Episode 120: Exploring Trends in Wood Maintenance & Restoration

Episode 120: Exploring Trends in Wood Maintenance & Restoration

This episode of “Building Knowledge” focuses on trends in wood maintenance and restoration projects with guest Willy Montano, Principal of Montano Wood Care Corporation in Yonkers, New York. A former guest on the Building and Realty Institute’s radio programs, this marks Montano’s first appearance on “Building Knowledge.” Topics include the lasting appeal of wood in commercial buildings, the importance of incorporating wood refurbishing into long-term maintenance plans, and current trends involving elevator cabs, lobbies, doors, furniture, and other building components. The discussion also covers refinishing and restoration processes, the current business climate in the New York metropolitan area, rising material costs, workforce development, and the growing need for renovations as the region’s housing stock continues to age.

Episode 119: Annual Meetings for Co-ops & Condos: What Boards Need to Know

Episode 119 of “Building Knowledge with the Building and Realty Institute (BRI)” takes a closer look at how Co-op and Condo Boards can effectively prepare for and conduct successful Annual Meetings. Our guest is David Amster, Chairman of the Advisory Council of Managing Agents (ACMA) of the BRI and Principal of Prime Locations, a leading property management company based in Yonkers, New York. During the episode, David discusses the purpose and importance of Annual Meetings, the key steps boards should take when planning them, notification requirements for shareholders and unit owners, and best practices for keeping meetings organized and productive. He also shares insights on when building consultants should attend, why following the meeting agenda matters, the importance of reviewing committee reports and budgets, and the growing challenges facing Co-ops and Condos today.

Episode 118: Insurance Challenges Facing the Building and Realty Sectors: Key Updates

Episode 118 of “Building Knowledge” takes a deep dive into the insurance challenges impacting New York’s building, realty, and construction industries. Joining the program is Jason Schiciano, Co-President of Levitt-Fuirst Insurance and Bonding, based in Tarrytown. A familiar voice to members of the Building and Realty Institute (BRI) and its affiliate organizations, Jason has long been a trusted resource on insurance trends, risk management, and emerging industry issues. In this episode, Jason discusses the growing insurance pressures facing businesses across New York State, including challenges impacting property owners, contractors, and developers. He also shares insight into encouraging developments within the insurance market, updates involving New York State Workers Compensation Groups 458 and 530, and the key issues he believes businesses should be watching for throughout the remainder of 2026. The conversation also explores the increasing importance of Cyber Liability Insurance for businesses of all sizes. Jason explains why cyber protection is no longer optional in today’s business environment and addresses the common misconception among small business owners that they are unlikely targets for cyberattacks.

Episode 117: AOAC Prepares for Westchester Rent Guidelines Board Hearings

Episode 117 of Building Knowledge takes a close look at how the Apartment Owners Advisory Council (AOAC) of the Building and Realty Institute (BRI) is preparing for the upcoming public hearings and deliberations of the Westchester County Rent Guidelines Board in New York State. Our guest is Alana Ciuffetelli, Chair of the AOAC. In this episode, she discusses the growing pressures facing small building owners and managers and the policy and cost challenges shaping housing in Westchester County. Topics include: 1. The makeup of the AOAC membership and the ongoing strain on small building owners and managers as operating expenses continue to rise year after year. 2. A breakdown of significant increases in insurance costs impacting the housing sector. 3. An overview of broader operating expense increases affecting multifamily properties and complexes. 4. The impact of the 2019 Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act (HSTPA) on both housing providers and tenants. 5. AOAC’s ongoing meetings with Westchester County legislators as part of its preparation for the Rent Guidelines Board hearings. 6. Perspectives from the building and realty community that the public members of the Rent Guidelines Board play a critical role in the future of Westchester’s affordable housing stock and must carefully consider fair and reasonable rent adjustments. 7. A direct message from Alana Ciuffetelli to the Rent Guidelines Board on the importance of balanced and responsible decision-making. This episode offers timely context ahead of one of the most consequential housing policy processes in Westchester County.

Episode 116: An Update on CHI’s Role in Addressing New York’s Housing Crisis

Episode 116 of Building Knowledge takes a timely look at the state of housing across the New York metropolitan area, featuring Ron Abad, CEO of Community Housing Innovations (CHI). The conversation highlights CHI’s ongoing efforts to address the region’s housing challenges while spotlighting key upcoming initiatives, including the City & State Affordable Housing Summit on May 7—where Abad will serve as moderator—and CHI’s Homeownership Expo on June 27. Abad also shares his perspective on whether state and local policymakers are gaining a clearer understanding of the growing shortage of affordable and workforce housing—and the real consequences that come with it, from resident outmigration to broader economic strain. The episode closes with a candid discussion of his top concerns about the current housing landscape and what message he would deliver directly to legislators if given the opportunity.