Inside R&E

Rosenberg & Estis, P.C.
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Business
  • Updated Weekly

Inside R&E is a podcast hosted by New York City’s leading attorneys who discuss current issues facing developers, owners and operators in the industry. Founded in 1975, Rosenberg & Estis, P.C. is widely recognized as one of New York City’s pre-eminent real estate law firms. R&E provides full-service representation and advice in every aspect of real estate, from performing due diligence and evaluating financing, to handling joint ventures, acquisitions and leasing, construction and design team agreements, property tax exemptions and abatements, land use and zoning matters, Real Property Income & Expense (RPIE) filings, co-op and condo offering plan filings, distressed situations and bankruptcies, trust and estate planning, as well as the litigations and negotiations which sometimes ensue when deal-making. R&E’s wealth of experience in New York real estate makes it the ideal thought partner for owners, developers, not-for-profit corporations, educational institutions, sponsors, equity investors and lenders in both real estate transactions and in all court venues. Disclaimer: The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult a Rosenberg & Estis attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and we welcome your calls, letters, or electronic mail. Listening to this content or contacting us in response to this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. At various times we may reference successful results in cases we have handled. However, prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. To comply with requirements imposed by the IRS, we inform you that any tax advice contained herein, is not intended or written to be used and cannot be used by a taxpayer to (i) avoid tax penalties or (ii) promote, market or recommend a transaction or matter to another person.

  1. Aug 11

    The Inside Story of Gnocchi on 9th: How an Idea on the Subway Became a 10-Restaurant Business

    In this episode of Inside R&E, Jean S. Tom, Counsel in R&E's Transactions Department, welcomes Mike Salzano and Ariel Strizower, co-founders of Gnocchi on 9th, for a conversation about how a simple concept became a viral sensation and grew into a restaurant brand with 10 locations across New York City. They are joined by Dave Lorenzo, Founder of Exit Success Lab. In this episode, Jean, Mike, Ariel, and Dave discuss the unexpected journey behind Gnocchi on 9th, from its origins in a real estate relationship to a restaurant concept that quickly captured the attention of New Yorkers and social media audiences alike. They explore how a highly focused menu became a competitive advantage, the role branding and packaging played in shaping the company's identity, and the challenges of managing rapid growth after going viral. The conversation also covers site selection, operating in small and unconventional retail spaces, expanding without outside investment, and maintaining an affordable product in one of the country's most expensive markets. Mike and Ariel share insights on entrepreneurship, disciplined growth, and the value of executing a simple idea with clarity and purpose. Mike Salzano and Ariel Strizower founded Gnocchi on 9th with a simple goal: to serve fresh, affordable Italian food in a fast-casual format. Their signature concept, freshly made gnocchi served in iconic Chinese takeout boxes, quickly resonated with customers and helped differentiate the brand in New York City's competitive dining scene. What began as a single location on East 9th Street has grown into a successful multi-location business known for its distinctive concept, operational efficiency, and entrepreneurial approach to growth. Jean Tom represents clients in all aspects of transactions involving the acquisition, disposition, leasing, licensing and financing of commercial and residential real estate properties and related assets. She regularly prepares, reviews and negotiates non-disclosure agreements, brokerage, service and property management contracts with outside vendors on behalf of building owners. Jean also handles all types of real estate lending transactions, representing financial institutions in connection with loans secured by office and retail properties, with an emphasis on complex construction and permanent financings. As lead attorney of the residential practice group, Jean represents purchasers and sellers in the acquisition and disposition of commercial and residential properties in New York and other major metropolitan areas across the country. For any questions related to this episode, contact Jean S. Tom at jtom@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8404. Visit Gnocchi on 9th, which operates 10 locations across New York and New Jersey, or order online at www.gnocchinyc.com. Follow Gnocchi on 9th on social media: Instagram: @gnocchinyc Facebook: @gnocchinyc TikTok: @gnocchinyc Stream the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

