Standing Out as an Independent Brokerage: Katonah Business Spotlight

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. The plan behind this series at Patch is to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

This is as much about supporting local businesses as it is about celebrating the places and faces that make our community special. Click here to get to a simple form where local business owners can answer a few quick questions to be part of this ongoing feature.

Our spotlight today is on Walter Sadowski, Elisa Bruno-Midili and Carol Christiansen.

Business: Cafe Realty
Owners: Carol Christiansen, Elisa Bruno-Midili, Walter Sadowski
Website: www.CafeRealtyNY.com
Address: Town of Somers,10 Sun Hill Rd, Katonah, NY 10536

How did you come up with the name?
The name has its roots in having a warm, friendly conversation over a beverage. The convo could be real estate and beyond, the beverage could be coffee. A place to gather, a time to reflect...collaboration at its finest.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?
This town is the home of partner Carol Christiansen. Yorktown is the secondary town, home of partner Elisa Bruno-Midili. It is the location where business is conducted however we service areas from the Bronx to Dutchess. Our location is not retail however we are visible and adaptable.

Briefly, what business are you in?
Cafe Realty is a real estate brokerage, consulting and valuation services company.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?
As a small independent brokerage our challenge is not to compete with the large corporate brokerages, it is to stand out and be different. What makes us different sets us apart.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?
No second guessing, it was a natural progression to evolve into our own brokerage. After many years of exploring and discovering various real estate business models, people, systems and tools the decision was simple.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?
All of the moments thus far have been an exercise in awareness...how we contribute to our clients, our agents and the public in general. Always aiming to educate, advocate and represent to the best of our ability.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?
Our ideas are collaborative and are focused on raising the standards of the real estate industry. We strategize on best practices, communication and contribution.

How do you deal with difficult customers?
We educate first and foremost, present options and lead our clients to an informed decision.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?
Cafe Realty services many communities in Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Bronx counties. We present to our clients the best each community has to offer for their lifestyle. The education regarding the real estate valuation process creates awareness for these communities and how people and their lifestyle are a match.