KINGSTON, NY — Howard Hanna Rand Realty is proud to announce the appointment of Shonda Balogh as the new Sales Manager of its Kingston office.

With more than 40 years of experience in the real estate industry, Shonda brings a proven record of leadership, mentorship, and community engagement to her new role. Her journey in real estate began humbly, as she answered phones as a receptionist. Through dedication and perseverance, she rose to become a regional manager overseeing three offices while earning her broker’s license.

“Shonda’s leadership, dedication, and deep community roots make her a powerful addition to our team, and we are incredibly lucky to welcome her into our family,” said Matt Rand, CEO of Howard Hanna Rand Realty.

A lifelong resident of Ulster County, Shonda has built lasting relationships and earned an outstanding reputation throughout the Hudson Valley. Her extensive knowledge of the local market and commitment to client success make her uniquely positioned to lead the Kingston office into its next chapter.

“Her outstanding reputation and strong relationships across the industry are unmatched,” said John Murphy, Ulster County Regional Manager. “Shonda brings a level of experience and professionalism that will immediately strengthen our team. Having her leadership here in Kingston will be a tremendous benefit to our agents and clients alike.”

For Shonda, the move to Howard Hanna Rand Realty represents an exciting new opportunity. “The Kingston office is a perfect fit and the transition has been seamless thus far,” she said. “I am very excited to work with the wonderful agents at Howard Hanna Rand Realty!”

With Shonda’s appointment, Howard Hanna Rand Realty continues its commitment to recruiting top industry professionals who share a passion for excellence, service, and community.

About Howard Hanna Rand Realty
Howard Hanna Rand Realty is a leading real estate brokerage serving New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, offering residential and commercial real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance services. With a commitment to family values, innovative technology, and exceptional client service, the company is part of the Howard Hanna Real Estate Services family—the largest independently owned real estate company in the United States.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2025

Tammy LaBarbera Joins Howard Hanna Rand Realty, Bringing Her Family-Focused Real Estate Team to the Carmel Office

CARMEL, NY — Howard Hanna Rand Realty is proud to welcome seasoned real estate professional Tammy LaBarbera and her dedicated team to its Carmel office, expanding the company’s presence and personalized service in Putnam County and surrounding communities.

With over three decades of experience and a passion for family-driven real estate, Tammy has built a reputation for honesty, care, and commitment to helping clients through one of the most important decisions of their lives. She and her team are known throughout the region for their integrity, deep community roots, and hands-on approach.

“Real estate has always been about people first,” said Tammy LaBarbera, founder of the LaBarbera Team. “Joining Howard Hanna Rand Realty allows us to continue serving our clients like family while gaining access to the tools, technology, and support of a company that truly shares our values.“

The move aligns with Howard Hanna Rand Realty’s strategic growth across Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties, bringing in top-tier talent with proven track records in both results and relationships.

“Tammy and her team embody everything we value at Howard Hanna Rand Realty,” said Matt Rand, CEO of Howard Hanna | Rand Realty. “They’re trusted, community-focused, and committed to excellence in every transaction. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the family.”

“This is a big win for our region,” added Joe Maymi, Regional Growth Manager. “Tammy’s leadership, client-first mindset, and mentorship culture are a perfect fit. We’re looking forward to supporting her continued success as part of our growing team in Carmel.”

The LaBarbera Team will now operate under the Howard Hanna Rand Realty brand, continuing to serve clients throughout the Hudson Valley and further strengthening the company’s commitment to exceptional local service with the power of national reach.

About Howard Hanna Rand Realty
Howard Hanna Rand Realty is a leading real estate brokerage serving New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, offering residential and commercial real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance services. With a commitment to family values, innovative technology, and exceptional client service, the company is part of the Howard Hanna Real Estate Services family—the largest independently owned real estate company in the United States.

If you’re considering selling your home this year, now is the time to start preparing. According to new data from Realtor.com, the week of April 13-19, 2025, is projected to be the best time of the year to list a home, offering the most favorable market conditions for sellers.

