Building Knowledge

The Building & Realty Institute
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Business
  • Updated Weekly

Are you interested in what is happening in the building, realty and construction industries? Welcome to Building Knowledge, the podcast that covers key issues affecting these business communities. Powered by the BRI, the Building and Realty Institute, and hosted by associate executive director Jeff Hanley, this podcast will feature insight, innovation, and conversations, while providing a comprehensive overview of all that is happening in these fascinating sectors. We'll raise some questions, find some answers, and go deep on the challenges and developments that constantly move the building, realty and construction industries forward. So come along for the ride, and let's begin Building Knowledge, together. Follow us now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 138: The Anatomy of a Successful Remodeling Project

    Episode 138 of Building Knowledge, “The Anatomy of a Successful Remodeling Project,” explores the award-winning renovation of LMC Media’s Studio on the Avenue in Mamaroneck, Westchester County—the very studio where Building Knowledge is recorded. The episode features three professionals who brought the project to life: Sarah Dirsa, Architect and Principal at KG & D Architects in Mount Kisco; Matt Sullivan, Executive Director of LMC Media; and Michael Murphy, Director of Business Development at Murphy Brothers Contracting in Mamaroneck and current President of the Building & Realty Institute (BRI). Together, they offer three distinct perspectives on what it takes to make a remodeling project successful: the architect’s vision, the contractor’s expertise, and the client’s goals and priorities. Topics discussed include: Defining the Vision: Matt Sullivan explains his vision for the studio and the key goals the renovation needed to accomplish.Turning Ideas into Design: Sarah Dirsa discusses how she translated the client’s vision into a functional design while addressing the space’s technical challenges.Bringing the Design to Life: Michael Murphy shares the construction team’s perspective, including the importance of early coordination and collaboration.Building Strong Partnerships: Sarah and Michael discuss the relationship between architects and contractors, what each brings to a project, and how they can work together to achieve the best results.Balancing Budget, Schedule, and Details: The guests examine how effective communication, planning, and decision-making help keep a project on track.The Client’s Role in Success: Matt Sullivan reflects on the importance of remaining involved throughout the remodeling process and what clients can do to help ensure a successful outcome. Whether you’re an architect, contractor, property professional, or someone planning a renovation, this episode offers valuable insights into how teamwork, communication, and a shared vision can turn a remodeling project into an award-winning result. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  2. Oct 14

    Episode 137: The Hudson Valley Real Estate Market: Trends and Outlook for 2026–2027

    Episode 137 of Building Knowledge explores current conditions in the Hudson Valley’s real estate sales markets with guest Vlora Sejdi, former President of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR) and a well-known real estate professional in the region. As a trusted source on local market conditions, Vlora shares insights into home sales, pricing trends, and buyer sentiment across the Hudson Valley. Topics include sales activity and home prices for single-family homes, co-ops, and condos in Westchester, Putnam, and Rockland counties, as well as market conditions in Orange County, Sullivan County, and the Bronx. The discussion also examines how prospective buyers are feeling about the market, factors that could slow sales activity during the remainder of 2026, and Vlora’s outlook for the market through the end of 2026 and into 2027. She also shares the reasons for her optimism about the region’s real estate sales markets in the months ahead. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  3. Oct 7

    Episode 136: The State of Commercial Real Estate in the Hudson Valley

    Episode 136 of “Building Knowledge” features a timely discussion about the commercial real estate market across Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley, as well as the outlook for the region and the nation. Our guest is Garry Klein, Managing Director and Regional Manager of Houlihan Lawrence Commercial, based in Rye Brook, N.Y. A longtime BRI resource, Garry has previously appeared on “Building Knowledge,” the BRI’s former radio programs, and at BRI Membership Meetings. In this episode, Garry and host Jeff Hanley discuss: The current state of the Westchester office market and office markets throughout the Hudson ValleyTrends shaping the retail market across Westchester and the regionThe outlook for the residential apartment marketThe growing popularity of Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) throughout the New York metropolitan areaThe latest trends in the industrial and flex marketsThe current landscape of commercial real estate transactions across the New York metropolitan areaGarry’s biggest concerns for the commercial real estate markets in Westchester and the Hudson Valley through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027His outlook and concerns for the national commercial real estate marketThe factors giving him reason for optimism about commercial real estate, both locally and nationally Tune in for Garry’s insights on where the commercial real estate market stands today — and where it may be headed next. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  4. Sep 22

