Boroughs & Burbs, the National Real Estate Conversation

We kick off Season 6 with a deep look inside the institutions that power American homeownership. In Episode 213, The Mortgage Machine, we’re joined by three insiders: Rick Coyle, who spent his career at Freddie Mac; Tony Lucente, formerly in Freddie Mac’s credit division; and Jeff Farrell, who worked in Freddie Mac’s affordable housing group. Together, they unpack how Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac helped make homeownership more accessible in the U.S. than anywhere else, the role they play in stabilizing mortgage markets, and what they’ve learned about banks, borrowers, and risk. We also revisit the lessons of the financial crisis and tackle the ongoing debate around privatizing Fannie and Freddie—and what that could mean for the future of housing.

In Season 5, Episode #212 of Boroughs & Burbs, we dive into one of the most overlooked, yet highly profitable real estate niches: vacant land. Our guest, Brent Bowers, founder of The Land Sharks, has built a nationally recognized business teaching investors how to find, acquire, and flip land for substantial returns with surprisingly low competition. We explore why land offers unique advantages compared to traditional real estate, how to build systems that generate passive income, and the strategies Brent uses to identify hidden opportunities others miss. Whether you're a seasoned investor or land-curious beginner, this episode will change how you think about dirt and what it’s worth.

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, Season 5, Episode #211 we explore one of the most resilient and quietly powerful asset classes: timberland investments. Our guest, John Brenard of Southview Timberland Investments, brings deep expertise in land management, sustainable forestry, and income-producing agricultural assets. We break down why institutional investors love timber, how farmland performs in volatile markets, and what makes these sectors attractive for long-term wealth preservation. John explains valuation, risk, conservation strategies, carbon credits, and where future opportunities are emerging. Whether you're a seasoned investor or simply land-curious, this episode reveals why timber and ag assets continue to outperform—and how to enter the space wisely.

🎙 Season 5, Episode 210: “The Claim Before the Storm” This week on Boroughs & Burbs, we tackle one of the most urgent and misunderstood topics in homeownership: preparing for damage before disaster strikes. Our guests Larry Janesky, founder of CT Basement Systems; John Otero and Rick Wahlstrom, of 1-800-Water-Damage join us to reveal what every homeowner should know before the next storm hits. We break down hidden vulnerabilities, the biggest mistakes owners make when filing claims, how to protect your home from water and structural damage, and what actually happens behind the scenes in the restoration and claims process. If you care about safeguarding your biggest asset, you can’t miss this episode.

This week on Boroughs & Burbs, Season 5, Episode #209, we explore how creativity meets compliance in real estate transactions. Our guests, Caleb Christopher, founder of Creative Title Company, and Amanda Burns, Attorney at Law are redefining what’s possible in complex deal structures. Caleb has closed thousands of creative finance transactions and built the systems that make innovative deals safe, legal, and ethical. From risk management to remote transaction coordination, his experience helps investors and agents navigate gray areas with confidence. Together with Amanda, we’ll uncover how to protect clients, close unconventional deals, and leverage creative finance strategies that work nationwide.

In Season 5, Episode #208 of Boroughs & Burbs we dive into one of the most complex, yet essential, areas of real estate: estate, trust, and probate sales. Our guests, Kelly deLaat, Rachelle Rosten and Peter Hernandez of Douglas Elliman, share their firsthand experience guiding families, trustees, and investors through these sensitive transactions. We’ll explore how to maximize property value while navigating legal nuances, timelines, and emotional factors that often accompany estate sales. From market strategy and communication with attorneys to identifying investment opportunities within probate portfolios, this episode unpacks how expert agents manage trust properties with precision, empathy, and success.

🎙️ Season 5, Episode #207: Jackson Hole – Luxury, Lifestyle & 1031 Opportunities In this episode of Boroughs & Burbs, we head to the mountains for a deep dive into Jackson Hole, Wyoming — one of America’s most exclusive real estate markets. Our guests, Meredith Landino of Sotheby’s International Realty and Nancy Hughes of IPX1031, explore why this destination continues to attract ultra-high-net-worth buyers seeking beauty, privacy, and tax advantages. We’ll discuss how limited inventory shapes pricing, how investors are leveraging 1031 exchanges in this region, and what makes Jackson Hole’s lifestyle and community so magnetic. From conservation to capital gains, discover how this mountain town has become a haven for smart investors and luxury homeowners alike.

