SHB_p019

SC08182016

FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.qns.com AUGUST 18, 2016 • THE COURIER SUN 19 This real estate broker from Queens wants to close deals that make a difference BY MICHAEL TABRIZI editorial@qns.com/@QNS Anthony Reardon is a real estate broker who is not just about buying and selling properties. He is in the real estate game to make a difference. Reardon, a lifelong resident of the Maspeth/Middle Village area, has developed and pumped money into Queens, owning and operating four businesses in the borough. He was also a trustee for the Bakery Drivers Union for many years. Most recently, he has started A&M Realty with his son Mark. They have 44 years of sales experience between them and their goal, according to Anthony Reardon, is to be “full-service agents.” “There are too many realtors that once they take listings on a property they disappear until the closings come about,” he said. Reardon points out that this relationship between real estate broker and property owner, rather than being purely an economic and utilitarian partnership, can actually be an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on not only the client but also people outside the transaction who are in need. His idea to accomplish this is pretty straightforward. When someone lists their home or another property on the A&M site, and the sale succeeds, A&M will donate $500 to the charity of the person’s choice. This plan, Reardon says, “is a chance to do good and give back in the process.” Rather than just closing a deal with token gifts such as a bouquet and some wine, Reardon is trying to make every sale an opportunity to improve the lives of others. Here for you treating members like people, not numbers • Get access to doctors, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers close to home INA16_85(f) • Find a quality health insurance plan that fits your needs and your budget • Enjoy plan benefits that give you coverage options, extra services, and peace of mind When it’s time to think about getting a quality health insurance plan, think of us first. Healthfirst. Call 1-855-779-1020 or visit HFisHere.org Ratings are based on indicators chosen by the New York State Department of Health and published in its 2014 and 2015 publication A Consumer’s Guide to Medicaid Managed Care in NYC and on Long Island. Plans are offered by affiliates of Healthfirst, Inc. Plans contain exclusions and limitations. ©2016 HF Management Services, LLC. Queens economy strong as NYC slows: report Although the city’s economy appears to be slowing down, Queens’ economy is still going strong, according to a report that City Comptroller Scott Stringer released on Aug. 10. During the second quarter of 2016, Queens had a 4.1 unemployment rate, the lowest among the fi ve boroughs and also the lowest second quarter on record in 2016. Housing sales in Queens rose 2.8 percent in the second quarter as well. Even though the city’s overall economic growth has slowed relatively compared to the fi rst quarter numbers, it still outpaced the nation’s of 1.2 percent. “Our city’s economy is still growing, but in 2016 we’ve gone from a sprint to a jog,” Stringer said. Stringer predicted such a lag in economic growth in the fi rst quarter report stating that while more New York City residents were employed now than ever, many of those jobs were gained in low-wage industries. This too is undermining the economy because despite having full-time jobs, New Yorkers still couldn’t afford a decent living. Slowing job growth and failing venture capital has contributed to the slowing of the city’s economy in the second quarter, Stringer noted. “New York City’s economy continues to grow, but has begun to feel the impact of national and global uncertainty,” Stringer said. Comptroller remained adamant that his offi ce will continue to monitor the city’s economic progress as the second quarter may not be an indication of what is to come. Justin Alvarez


SC08182016
To see the actual publication please follow the link above