“At this critical stage of the housing market, it is all about mortgage rates,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.
The report warns that if Westchester fails to address its growing housing shortfall, the county could lose between 8,400 to 12,000 jobs annually and $533 million to $742 million in annual earnings.
The move effectively keeps congestion pricing tolls in effect through at least June 9.
The difference between those who thrive and those who fade away is simple: they embrace change.
Stepping into the role of President of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors has fueled my passion for this industry into overdrive. As an immigrant living the American Dream, real estate has profoundly shaped my life, and I have experienced firsthand its impact on individuals, families, and entire communities. However, as much as we celebrate the opportunities the real estate industry creates, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead.
There’s no denying that change is here. The real estate industry is evolving rapidly—lawsuits, regulatory scrutiny, and shifting consumer expectations are forcing us to take a hard look at how we do business. It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity, but history has shown that industries either adapt or become obsolete.
Let’s take a step back—how many of us have a Netflix subscription? An Apple iPhone? Did you make a purchase on Amazon this month? Now, how many of us still rent movies from Blockbuster, use a BlackBerry, or shop at Sears? The difference between those who thrive and those who fade away is simple: they embrace change.
Netflix didn’t just accept the shift from DVDs to streaming—it led the charge and revolutionized entertainment. Apple transformed itself from a computer company into a global technology powerhouse. Amazon went from selling books online to becoming the dominant force in global commerce.
It means we can’t be the Blockbuster of our industry. We must recognize that consumer expectations are shifting. We need to be proactive, not reactive. We need to prove, through our actions, the value we bring to buyers, sellers, investors and communities. We are not just transaction facilitators—we are advisors, advocates, and industry experts.
At HGAR, we are committed to lead from the front. Our strategic plan is already in motion, and we are doubling down on:
There will always be naysayers—people who criticize, question and doubt our profession. But their voices do not define us. Our actions do. This is our moment to evolve, step up, and demonstrate why we are essential to the future of housing, communities and wealth-building in America.
The question isn’t whether change is coming—it’s how we choose to meet it. Are we Netflix, Apple, and Amazon? Or are we Blockbuster, Blackberry, and Sears?
I know which future I’m choosing. Do you?
Let’s build it together.
Now is the moment for Clarkstown to lead. The town can and must take an active role in facilitating the rebirth of this site.
This event will bring together major stakeholders to strategize how to realize Rockland’s housing potential while maintaining the character of existing neighborhoods.
An additional lane will ease congestion to tourist destinations and support local businesses that rely on efficient transportation for deliveries.
New York State, and specifically the Hudson Valley, has a unique sensitivity to immigration and tariff policies that stray too far from the status quo.
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