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera explore how smart developers are turning demolition waste into economic opportunity. This week on Boroughs & Burbs, we welcome Mark Foster, Founder & CEO of Second Chance, to reveal how deconstruction—the careful dismantling and reuse of building materials—can be both green and profitable. Foster explains how reclaiming architectural treasures, reselling high-value materials, and leveraging tax deductions can transform a project’s bottom line while supporting sustainability goals. Discover why demand for reclaimed wood, fixtures, and architectural elements is booming, and how builders, investors, and homeowners can integrate deconstruction into future developments. 🎧 Listen on boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs Podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Mark Foster Second Chance, deconstruction, sustainable construction, reclaimed materials, circular economy, green building, construction tax benefits, salvage architecture, real estate innovation, sustainable design Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #Deconstruction #SustainableConstruction #SecondChance #GreenBuilding #ReclaimedMaterials #CircularEconomy #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #BuildingInnovation #Sustainability

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera sit down with two design visionaries—Carey Karlan, founder of Casa Vergara Interiors. Together they explore how to blend historic architecture with modern living to create homes that feel both rooted and relevant. From preserving original craftsmanship to introducing contemporary finishes, our guests share how they navigate the delicate line between restoration and reinvention. You’ll hear real-world examples, design philosophies, and stories from clients who seek authenticity, elegance, and enduring beauty in their spaces. Whether you’re an architect, designer, or homeowner, this conversation reveals how timeless design is achieved—through intention, restraint, and respect for history. 🎧 Listen on boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Carey Karlan, Antonio Vergara, interior design podcast, historic restoration, modern interior design, timeless homes, renovation strategy, design balance, traditional meets modern, luxury home design, Connecticut interiors, architectural preservation Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #InteriorDesign #CareyKarlan #AntonioVergara #LastDetailInteriorDesign #CasaVergara #DesignPodcast #TimelessDesign #HistoricHomes #ModernLiving #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #Architecture

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera travel south to explore the real-estate renaissance of Charleston, South Carolina—a city where history, design, and coastal living come together in perfect balance. Joining them are two local experts: Alester Spears of Carolina One Real Estate and Larry James of Charleston Magazine. Together they uncover what makes Charleston one of America’s most desirable cities to live, invest, and visit. From its walkable historic districts and vibrant culinary scene to luxury waterfront homes and thoughtful preservation efforts, this episode reveals how Charleston continues to evolve while protecting its soul. Discover what’s driving buyer demand, where the new development hotspots are, and how this Southern gem maintains its timeless charm amid rapid growth. 🎧 Listen on boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Charleston real estate, Charleston South Carolina, Alester Spears Carolina One, Larry James Charleston Magazine, luxury real estate Charleston, historic homes, preservation Charleston, coastal living SC, Southern architecture, real estate podcast, lifestyle Charleston Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #Charleston #SouthCarolina #CharlestonRealEstate #LuxuryRealEstate #HistoricHomes #Preservation #SouthernLiving #CoastalLiving #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #Architecture #Design #CharlestonMagazine

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera explore the art of stretching creativity and redefining what’s possible in design and construction. Joining them are Lindsay Biondo-Lugo, founder of Houz of Rebel, and Scott Hobbs, president of boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Lindsay Biondo-Lugo, Scott Hobbs, Houz of Rebel, Hobbs Inc., design podcast, architecture podcast, construction innovation, client collaboration, creative risk, luxury home design, high-end construction, builder-designer partnership, creative leadership Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #DesignPodcast #Architecture #ConstructionInnovation #HouzOfRebel #HobbsInc #CreativeRisk #LuxuryDesign #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #Collaboration #ClientExperience #DesignLeadership

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera travel south to explore why Winter Park and Central Florida have become two of the nation’s hottest real-estate markets. Joining them are Luz Sanchez and Orlando Sanchez of boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Luz Sanchez, Orlando Sanchez, Douglas Elliman Florida, Winter Park real estate, Central Florida real estate, Orlando market trends, Florida migration, luxury homes Winter Park, lakefront living, Florida investment opportunities, Sunshine State real estate Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #FloridaRealEstate #WinterPark #CentralFlorida #Orlando #LuxuryRealEstate #DouglasElliman #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #RealEstatePodcast #FloridaLiving #InvestmentOpportunities #SunshineState #HousingMarket #LifestyleRealEstate

