Embark on a journey through the intricate maze of New York's real estate laws with us as we dissect the landmark updates to the property disclosure requirements. Gone are the days when a seller could sidestep revealing a home's quirks and qualms for a mere $500 credit at closing. With the introduction of a comprehensive 48-question disclosure form, we explore how this move toward full transparency stands to reshape the landscape of home-buying, offering you a vital shield against unseen pitfalls. While we champion these strides toward accountability, we also stress the importance of a meticulous home inspection to complement the paperwork—a duo that promises to arm you with the insight necessary to make an informed purchase.Navigating the murky waters of illegal housing practices, we bring to light the stark realities that can ensnare unsuspecting homeowners and tenants alike. Take the eye-opening tale of an elderly homeowner who found themselves in an $80,000 financial sinkhole after an illegal rental catastrophe. The harrowing accounts of overcrowded and unsafe living conditions in unauthorized apartments, including one where 70 people were packed into a space meant for a fraction of that number, reveal the grim side of housing violations. By sharing these stories, we underscore the need for landlords and agents to practice integrity in their dealings—because cutting corners can have dire legal, financial, and human costs.In our final chapter, we open up about personal encounters with substandard living conditions and the transformative effect they can have. From the despair of a family living in a fire-ravaged Bronx apartment to the resolve of becoming a reputable landlord, these narratives are a testament to the strength drawn from adversity. They illustrate why absolute commitment to tenant well-being and proactive property management isn't just a legal obligation—it's a moral imperative that reverberates through lives and communities. Join us as we navigate these emotionally charged stories and advocate for a compassionate approach to real estate.

Discover the keys to unlocking your dream home as Hidey,, my incredible wife and ace mortgage broker, unveils her transformation from accounting to the thrilling world of real estate. Our conversation takes you through the inception of her career, supporting her family's franchise and real estate ventures, to the epiphany that led her down the path of property and mortgages. Together, we reminisce about the intertwining of our professional lives, the transparency hurdles in the industry, and how our united front champions honesty and clear communication in every deal we seal.Venture into the realm of home financing with us, where Hidey, demystifies the benefits of partnering with a mortgage broker. We shed light on the array of specialized programs available to various buyers, including ITIN holders and foreign nationals, illustrating how tailored services outshine the one-size-fits-all approach of big banks. The discussion also clarifies common misconceptions about credit inquiries and pre-approvals, equipping you with the knowledge to confidently step onto the property ladder without tripping over the fine print.Lastly, we navigate through the do's and don'ts of the home-buying odyssey, pinpointing the pitfalls to avoid and strategies to maintain financial credibility. Hidey, and I share stories of triumph and caution, painting a vivid picture of the joy and potential setbacks on the journey to homeownership. As we cast an eye over current market trends and their intersection with political climates, we aim to inspire you to make savvy investment choices with the ultimate goal of crafting a legacy through the tapestry of real estate.

Have you ever walked past a house and wondered about its history, or who might have lived there? Maria Valvano, CEO of Realty Resource Solutions, shares this curiosity, and she's taken it to professional heights. On our latest episode, we're thrilled to feature her journey from a kid intrigued by property deals to a titan in the realm of real estate and title insurance. Maria divulges the fascinating stories behind properties, the significance of an accurate chain of title, and why due diligence is the bedrock of investment security.The world of title insurance may seem as cryptic as ancient runes, but Maria Valvano demystifies it with ease, shedding light on the meticulous process behind title searches. She discusses the hurdles that can hide in the fine print, like unexpected liens that can trip up the unprepared, and stresses the importance of a proper 40-year lookback for purchasers and a 10-year period for those refinancing. It's these crucial details that keep the pathway to property ownership clear of obstacles, ensuring that what lies behind the walls of your dream home doesn't become a nightmarish tale.Finally, we tackle the emotional and legal intricacies of probate and the absolute necessity of current estate planning. With Maria's expertise, we underline the emotional and legal strife that can ensue without transparent property title transfers and up-to-date wills. She shares poignant anecdotes of probate cases gone awry, reinforcing the message that clear estate plans are vital to safeguarding one's legacy. Join us as we navigate the complexities of real estate, illuminated by Maria’s years of experience, and take to heart the importance of expert guidance in this crucial field.

Embark on an architectural odyssey with Franklin Estrella, a New York architect whose designs have reshaped the skyline for over three decades. Franklin, who's crafted everything from cozy homes to towering commercial spaces, joins us to break down the nuanced dance between architects and engineers. He'll pull back the curtain to reveal the critical balance of beauty and functionality in construction, offering insider stories like the Bronx property conversion that proved the indispensable value of professional expertise. Our conversation illuminates the path to obtaining architectural licensing and the breadth of a license in New York—insights that could redefine how you view the built environment around you.Stepping beyond blueprints, we venture into the transformative landscape of real estate ethics. Unearthing tales of clandestine midnight closings and surprise house purchases, this episode underscores why today's transparency standards are revolutionizing the industry. We champion the cause of integrity and the necessity of engaging licensed professionals, serving as a beacon for young entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike. Wrapping up, we share an empowering call to action: approach your dreams with the conviction of constructing a skyscraper, and trust in the guidance of seasoned professionals to soar to new heights. Join us again on "Suit Up with Bias" for more revelations that will fuel your next big project.

Ever wondered how a deep understanding of home inspections could save you from future headaches in real estate? Join us as John Felix from Felix Inspection sheds light on the nuances of property evaluations, offering sage advice that could protect your investment. With a sharp focus on education and the safety of homeowners, John's bilingual expertise and South Bronx roots afford him the ability to navigate both the New York and Connecticut markets with a unique perspective. We tackle the effects of snow on assessments, the right way to de-ice without damaging your property, and the costly implications of skipping a home inspection, ensuring that our listeners walk away with a hefty toolbox of homeowner wisdom.Transitioning careers is never easy, but when passion calls, some answer with a leap towards fulfillment. Hear about my own shift from realtor to home inspector, a journey fueled by integrity and professional satisfaction. In this candid exchange, we dive into the dynamics between realtors and inspectors and the unyielding commitment to excellence that defines my approach to client service. John and I navigate the sometimes murky waters of real estate, emphasizing the importance of neutrality and integrity in the inspection process — a cornerstone for anyone aspiring to rise above the fray in this competitive field.Wrapping up, we explore the legislative landscape shifting beneath the feet of property sellers and the strategic maneuvers both buyers and sellers can employ during negotiations. Providing a detailed property disclosure is now the law, which underscores the importance of diligence and transparency in every real estate transaction. Furthermore, we examine the hidden threats that older homes harbor, from termite damage to energy inefficiency, and how modern tools like thermal imaging can unveil these issues. As we sign off, we remind our audience that resilience is the bedrock of success, and no obstacle is too great to overcome on the road to providing top-notch service. Tune in for an episode that leaves no stone unturned in the world of home inspection.

Welcome to the first episode of "Suit Up with Baez"! Today, we're diving into what this podcast is all about and our main goals. Joining us are Alex Baez, Hidey Baez, Chris Rivas, and myself, Angelo Baez. Be sure not to miss it and have a fantastic day!