Check out Metro's March OnSite. Meet Metro members Justin and Tez. Learn about career journies and how they came to be Metro member. There is so much more in this edition that you will love. Metro appreciates your time and hopes you enjoy this issue.
March 2025
METROPOLITAN BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF NJ MAGAZINE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT JUSTIN JURKOWSKI CARROLL ENGINEERING CORP. SEE PAGE 13
CHECK OUT WHAT TEZ SAYS! TEZ RORO, KW SUBURBAN SEE PAGE 17 METRO MEMBERS WIN BIG @ IBS IN LAS VEGAS! SEE PAGE 21
President’s Message March 2025
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Scott Turner who pledged to work with home builders and all interested stakeholders to find long- term solutions that make homes more affordable, spur business creation and create economic opportunity for all Americans. We saw policies being passionately discussed and changed. NJ was also granted $20,000.00 to help with a legal defense fund for the fight for affordable housing. IBS is the epitome of what the association is all about. There is something for everyone. Everyone has a place. Everyone can learn something (and teach something). I realize many members could not attend the show; but we can recreate the experience (on a much smaller scale of course!) here at Metro. I urge our members to get more involved; decide what you are interested in and jump in! Share your knowledge with others. If you feel that there is more you would like to see at Metro, please let me know! Don’t forget, the ABC is coming up 3/25/25- 3/27/25. This is another great way to see new products and innovations. If you haven’t registered yet, here is the link: abconvention.com/ attendee-registration/#register Hope to see you all there!
124,000+ people. 2,500 exhibitors. 1.2+ million net square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibits. 500+ educational sessions. The biggest show in 17 years.
I am still in awe of what I saw last week in Las Vegas at the International Builders show. These numbers are incredible, but there is no way to quantify the experience. There are so many things that cannot be measured. The time speaking to the best of the best in the business. The collaboration and networking. The fact that there is something for everyone, regardless of where you are in your career or what your career is. Attendees can see new products & techniques; attend live shop talks where they can ask questions of some of the most successful people in the industry; attend classes on sales, marketing, AI, managing employees & clients, design trends, and the list goes on and on. There are also many meetings; most of which are open to anyone so people can sit in on board meetings of councils and committees to see what may pique their interests. And last but certainly not least, the Meeting of the Members, Leadership Council Meeting and the NAHB Board of Directors Meeting rounded out the last day. We heard from
Yours in Service,
GERALDINE SMITH 2025 Metro President allinclusivenj@gmail.com
Metropolitan Builders & Contractors Association of NJ 39 East Hanover Avenue • Suite B4 Morris Plains, NJ 07950 Phone: 973-887-2888 Fax: 973-887-2926 Website: www.MetroBCA.org
Mission Statement: Metro is a professional organization that shall serve to protect and advance the rights and interests of builders, remodelers and associates in all matters affecting the building and remodeling industries. Metro shall support the business interests of all its member firms, support safe and affordable shelter, and foster the American dream of home ownership. Vision Statement: Metro is the leading trade association for the construction industry. Metro inspires active membership through professional development and advocacy. We embrace free markets to promote cost effective housing in NJ.
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in Trenton’, Commercial Real Estate, and the ‘Governor’s Race and Housing.’ It will be a half-day summit with fantastic speakers and guests from across the housing sphere. Stay tuned for more details. Our 2025 Workforce Development Committee, led by Wendy Scott of Timeless Closets and Dane Rohmann of Exceptional Flooring, is organizing a ‘Build My Future’ event for our next generation of industry professionals. They will organize this hands-on event in the fall, with over 30 exhibitor businesses showcasing and encouraging high school students to pursue the trades. This will be a field trip experience for students within our territory. More details to follow. In February, many Metro members attended the International Builders Show in Las Vegas. This year, IBS was one of their largest shows in recent years, boasting over 100,000 visitors who walked the trade floor and engaged in a variety of courses. We attended many committee meetings and heard from Dr. Dietz, NAHB’s Chief Economist, who provided a detailed economic forecast, and Scott Turner, the US HUD Director, who assured us that excessive regulations will be a thing of the past. He will work with homebuilders on affordability issues, and help us provide the American Dream of home ownership to all generations.