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera set sail for Greece with Jeronymo Kontonis, founder of boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Jeronymo Kontonis, JK Property and Yachting, Greece real estate, Athens real estate, Greek islands property, Golden Visa Greece, luxury real estate Europe, international investment, second homes Greece, yachting and real estate, Mediterranean lifestyle, global buyers Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #GreeceRealEstate #JeronymoKontonis #JKPropertyAndYachting #GoldenVisa #LuxuryRealEstate #InternationalInvesting #Athens #GreekIslands #Yachting #MediterraneanLifestyle #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #GlobalLuxury

In this landmark 200th episode of Boroughs & Burbs, hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera welcome Jonathan Miller, President & CEO of boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Jonathan Miller, Miller Samuel, housing market 2025, real estate trends, market analysis, mortgage rates, home affordability, inventory shortage, housing forecast, real estate data, real estate podcast, Douglas Elliman report, national housing market Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #JonathanMiller #MillerSamuel #HousingMarket #RealEstatePodcast #MarketTrends #MortgageRates #HomeAffordability #RealEstateInsights #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstateAnalysis #Economy #RealEstateForecast

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera tackle the intersection of healthcare, aging, and migration with Russell Barksdale, CEO of Waveny LifeCare Network, and Connecticut State Senator Ryan Fazio. Together, they unpack the demographic and policy shifts reshaping life in the Northeast. Connecticut’s senior population is projected to grow by 57% by 2040, creating both opportunity and strain. Rising taxes, high living costs, shrinking housing inventory, and healthcare system pressures are driving retirees to make tough choices: relocate to Florida, Arizona, or the Carolinas—or downsize locally. The conversation dives deep into how policy, healthcare closures, and private equity trends will impact communities, real-estate markets, and the future of care. For anyone invested in housing, healthcare, or public policy, this episode reveals what’s coming next in our aging society. 🎧 Listen on boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Russell Barksdale, Waveny LifeCare Network, Ryan Fazio, Connecticut aging population, senior housing, healthcare policy Connecticut, retirement migration, affordable housing CT, healthcare closures, private equity in healthcare, senior living trends, demographic shifts Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #Connecticut #AgingPopulation #HealthcarePolicy #SeniorLiving #RetirementMigration #HousingCrisis #RyanFazio #RussellBarksdale #WavenyLifeCare #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #PublicPolicy #Demographics Would you like me to continue next with Episode 197, keeping this SEO-optimized series moving backward through Season 5?

Hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera explore how simplifying your home can lead to financial and emotional freedom. Joining them are Stephanie Radman, founder of boroughsandburbs.com ▶️ Watch on YouTube: @JohnEngelOfficial Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Stephanie Radman, Mayflower Home Organizing, Black Rock Auctions, Grant Panarese, Christie Spooner, decluttering, home organization, downsizing tips, estate sales, home staging, simplify your home, real estate preparation, auction strategy, minimalism, luxury auctions Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #HomeOrganization #Decluttering #MayflowerHomeOrganizing #BlackRockAuctions #EstateSales #Downsizing #Minimalism #LuxuryAuctions #HomeStaging #SimplifyLife #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #RealEstatePodcast #OrganizedLiving

In Episode 196 of Boroughs & Burbs, hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera sit down with Jonathan Tuttle and Alec McElhinny of Land Play to explore why flex space development has become one of the fastest-growing segments in commercial real estate. Jonathan and Alec share how these multi-use properties—blending warehouse, office, and retail—are transforming communities while delivering strong ROI for investors. They explain how macroeconomic and demographic shifts are fueling demand, what metrics they analyze when evaluating a site, and why municipalities are embracing this hybrid model. You’ll hear practical insights on: The tenant mix that drives sustainable returns, from small businesses to larger corporate users. How zoning laws, municipal incentives, and financing structures are shaping flex space projects. The role of modular construction and ESG principles in keeping developments cost-effective and future-proof. Why underserved markets present some of the biggest growth opportunities over the next five years. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or business owner, this episode offers a masterclass in adaptive commercial real estate strategy. 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Flex Space Development | Boroughs & Burbs Ep. 196 Related Episodes Ep. 195 – Integrated Planning & Design Services with Benjamin Watson & Vincent Yan Boroughs & Burbs 190 || Large Luxury Renovation Projects. boroughsandburbs.com Boroughs & Burbs 189 || Texas New Development. boroughsandburbs.com Mobile Homes & Parking Lots as a Real Estate Investment | Boroughs & Burbs Ep. 181. boroughsandburbs.com Boroughs & Burbs 180 || The Greenest Buildings Are Already Built. boroughsandburbs.com Keywords #johnengel #realestate #boroughsandburbs #luxuryrealestate #bestrealestateagent #investmentstrategies #housingmarket #realestatemarket #realestateinsights #investmentopportunities #podcast #homedecor #architecture #findyourdreamhome #realestatepodcast #douglaselliman #realestateagency #podcastclips #podcasting #podcastlife #podcastshow #flexspace #commercialrealestate #realestateinvesting #propertydevelopment #mixeduse #adaptivereuse #realestatetrends #siteselection #marketpositioning #commercialdesign #realestateinvestors #futureofrealestate #warehouseofficeretail