  2. Aug 4

    Opportunity Zones: Tax Incentives, Real Estate Strategy, and the New Rules

    In this episode of Inside R&E, Adam R. Sanders, a Member of R&E's Transactions Department, joins Dave Lorenzo, Founder of Exit Success Lab, to discuss how Opportunity Zones are designed to encourage long-term investment in underserved communities and create opportunities for investors, developers, business owners, and advisors. During the conversation, Adam and Dave discuss how Opportunity Zones can provide valuable tax and investment benefits when the legal structure, timing, and business strategy are aligned. Adam explains key requirements such as capital gains reinvestment, Qualified Opportunity Funds, and compliance with the programme's rules. They also examine issues affecting developers and business owners, including substantial improvement requirements, active business standards, and the impact of New York State's tax treatment on Opportunity Zone investments. Adam's practice focuses on representing clients in a wide variety of commercial real estate and business transactions and entertainment matters, including acquisitions and sales, financing, leasing, construction, portfolio structuring, Local Law 97, Opportunity Zones, 1031 transactions and general corporate and contractual representation in the real estate, entertainment, and other entrepreneurial industries. Adam is the firm’s go-to expert for all matters concerning Opportunity Zones. Investors and real estate developers exclusively rely on him for program updates and comprehensive legal analyses, keeping them on the cutting edge of the program even before regulations are released. For any questions related to this episode, contact Adam R. Sanders at asanders@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1275. Stream the full episode, now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

  3. Jul 23

    New York City's Pied-à-Terre Surcharge

    NOTE: On July 14, 2026, the New York City Department of Finance published its final rules on the Pied-à-Terre Surcharge. Click here to read more. In this episode of Inside R&E, Benjamin M. Williams, a Member and Head of R&E’s Property Tax Department, invites Martha Stark, Policy Director and data analyst for Tax Equity Now New York; Clinical Professor of Public Service and Director of Management Specialization, NYU Wagner; and Former Finance Commissioner of New York City, for a conversation on New York City's new annual Pied-à-Terre Surcharge. In this insightful conversation, Ben and Martha discuss the newly enacted Pied-à-Terre Surcharge, what it means for property owners, co-ops, and condominiums, and the challenges it may present. They examine how the legislation was enacted, the need for greater transparency, how assessments may be conducted, and potential changes to the regulations. Drawing on Martha's experience as New York City's former Finance Commissioner and Ben's expertise as an appraiser, they break down the practical implications of the tax, explore possible reforms, and discuss what it could mean for the future of New York real estate. Ben's practice focuses on property tax reductions and planning. He has represented thousands of clients in property tax appeals and at New York City Tax Commission hearings. He also has a depth of experience in real estate tax projections for development, acquisition, leasing, financing and budgeting. Ben's forte is in reducing property taxes for co-ops and condos, multi-family residential, office, and retail properties. He has worked on Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP), ICIP, 421-a, 485-x, 467-m, J-51, Not-For-Profit, Childcare Center exemption and abatement applications and projections. Martha Stark is the only person in the New York City area practicing property tax law who has also served as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Finance. She was also responsible for overseeing the administration of the commercial rent, corporate, unincorporated business, mortgage recording, and real property transfer taxes. Martha also serves as the Policy Director and data analyst for Tax Equity Now New York, the organization that recently filed a lawsuit challenging the New York City property tax structure. She has also served as a consultant for the Real Estate Board of New York, Rent Stabilization Association, and the New York University Furman Center. For any questions related to this episode, contact Benjamin M. Williams at bwilliams@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1246. Martha Stark's Second Home Surcharge Tool is available on her website at https://starkpatchlegal.com/second-home-surcharge-tool/. Stream the full episode, now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

