This episode of Inside R&E, moderated by Dave Lorenzo, Founder of Exit Success Lab, features Richard Y. Im, a Member in R&E’s Litigation Department, and Jason C. Bergman, Vice President & Senior Underwriting Counsel at Benchmark Title Agency LLC. The attorneys share valuable insights on Deed-in-Lieu and its pros and cons for borrowers as well as lenders. They also discuss the various risks and considerations associated with Deeds-in-Lieu.

During the conversation, Richard and Jason talk to Dave about what a Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure is, how the process is initiated and elaborate on its benefits as well as drawbacks to both borrowers and lenders. Additionally, Richard and Jason also provide useful pointers on transfer taxes associated with a Deed in Lieu transaction, the risks associated with it for the title industry, and the resulting title requirements to guard against such risks. They also share their perspectives on why it is important to consult with an attorney when considering proceeding with a Deed in Lieu.

Richard Y. Im concentrates his practice on complex commercial litigation, with a particular focus on creditors' rights and real estate disputes. He has extensive experience in all aspects of real estate litigation including commercial foreclosures, lender liability claims, title issues, priority disputes, mechanic's liens, contract and joint venture disputes, construction claims, access agreements, brokerage matters and other issues. He also represents lenders, borrowers and investors in loan workouts, restructurings and modifications and the purchase and sale of distressed debt.

Jason C. Bergman has nearly two decades of experience in the real estate/title insurance industry. He has extensive experience in assessing and mitigating risk in complex transactions and ambiguous situations, and is recognized as an industry leader in insuring foreclosures and distressed assets. He is a A fellow of the American College of Mortgage Attorneys (ACMA) and was also awarded the CRE® credential by the Counselors of Real Estate.

For any questions related to this episode, contact Richard Y. Im at rim@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8435. Jason C. Bergman can be reached at jbergman@benchmarkta.com or (516) 426-5670.

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In this episode of Inside R&E, Justin S. Weitzman, a Counsel in the firm's Litigation Department, invites Bill Weidner, Managing Member at KeepMyGas, to share valuable insights, statistics and more regarding the 1st 4-year cycle of LL152 and what law firms, building owners and property managers can expect in cycle 2 from 2024 to 2027.

During the conversation, Bill and Justin discuss the basics of Local Law 152, preparing for the cycle year, the process of getting inspected, deadlines, tenant access, documents and breaches, to get property and business owners to the finishing line with this compliance. Bill also provides various resources to educate and understand LL152 and keep up to date with it.

Justin Weitzman's litigation practice is diverse, representing entities and individuals (investors, partners, managers, and officers) in complex real estate ranging from commercial litigation matters involving partnership, joint venture, limited liability company and shareholder disputes, including direct and derivative claims. Weitzman also has significant experience in handling employment-related disputes and various complicated tort cases.

As the co-founder of KeepMyGas, LLC, Bill leads a top-tier consultancy specializing in compliance with NYC's Local Law 152 for Gas Piping Inspections. Bill is also the creator and host of the Realty Speak® Podcast, where since 2018, he has been sharing invaluable real estate insights with a vast network across the real estate, construction, and technology sectors.

For any questions related to this episode, contact Justin S. Weitzman at jweitzman@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-1261. Bill Weidner can be reached at Bill@keepmygas.nyc or (917) 232-8529.

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Real estate development, particularly in booming areas of New York and Florida, is directly impacted by federal immigration policies.

In this episode of Inside R&E, Michael A. Pensabene, R&E Litigation Member, invites a seasoned immigration attorney, Alexis S. Axelrad, Partner with Barst & Mukamal LLP, for a dynamic discussion revealing the many ways in which immigration laws change the scope of real estate development in major cities across the U.S.

Together they discuss recent legislation related to foreign national property ownership, along with investment programs like EB-5, which was responsible for the development of Hudson Yards, among other projects. While lawmakers prioritize national security with thorough vetting, these tightening immigration laws could slow down or halt much-needed development in key U.S. cities facing housing shortages.

Michael A. Pensabene’s practice spans all areas of commercial litigation, with a focus on joint venture and partnership disputes, contract and lease disputes, landlord/tenant litigation, construction issues and condo/coop disputes, as well as board representation of co-ops and condos. His experience affords him the judgment to evaluate the interests of the parties, and to know how and when to assert clients’ rights to achieve their objectives.

Alexis S. Axelrad maintains a dynamic corporate and family-based US immigration practice based out of New York City. She has been active in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) for over 25 years and currently serves as First Vice-President of AILA’s Executive Committee responsible for advancing the goals and mission of the organization.

For any questions related to this episode, contact Michael A. Pensabene at mpensabene@rosenbergestis.com or (212) 551-8406. Alexis S. Axelrad can be reached at aaxelrad@barstlaw.com.

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