The Greater Capital Association of REALTORS® is a professional trade association which provides its members with programs and services which enhance the members‘ ability to successfully conduct their businesses in a competent and ethical manner, promotes cooperation among its members, and promotes the public‘s right to own, use and transfer real property.
The Greater Capital Association of REALTORS® makes no warranties and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy on the information contained herein. The opinions expressed in articles are not necessarily the opinions of the Greater Capital Association of REALTORS®.
The Greater Capital Association of REALTORS® does not necessarily endorse the companies products or services advertised in the newsletter unless specifically stated.
REALTORS® RALLY AT STATE CAPITOL FOR HOUSING SOLUTIONS AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY
REALTOR® Lobby Day was held at the State Capitol in Albany on Tuesday, April 21st. NYSAR hosted hundreds of REALTORS® from across the state, giving us a chance to speak up about priority legislation directly with our state senators and assembly members.
This was my 6th year attending Lobby Day, and every year the turnout keeps growing. It has gotten so large that we now meet at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center.
Each local association sets up meetings so members can connect with their district representatives. In these meetings, we share real experiences and stories from the field to explain why certain bills should move forward or, in some cases, be reconsidered.
A major topic this year was the ongoing housing shortage. In recent years, several policies have made it harder to build new housing. These include a statewide requirement for full electrification of new construction, the expansion of the state’s freshwater wetlands program, and the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019, which has affected the multifamily housing sector. REALTORS® believe the housing shortage requires immediate attention and that the state should focus on removing barriers and increasing housing production.
Reports after Lobby Day suggest that legislative leaders are close to a deal to reform parts of the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process for certain housing and infrastructure projects. The goal would be to help speed
up housing development across the state. REALTORS® strongly support efforts to modernize and improve this process for housing projects.
This year, we also revisited the state’s telemarketing ban. The bill, which has passed in the Assembly, would provide for a technical amendment to allow for telemarketing business activities during declared States of Emergency (SOE), unless the SOE includes a finding that telemarketing calls would impair actions taken to limit, control, or mitigate the SOE.
Lobby Day would not be possible without the coordination and support of our local board and association. Staff and volunteer leaders work closely with NYSAR each year to make the event happen. They help arrange transportation, schedule meetings with lawmakers, and encourage members to attend. GCAR plays an important role in making Lobby Day successful for the members.
If you were unable to attend this year’s REALTOR® Lobby Day, I encourage you to consider attending next year. There are always issues affecting homeowners and housing, and it is important that we are part of that conversation. This is our advocacy in action—we are the ones in the field, with real-world experience and knowledge.
Kirsten Blanchard 2026 GCAR President
WHAT’S HAPPENING
DATES TO REMEMBER
June 13-18
NAR Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo
Washington, DC
June 24
GCAR General Membership Meeting
Hilton Garden Inn Clifton Park
July 23
RPAC Summer Soiree Altamont Vineyard
October 9
GCAR Trade Show
Crowne Plaza - Desmond Hotel
October 15
RPAC Psychic Social Location TBD
October 21
Global MLS Annual Meeting
November 19
GCAR Annual Meeting
For additional information, visit GCAR.com/events
Sympathies are extended to...
The family, friends, and colleagues of longtime GCAR member William Maloney of Howard Hanna following his passing on April 16, 2026.
Volunteers Help Prepare Double H Ranch for Summer Camp Season
GCAR members once again teamed up with members of SAR to help prepare the Double H Ranch for the arrival of summer campers. Volunteers spent the day washing vehicles, painting, and making up beds to help create a welcoming environment for the children and families who will soon arrive.
A special thank you goes to Homestead Funding Corp. for generously providing lunch for our volunteers and helping keep everyone fueled throughout the day.
Thank you to everyone who donated their time and energy to support this meaningful annual tradition and help make a difference for so many families.
Co-founded by Paul Newman and Charles R. Wood, the Double H Ranch provides specialized programs and year-round support for children dealing with serious illnesses. All programs are offered free of charge, giving campers the chance to experience the magic of the Adirondacks in a safe and supportive setting.
KEY REAL ESTATE UPDATES
By Connor Gillis Government Affairs Rep, NYSAR
Real Estate Licensees Should Not Discuss Crime or School Quality With Consumers
On April 24, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) published a “Dear Colleague” letter to real estate licensees advising them that “real estate professionals may lawfully discuss neighborhood crime rates and school quality with clients” and doing so would not violate federal fair housing laws. Although it is the opinion of HUD that such discussions do not violate federal fair housing laws, such discussions would still be subject to NYS law and licensees may be held liable if they engage in such discussions.
State Lawmakers Near Deal On SEQRA Reforms
Reports indicate that Governor Hochul and legislative leaders are nearing a deal to reform the lengthy State Environmental Quality Review process for certain housing and infrastructure projects, with the hopes of expediting more housing development across the state. NYSAR strongly supports reforming the outdated environmental review process for housing projects and launched a REALTOR® Call for Action in April, urging its inclusion in the state budget. Support for the reforms was also a Lobby Day Priority for REALTORS® when meeting with their lawmakers in Albany on April 21. NYSAR is continuing to monitor and engage on the issue.
New York Delays Repeal of 100-Foot Rule For New Gas Hookups
This week, Governor Hochul signed into law legislation that will delay the repeal of the state’s 100-foot rule, which forces property owners and housing developers to pay for new connections to natural gas, even when the property is within 100 feet from existing gas pipelines. Lawmakers say the 1-year delay (April 10, 2027) will provide the state Public Service Commission additional time to establish regulations that shift the cost of a new gas connection from the collective existing ratepayers onto the new applicant.
GCAR Members Meet with Albany Mayor’s Office to Discuss Transfer Tax Proposal
GCAR members met with staff from Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs office to discuss a proposed increase to the real estate transfer tax (RET). The city is considering an increase to the RET to help close a significant budget deficit that the city is currently facing. GCAR members expressed their concerns about the impacts that the increased RET would have on housing in the city. City officials stressed that the proposal is something they are considering and have not decided whether they plan to move forward with it. GCAR’s government affairs committee will remain engaged on the issue.
GCAR Members Pass “Go” for RPAC at Monopoly Game Night
GCAR members gathered at Spinners Pizza on March 26 for an evening of friendly competition, networking, and community spirit during our Monopoly Game Night fundraiser benefiting RPAC. The event brought members together for a fun-filled night of strategy, laughs, and camaraderie, all while supporting REALTOR® advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels.
Thanks to the generosity and participation of our members, the event raised an impressive $3,800 for RPAC. We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who attended, contributed, and helped make the evening such a success.
Bowling for RPAC
GCAR members came together on May 13 at Kingpin’s Alley in Latham for this year’s annual Bowling for RPAC fundraiser, raising an impressive $4,700 in support of RPAC. The event was filled with friendly competition, plenty of laughs, and strong member participation.
Ana Montemayor of Renovo Real Estate earned the “Most Gutter Balls” award after tossing an impressive six gutter balls, narrowly edging out Cathy Griffin of KW Platform, who finished with four. On the competitive side of the lanes, Greg Aidala rolled the night’s high score with an outstanding 180 game.
The Team Spirit Award went to Team OG Ladies, led by Samantha Parker of KW Platform, whose enthusiasm and energy helped make the evening even more memorable.
The event was another great example of GCAR members coming together to support RPAC while enjoying a fun night of networking and camaraderie.
Housing Priorities Take Center Stage at 2026 Lobby Day
On Tuesday, April 21, more than 300 REALTORS® from across New York State gathered in Albany for the annual Lobby Day event, meeting directly with lawmakers to advocate for policies that improve housing affordability, increase inventory, and support homeownership opportunities throughout the state. Representing the Capital Region, 28 GCAR members spent the day engaging with legislators and their staff on issues impacting both the real estate industry and the communities they serve.
GCAR members met with representatives from the offices of Senators James Tedisco, Patricia Fahy, and Jake Ashby, as well as Assemblymembers Mary Beth Walsh, Angelo Santabarbara, Gabriella Romero, Carrie Woerner, and Phil Steck. Conversations focused heavily on the state’s ongoing housing inventory shortage, first-time homebuyer assistance, environmental review reform, and local affordability concerns.
“As Realtors in New York State, our presence at Lobby Day reflects our role as responsible advocates for both our profession and the communities we represent. It is essential that we actively share our perspectives on legislative matters with elected officials, while also gaining insight into their positions. This exchange is both meaningful and impactful, offering a tangible opportunity to influence decisions on pending legislation.”
- Ira Bethea, Bethea Realty
One of the most significant topics of discussion centered around proposed reforms to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). Reports from Albany indicate that Governor Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders are nearing an agreement to modernize the environmental review process for certain housing and infrastructure projects to accelerate housing development statewide. REALTORS® strongly supported the proposed reforms during Lobby Day conversations, emphasizing how lengthy review timelines can delay desperately needed housing projects.
Photo courtesy of NYSAR
Conversations with Lawmakers
GCAR member Felton McLaughlin noted several encouraging moments from meetings with Senator Patricia Fahy and Assemblymember Gabriella Romero.
With Senator Fahy’s office, REALTORS® discussed key priorities including first-time homebuyer savings accounts, telemarketing restrictions, affordable ADUs, and office-to-residential conversion incentives. McLaughlin reported that Fahy appeared receptive to concerns around proposed REST Act changes and their potential impact on housing development financing, while also acknowledging bipartisan interest in expanding ADU opportunities and improving access to homeownership.
Meetings with Assemblymember Romero’s office were also productive, with McLaughlin describing her staff as highly engaged on housing affordability and development challenges. While there were differing viewpoints on issues such as the REST Act and Albany’s proposed transfer tax, REALTORS® valued the opportunity to share real-world market perspectives from across the Capital Region.
For many attendees, Lobby Day also offered a firsthand look at how advocacy and policymaking intersect with the real estate profession. First-time attendee Lori Ryan said the conversations with lawmakers and staff felt “grounded and practical,” particularly those on affordability and the challenges facing first-time homebuyers across New York State.
“Even short conversations with lawmakers can produce real movement on key housing priorities.”
- Felton McLaughlin, NAI Platform
“I went into the day with no idea what to expect. I left with a better understanding of how this process works and how decisions get made.”
- Lori Ryan, Coldwell Banker Prime Properties
As the day concluded with a networking lunch among REALTORS® from across the state, many attendees left Albany feeling more informed and more connected to the legislative process shaping New York’s housing future.
For GCAR members, Lobby Day served as an important reminder that REALTOR® advocacy extends well beyond transactions. By bringing firsthand market experience directly to lawmakers, REALTORS® continue to play a critical role in shaping housing policy and advocating for communities across the Capital Region and beyond.
NAR’s Commitment to Expanding Homeownership Opportunities
Making homeownership accessible to more people starts with adding to the nation’s severely limited inventory. The U.S. is facing an underbuilding gap of 5.5 million units, equaling a $4.4 trillion underinvestment in housing.
America’s tax law can and must do more to promote homeownership, build stable communities, and boost economic growth.
NAR is advocating for these bills and solutions:
• The More Homes on the Market Act (H.R. 1340) to decrease the equity penalty and incentivize more longterm owners to sell their homes.
• The Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (H.R. 2854), which would attract private investment to build and rehabilitate owner-occupied homes.
• The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act (S. 1515/H.R. 2725), which would encourage creating and preserving affordable housing.
• The Housing Supply Framework Act (H.R.2840/ S.1299) to create a national strategy for boosting housing production and affordability by reducing barriers to new housing development.
• The Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410) to convert underused commercial properties into residential and mixed-use housing.
• The Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (Awaiting bill number) to increase the amount that can be withdrawn penalty-free from IRAs for a down payment on a first home.
• Support small business by preserving the 199A qualified business income deduction and keeping taxes on business income lower for independent contractors and pass-through business owners.
• Support commercial real estate investment by preserving 1031 like-kind exchanges.
• Incentivize homeownership by increasing the $10,000 cap on the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and eliminating the marriage penalty.
NAR is also advocating to ensure equal access to professional representation and support fair housing. Priorities include:
• The Fair and Equal Housing Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under the Fair Housing Act.
• Ensuring veterans maintain access to professional representation and can compete in the market by allowing VA buyers to compensate their professional representative directly.
• Serving as a founding member of the Black Homeownership Collaborative and supporting the 3by30 initiative, with the goal of adding three million net new Black homeowners by 2030.
Copyright NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Reprinted with permission.
Capital Region Capital Region Demand Remains Strong Remains Strong
REALTOR.COM REPORT SHOWS HIGH ENGAGEMENT AND OUT-OF-STATE INTEREST IN APRIL 2026
Buyers are keeping a close eye on the Capital Region. According to the latest monthly traffic report from Realtor.com, consumers generated strong engagement with Global MLS listings in April 2026, signaling sustained demand for homes across the area.
Search activity remained high, leads increased, and homes are moving fast - clear signs that buyers are active and ready.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS | APRIL 2026
59,810,647
Search
4,753
56
1,355,001
Listing Detail
5,496
Active Listings
10,866
Total Profile Views Month
111
Profile Inquiries
WHAT THIS MEANS
More consumers are not only searching, they’re taking action. Higher leads, more profile inquiries, and fewer days on market all point to a competitive market with motivated buyers and limited inventory
Now is the time for REALTORS® to stay visible, responsive, and ready to connect.
WHERE ARE BUYERS COMING FROM?
Top areas driving demand for Global MLS listings on Realtor.com
TOP VIEWING METROS
1. Washington, DC
2. New York, NY
3. Boston, MA
4. Atlanta, GA
5. Philadelphi, PA
TOP VIEWING COUNTIES FROM OTHER STATES
1. Loudoun, VA
2. Suffolk, MA
3. Essex, NJ
4. Fulton, GA
5. Maricopa, AZ
TOP VIEWING METRO WITHIN NEW YORK STATE
1. Albany-Schenectady-Troy
2. New York, NY
3. Glens Falls, NY
4. Syracuse, NY
5. Poughkeepsie-Newburgh
TOP VIEWING COUNTIES WITHIN NEW YORK STATE
1. Queens, NY
2. Albany, NY
3. Saratoga, NY
4. Schenectady, NY
5. Rensselaer, NY
Take your real estate career to a new level with the GRI
Real estate may be a fascinating and exciting business, but it’s also uniquely challenging. Often, agents struggle to get their business on solid footing or achieve the level of success they so strongly desire. There’s so much to learn, and so many skills to master, it’s no wonder success occasionally feels out of their reach.
Like all careers, however, achieving your goals is largely a matter of training, confidence, and experience. The good news is that the first two factors—training and confidence—CAN be achieved through the coursework associated with the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute designation.
It’s the most complete residential real estate training you can get, providing everything you need to capture more business from buyers and sellers alike. In fact, in a recent GRI survey, current designees cited three top benefits:
1. Comprehensive knowledge — The coursework provides in-depth training on the most essential topics, substantially beyond what’s covered by licensing courses.
2. Confidence — Past graduates love their GRI because it gave them confidence in their own skills and credibility with clients—essential components for building a successful real estate career.
3. Consumers — With “Graduate, REALTOR® Institute” after their name, they stand out as an agent who takes advanced real estate education seriously.
Graduate to a new level of real estate
When you become a GRI designee, your commitment to your business and clients shows through your investment of over 60 hours of classroom training to become one of the best of the best.
Upcoming Discounted GRI Courses
GRI-3 AGENCY
Thursday, June 11 - Friday, June 12
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
CE Credit: 7.5
Instructor: Neil Garfinkel, Esq.
Location: Zoom
Cost: $100
Provide effective, legal, and ethical client representation Offers in-depth coverage of:
• All forms of agency representation, associated issues, and proper disclosure.
• How to avoid the risk of misrepresentation, vicarious liability, and breach of fiduciary duties.
GRI-4 LEGAL
Thursday, September 24 - Friday, September 25
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
CE Credit: 7.5
Instructor: Neil Garfinkel, Esq.
Location: Zoom
Cost: $100
Operate your business without the risk of claims, fines, and lawsuits. Gain a complete understanding of:
• Advertising that is legal and ethical.
• Contracts, forms, deposits, disclosures, and record retention.
• Risk management strategies.
• Title insurance and settlement procedures.
GCAR AFFILIATE MEMBERS
Use this directory as a resource for products and services. Affiliates join monthly, so check each issue for updates. You can also search the online affiliate directory by visiting GCAR.com/affiliate-members.
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2500 Westchester Ave, 2nd Fl Purchase, NY 10577 941-285-1469
www.wellsfargo.com carla.hawkins@wellsfargo.com
WELCOME
NEW GCAR MEMBERS
REALTOR® PRINCIPAL
Daniel Needham Real Estate
Daniel Needham
Scott Ronda Realty LLC
Scott Ronda
Solara Realty LLC
Alisa Dalton
REALTOR® NON-PRINCIPAL
1971 Realty Group, Inc
Totia Harris
Sean Sullivan
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Blake Christian Libasci
Burns Real Estate Solutions LLC
Ann Burns
Carrow Real Estate Services LLC
Dylan Rafferty
Coldwell Banker Prime Properties
Marcus Walker-Jones
Ali Syed
Samuel Bordeau
Country Views Realty Inc
Alene Call
Coyne Realty Group LLC
Rayna Bryant
Dimension Realty Solution LLC
Hanan Tahir
Iftakharul Islam
Empire Real Estate Firm LLC
Christopher Calicchia
Eleftheria Tsakirellis
eXp Realty
Rachel Lee
Melissa Pizano
Find Advisors
Ethan Simmons
Gilcrest Properties
Michelle Warner
Howard Hanna Capital Inc
Abigail Kennedy
Kyle Clancy
Jordana Diaz Polanco
Hunt Real Estate ERA
Rachel Davis
J Paul Realty Group LLC
Nicholo Cianfarani
Jandali Realty
Sierra Dawson
Jannah Realty LLC
Karim Mohammed
KW Platform
Airianna Bourdages
Paula Slayton
Sandra Joussef
Mohammad Rahman
Jessica Shultis
Chloe Pellettier
Nathan Uchytil
Casey Sumner
Hunter Cline
Mar-Quiona Mullins-Johnson
Jourdan Hinman
John Sullivan
Legacy Nine Realty
Madison Smith
M J J Realty
Kaleaf Fiddemon
Miranda Real Estate Group Inc
Jacob Mittleman
Miuccio Real Estate Group
Lorraine Parker
Northern Living Properties LLC
John Moskos
Own Real Estate
James Jackson
Paragon Residential Managment LLC
Kaitlyn LaBounty
Premier Homes Elite Realty LLC
Riley Skaarup
Realty One Group Key
Jing Liu
Daniel Baker
Reiser Realty
David Gerth
Romeo Team Realty
Queen Ambulo-Perreault
Salisbury Real Estate Services
Anxhel Shkulaku
Solara Realty
John Wager
Sterling Real Estate Group
Brenda Jonker
Tibbitts & Co Realty
Brittany Tibbitts
Tier One Real Estate Pros LLC
Michael Blanchfield
Vera Cohen Realty, LLC
Michael Bilica
Whipple City Realty Group Inc.
Owen Canales
NYSAR Housing Opportunities Foundation, Inc. helps families and individuals in New York State overcome the obstacles to homeownership as well as promoting safe, decent and affordable housing.
The NYSAR Housing Opportunities Foundation has helped more than 400 families across New York State become homeowners by awarding first-time homebuyer grants.