MICHELE’S EO PERSPECTIVE
This first quarter has been an absolute whirlwind in the industry, from the roller coaster ride of the Corporate
Transparency Act to the NJ Affordable Housing Obligations and the new Home Improvement Contractors Licensing, our board has been working diligently to provide you with the necessary tools. On March 4th, we held a Builder and Home Improvement Contractor ‘Lunch & Learn’ at Blue Ridge Lumber in Kenvil. This class, presented by Rich Boisch of Crisp Insurance Advisors, was very informative and helped those in attendance understand the new regulations for Home Improvement Contractors regarding Workers’ compensation, Bonding, and Liability Insurance. Through the efforts of NJBA, Crisp Insurance Advisors will be offering a 15% discount to all members on these compliance bonds. Thank you, to Blue Ridge Lumber for providing the space for our meeting, and promoting the presentation to your customers. Our 2025 Education Committee, led by Suzanne MacDowell of Serious Realty, has been busy working with NCJAR (North Central Jersey Association of Realtors) on a Real Estate Summit scheduled for September of this year. This Summit will tackle topics such as ‘What’s Happening
Michele Leppard, EO , mleppard@metrobca.org Office: (973) 887-2888 x 1, Cell (201) 463-5543
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!
MICHAEL BRUNO Cabinet IQ of Bridgewater
LEE BLADES RenoFi Spike: Don Dyrness, Main Street Construction EUGENIA HAMLETT Hamlett Development Partners Spike: Deb Tantleff, Tantum Real Estate ERIC COUPER MC Home Improvements & Construction GABE DASILVA DaSilva Group dba DaSilva Homes
Spike: Jazz Mirza, Jazz Construction
MICHAEL MOLBURY Beacon Building Products JULIA BYKHOVSKAIA Golden Dragon Roofing Spike: Erin Hoffman, Certified Financial Services JONNI CLAUSE Appliance Palace ROBERT DENA FCM Home Loans CHRISTOPHER MAIER Dutly Associates LLC
JOSHUA RICH Bullseye Locations
JONATHAN STEIN PCD Development, LLC
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Platinum Hammer Sponsor
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LOBSTERFEST 2025 AND GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS! IRIS LABORATORIES WWW.IRISLABORATORIES.COM ASSOCIATE MEMBER TRUST WWW.AMT-NJ.COM BLUE COLLAR BACK OFFICE WWW.BLUECOLLARBACKOFFICE.COM THANK TO YOU TO PUB199 FOR ANOTHER GREAT LOBSTERFEST! WWW.PUB199NJ.COM
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A MESSAGE FROM FRANZ, METRO’S AOE COMMITTEE CHAIR
potential employees.
• Inclusive Categories: We have a wide range of categories for everyone, including Associates, Remodelers, Builders, Choice Awards, and more. There’s something for every Metro member!
What to Expect at the Event?
Join Us for Metro’s BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR! Mark your calendars for June 26th, 2025 and get ready for the 2025 Awards of Excellence! This is your
• Fun and Excitement: The 2025 Awards of Excellence promises to be an unforgettable night filled with fun and excitement. We’re introducing new sponsorships and highlights, along with some beloved favorites from last year. • Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, peers, and potential clients. This is your chance to be front and center at Metro’s biggest event of the year!
chance to shine and be recognized for your outstanding achievements. Have you submitted your entries yet? If not, the submission deadline is March 15th, 2025. Don’t miss out!
Why Attend the Awards of Excellence?
SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 26TH, 2025
• Prestigious Recognition: Winning an AOE award is a prestigious honor that will elevate your company’s reputation. Display your award proudly in your office or showroom and watch it become a social media sensation! • Business Benefits: Effective award programs like ours help businesses become more competitive, retain key employees, and reduce turnover. They also boost motivation and reinforce your organization’s image among stakeholders and
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate excellence and make valuable connections. Submit your entries by March 15th, 2025, secure your sponsorships, and get ready for a night to remember! For more information and to submit your entries, visit our website or contact us directly. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Franz Laki , SESI Consulting Engineers sesi.org, AOE Committee Chair
Gold Hammer Sponsor
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Silver Hammer Sponsor
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BUILDING SUCCESS TOGETHER: OUR PWB COUNCIL WINS NAHB SMALL COUNCIL OF THE YEAR AGAIN! Julie Stilo President & COO, Stilo Disposal, stilodisposal.com 2025 PWB Chair
Bi-Monthly Newsletters
Linda was dedicated to bi-monthly newsletters which kept members informed and engaged, sharing PWB council news, highlighting achievements, and providing valuable resources.
Two-Time Award-Winning Council
Winning this award twice is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and collaboration of every member within our council. It not only validates the strength of our collective efforts but also highlights the meaningful impact we are having in the industry. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to excellence, growth, and supporting one another. It’s a reminder that when we come together with a common purpose, we can create lasting change and inspire others to do the same. This award is not just for us—it’s for the entire council, and it underscores the powerful difference we are making in advancing women in the trades.
For the second year in a row, our Professional Women in Building (PWB) council has been honored with the NAHB PWB 2024 Small Council of
the Year award! This achievement is a true reflection of Linda Garvey’s exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication. Under her guidance, our PWB has reached new heights, empowering members and driving meaningful impact. This recognition is a testament to Linda’s commitment and the incredible work of every member who brings our mission to life.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this win, we look forward to another year of growth, empowerment, and advocacy for women in trades. Together, we are building a future where women in trades thrive!
A Year of Impactful Initiatives
2024 was an extraordinary year for our council. We focused on strengthening our community, creating opportunities, and fostering the next generation of women in building. Here are some of our remarkable accomplishments:
Our First PWB Girl Scout Badge – The House That She Built
We introduced our first PWB Girl Scout badge, based on The House That She Built! This initiative educates and inspires young girls about careers in construction and the importance of women in trades. Seeing their excitement was truly rewarding.
Scholarship for Young Women in the Trades
Our sponsorship/scholarship program supports young women pursuing careers in trades, providing financial aid and mentorship to help them succeed. We have successfully launched our program this year and will be awarding 2 young female students who are pursuing a career in the trades with $1,250 each. We look forward to awarding these women and seeing them thrive in their careers!
Happy Hours & Networking Events
Community is at our core. Our happy hours and networking events allowed members to connect, collaborate, and uplift one another, building stronger personal and professional relationships.
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT JUSTIN PAUL JURKOWSKI CARROLL ENGINEERING CORPORATION LI justin-paul-jurkowski-6931b1210
Years in this Business? 20+
How did you get into this business? My journey in land surveying started early – it’s in my blood. My father, Paul Jurkowski, became a land surveyor at just 18 years old. After having me at
age 21, I quickly found myself holding the rod for him over the weekends before I was even a teenager. At 15, I got my first job in his firm, purging files and organizing critical survey information. During college, I worked summers and winters as an instrument operator, gaining hands-on experience in the field. Upon studying at Monmouth University and NJIT, I spent nearly a decade as a crew chief, surveying across 15 different states. That field experience eventually led me inside, where I quickly adapted to CAD drafting and point cloud processing. It was during this time that I developed a deep passion—some might even say an obsession—for property boundary law, deed interpretation, title reports, tidelands, and boundary establishment. This passion ultimately brought me to Carroll Engineering. What is the Story Behind Your Company? Founded in 1973, Carroll Engineering is a leading multidisciplinary Engineering and Land Surveying firm in the Northeast. Our firm delivers a wide range of highly regarded professional services, including: site/civil engineering,
water facilities engineering, wastewater engineering, and municipal engineering, to a wide range of authority, municipal, public, and private clients in the region. Our departments serve as valuable resources to each other, with our services available to clients in both the public and private sectors. While our survey department plays a key role in supporting in-house engineering, I like to think of it as a standalone entity—delivering high-quality surveying solutions independently. What is Your Role at Carroll Engineering? As Survey Department Manager of our Hillsborough office, I lead a team of surveyors, technicians, managers, and drone operators, and oversee all aspects of survey projects, from planning and budgeting to execution and delivery. I strongly believe in leveraging leading-edge technology to constantly push the limits of accuracy, efficiency, and innovation, as well as my own understanding of the field. Beyond the technical aspects, I am deeply committed to the growth and development of my team, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where we continually refine our skills and adapt to new challenges. My passion lies in delivering precise, reliable, and forward-thinking solutions to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the expectations of our shareholders. I am always looking for new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow in the fields of surveying, geospatial analysis, and UAV mapping. I’m excited to have this opportunity today to share insights into how technology is shaping the future of land surveying and how Carroll Engineering is currently utilizing this technology.
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What Types of Services Does Your Land Surveying Department Offer? At Carroll Engineering, our survey department provides a full spectrum of services, including traditional land surveying, construction layout, 3D laser scanning, aerial photogrammetry, UAV drone services, and GIS solutions. By leveraging these cutting- edge tools together, we enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and overall quality of our data collection and analysis, delivering superior results for our clients. A quick look at some of our typical survey deliverables include, ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys, Boundary Surveys, Topographic Surveys, As-Built Surveys, Wetlands Plans,
it’s monitoring wetlands for development, tracking land use changes, or assessing stormwater systems, Carroll Engineering delivers the tools and expertise needed to stay compliant, make informed decisions, and protect the environment. The last piece of specialty equipment I’d like to highlight is our Leica P40 3D Laser Scanner—a game-changer in data collection and site analysis. Compared to traditional methods, 3D laser scanning significantly reduces field time, with most projects taking just a few hours to a few days instead of several weeks. 3D models
Utility Surveys, Route Surveys, ADA Compliance Surveys, Right- of-Way Mapping, FEMA Elevation Certificates, as well as Subdivision and Lot Consolidation Plans. Each of which play a crucial role in support of successful project development. Drones and Laser Scanning: At Carroll Engineering, one of our specialized technologies is our fleet of over a half dozen American and foreign-made drones, each equipped with
and point cloud data introduce workflows that traditional surveying simply cannot achieve. The precise imagery and highly accurate scan data allow us to detect clashes between existing conditions and proposed designs, helping to eliminate waste, reduce costly errors, and prevent
issues before construction begins.
What College did you Attend? I started my college
advanced sensors and imaging capabilities. These UAVs enable us to document existing site conditions, perform efficient volume calculations, and provide clients with high-resolution imagery—all tied directly to state plane coordinate values for precise geospatial accuracy. Beyond traditional applications, our UAVs play a critical role in environmental monitoring and compliance. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, they help assess vegetation health, water quality, soil erosion, and land changes, ensuring that projects adhere to environmental regulations. We provide detailed, high-resolution aerial imagery and geospatial data to assist organizations in meeting compliance standards, conducting environmental impact assessments, and ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines. With our Ortho Mosaic Images and real-time processing capabilities, clients can quickly identify environmental concerns and take corrective action before they escalate. Whether
experience playing football at Monmouth University while majoring in History/Education. After an injury Junior year, I transferred to NJIT’s Survey Engineering Technology program.
Years in METRO? 3
Why did you Join METRO? I joined METRO to expand my company’s clientele, advance my career, and develop leadership skills within an organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights and interests of builders, remodelers, and industry associates. Are you a part of any Metro Committees? I’m proud to say that I’m sitting on the 2025 Board of Directors. I’m also on the Membership, By-Laws, and Awards of Excellence Committees.
