Julia B. Fee Sothebys Welcomes a New Broker Manager Back to Scarsdale
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Brett Forman recently took the reins as the brokerage manager at Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty (JBF SIR) in Scarsdale. Though their name is complex, many simply refer to the red brick building in the center of the Village as Julia B. Fee. Forman is well known in town and this new assignment is a homecoming. Learn more about him below.
Tell us something about you, your background in real estate, and where you've worked before.
Real estate has been my passion for over 22 years. Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in over $1 billion in transactions, representing high-net-worth and high-profile individuals across the luxury markets of NYC, Westchester, the Hamptons, Connecticut, and Florida.
I spent 15 years as a top-producing agent in New York City, working alongside some of the most iconic names in the industry. Over the past 7 years, I’ve transitioned into leadership roles, helping guide agents across NYC and Lower Westchester.
My insights and experience have been featured on FOX Business, CNBC, Bloomberg, and even Bravo’s first season of The Real Housewives of New York. I’ve also had the opportunity to speak at major investment banks such as Morgan Stanley and Jefferies.
Though you’re new to the agency, this isn’t your first time in Scarsdale. Tell us about your history with the Village.
My wife Dana was raised in Scarsdale and graduated from SHS. She is currently planning her 30th high school reunion for this fall! Our family lived here for a few years. During that time, our children attended SMS and SHS, where they received an outstanding education and enjoyed meaningful experiences. We were fortunate to call Winged Foot Golf Club our backyard during the 2020 U.S. Open. Scarsdale holds a special place in our hearts, and it’s exciting to return in a professional capacity.
Tell us about the office, the agents, and its history in Scarsdale. What distinguishes Julia B. Fee from its competitors?
Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty (JBF SIR) is steeped in history and has deep roots in the communities we serve. Many of the founding agents still remain connected to the brand, which speaks volumes about the culture and legacy here.
What truly sets us apart is our robust platform and forward-thinking leadership. We were the first in Westchester to implement Final Offer- a real estate platform that brings technology, trust, and transparency to the buying and selling process. It’s unlike anything I’ve seen in my 22 years in the industry. Our leadership is nimble, responsive, and always thinking ahead.
It’s spring! What are your thoughts on the 2025 market for homes in Scarsdale?
The market is hot! Homes that are well-positioned in terms of pricing, marketing, and branding are still attracting multiple offers, often well above the asking price. Whether it's the proximity to NYC, access to top-tier schools, waterfront, community amenities, or vibrant lifestyle, demand in Scarsdale continues to outpace supply.
If you're considering selling, now is an excellent time. Our advisors at JBF SIR would be happy to provide a complimentary Fair Market Valuation of your home. It’s always nice to hear how much your home is worth- especially in a market like this!
How is the current turmoil in the markets affecting buyers and sellers?
There’s no question that global uncertainty has caused some hesitation. That said, Westchester remains one of the strongest and most resilient markets in the country. Life doesn’t stop, and when people want to be here, there’s simply no substitute. Westchester is special- plain and simple.
This is the third consecutive year that inventories have declined. What’s behind this trend?
Many homeowners are sitting on mortgage rates under 4%, which makes it tough to justify selling unless there’s a major life event or an offer too good to pass up. Even empty nesters with higher property taxes are hesitating to leave because of the lack of downsizing options.
There’s a huge shortage of gated townhouse communities and luxury condos that could support this demographic shift. And not everyone wants to move South permanently. Many want to stay close to kids and grandkids, even if it means dealing with the winters. We’re also seeing seasonal “snowbirds” looking for low-maintenance, part-time homes- another category where inventory is tight.
For empty nesters who are interested in moving, what are some good housing options for them?
Flexibility is key. Clients who are open to exploring Northern Westchester or Southern Connecticut often have more success. Some opt for co-ops to capture value and then pursue a second home elsewhere for weekends or vacations.
Thanks to Sotheby’s global network, we can offer personal introductions to top advisors across the country and around the world, making any transition smoother and more strategic.
What are you looking forward to in your new role here?