  4. Jun 23

    The Lease Is Not Paperwork: How Commercial Leases Drive Building Value

    In this episode of Inside R&E, William Byers Jr., Member of R&E's Transactions Department, joins Dave Lorenzo, Founder of Exit Success Lab, for a conversation on how landlords, buyers, and investors should view a lease as part of the building’s financial architecture, and not just a legal form . During the conversation, Bill and Dave discuss how a lease is pivotal to the overall economics of a building and defines its financial performance. Bill explains how the structure of a lease affects the value of the building and highlight provisions that may appear harmless on paper but could impact the building’s value or risk profile, including hidden terms to watch for. Bill and Dave also examine specific provisions that could make one building appear more stable than another to a buyer or lender, as well as what buyers should look for in a lease during due diligence. In addition, they discuss landlord rights and limitations when a tenant files for bankruptcy, along with subleasing scenarios. William Byers Jr. has worked on a myriad of both large and small transactions ranging from sales and purchases of office, apartment and mixed-use buildings to landlord and tenant representation in office, retail, restaurant, garage and ground leases, as well as grantor and grantee representation for complex multi-party easement agreements. In addition to having an MBA, Byers previously worked at a corporate firm, which serves him well in drafting complex corporate documents such as operating, partnership and shareholder agreements, joint venture agreements, stock purchase agreements, and employment agreements for commercial real estate brokers. For any questions related to this episode, contact William Byers Jr. at wbyers@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8456. Stream the full episode, now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

  5. Apr 23

    A New Era for Co‑op Sale Approvals: Local Law 2026/058

    In this episode of Inside R&E, Michael A. Pensabene, a Member of R&E’s Litigation Department, invites Tina Larsson, CEO of The Folson Group, for a conversation on the newly enacted Local Law 2026/058, also known as the Cooperative Application Timeline Law, which will take effect on July 28, 2026. During the conversation, Michael and Tina explain what the law requires co-op boards to do in terms of their sale approval process. They discuss its implications and the effect it will have on co-op owners, shedding light on how the law aims to create greater transparency around board decision-making, as well as the potential pitfalls it may introduce. They also explore how co-op boards can navigate the law and manage the application process for prospective purchasers, with Tina drawing on her experience to offer practical insights. She also shares how The Folson Group has helped co-op boards stay on top of their application processes and minimize exposure to liability under this new law. Michael A. Pensabene’s experience affords him the judgment to evaluate competing property interests and the business relationship between the parties, to know how and when to assert clients’ rights to achieve their objectives. Pensabene’s achievements representing clients such as the Hyatt Corporation, Trinity Real Estate, Forest City Ratner Companies and the Durst Organization are founded on these principles and were honed in a wide variety of forums, including City, State and Federal courts. Pensabene successfully tried one of the first cases concerning novel landlord and tenant issues resulting from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack and set precedent concerning service of process. Pensabene’s expertise in connection with construction activities has ensured the timely completion of developments and the protection of neighboring property rights, including negotiating easements, work agreements, clearing development sites, and obtaining injunctive relief from the Supreme Court. He has also represented boards, shareholders, unit owners, sponsors and managing agents in a wide variety of disputes concerning complex co-op/condo issues. Tina Larsson is the co-founder and co-owner of The Folson Group, New York City's leading co-op and condo business consultancy. After helping her own co-op save $340,000, she and her husband, Mark Foley, started The Folson Group. They support NYC coop and condo boards in strategic advice, project management, cost reduction, and find them a property manager that fits their needs. She is the author of Living the High Life, frequent podcast guest and speaker, and holds a LEED Green Associate designation. Tina is on a mission to educate and support NYC condo or co-op boards optimize their buildings, because smart coop and condo boards don’t go it alone. For any questions related to this episode, contact Michael A. Pensabene at mpensabene@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8406. Tina Larsson can be reached at tina@thefolsongroup.com or (917) 648 - 8151. You can also reach out to Tina and The Folson Group, or know more about her work, using the links below: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinalarssonli/Website: https://www.thefolsongroup.com/Tina’s book: https://www.thefolsongroup.com/bookInsta: folsongrpTikTok: folsongrpYoutube: @folsongrpGet our NYC Compliance Calendar right in your inbox: https://nyccompliancecalendar.com/ Stream the full episode, now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