Favorite Band? Dave Matthews Band
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Gold Hammer Sponsor
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2025 METRO CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Tue. March 18, 2025 Beyond the Basics: Creative Lead Generation & Referral Strategies 12 PM – ZOOM
Thur. May 15 General Membership Meeting 5:00 – 8PM GPS Tue. May 20, 2025 Understanding Workmans Comp 12 PM - ZOOM Tue. June 17, 2025 Strategic Business Management 12 PM - ZOOM
Wed. September 25, 2025 Real Estate Summit 10 AM – 2:30 PM – County College of Morris
Tue. March 18, 2025 PWB Happy Hour 4:00 – 6:00 PM Seasons 52, Whippany
Tue. October 7, 2025 Annual Golf Outing 7:30 am – Ballowen Golf Course
Wed. October 15, 2025 Build My Future 10 AM – 1 PM – Roxbury High School
Tue. Mar. 25 – Thur. March 27 Atlantic Builders Convention Hard Rock Casino Atlantic City, NJ Thur. March 27, 2025 9:00 AM – Board Meeting 11:30 AM – PWB Brunch Wed. April 2, 2025 What You Should Know About Easement Deeds 12 PM – ZOOM Thur. April 3, 2025 Joint Networking Event w/ BANNJ 5:00 PM - Reliance Marble & Stone Showroom, Kenilworth
Thur. June 26, 2025 Awards of Excellence 4:00 PM – Hanover Manor
Tue. October 21, 2025 Building a Profitable Company 12 PM - ZOOM
Tue. July 8, 2025 How to Maximize the Metro Association to Build a Better Business 12 PM - ZOOM Thur. July 10, 2025 Reno’s Multi-Association Event/ BOD 5:30 PM – Reno’s
Wed. October 29, 2025 SMC Breakfast 8:30 AM – CSG Law Tue. November 4, 2025 PWB Event TBD
Wed. July 16, 2025 Infill Housing in Urban Areas 12 PM - Zoom
Wed. November 5, 2025 What You Need to Know about 203K Financing 12 PM - ZOOM Tue. November 11, 2025 Importance of AIA Documentation 12 PM - ZOOM Thur. November 13, 2025 General Membership Meeting / BOD CSG Law
Tue. April 8, 2025 Leadership & Influence 12 PM - ZOOM
Tue. August 5, 2025 Clients from Hell 12 PM - ZOOM
Thur. April 17, 2025 General Membership Meeting /BOD 5:00 PM - MSI International
Wed. August 13, 2025 A House Has to Breathe, Right? 12 PM – ZOOM Thur. September 11, 2025 General Membership Meeting/ BOD Location: TBD Tue. September 16, 2025 Small Business Tax Workshop 12 PM - ZOOM Wed. September 24, 2025 SMC Breakfast 8:30 AM – CSG Law
Tue. April 22, 2025 PWB Event Location: TBD 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Tue. December 9, 2025 Hot Trends in Marketing 12 PM- ZOOM
Wed. May 7, 2025 SMC Breakfast 8:30 AM – Florham Park Diner Wed. May 14, 2025 Best Practices for Construction Management 12 PM – ZOOM
December 2025 Installation Dinner & Holiday Party Date, time & location - TBD
*All events are subject to change of date and time.
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TEZETA “TEZ” RORO KELLER WILLIAMS SUBURBAN REALTY 123 Mt Pleasant Ave, Livingston, NJ, 07039 973.809.5475, connect@tezroro.com / www.tezroro.com
What differentiates you from others in your industry? I lean into my authenticity to serve my clients well. More specifically, I lean into my professionalism, parenthood and community leadership. I have an MBA and have had a 12 year corporate career before entering the real estate business. Therefore I run my business like a business and have high standards for myself and the clients I work with. My practice is based on education and I conduct a consultation with each client before deciding to work together. It is a great way to get to know each other, our approach to business and communication style. I find that leaning into my parenthood and sandwich generation journey allows me to serve my clients at a much higher level and care for their need above and beyond real estate since I intimately understand the challenges and needs of that demographic. I also love and appreciate that I have a whole different culture to draw from being born and raised in Ethiopia. It allows me to have an open and curious mind for different walks of lives and the role cultural values play in business and decision making. In fact this is part of my intake and onboarding experience. Best Advice you have received? Did you follow it or realize it in hindsight? Focus on the client’s needs and not the commission. The business will follow. It is true. Consumers can feel “commission breath”. Working for the commission *may* get that commission but no referral business. Strong representation of clients is more a more value aligned way of conducting business. What I did learn, and many attorneys feel the same, is that clients will make decisions differently than I would. As long as I have given them all the tools and facts, they get to and have to own their decisions despite it being one I would make differently.