What I’m most looking forward to in this role is getting to know our incredible team of advisors and becoming more deeply immersed in the vibrant Scarsdale community. I love helping our advisors elevate their business and personal brands. My role is to help them double down on what’s working and fine-tune anything that’s not. I don’t believe in changing someone’s DNA as a salesperson. I believe in amplifying their strengths.
Real estate isn’t a 9-to-5 job- it’s about being present and available whenever our advisors or clients need support. I’m here to champion their success, offer guidance, and ensure they always have a trusted resource by their side.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Spending time with my family and our Labradoodle, Daisy, is my favorite way to unwind. I also enjoy tennis, golf, boating, and great food. Balance is important, and I try to make the most of life both personally and professionally.
Scarsdale High School Students Shine at State Competitions
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SHS Math Team CompetitorsAt the Board of Education meeting on Monday April 7th, Superintendent Dr. Drew Patrick extended a heartfelt congratulations to the SHS Math Team who had a stellar performance at the annual New York State Math League Championships on April 5th. Competing in the A Division of the contest for the first time, SHS took third place just behind teams from New York City and Nassau County. Dr. Patrick recognized students Kevin Dong and Iris Wang for being the highest scorers on the team, with each scoring 9 out of 10 in the individual rounds.
Kenneth Ren was also recognized for winning the Berman Rockwell Award, an award given to students who demonstrate outstanding leadership for their team. Patrick expressed his appreciation for the math team’s coach Sam Greenberg and for the support of chaperones Anna Tamsin and Joe Garbaldi.
Dr. Patrick went on to celebrate the accomplishments of the SHS Speech and Debate Team at the recent New York State Speech and Debate championships. According to the team’s advisor, SHS teacher Joseph Vaughan, the team brought 35 entries representing the 43 students that qualified for the tournament through their successes earlier in the season. The team competed in 8 different speech categories and 2 different debate categories. The tournament had 77 schools from across the state competing and a total of over 800 entries.
SHS Speech and Debate Team Members
Vaughan shared these results:
On the Speech side:
- Junior Liya Chu won the State Championship in Varsity Oral Interpretation of Literature
- Freshman Eva Lammer was the runner up in Junior Varsity Extemporaneous Speaking
- Junior Esha Mehta was the runner up in Varsity Oral Interpretation of Literature
- Freshman Hailey King was the runner up in Junior Varsity Oral Interpretation of Literature
- Other students who were in the finals of their event included Juniors Kate Simpson, Anish Mehta, Evie Schiff, and Elle Lee.
Collectively the speech squad earned enough points to be declared the Champion Team in the Speech Division!
Debaters saw similar successes:
- Freshmen Jacob Auerbach and Nathanal Ng were Semifinals of Novice Public Forum Debate
- Other debaters who make it to late elimination rounds were Juniors Joyce Liu and Linda Zhang, Sophomores Alyson Andrade and Alina Peng, and Freshmen Henry Chen and Iris Zhu
Due to the combined efforts of our Speech and Debate squads, Scarsdale placed 3rd overall in the Team Sweepstakes Award.
As the proud advisor of this incredible team Vaughan expressed, “It was a wonderful weekend where our students had the opportunity to lift their voices and make their thoughts and hearts known. I'm very proud of all the work they have put in this season.”
Scarsdale Students Take Home Awards from Regeneron Science and Engineering Fair
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Superintendent Dr. Drew Patrick congratulated eleven Scarsdale High School juniors and seniors who took part in this year’s Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair and gave special recognition to six who were honored with an award at the Board of Education meeting on Monday night March 25, ,2025.
According to their website, “The Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF) encourages students to participate in hands on science by providing a forum for showcasing the outstanding research of high school students in Westchester & Putnam counties of New York State and sponsoring the top students from the fair to advance to the REGENERON International Science & Engineering Fair.”
Dr. Patrick noted that the WESEF, held on March 15th, hosted over 750 student projects and is the largest high school science fair in the United States.
He highlighted Scarsdale’s six award recipients including:
ShuYue Zhang : Society for In Vitro Biology Award for in recognition of a student’s outstanding research in the areas of tissue or cell culture of plants or animals.
Chloe Ji : BASF Expanding Knowledge in Science Award for students who demonstrate an excitement and enthusiasm for discovery.
Sonja Xie : 4th Place in the category of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Julia Sobel: 1st Place in category of Chemistry.
