Building Knowledge

Hosted by The Building & Realty Institute

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Episodes

137

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Oct 2026

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About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 14, 202633 min

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 .

October 7, 202629 min

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 Valley Trends shaping the retail market across Westchester and the region The outlook for the residential apartment market The growing popularity of Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) throughout the New York metropolitan area The latest trends in the industrial and flex markets The current landscape of commercial real estate transactions across the New York metropolitan area Garry’s biggest concerns for the commercial real estate markets in Westchester and the Hudson Valley through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027 His outlook and concerns for the national commercial real estate market The 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 .

September 22, 202636 min

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 .

September 16, 202625 min

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 .

September 9, 202634 min

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 .

September 1, 202619 min

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; and How 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 .

August 18, 202623 min

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 .

August 11, 202619 min

Episode 130: Windows & Doors: What Building Owners & Managers Need to Know Before Winter

Episode 130 of “Building Knowledge” focuses on what building owners, property managers, and homeowners need to know about evaluating, maintaining, repairing, and replacing windows and doors as the region transitions from summer into the colder months. Our guest is Dan Hughes, Sales Manager at JILCO Window Corp. in Granite Springs, a hamlet of Somers in Westchester County, New York. This episode marks Dan’s first appearance on “Building Knowledge.” During the episode, Dan discusses: When building owners, managers, and homeowners should begin evaluating the condition of their windows in preparation for colder weather. What JILCO Window Corp. looks for when evaluating windows. The window conditions that are of greatest concern following the summer season. Typical timelines for window repairs and installations. Energy conservation and the window products currently helping property owners achieve greater energy efficiency. What to look for when evaluating doors after the summer months and before the arrival of fall and winter weather. Typical timelines for door replacements and installations. Current pricing trends for building materials and supplies. Dan’s perspective on current construction and renovation activity throughout the Hudson Valley. How members of the business community are feeling about the current business climate in the New York metropolitan area and their outlook for the remainder of 2026. Tune in for a practical conversation about windows, doors, energy efficiency, construction costs, and the broader business climate facing 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 .

August 4, 202621 min

Episode 129: Manhattanville University's Sports Field Expansion: Will It Spark a Building Boom?

Episode 129 of Building Knowledge examines the Sports Field Expansion at Manhattanville University in Purchase, New York, and what it could mean for future athletic facility projects, higher education, and the Hudson Valley building industry. Our guest is Frank Sanchez , President of Manhattanville University and a newly appointed member of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council. He discusses the university's investment in a state-of-the-art, multi-use athletic complex, the project's funding, and how it will enhance opportunities for student-athletes. President Sanchez also shares his perspective on regional economic development, the current business climate in the Hudson Valley, and New York's ongoing affordable and workforce housing shortage. Topics discussed include: The Sports Field Expansion project and its vision. Features of the new multi-use athletic facility. How the project is being funded. Whether similar projects could inspire athletic facility upgrades at colleges and high schools throughout the region. The mission of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council and its role in supporting economic growth. The outlook for Hudson Valley businesses. The need for more affordable and workforce housing in New York. This marks President Sanchez's first appearance on Building Knowledge . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

July 28, 202627 min

Episode 128: What's Happening in the Hudson Valley Real Estate Market?

Episode 128 of Building Knowledge explores what's happening in the Hudson Valley's real estate markets with special guest Vlora Sejdi , Immediate Past President of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR) and a respected Realtor with deep expertise in the region. Vlora joins the podcast to break down the latest housing market trends, including recent data from OneKey MLS covering Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, and the Bronx. She shares insights into today's homebuyers, discusses the challenges shaping the market for the rest of 2026, and offers her outlook for what's ahead in 2027. The conversation also examines New York's ongoing affordable and workforce housing shortage, whether policymakers are making progress in addressing it, and the reasons Vlora remains optimistic about the future of the Hudson Valley real estate market. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .