In their words...
The month’s funniest and most insightful comments on real estate
“We need a recovery program to recover from our recovery.” Mortimer Zuckerman, chairman of Boston Properties, summing up his not-very-rosy perspective of the economy. (GlobeSt.com)
“We know that by stepping up and fighting…, we have made ourselves a target.” Airbnb’s David Hantman, on the apartment-sharing start-up’s defense of an Airbnb host who the city fined for renting out his pad. (WNYC)
“The housing market is out of intensive care and in stable condition, with some strong vital signs when it comes to higher home prices and lower foreclosure activity.” RealtyTrac’s CEO James Moyle on the real estate recovery. (New York Times)
“I find it strange when buyers do not look in other people’s refrigerators ... especially if you are going to keep that refrigerator.” Brown Harris Stevens broker Lisa Lippman, on the role that the icebox plays in selling a home. (New York Times)
“Gary Barnett and I are still friends. … He wanted to go off on his own and do his own thing, and he’s done that.” Kevin Maloney, founder and principal of Property Markets Group, on former partner Gary Barnett, who established Extell Development. (New York Times) 24 July 2013 www.TheRealDeal.com
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“The beauty of pre-construction is it’s all smoke and mirrors.” Peter Zalewski of Condo Vultures, a South Florida consulting firm, warning brokers to beware of the hype surrounding the so-called “condo corridor” in downtown Miami.
“I can talk that way, because I’m from 135th Street.”
John Catsimatidis, real estate mogul and mayoral candidate, explaining to the Young Mortgage Bankers Association that his humble upbringing gives him the credibility to suggest that trade school is a good path to the middle class.
“We would have Thanksgiving and Passover together, which we aren’t doing anymore. I think it’s a loss for all of us.” TF Cornerstone’s K. Thomas Elghanayan on brother Henry’s decision to split up the family real estate empire. (Wall Street Journal)
“$15,400,000 in new listings! Hiiiigh-kick.” Fredrik Eklund, Douglas Elliman broker and reality TV star, on his hot streak. (Twitter)
“It could make sense to tear down a $1.3 billion office building.” Jeff Blau of Related Companies, telling hedge fund gurus how a developer might get in on the city’s thriving retail and condo markets.
“We plan to move as quickly as possible.” City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, on the council’s time line for passing regulations that would make buildings safer during major storms like Hurricane Sandy. (New York Times) www.TheRealDeal.com August 2006 00
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