The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) celebrates the city’s civic leaders tomorrow evening during its 129th annual gala at the Glasshouse in Midtown West.
Guests will include REBNY members and the evening’s seven honorees along with likely familiar faces (the governor, mayor, lawmakers, commissioners and staff, City Council members, members of the US Congress, as well as senators and state representatives often attend ) creating a photo jam as the real estate press buzzes along a red carpet with cameras and questions.Â
Founded in 1896, the city’s oldest and most influential trade association represents landowners, investors and building owners, real estate executives and service professionals who strive to provide housing for residents of all incomes and nationalities, along with spaces for retailers, hotels. and companies of all shapes and sizes.
REBNY members also serve those from around the world looking to live, invest or park their dollars in the safest place in the world.
Its 14,000 members are closely involved in crucial city issues, including the formulation of tax policy, city planning and zoning, land use policy, benchmarking, affordable housing preservation, regulations governing rents and conversions, building codes and other legislation that make our city socially responsible and equitable, safer and greener.
Along with some of the world’s largest property owners, REBNY members include small residential apartment owners, residential and commercial brokers and managers, construction, finance, insurance and title companies, attorneys, accountants, architects, bankers, lenders, communal services and even. media companies like The New York Post.
The organization also publishes numerous reports that provide market education and price indicators for the residential, retail and commercial sectors, as well as policy analysis and return-to-work statistics.
Members provide well-crafted guidance and advice on proposals and policies that affect all state and city residents and continue educational conversations with stakeholders and legislators toward fostering growth and development while ensuring that taxes and fees run the city safely. and efficient.
Despite ongoing efforts to create a “City of Yes,” challenges persist due to housing shortages at all price points, ongoing retail theft, roller hopping, and title-grabbing crimes above and below ground.
“Our members have worked hard to bring New York City back economically from the COVID-19 pandemic, and 2025 represents an opportunity to accelerate that recovery,” said REBNY Chairman Jed Walentas. “This will require continued investment in our office sector, an overhaul of policies that are further damaging our rental housing market and the repositioning of our central business districts for greater resilience and vibrancy.â€
At the gala, a new educational video will explain how the real estate industry contributes to job creation in the city – from building development and management to brokerage and construction.
“Our annual event brings together real estate leaders, government and important civic institutions to recognize our shared achievements and drive efforts to meet New York City’s biggest challenges in the year ahead.â€
REBNY Chairman Jed Walentas
Based on the Department of Finance’s tax collections for 2024, taxes related to real estate are estimated at $37.2 billion, a new record. These taxes make up 48.6% of the city’s local income.
The city’s budget, services and crime continue to be affected by those seeking housing at a time when the city’s older office and apartment properties are reeling from higher interest rates and vacancies that have sent many valuations down by more than half and may affect ongoing tax collection.
Walentas will headline the night’s celebration as attendees gather on the Glasshouse’s outdoor terraces to enjoy sweeping views of the city and Hudson River.
“Our annual event brings together leaders in real estate, government and important civic institutions to recognize our shared achievements and drive efforts to meet New York City’s biggest challenges in the year ahead,” said Valentas.
The raucous event is sold out with 1,000 attendees paying $2,500 each to mingle rather than sit down for canapés and cocktails during the reception and grand networking dinner.
Dinner culinary experiences are being prepared by chefs including Dan Guzman of Bar Boulud, Ci Siamo’s Hillary Sterling, Le Pavillon’s Michael Balboni and pastry chef Yohko Ogata, Christopher Colon of Hill Country, JJ Johnson of Fieldtrip. along with kosher selections from Le Marais and desserts provided by Li-Lac Chocolates.
Designated tables are also available for key evening events when dais guests are introduced and REBNY will honor individuals who have demonstrated continued dedication to both the city and the industry.
Over the years, those presiding over the dais have turned to cymbals, megaphones and other devices to quiet the crowd during the awards ceremony, while former REBNY president Steve Spinola was teased for his 30 years of “shussshing.”
Tonight will be no different.
For the win: Here’s what REBNY 2025 honorees have to say
Harry B. Helmsley Distinguished New Yorker Award for outstanding professional achievement and invaluable contributions to the civic welfare of New York
“The success of our industry and companies is fully integrated and aligned with the success of our community, which we are actively striving to improve.â€
Young Real Estate Professional of the Year Award chosen by YM/WREA for outstanding professional achievement as an industry rising star and for civic leadership
“Both REBNY and YM/WREA create a place for individuals with common goals. We build networks, learn from each other, develop new skills, connect with senior executives and find mentors.
Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership Award in Real Estate for outstanding service to the industry and outstanding professional achievement during his career
“REBNY is the epicenter of New York real estate. It’s where you cross paths with every player in the industry.â€
Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award for outstanding community service
At REBNY, you can engage with new projects, stay up-to-date on industry developments and actively participate in policy discussions.â€
John E. Zuccotti Public Service Award for outstanding achievement and service to the public interest
“I have seen firsthand how critical REBNY’s thoughtful guidance is in addressing key challenges such as affordable housing, economic development and infrastructure investment.”
The George M. Brooker Management Executive of the Year Award, recognizing outstanding career achievements as well as service to the profession and community
“Partnering with REBNY allows property managers to partner with the city to implement guidelines and establish industry best practices while advocating on our behalf.â€
Louis Smadbeck Memorial Broker Award recognizing a broker of personal and professional integrity, long-term leadership and prominence in the brokerage community, and participation on REBNY committees
“Don’t just join REBNY and YM/WREA and pay dues. Get involved because you’ll benefit from networking, meeting people, growing your career and making deals.”
#Pols #hit #red #carpet #129th #Real #Estate #Board #Gala
Image Source : nypost.com