Peter Lin : Innovations in Biological Sciences Research Award for his innovative projects in cellular and molecular biology.
Noah Ng : U.S. Stockholm Junior Water Prize water prize for his outstanding project in water science.
Dr. Patrick concluded by extending another heartfelt congratulations to all of these science research students.
The WESEF Awards Ceremony honoring these six outstanding students in addition to dozens of others from across the county, was held on Thursday, March 20th and welcomed a full house of students, teachers, parents, sponsors and Regeneron representatives. To learn more about the Science fair or the award ceremony see here https://wesef.org/
New Historical Details Uncovered in Time for the Scarsdale Bowl Award Dinner
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1953 Dinner: Spencer S. Scott, recipient of the 1953 Scarsdale Bowl, and other former winners, at the Scarsdale Bowl Award Dinner in Scarsdale, N. Y., 1953. From left to right: Malcolm Pirnie, J. Lester Van Name, George B. Clifton, S. Spencer Scott, George M. Waugh, George Hugh Smyth, Arthur F. Driscoll, Robert M. Irish, Lester W. Nelson, Cleveland A. Dunn. Credit: Scarsdale Public Library(Submitted by Leslie Chang)
The Scarsdale Historical Society, in partnership with the Scarsdale Foundation, today announced the discovery of long-forgotten facts in the 82-year history of the Scarsdale Bowl Dinner. The Village’s highest civic honor, the Scarsdale Bowl, will be awarded to Andrew Sereysky on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. The Scarsdale Adult School will also be honored with a Spotlight Award. The Bowl’s history, with some newly unearthed details, highlights the importance of the Scarsdale Foundation’s annual event as a unifying force in the community.
In 1943, a group of twelve Scarsdale civic leaders organized a dinner to honor George Clifton, a highly respected former Village Trustee and President of the Town Club, for his contributions to civic life. To mark the occasion, the Committee presented Clifton with a silver bowl.
The Scarsdale “Bowl” was almost going to be a Scarsdale “Bag.” In a Scarsdale Inquirer story from January 30, 1953, Committee member S. Spencer Scott recounted how the first award was going to be a “handsome traveling bag” until he suggested a silver bowl. He thought it would be more of a keepsake, and would “always be treasured by its recipient.” His foresight was right, and this wasn’t his only strategic vision that improved Scarsdale. He spearheaded fundraising for building the Scarsdale Public Library (thus the Library’s “Scott Room”). It’s also notable that he had been President of Harcourt publishing (then known as Harcourt, Brace & Co.). Scott is just one example of the visionaries and passionate volunteers who have received the Bowl award.
The year after the first award dinner, twelve men made contributions to the Scarsdale Foundation for the purchase of a permanent “Scarsdale Bowl” from Tiffany & Co.
The names of recipients are inscribed on the Bowl each year, and a smaller replica is given to each award recipient. The original Tiffany Bowl is a reproduction of a design from c. 1700 created by a Boston silversmith named Joseph Conyers. The colonial-era design is a fitting nod to Scarsdale’s colonial heritage.
The original Scarsdale Bowl is kept on display at the Scarsdale Library in the Quiet Reading Room and Local History Center. Credit: Scarsdale Foundation
By 1992, the Bowl ran out of space for new awardee names. A second Scarsdale Bowl was purchased from Tiffany’s, and the annual engraving tradition continues. Each year, the Foundation shuttles the Bowl to Wilson & Sons Jewelers for hand engraving. Wilson’s, a downtown Scarsdale fixture since 1932, has supplied the engraving and the awardee replica bowls for decades. Today, both Bowls have their own display cases at the Scarsdale Library in the Quiet Reading Room and Local History Center at Scarsdale Public Library.
The Award Dinner has evolved from an invite-only “elder statesmen’s” black-tie dinner to an inclusive and festive affair open to all Scarsdale residents. Women first served on the Committee in 1973, but were not invited to attend the dinner until the following year. In 1975, Harriette Krantz was the first woman to receive the prestigious award. Today, the Chair and the Foundation President mindfully select Committee members that reflect the diversity of the Scarsdale community.
Harriet Krantz at the 1971 Bowl Dinner, the year she became the first woman to receive the honor. Shown with 1971 winner, Samuel Duboff. Credit: Scarsdale Public Library
The past award recipients include busy chief executives, industry leaders and parents, yet they have all prioritized their civic work to drive positive change in Scarsdale. “The collective contributions of the awardees in the last 82 years is immeasurable,” stated Randy Guggenheimer, past President of the Scarsdale Foundation and current President of the Scarsdale Historical Society. “Volunteerism built this Village; from our fire stations and library, to our award-winning schools and the Scarsdale Adult School. The Award Dinner celebrates volunteers like Andrew Sereysky who give their time and talent for the sake of the public good.”
Andrew Sereysky will be awarded with the Scarsdale Bowl at this year’s Dinner on April 24, 2025 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. Credit: Scarsdale FoundationTo purchase tickets to the Scarsdale Bowl Dinner, visit https://bit.ly/smbowl25. Funds raised support the Scarsdale Foundation’s mission of helping local individuals and community organizations through need-based student scholarships and project grants.
About the Scarsdale Historical Society
The Scarsdale Historical Society exists to discover, preserve and disseminate historical information, as well as inspire others to learn about and contribute to the history of Scarsdale and the Central Mid-Westchester Region. The Scarsdale Historical Society accepts grant applications for projects that meet its mission, particularly those that will inspire others to learn about the history of Scarsdale and the surrounding communities. Learn more at www.scarsdalehistoricalsociety.org.
About the Scarsdale Foundation
For almost 100 years, the Scarsdale Foundation has quietly but effectively helped individuals and local community organizations in need through scholarships and grants. The Scarsdale Foundation also supports a strong community by celebrating volunteerism through its annual awarding of the Scarsdale Bowl. Details at https://www.scarsdalefoundation.org/.
Arest, Goldschmidt, Gruenberg and Kofman Elected to Lead Scarsdale
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Newly elected team cuts the cake.Friends, family and supporters gathered at the Scarsdale Library at 9 pm on Tuesday March 18, 2025 after the closing of the polls for the Village Election. They waited patiently in the lobby for the vote count that was being tabulated by Village Clerk Taylor Emmanuel and Deputy Village Clerk Melissa Vasami behind closed doors in the Scott Room.
Congressman George Latimer stopped by to greet the team.
There was no suspense about who would win, since the candidates for Mayor and Village Trustees were selected by the Citizens Nominating Committee and ran unopposed this year. For the first time, Mayor Justin Arest was nominated for a second term, along with trustees Dara Gruenbergy (second term), and newcomers David Goldschmidt and Jason Kofman. Members of the Citizens’ Nominating Committee and longtime backers of Scarsdale’s Non-Partisan Process attended to show their support for Scarsdale and the candidates.
While they waited many conferred with Congressman George Latimer who stopped by and provided an update on the state of affairs in Washington D.C.. He reported that there considerably more discord in the Capitol than there in the ‘Dale.
Daniela Retelny and Alli Doll, members of the Citizens' Nominating CommitteeEmmanuel emerged from the Scott Room around 9:30 and announced the following vote counts:
For Village Trustee:
David Goldschmidt 278
Dara Gruenberg 288
Jason Kofman 290
For Village Mayor:
Justin Arest 280 votes
Following the election, the newly elected candidates sent the following letter to the community:
Dear Scarsdale Community,
We are profoundly grateful and honored by the trust you have placed in us through the recent election. Your support has empowered us to serve our cherished village. Our commitment to Scarsdale’s values and future remains steadfast. We are dedicated to fostering a community that upholds transparency, inclusivity, and progress. Together, we will work diligently to address the needs and aspirations of all residents.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to every voter who participated in this democratic process. Your engagement is the cornerstone of our community’s strength. We also acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of all candidates and volunteers who contributed their time and energy to this election.
As we embark on this journey, we invite you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns with any of us. Let us all collaborate to ensure that Scarsdale continues to thrive as a vibrant, enriching and welcoming place for all.
With sincere gratitude,
Justin Arest, David Goldschmidt, Dara Gruenberg, and Jason Kofman
Former Mayor Jon Mark and BK Munguia provided the cake!