Why Is This the Best Week to Sell?

Using seasonal trends from 2018-2024 (excluding 2020), Realtor.com analyzed various housing metrics—including inventory levels, listing prices, market pace, and buyer demand—to determine the optimal week for sellers. The results show that mid-April strikes the perfect balance of strong demand, competitive pricing, and limited seller competition.

The 2024 housing market was marked by persistently high mortgage rates and affordability challenges, but inventory levels improved, creating more opportunities for both buyers and sellers. As we enter the 2025 selling season, conditions look even more promising, with a projected decline in mortgage rates and continued inventory growth.

Key Benefits of Listing April 13-19

1. Higher Home Prices: Homes listed during this week historically reach prices 1.1% higher than the average week and 6.7% higher than the start of the year. If 2025 follows recent trends, sellers could see listing prices around $4,800 above the average week and $27,000 more than at the beginning of the year.

2. Increased Buyer Demand: More eyes on your listing means a better chance of multiple offers. Historically, homes listed this week receive 17.7% more views per listing than a typical week. While high mortgage rates have kept some buyers on the sidelines, improving affordability and rising inventory levels are expected to drive more buyers back into the market this spring.

3. Faster Sales: Thanks to strong demand, homes listed this week sell 9 days faster than average. In 2024, the typical home listed during this week sold in 46 days, five days quicker than the yearly average. If buyer demand outpaces inventory growth in 2025, market pace could accelerate even further.

4. Less Competition From Other Sellers: Mid-April typically sees 13.2% fewer sellers on the market compared to peak months later in the year. Listing early in the spring helps sellers stand out before inventory surges in the summer.

5. Fewer Price Reductions: Spring sellers benefit from fewer price cuts compared to those listing later in the year. Historically, homes listed during this peak week experience 20.9% fewer price reductions, allowing sellers to maximize their returns.

What This Means for Sellers

While mid-April is the best time to list, sellers should start preparing now. A recent survey from Realtor.com found that 53% of sellers take a month or less to get their home ready to sell. By tackling repairs, staging, and pricing strategies early, sellers can ensure their home stands out in a competitive market.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, 2025 is shaping up to offer more inventory and slightly better affordability compared to recent years. While home prices remain high, increased options and longer days on market in many areas may provide buyers with more negotiating power. However, those looking to buy in high-demand areas should act quickly, as competition will still be strong this spring.

The 2025 real estate market will be influenced by mortgage rates, economic factors, and shifting buyer demand. While conditions remain dynamic, one thing is clear—sellers who list during the week of April 13-19 will likely have the best chance at securing a great price and a fast sale.

If you’re considering selling, Howard Hanna Rand Realty’s expert agents can help you navigate the market and make the most of this prime selling window. Contact your local Howard Hanna | Rand Realty agent today to get started!

[Nanuet, NY] – January 28, 2025 – Howard Hanna | Rand Realty proudly announces that Joseph Rand has been named one of Inman’s 2025 New York Power Brokers. This represents the second time in as many years that Joe has received this prestigious award recognizing exceptional achievement, innovation, and leadership in the New York City real estate market.

The New York Power Brokers Award celebrates individuals who consistently demonstrate unparalleled expertise and dedication to excellence in the real estate industry. Joe Rand’s leadership and commitment to training & empowering agents, improving client experiences, and driving innovative strategies have positioned him as a standout leader in the market.

“I’m deeply honored to be recognized as an Inman 2025 New York Power Broker. This award reflects the incredible support and collaboration of the amazing team at Howard Hanna | Rand Realty. I’ve always believed in the power of putting clients at the center of the transaction and fostering innovation in our industry.” – Joseph Rand.

Joe Rand has been pivotal in shaping the real estate landscape, consistently advocating for professionalism and client-focused service. His recognition as a 2025 New York Power Broker underscores his influence and impact across the industry.