Years in this business: 10
How did you get into this business? It was a result of my own home buying experience and the desire to built a different model of life at that time that would allow me to be a more active and
present parent and community builder.
What products and services does your company provide? Real estate marketing, sales, relocation, market analysis, staging consult, seller and buyer representation, landlord and tenant representation and more What is the story behind your business? We purchased our first home June of 2014. I immediately knew there was an opportunity to built a business based on high quality representation, education and one that led to informed and confident decision making. I enjoy being a guide to simplify complex processes and help my clients take an active role in their decision-making process. Most challenging problem and how did you solve it? I had a client with a budget of $1.8M looking for a new construction home during covid. This is when lumber was skyrocketing and labor was short. Some builders literally stopped accepting offers in fear that they weren’t certain where cost of building would go and if it made business sense to them. I had to look for creative ways of finding inventory other than what was in the open market and that is when I came across the Builders Association and decided to join Metro. My persistence to leave no stone unturned helped me find a lot that only had the foundation built and structure an offer for my clients. It was a tough deal as there was some personality and ethics challenges in that particular situation. In the end, I was able to bring out the sleeping giant in me and negotiate tooth and nail for my clients and win them the home. This is a great time to mention that humble professionals CAN be shark negotiators when need be. Funniest or most surprising situation/customer interaction? When doing a final walkthrough representing a buyer client, we heard chirping sounds. We all thought it was one of the smoke detectors that may be out of battery or needing replacement until we opened the primary bedroom’s closet where we saw baby birds at the bottom and more sound coming from the attic!
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Best/Favorite Mentor? When I was in the corporate world, I sought mentorship from different professionals AND gave them permission to call out my blind spots whenever they saw my intent not aligning with my impact. I have allowed a few people in my industry to do the same. However, I had to navigate my own way around in my current profession and cant really point to one/ best mentor. As a result though, I do serve as a mentor to many as I often get calls from new agents or those aspiring to enter the profession to address their questions and provide resources. What do you see/believe are the most important issues in the building/construction/your industry today? Efficient permit approval process, outdated zoning ordinances that may not serve the current generation
How did you get involved with Metro initially? I had a client with a budget of $1.8M looking for a new construction home during covid. I had to look for creative ways of finding inventory other than what was in the open market and that is when I came across the Builders Association and decided to join Metro. What was/is your biggest accomplishment as a part of Metro? I really enjoyed serving as a panelist on Career day at one of the local high schools. Thanks to Tammy for the invitation. I also enjoyed being a speaker on The Art of Networking. What would you like to see more of in 2025 from Metro and its members? Diverse training classes that cater to our diverse membership base. More engagement of
and lifestyle, wide range of professional caliber, housing affordability. What advice do you have about marketing/social media to build business and reach customers? Master authentic wants to be sold. Therefore ,don’t sell because we have learned to tune out endless advertisements and marketing fighting for our attention and dollars. Instead, create content that shares the behind the scenes of your business because most people are eager to learn. Share a story about your client or a case (minus confidential info) that makes THEM the start of the story storytelling. Everybody wants to buy but no one
members in committees as that is key to form deeper relationships. What is your feeling behind members helping members? It’s the golden rule. Look within before looking outside. Also be intentional in helping each other in more ways than one. This can mean supporting strategically, making introductions and sharing resources above and beyond referrals which we all love. Are you a part of any Metro Committees? If so, which ones and how did you become involved with them? YES! Awards of Excellence, Build My Future, PWB.
