In 2018, 5.34 million existing homes and 667,000 newly constructed homes were sold in the U.S. There are currently about two million active real estate licensees and 86,004 real estate brokerage firms operating in the country.
In this issue of Strictly Business we look at some of the North Country’s real estate firms as well as examine the role of mortgage brokers in the buying and selling process.
Our cover article features Don Duley of Duley & Associates of Plattsburgh. Don has been in real estate in his home town for more than 40 years and is still passionate about his work. As he plans for the future Don has been joined in the business by his son, Chris. Don’t miss Don’s observations about what it takes to be successful in real estate sales – skills that apply to most professions.
Another long-time area realtor, Joey Trombley, is also planning for the future with the help of his son, Gaelan, who joined the family firm, Kavanaugh Realty, in 2011. After decades of doing business primarily along the Norther Tier, Kavanaugh’s recently expanded to include a newly renovated office in the old D&H train station on lower Bridge Street in Plattsburgh.
After working her way up through the ranks of the family business started by her father, Paul, Tina Calkins Covey is now the co-owner and managing broker of RE/MAX North Country Calkins Professionals. During her interview with SB Calkins Covey was proud to share the news that a third generation – her daughter Rachel Calkins Covey – has recently joined the business.
Buying a house? You might want to think beyond the usual sources of funding. In this issue of SB, we introduce you to two mortgage brokers who offer products and services designed to put you into the home of your dreams.
And then there is this month’s Insight article featuring Julie Edwards. While she may not be your average business person, Edwards has built a successful 400-acre horse farm in Keeseville that offers lessons, as well as boarding, selling and training of horses. Her vitality and commitment to helping children is an inspiration. You won’t want to miss her story.
Once again attorney Jacki Kelleher offers advice for business owners and managers. In this issue she explains the changes in New York’s harassment laws that will take effect in October.
And then Garry Douglas wraps up our issue with news about NAmTrans, the North American Center of Excellence for Transportation Equipment, a Chamber subsidiary. NAmTrans goal is to expand the North Country’s cluster of transportation and aerospace manufacturers which now number more than 50 with some 9,000 employees. Coordinating the group’s work is its new director, Joel Wood. This effort is just one more example of how the Chamber leads the way for business and helps create prosperity in the North Country.
The real estate industry contributed $1.15 trillion, which is 6.2 percent of U.S. gross domestic product, last year. In New York State it accounted for $286.5 billion or 17.1% of our gross state product in 2018. The housing industry, which includes real estate sales, provides a source of revenue for millions… and that’s good for business.
