Sun Sep 15 13:00:40 UTC 2024: ## Real Estate World Buzzes with Politics, Personnel Shifts, and a Touch of History

**New York, NY** – This week in the world of real estate, politics, personnel shifts, and a dose of history made headlines.

The recent presidential debate sparked discussion on housing policy with Vice President Kamala Harris proposing 3 million new housing units and a $25,000 down payment assistance program, while former President Donald Trump advocated for zoning and environmental regulation cuts. Experts cautioned against solely focusing on demand-boosting measures, highlighting the need to address supply issues to tackle affordability challenges.

Locally, the bribery probe surrounding Mayor Eric Adams and the resignation of the NYPD Commissioner cast a shadow over the “City of Yes” development proposal, potentially deterring investors due to uncertainty.

Amidst the political turbulence, several key personnel shifts grabbed attention:

* Pat Murphy, Cushman & Wakefield’s office guru, is moving to JLL.
* Sam Seiler, JLL’s executive managing director, is returning to CBRE after six years.
* Charles Laginestra is rejoining CBRE after a seven-year stint at Fisher Brothers.
* Trisha Connolly-Horowitz is leaving Avison Young to join Catal Group.
* Michael Winter joins Ripco Real Estate’s debt and structured finance department in South Florida.
* Diana Reid, former PNC real estate head, has been appointed CEO of Freddie Mac.

In other news, developer Gary Barnett’s Extell Development has filed plans for a 29-story office and retail development with Ikea at 570 Fifth Avenue. Extell is also partnering with Kimpton Hotels for a 33-story hotel near Rockefeller Center. Additionally, Barnett is selling off an East Harlem office development for $70 million.

The 23rd anniversary of the September 11th attacks was marked with a gathering of prominent political and real estate figures at 3 World Trade Center, commemorating the publication of Larry Silverstein’s book, “The Rising,” which details the World Trade Center’s destruction and reconstruction. Silverstein shared his perspective on the challenges and triumphs of this monumental project.

Overall, the week showcased a blend of political speculation, personnel shifts, and a reflection on the resilience of the city and its real estate landscape.

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