  6. Apr 7

    Property Management in New York City

    In this episode of Inside R&E, Alex M. Estis, a Member of R&E’s Litigation Department, invites Joel Davis, President of Peninsula Property Management (PPM), and Ernest Rrika, Director of Operations, for a conversation on property management in New York City and PPM’s perspective on managing properties in a complex market. During the conversation, Alex, Joel, and Ernest discuss PPM’s hospitality‑driven approach to managing properties in New York City and the operational strategies behind the firm’s rapid growth. They address commonly mismanaged property issues, the importance of proactive legal involvement, and how clear communication with landlords and tenants underpins their work. The discussion also covers the role of AI, responsiveness and transparency, what makes a successful attorney-property manager relationship, and how common frustrations can be resolved before they become legal disputes. Alex M. Estis handles all matters of general commercial litigation, including landlord-tenant disputes, breach of contract, transactional disputes, real estate partnership disputes, brokerage commission actions, holdover proceedings, ejectment proceedings, owner occupancy actions, co-op/condo disputes, matters before the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, such as the Environmental Control Board and Department of Health as well as the New York City Criminal Court. He also handles commercial leasing negotiations and preparation for landlords, commercial tenants and net lessors. With over 15 years of exceptional experience in hospitality and property management, Joel Davis leads PPM not just to meet expectations but to exceed them at every turn. Beginning his career managing the renowned W Hotel for Marriott, Joel's extensive expertise in upscale service and operational excellence propelled him through various leadership roles, culminating in his tenure as Vice President of one of the largest property management firms in the tri-state area. Joel embodies PPM’s ethos of integrity and superior performance, overseeing all facets of operations and business development to ensure the highest standards of excellence across all managed properties. Ernest Rrika epitomizes the relentless pursuit of operational perfection at PPM. His robust background includes managing new developments and leading significant projects from roof replacements to major compliance and infrastructure upgrades, with a keen focus on innovation and stringent compliance standards. As Director of Operations, he is not only maintaining but elevating standards of compliance and oversees energy compliance initiatives, ensuring sustainability and cost efficiency that are unmatched in the industry, all while streamlining processes to enhance corporate efficiency. For any questions related to this episode, contact Alex M. Estis at aestis@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1204. Joel Davis can be reached at jdavis@ppmnyc.com or (917) 981-8250. Ernest Rrika can be reached at errika@ppmnyc.com or (646) 894-7065. Click here to stream the episode, or view it here on YouTube.

  7. Apr 6

    Noncompete Agreements and Trade Secrets

    In this episode of Inside R&E, R&E Member Alexander H. Shapiro and Counsel Daniel C. Gibbons join Dave Lorenzo, Founder of Exit Success Lab, to talk about noncompete agreements and trade secrets. During the conversation, Zander, Dan, and Dave break down what trade secrets are, why they matter to businesses, and when restrictive covenants and noncompete agreements come into play. They examine the FTC’s 2024 ban on noncompetes, its implications for both employers and employees, and where things currently stand. The discussion also covers how noncompetes are applied in New York State, including variations across different counties. Drawing on their professional experience, Zander and Dan share industry-specific case studies and explain how courts evaluate noncompetes in different contexts, highlighting key factors to consider. They also outline what both employers and employees should keep in mind when drafting or signing a noncompete agreement. Alexander H. Shapiro is an accomplished trial and appellate advocate with a proven track record of success in representing individuals and businesses in complex commercial disputes and white-collar regulatory and criminal investigations in state and federal forums. His distinguished background includes serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of New York and holding senior in-house leadership roles at three Fortune 500 companies. Shapiro represents clients with regard to a broad range of issues, including breach of contract, corporate governance disputes, business torts, securities and wire fraud, money laundering, asset forfeiture, piercing the corporate veil and voidable transfers, discovery in aid of foreign litigation (28 U.S.C. § 1782), and general counsel advisory services, including compliance and policy development. Daniel C. Gibbons is an accomplished trial attorney and seasoned litigator who has represented clients in courts and venues across the country in various complex commercial disputes. Dan is well regarded for his rational approach and measured advice and he is known for his ability to take complex concepts and reduce them into understandable language. Dan draws on his extensive prior experience, which enables him to understand the needs and objectives of his clients, provide sound legal and business advice, and effectively represent them in court. For any questions related to this episode, contact Alexander H. Shapiro at ashapiro@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1221, or Daniel C. Gibbons at dgibbons@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1264.