    Episode 135: Key Issues Facing Co-ops, Condos & Rental Apartment Buildings

    Co-ops, condos and rental apartment buildings across the Hudson Valley are facing a range of challenges, from rising operating costs and insurance concerns to fair housing requirements, climate-related risks and resident disputes. In this episode of “Building Knowledge,” we sit down with Daniel Finger, an attorney with Finger and Finger, A Professional Corporation, which serves as Chief Counsel to The Building & Realty Institute (BRI) and its affiliate organizations. Daniel discusses some of the most pressing issues facing co-op and condo boards, apartment owners and property managers today, including: The biggest challenges facing co-ops and condos in the Hudson Valley Concerns surrounding underlying mortgages and the current lending environment Fair housing requirements and the CCAC’s Fair Housing Training Sessions for co-op and condo boards Rising operating expenses and how buildings and complexes are responding The ongoing impact of service animal and emotional support animal requirements Climate change and flood risks affecting residential buildings and complexes How boards, owners and managers can address conflicts and disputes among residents With decades of experience advising the BRI and its members, Daniel offers practical insight into the legal and operational issues affecting residential properties throughout the Hudson Valley. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Episode 135: Key Issues Facing Co-ops, Condos & Rental Apartment Buildings

  5. Sep 16

    Episode 134: Hurricane Season Is Here — Are You Prepared?

    Episode 134 of “Building Knowledge” focuses on what building owners, building managers, businesses, and homeowners need to know about preparing for hurricanes and other major disasters during hurricane season. Our guest is Stuart Betheil, a disaster preparedness expert and former Director of Emergency Services for the American Red Cross in Westchester County. Stuart currently volunteers with the Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter, specializing in Community Preparedness Education. He is also a former board member of the Building & Realty Institute’s Advisory Council of Managing Agents (ACMA) and a longtime guest on “Building Knowledge” and the BRI’s former radio programs. In this episode, Stuart discusses: Why September is National Preparedness Month and why being prepared is so important.The basics and history of hurricanes and how they develop.How El Niño and La Niña conditions in the Pacific Ocean can influence weather patterns and Atlantic hurricane activity.Current conditions in the Atlantic and what they may mean for hurricane development.How climate change can contribute to more intense hurricanes and storms that intensify and move more rapidly.Why individuals, families, businesses, and buildings should be prepared to survive for at least 10 days without assistance from first-response agencies.Practical steps everyone can take to prepare for hurricanes and other major disasters.Why disaster preparedness should be taken seriously, with Stuart's urgent reminder: it’s not a question of if, but when. Resources available to help listeners prepare for hurricanes and other emergencies.Whether you are responsible for a multifamily building, manage a commercial property, operate a business, or simply want to better protect your household, this episode offers practical information and resources to help you prepare before disaster strikes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Episode 134: Hurricane Season Is Here — Are You Prepared?

  6. Sep 9

    Episode 133: What’s Driving Energy Costs? An Update on Natural Gas, Oil & Electricity