Escalating premiums, climate exposure, and construction inflation are rewriting the rules of luxury-home insurance. In Episode 194 of Boroughs & Burbs: The National Real Estate Conversation, hosts John Engel (http://www.theengelteam.com) and Roberto Cabrera (http://www.robertocabrera.com) speak with Willis Gay of Howard & Gay Insurance and Bernice Rodriguez of PURE Insurance about the evolving world of luxury home risk and property insurance in 2025. The episode focuses on how escalating construction costs, climate exposure, and regulatory changes are transforming coverage expectations for high-net-worth homeowners. Key takeaways include navigating premium increases, understanding policy exclusions, assessing replacement cost versus actual cash value, and best practices for advising clients proactively on flood and windstorm risk—based on real insurer protocols and strategies. Listen on Spotify (or your preferred platform): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IH5G3GFVKGkxpbU6Rjnhs Listen on Podbean: https://boroughsandburbs.podbean.com/e/real‑estate‑insurance‑boroughs‑burbs‑ep‑194/ Related Episodes: • Boroughs & Burbs 123 || Navigating the Changing Tides of Insurance – Coastal coverage insights from insurance experts Chris Marten (AssuredPartners) and Nicholas Phillips (Goosehead Insurance). Watch on Podbean: https://boroughsandburbs.podbean.com/e/boroughs-burbs-123-navigating-the-changing-tides-of-insurance/ • Boroughs & Burbs 113 || The Changing Insurance Landscape for the High Net Worth Market – Brendan O’Brien (Rand Insurance), Frank DiGrande (PURE Insurance), and Joe Rossi (Joe Flood Insurance) explore trends and risk management strategies in luxury insurance. Watch on Podbean: https://boroughsandburbs.podbean.com/e/boroughs-burbs-113-the-changing-insurance-landscape-for-the-high-net-worth-market/  • Boroughs & Burbs 192 || Home Inspections in New York and Connecticut – Stephen Gladstone and Jacqueline Gathers put insurance-adjacent home inspection practices under the microscope—essential for protecting high-value properties. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/E_PPBWzKaB0?si=rohQ9-QdbeIng9hf • Boroughs & Burbs 190 || Large Luxury Renovation Projects – Design-build leadership discusses risk assessment, liability considerations, and insurance coordination during high-end renovations. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I05WTKy7nA • Boroughs & Burbs 92 || Uninsurable Florida with Sally Daley & Nevin Miller – A deep dive into why some Florida properties are becoming uninsurable due to rate hikes, fraud legislation, and climate risk—making it highly relevant for market risk assessment today. Watch on Podbean: https://boroughsandburbs.podbean.com/e/boroughs-burbs-92-uninsurable-florida-with-sally-daley-and-nevin-miller/ Keywords: #realestate #insurance #luxuryhome #risk  #insurancepremium #escalation #disastercoverage #propertyreplacementplanning #climaterisk #RealEstateInsurance #HighNetWorthInsurance #RiskManagement #LuxuryHomeInsurance #PolicyExclusions #ClimateRiskCoverage #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #BoroughsAndBurbs #InsuranceTrends2025 #HowardGay #PUREInsurance

