Louis D. March - President
Q: How do you feel about the market?
I feel like we’re in the starting gates at the Kentucky Derby, with immense potential waiting to be unleashed. Unfortunately, the gates remain locked by the financial markets. Until the lending environment opens up, that energy is being held back, and we’re all ready to run.
Q: Did you learn anything new about your business (or the industry) in 2024?
Not necessarily anything new. The construction and real estate industries are always a bit of a rollercoaster, and it’s the firms with strong foundations that ride out the highs and lows. We’ve been through cycles before, and 2024 has reinforced the importance of resilience and adaptability.
Q: How quickly (or slowly) do you expect the lending environment to improve as expected rate cuts take hold?
It’s going to be a slow process. Rate cuts won’t create immediate changes overnight. The financial markets move cautiously, and we expect improvements, but not at a fast pace. We’ll have to be patient as the environment adjusts.
Q: What can the state or federal government do to help?
Honestly, the best thing the government can do is to reduce interest rates to a level that’s sustainable for growth. Beyond that, it’s really about letting the markets operate without too much intervention.
Q: Where do you see opportunity outside the Garden State?
Upstate New York is showing promise. We’ve seen some positive performance there. It’s a market to watch.
Q: How is technology helping your business these days?
Technology is fully integrated into every part of our operations. From billing to payment management, and even drone deployment for site inspections, we’re leveraging tech to stay efficient and precise. It’s become an essential tool in managing our projects and ensuring smooth workflows.
Getting to know you
Favorite Jersey diner
Wayne Hills Diner.
Your newest hobby or interest
Gardening. It helps with stress relief. I’m not great at it yet, but it’s something I’m learning to enjoy.
Favorite day trip or vacation spot
Lavalette Beach.
TV show, movie or book you’d recommend
I recently watched Miss Sloane with Jessica Chastain. Very thought-provoking.
If I weren’t in commercial real estate, I’d be…
An attorney. It’s something I could have seen myself pursuing if I hadn’t gone into construction.