    Episode 133 of “Building Knowledge” provides an update on energy costs and the factors affecting the Natural Gas, Heating Oil, and Electricity markets for building owners, managers, businesses, and consumers. The episode also examines how the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to impact energy markets and prices. Our guest is Tim Connors, Vice President of Slattery Energy Consulting Group, Inc. Topics discussed during the episode include: The Natural Gas Market: The latest market conditions, what is driving the market, and what they mean for building owners, managers, businesses, and consumers. The Oil Market: Current conditions, key market drivers, and what they mean for Heating Oil customers. The Electricity Market: An update on current conditions and what customers can expect. Regional Energy Costs: Why different areas of the Northeast are experiencing varying costs for Natural Gas, Heating Oil, and Electricity. Managing Energy Costs: Actions consumers can take to help manage their energy expenses. New York City Power Markets: Why the power markets in the New York City area continue to carry elevated risks. Middle East Conflict: How the ongoing, on-again, off-again conflict in the Middle East is affecting energy markets and costs. Venezuela’s Oil Reserves: Tim Connors’ perspective on whether the recent deal for the U.S. government to take a stake in Venezuela’s oil reserves could benefit gas prices and help replenish the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which has fallen to historically low levels. Looking Ahead: Tim Connors’ overall energy concerns for the New York metropolitan area and the United States in the weeks and months ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Episode 133: What’s Driving Energy Costs? An Update on Natural Gas, Oil & Electricity

  7. Sep 1

    Episode 132: How Sustainable Westchester Is Helping Buildings Meet Their Energy Needs

    Episode 132 of “Building Knowledge” takes an in-depth look at how Sustainable Westchester is helping buildings throughout the Hudson Valley address their energy needs. Our guest is Lauren Kroell, Senior Program Manager at Sustainable Westchester, making her first appearance on “Building Knowledge.” Topics discussed during the episode include: An overview of Sustainable Westchester and the services the organization provides;The campaign Sustainable Westchester launched this summer to help buildings address their energy needs;A closer look at the components of Sustainable Westchester’s new building assistance program, including Energy Studies, Building Upgrades, Solar Services, and Education;How Sustainable Westchester can work with multifamily building tenants who are looking for ways to lower their utility bills;Lauren Kroell’s perspective on Sustainable Westchester’s ongoing goals and initiatives; andHow Sustainable Westchester’s educational efforts are raising awareness of energy issues affecting the Hudson Valley region.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Episode 132: How Sustainable Westchester Is Helping Buildings Meet Their Energy Needs

  8. Aug 18

    Episode 131: Remodeling Markets: What’s Happening Now—and What’s Ahead?

    Episode 131 of Building Knowledge takes an in-depth look at the current state of the remodeling market across Westchester County, the Mid-Hudson Region, and the greater New York metropolitan area—and what may be ahead for the industry through the remainder of 2026. Our guest is Michael Murphy, President of the Building & Realty Institute (BRI) and Director of Business Development for Murphy Brothers Contracting, a Mamaroneck-based construction company serving Westchester County. A regular guest on Building Knowledge, Murphy shares his perspective on the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping today’s remodeling and construction markets. Topics discussed in Episode 131 include: The BRI’s recognition by City & State New York as one of New York State’s Top Trade Associations for 2026. The current state of the remodeling markets in Westchester County, the Mid-Hudson Region, and the New York metropolitan area. Current remodeling activity in the commercial real estate markets throughout the Hudson Valley and New York metro area. The continued rise in the cost of building materials and supplies and its impact on remodeling projects. Ongoing labor shortages affecting the building and remodeling industries. Important guidelines to consider when undertaking remodeling projects. Murphy’s outlook for the remodeling markets in Westchester, the Mid-Hudson Region, and the New York metro area for the remainder of 2026. Why remodelers and builders should consider joining the Building & Allied Construction Industries (BACI), an affiliate organization of the BRI. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Episode 131: Remodeling Markets: What’s Happening Now—and What’s Ahead?
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About

Are you interested in what is happening in the building, realty and construction industries? Welcome to Building Knowledge, the podcast that covers key issues affecting these business communities. Powered by the BRI, the Building and Realty Institute, and hosted by associate executive director Jeff Hanley, this podcast will feature insight, innovation, and conversations, while providing a comprehensive overview of all that is happening in these fascinating sectors. We'll raise some questions, find some answers, and go deep on the challenges and developments that constantly move the building, realty and construction industries forward. So come along for the ride, and let's begin Building Knowledge, together. Follow us now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.

Information

  • Creator
    The Building & Realty Institute
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    139
  • Copyright
    © 2024, The Building & Realty Institute, All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Building Knowledge