Tez speaking at Metro’s Sales & Marketing Breakfast meeting.
AWARDS RELATED
because your potential client reading it will want to be the hero in that story. Focus on elevating and supporting others on social media as much as possible. Tell us about an accomplishment that gives you the most pride/joy. One of the projects I am the most proud of is having led a grassroots advocacy group to successfully bring FREE, full day universal Pre-k to the town of West Orange. It is a legacy that will continue to serve thousands of families to come. This was a project I took on during covid and spent a considerable amount of time, energy, mobilizing, campaigning and advocating through several superintendent changes that ultimately led the launch of the program. I now advise other towns looking to bring Universal Pre-K to their town and have delivered workshops and spoken on this topic to several organizations. This is also a key consideration for builders to factor in as it will make a home more attractive to young families if a town has this offering.
Has your company recently won any awards? Circle of Excellence from NJ Realtors, Individual award from Town of West Orange Human Relations Commission as an MLK Jr. Distinguished Service Award What was your favorite part of Awards of Excellence in 2024 if you were able to attend? Great opportunity to meet many of our members we may not see at smaller events. The table I sat at (Blue Ridge Lumber) were SO friendly and warm! They were amazing and even introduced me to some members I hadn’t met before. What are you looking forward to at the 2025 AOEs? Making more quality connections and contributing to each other’s business.
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BEYOND BUYING AND SELLING: THE VALUE OF A REAL ESTATE AGENT/BROKER Tezeta “Tez” Roro, MBA Broker-Associate Keller Williams Suburban Realty www.tezroro.com
Resources for Homeowners in Transition
• Hardship Solutions – Facing financial challenges? We provide resources to explore options that may help you stay in your home or transition smoothly. • Landlord/Tenant Law Guidance – Understanding rental laws can help protect your rights and investments. • Real Estate Connections Nationwide – Relocating? We can connect you with reputable agents across the country and globally.
Partnerships in Real Estate Development & Policy
It’s common to hear the phrase, “I’m not looking to buy or sell soon,” when
• Municipal Development Collaboration – Realtors and Realtor associations are great partners as municipalities consider real estate development plans and projects and their impact on the community. • Supporting New Real Estate Laws – We can serve as resources in implementing new real estate laws affecting homeowners and builders, as our associations have government affairs committees that regularly host mayors across different counties to mastermind, provide support, and form partnerships.
interacting with a real estate professional. However, experienced real estate agents and brokers bring immense value beyond the traditional transaction. Whether you’re a builder, homeowner, investor, or community leader, here are numerous ways to leverage their expertise.
Maximizing Property Value and Investment
• Property Tax Appeal Guidance – If your property tax assessment seems high, a real estate professional can offer insights and resources to help you navigate a potential appeal. • Renovation Consulting – Planning home improvements? We help balance personal enjoyment with strategic upgrades that enhance resale value. • Pre-Sale Preparation – Even if selling isn’t immediate, consulting on value-added renovations and staging can position your property for maximum returns.
Bonus: Community & Lifestyle Support
• Emergency Contact for Relocation Clients – Moving to a new town can be overwhelming. Some professionals may be open to serving as a local point of contact until you build your community (I do!) • Personal Care & Lifestyle Recommendations – From pediatricians to daycares and summer camps, we provide trusted local recommendations. • Your Go-To Community Resource – A great, community-focused real estate professional is the go-to plug for just about any information. Get to know them and form win-win relationships. Some of us are also elected or appointed officials in our local markets and often have insights on key players and dynamics.
Education and Community Engagement
• Career Days & Panels – We can take part in career days at schools and serve as panelists and exhibitors to inspire the next generation. • Workshops & Seminars – We provide educational sessions on real estate topics at workplaces, houses of worship, and community organizations. • Public Speaking & Media – Need a speaker, moderator, or podcast guest? We can contribute insights on market trends, investment strategies, and more.