Zen Home Design for Wellness & Luxury Living – Hains, Lubin & Lydon | Boroughs & Burbs Ep. 193 Discover how design, wellness, and real estate intersect to create peaceful, intentional living spaces. In Episode 193 of Boroughs & Burbs: The National Real Estate Conversation, hosts John Engel and Roberto Cabrera welcome three leading voices who turn homes into sanctuaries of calm and connection. 🧘‍♀️ Deanna Hains – Founder of Zen Home, Deanna explains how scent, cleanliness, and energy awareness shape a calm and centered home environment. 🏡 Mike Lubin – Brown Harris Stevens luxury broker, shares what high-end buyers want today: mindful design, tranquility, and emotional resonance. 🎨 Katie Lydon – Interior designer and founder of Katie Lydon Interiors, Katie reveals how lighting, color, and layout directly impact mood and behavior. Whether you're designing, staging, buying, or selling, this conversation offers practical ideas and inspiration for curating harmony in an increasingly chaotic world. 🎧 Related Episodes Featuring Today’s Guests: • Ep. 89 – The Brooklyn Show Jared LaFrenais, Lee Solomon & Katie Lydon discuss design and development in one of NYC’s trendiest boroughs. ▶️ https://youtu.be/Dpnc2kFm2_8 • Ep. 49 – Top Realtors in New York Mike Lubin & Matt Cohen unpack buyer psychology and post-COVID trends in Manhattan real estate. ▶️ https://youtu.be/13Ke829ulg0 🔗 Stay Connected: 🌐 Visit our website: https://www.boroughsandburbs.com 📧 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLn0GRA-Kf96kkb9rEmIYyTdWknPpx_ghi 💬 Leave a comment and share your thoughts! Keywords / SEO tags: Boroughs and Burbs podcast, John Engel, Roberto Cabrera, Deanna Hains Zen Home, Mike Lubin Brown Harris Stevens, Katie Lydon Interiors, wellness design, luxury real estate podcast, mindful interiors, peaceful living, staging for serenity, wellness homes, real estate and design, luxury living 2025 Hashtags: #BoroughsAndBurbs #ZenHomeDesign #LuxuryLiving #WellnessDesign #MindfulInteriors #DeannaHains #MikeLubin #KatieLydon #InteriorDesignPodcast #RealEstateWellness #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeDesign #JohnEngel #RobertoCabrera #DouglasElliman #PodcastLife #Architecture #WellnessHomes

What do homebuyers really need to know about inspections — and why do standards vary between New York and Connecticut? In Episode 192 of Boroughs & Burbs, we break down what makes a good home inspection with two industry veterans from both sides of the state line: Stephen Gladstone – Founder of Stonehollow Home Inspections (stonehollow.com), Steve brings decades of experience inspecting homes across Connecticut. Learn about common pitfalls, what buyers should expect, and how a great inspector can protect your investment. Jacqueline Gathers – Licensed inspector with Pillar To Post – The Gathers Team (pillartopost.com/inspectors/jacquelinegathers), Jackie offers insight into the unique challenges of New York City and suburban inspections, including co‑op requirements, multi‑unit dwellings, and scheduling logistics. This episode is essential for real estate professionals, homebuyers, and sellers who want to understand what to inspect — and what to expect — during one of the most critical steps in a real estate transaction. Related Episodes to Explore: • Ep. 113 – The Changing Insurance Landscape for the High Net Worth Market A look at how insurance influences risk and inspections in luxury real estate. • Ep. 75 – The Science of Selling Covers pre-listing strategies and how inspection findings impact pricing and staging. • Ep. 66 – Big Brokerage in the Big Apple Featuring Richard Ferrari & Richard Grossman, exploring the high-stakes New York luxury market and how inspections affect deals. ▶️ Watch on YouTube Stay Connected: Website: https://www.boroughsandburbs.com To join our mailing list: Email info@theengelteam.com Have questions or feedback? Leave a comment! SEO Keywords: home inspection podcast, New York home inspection, Connecticut home inspection, Stonehollow, Pillar To Post, real estate inspections, co‑op inspections, home buyer tips, real estate podcast, Jacqueline Gathers, Stephen Gladstone, luxury real estate, pre-listing strategy Hashtags: #HomeInspection #RealEstatePodcast #Stonehollow #PillarToPost #StephenGladstone #JacquelineGathers #NYRealEstate #CTRealEstate #LuxuryRealEstate #PreListingTips #HousingMarket #HomeBuying #BoroughsAndBurbs