline and the forces shaping it...

The Kips Bay Decorator Show House is one of the most anticipated design events of the year, setting the tone for luxury interiors, emerging trends, and philanthropic impact. In this special episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we go behind the scenes with four standout designers who brought their vision to life: Jennifer Cohler Mason, Melanie Roy, Chris Coleman and Jack Ovadia with Lisa Ben-Isvy of LBI ConneXt.

They share what inspired their rooms, how they balanced creativity with function, and the design risks that paid off. From color and texture to craftsmanship and storytelling, this episode reveals how...

On episode #216 of Boroughs & Burbs, we head uptown to explore one of Manhattan’s most intellectually rich and architecturally distinctive neighborhoods: Morningside Heights. Joining us is Pierre Malterre-West and Ella Chavers of Douglas Elliman, who brings deep market insight into a community shaped by world-class institutions, historic prewar buildings, and a growing mix of longtime residents, faculty, students, and buyers seeking value north of Central Park.

We discuss how Columbia University, Barnard, Riverside Church, and nearby parks influence housing demand, what types of properties are most sought after, and how pricing compares to neighboring areas. From co-ops to...

Las Vegas is one of the most closely watched real estate stories in the country. In Season 6, Episode #215 of Boroughs & Burbs, we head to Las Vegas with Don Kuhl of Douglas Elliman to unpack what’s really happening on the ground. From luxury communities and second-home demand to inbound buyers from California and the Northeast, Don shares why Vegas has matured into a serious lifestyle and investment market. We discuss pricing trends, inventory shifts, new development, and how tax policy, remote work, and pro sports have reshaped demand. If you’re curious whether Las Vegas is peaking—or just gettin...

Season 6, Episode 214 of Boroughs & Burbs takes us inside one of the most coveted luxury markets in the world with “Billionaire’s Triangle.” Joined by Tara West and Drew Backoff of Douglas Elliman, we explore the rarefied pocket where Palm Beach, Jupiter Island, and surrounding enclaves converge to attract ultra-high-net-worth buyers from across the globe. What defines this market beyond price? Who is buying, and why now? Tara and Drew share insights into privacy, waterfront scarcity, lifestyle drivers, and the subtle differences that make each corner of the triangle unique. From legacy estates to new development and off-market opportunities, this episod...

We kick off Season 6 with a deep look inside the institutions that power American homeownership. In Episode 213, The Mortgage Machine, we’re joined by three insiders: Rick Coyle, who spent his career at Freddie Mac; Tony Lucente, formerly in Freddie Mac’s credit division; and Jeff Farrell, who worked in Freddie Mac’s affordable housing group. Together, they unpack how Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac helped make homeownership more accessible in the U.S. than anywhere else, the role they play in stabilizing mortgage markets, and what they’ve learned about banks, borrowers, and risk. We also revisit the lessons...

In Season 5, Episode #212 of Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into one of the most overlooked, yet highly profitable real estate niches: vacant land. Our guest, Brent Bowers, founder of The Land Sharks, has built a nationally recognized business teaching investors how to find, acquire, and flip land for substantial returns with surprisingly low competition. We explore why land offers unique advantages compared to traditional real estate, how to build systems that generate passive income, and the strategies Brent uses to identify hidden opportunities others miss. Whether you're a seasoned investor or land-curious beginner, this episode will change how you think...

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, Season 5, Episode #211 we explore one of the most resilient and quietly powerful asset classes: timberland investments. Our guest, John Brenard of Southview Timberland Investments, brings deep expertise in land management, sustainable forestry, and income-producing agricultural assets. We break down why institutional investors love timber, how farmland performs in volatile markets, and what makes these sectors attractive for long-term wealth preservation. John explains valuation, risk, conservation strategies, carbon credits, and where future opportunities are emerging. Whether you're a seasoned investor or simply land-curious, this episode reveals why timber and ag assets continue to outperform—and ho...

🎙 Season 5, Episode 210: “The Claim Before the Storm”

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, we tackle one of the most urgent and misunderstood topics in homeownership: preparing for damage before disaster strikes. Our guests Larry Janesky, founder of CT Basement Systems; John Otero and Rick Wahlstrom, of 1-800-Water-Damage join us to reveal what every homeowner should know before the next storm hits. We break down hidden vulnerabilities, the biggest mistakes owners make when filing claims, how to protect your home from water and structural damage, and what actually happens behind the scenes in the restoration and claims process. If you...

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, Season 5, Episode #209, we explore how creativity meets compliance in real estate transactions. Our guests, Caleb Christopher, founder of Creative Title Company, and Amanda Burns, Attorney at Law are redefining what’s possible in complex deal structures. Caleb has closed thousands of creative finance transactions and built the systems that make innovative deals safe, legal, and ethical. From risk management to remote transaction coordination, his experience helps investors and agents navigate gray areas with confidence. Together with Amanda, we’ll uncover how to protect clients, close unconventional deals, and leverage creative finance strategies that work nati...

In Season 5, Episode #208 of Boroughs & Burbs we dive into one of the most complex, yet essential, areas of real estate: estate, trust, and probate sales. Our guests, Kelly deLaat, Rachelle Rosten and Peter Hernandez of Douglas Elliman, share their firsthand experience guiding families, trustees, and investors through these sensitive transactions. We’ll explore how to maximize property value while navigating legal nuances, timelines, and emotional factors that often accompany estate sales. From market strategy and communication with attorneys to identifying investment opportunities within probate portfolios, this episode unpacks how expert agents manage trust properties with precision, empathy, and success.

🎙️ Season 5, Episode #207: Jackson Hole – Luxury, Lifestyle & 1031 Opportunities

In this episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we head to the mountains for a deep dive into Jackson Hole, Wyoming — one of America’s most exclusive real estate markets. Our guests, Meredith Landino of Sotheby’s International Realty and Nancy Hughes of IPX1031, explore why this destination continues to attract ultra-high-net-worth buyers seeking beauty, privacy, and tax advantages. We’ll discuss how limited inventory shapes pricing, how investors are leveraging 1031 exchanges in this region, and what makes Jackson Hole’s lifestyle and community so magnetic. From conservation to capital gains, discover how this mountain...