  8. 06/16/2025

    Inside Appraisals: Valuation, Lease Resets & Property Tax Insights

    In this episode of Inside R&E, Benjamin M. Williams, Member and Head of the firm's Property Tax Department, invites Brett B. Theis, Member in the firm’s Litigation Department, and Neil Axler, Managing Director at EisnerAmper NY and leader of the firm’s National Real Estate Valuation Practice, to discuss appraisal methodologies, commercial lease appraisals, arbitration and property tax issues. In this conversation, Ben, Brett, and Neil explore various appraisal methodologies and valuation approaches. Neil discusses how appraisals are handled when engaged by divorce attorneys or appointed as a neutral appraiser for both parties. He offers insights into the sales, cost, and income approaches to property valuation, explaining which method is best suited to different scenarios. Brett adds perspective on appraisals in the context of commercial lease renewals, rent resets, and baseball arbitrations, emphasizing the importance of real-world experience in determining value. The group also discusses why arbitrators are often preferred over brokers, common issues surrounding the application and violation of USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice), and the reasons lease agreements often lack specifics on rent renewals. They explain how it’s determined whether a dispute proceeds to arbitration or trial, and share stories and lessons learned from past cases they’ve worked on. Benjamin Williams’ practice focuses on property tax reductions and planning. He has represented thousands of clients in property tax appeals and at New York City Tax Commission hearings. He also has a depth of experience in real estate tax projections for development, acquisition, leasing, financing and budgeting. Ben’s forte is in reducing property taxes for co-ops and condos, multi-family residential, office, and retail properties. He has worked on Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program (ICAP), ICIP, 421-a, 485-x, 467-m, J-51, Not-For-Profit, Childcare Center exemption and abatement applications and projections. Brett Theis’ clients include some of New York’s largest investment and advisory firms, publicly traded REITs, commercial landlords and management companies, shopping center owners, international pension funds, not-for-profit corporations, and families with large real estate holdings. He uses his vast knowledge of New York law and nearly 20 years of litigation experience to evaluate complicated matters and develop intelligent, cost-effective strategies to achieve his clients’ goals. Brett regularly represents his clients in high-stakes matters in all New York state and federal courts, including appellate courts, and maintains an active arbitration practice. He has first-chaired numerous jury and non-jury cases to verdict and has been equally successful winning cases on motions for summary judgment and obtaining extraordinary injunctive relief for his clients when necessary. Neil Axler has three decades of real estate experience in valuing individual assets and portfolios of income-producing commercial and industrial properties. His diverse client base includes publicly traded and privately held companies, high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and government entities at the state, local, and federal levels. Neil oversees business development, management, and execution of real estate valuation consulting projects. With deep expertise in valuations for financial reporting, trust and estate planning, federal government agencies, tax appeals, and litigation support, Neil is also experienced in providing services for special servicers and in handling complex bankruptcy and restructuring cases. For any questions related to this episode, contact Benjamin M. Williams at bwilliams@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1246. Brett B. Theis can be reached at btheis@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8494. Neil Axler can be reached at neil.axler@eisneramper.com or (917) 648-2159. Click here to stream this episode, or view it here on YouTube.

See All (43)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Inside R&E is a podcast hosted by New York City’s leading attorneys who discuss current issues facing developers, owners and operators in the industry. Founded in 1975, Rosenberg & Estis, P.C. is widely recognized as one of New York City’s pre-eminent real estate law firms. R&E provides full-service representation and advice in every aspect of real estate, from performing due diligence and evaluating financing, to handling joint ventures, acquisitions and leasing, construction and design team agreements, property tax exemptions and abatements, land use and zoning matters, Real Property Income & Expense (RPIE) filings, co-op and condo offering plan filings, distressed situations and bankruptcies, trust and estate planning, as well as the litigations and negotiations which sometimes ensue when deal-making. R&E’s wealth of experience in New York real estate makes it the ideal thought partner for owners, developers, not-for-profit corporations, educational institutions, sponsors, equity investors and lenders in both real estate transactions and in all court venues. Disclaimer: The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult a Rosenberg & Estis attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and we welcome your calls, letters, or electronic mail. Listening to this content or contacting us in response to this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. At various times we may reference successful results in cases we have handled. However, prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. To comply with requirements imposed by the IRS, we inform you that any tax advice contained herein, is not intended or written to be used and cannot be used by a taxpayer to (i) avoid tax penalties or (ii) promote, market or recommend a transaction or matter to another person.

Information

  • Creator
    Rosenberg & Estis, P.C.
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Rosenberg & Estis, P.C.
  • Show Website
    Inside R&E

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