More Than Just Transactions
Real estate agents and brokers are lifelong advisors, offering expertise that extends well beyond the closing table. Whether you need market insights, investment strategies, or simply a reliable local connection, we are here to help. Next time you meet a real estate professional, consider asking, “How else can you help me?” You may be surprised by the wealth of knowledge and resources available to you!
Reliable Professional Referrals
• Home Improvement Professionals – Get access to a vetted network of contractors, electricians, landscapers, and more. • Legal & Financial Experts – Need guidance on landlord-tenant laws, estate planning, or home financing? We can connect you with trusted professionals.
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CONGRATS TO METRO MEMBERS @ IBS 2025 INDUCTIONS, AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS The following Metro members were inducted in to various NAHB counsel and committee positions as trustees. Every year, NAHB invites all members in good standing to consider serving on a committee or council board of trustees. These groups meet during the Spring and Fall Leadership Meetings and at the International Builders’ Show (IBS) to discuss legislative and regulatory news, business updates, economic and design trends and other issues of importance to the membership and to the industry. Their role is to make informed recommendations to the NAHB Board of Directors on matters of policy. PWB TRUSTEE Andrea LoMonaco, Wells Fargo Mortgage Linda Garvey, Coppola Brothers LLC The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Professional Women in Building Council (PWB) promotes women in the building industry. PWB trustees support members at the local, state, and national levels. PWB members receive benefits such as: Exclusive access to professional development resources, Forums to hone leadership skills, National recognition, Scholarship fund, and Discounted registration at the Women in Residential+Construction Conference (WIRC+CC). PWB members can join locally at an HBA or join directly as an at-large member.
REMODELERS TRUSTEE Geraldine Smith, All Inclusive Construction NAHB Remodelers Council members share their business knowledge, promote the industry, and advocate for policy changes. NAHB Remodelers Council members are members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) who are involved in the remodeling industry. NAHB Remodelers Council members meet at Spring and Fall Leadership Meetings and at the International Builders’ Show. SMC TRUSTEE Todd Smith, Royce Joseph Capital NAHB Sales and Marketing Council trustees oversee the operations and strategic direction of the council, which focuses on providing education, networking opportunities, and resources to members involved in new home sales and marketing, aiming to enhance their selling skills and stay updated on industry trends within the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) framework. NAHB EXECUTIVE OFFICERS COUNCIL BOARD MEMBER Michele Leppard, EVP, Executive Officer Homebuilders Association – Serving Morris, Essex. Union, Hunterdon, Warren & Somerset Counties. The Executive Officers Council (EOC) is a professional organization of association executives who manage approximately 650 local and state builder associations affiliated with NAHB. EOC represents full and part-time executives. In addition to its members, the activities and services of the EOC benefit the members of the NAHB-affiliated associations, the NAHB federation as a whole, the housing industry, the housing consumer and the Executive Officers Councils of affiliated state associations.
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2025 METRO APPOINTED NAHB DELEGATES Dane Rohmann- National Delegate Warren King - National Delegate Phil Calinda - Alternate Delegate Hasnain Nasar - Alternate Delegate Delegates appointed to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Leadership Council represent the home building industry and help set the association’s policy. They also help elect the association’s leadership. Delegates are appointed by Metro’s President, Geraldine Smith. NAHB SINGLE FAMILY HOMES COMMITTEE MEMBER Phil Calinda, Millennium Custom Homes NAHB CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS COMMITTEE MEMBER Phil Calinda, Millennium Custom Homes
AWARDS PWB Council – Small Council Award NAHB Best in American Living Award – Tunnel Vision – Specialty Project – Millennium Custom Homes Geraldine Smith, All Inclusive Construction Metro President, 2025 IBS Presenter/Panel Member SHOP TALK: Communicating Across Generations on the Construction Jobsite
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