“I am incredibly proud of Joe for being recognized as an Inman 2025 New York Power Broker. This honor is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership in the real estate industry. Joe’s dedication to empowering agents and his client-first approach have elevated our company and set a benchmark for the entire industry.” – Matt Rand, CEO of Howard Hanna | Rand Realty

Joseph Rand is an accomplished author, having written two influential books that have become essential reading in the real estate industry. His first book, Disruptors, Discounters, and Doubters: A Guide for the Client-Oriented Future of the Real Estate Industry, provides invaluable insights into navigating the challenges posed by emerging technologies, market disruptors, and shifting client expectations, offering actionable strategies to thrive in an evolving landscape. His second book, How to Be a Great Real Estate Agent, provides a comprehensive guide to achieving success through client-focused service, strategic marketing, and continuous improvement. Both works reflect his deep commitment to elevating the industry and empowering agents to reach their full potential.

The Inman Awards team announced this year’s honorees on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, on their website at https://www.inman.com/new-york-power-brokers-awards/.

About Howard Hanna | Rand Realty
Howard Hanna | Rand Realty is a premier real estate brokerage serving New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Dedicated to delivering the highest standards of service, the company is committed to providing innovative solutions and empowering its agents to lead the industry in expertise and client satisfaction.

New City, NY – November 6, 2024 – Howard Hanna Rand Realty is pleased to announce the sale of the historic Peter Depew House, a sandstone Dutch house from the 1700s situated on 32 acres in New City, New York. The county of Rockland acquired the home and farmland to ensure that this heritage-rich property continues to serve as a symbol of Rockland’s history and a resource for community engagement. The transaction was facilitated by Rita Van Buren of Howard Hanna Rand Realty’s Nyack office.

The Farm Alliance will utilize the property and act as the facilitator in educating the community about local food production and environmental stewardship. The Peter Depew House is a testament to architectural craftsmanship and historical significance. The local red sandstone main house and Dutch frame barn represent an early art form of building and architecture in New York state, and both buildings were recognized with a spot on the National Registry of Historic Places. “Rockland County’s purchase of the Peter Depew House is an extraordinary step in our efforts to protect and maintain the cultural legacy of our area,” said Van Buren. “By preserving this property for future generations, the county is safeguarding an invaluable piece of our past while working towards a more sustainable future.”

The Peter Depew House offers a blend of historic character and modern amenities with its preserved exterior, wide plank flooring, exposed structural beams, and recent modernizations. The county plans to keep the property for agricultural use, respecting the sellers’ wishes, who requested that the land remain unspoiled by subdivision. In addition to the main house and Dutch barn,  the property also includes several outbuildings that support various potential agricultural and educational activities.

Matt Rand, CEO of Howard Hanna Rand Realty, commended the county’s commitment: “The Depew House is a beautiful example of our region’s heritage, and it’s reassuring to see it become a protected resource for our community.” 

The property’s 32 acres offer an exceptional opportunity for Rockland County to foster public appreciation of history and agriculture. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with the county’s vision to enhance community spaces and celebrate our rich history,” added Van Buren. “The home offers a connection to centuries past. I became personally connected to the story when I researched the Depew house’s unique history. Facilitating the sale of the farm was a gratifying experience, and I look forward to seeing how it will serve the community under its new stewards.” 

For more information about this transaction or historic properties in the area, please contact Rita Van Buren at Howard Hanna Rand Realty’s Nyack office.

About Howard Hanna | Rand Realty Howard Hanna Rand Realty has more than 1,200 residential real estate sales associates serving the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut suburbs of New York City.  Howard Hanna | Rand Realty serves Westchester County, Rockland County, Orange County, Sullivan County, Dutchess County, Ulster County, Putnam, and the Bronx in New York, Bergen County, Passaic County, Hudson County, Morris County, Essex County, and Union County in New Jersey, and Fairfield County in Connecticut. Rand also owns and operates Rand Commercial, a commercial real estate brokerage, and Hudson United Home Services, which provides title services, and personal and commercial insurance. For more information, visit randrealty.com.