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State of Real Estate
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Panelist – Jon Fogle
Manager, Commercial Banking
ESL
Jon has a long record of commercial banking leadership in the community, a sum totaling more than 30 years. As Manager, Commercial Banking, Jon oversees a team of ESL relationship managers on the Commercial Banking team. The team is responsible for identifying, developing and managing business and commercial real estate loan relationships, including depository, cash management, wealth management and other non-credit banking products to existing and perspective members.
Jon holds his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hobart College. He serves on various charitable boards and committees, including the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester and Rochester Business Classic Organization.
Panelist – John Klatte
Senior Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer
NextTier Bank
As an expert in commercial real estate and construction financing, John serves the greater Rochester area as a Senior Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer at NexTier Bank. Since joining the banking industry in 2009, after graduating from the State University of New York College at Brockport, John has been helping customers achieve their goals while delivering exceptional client experiences. John considers himself a trusted partner and a valuable extension of his customers’ businesses. With competitive NexTier Bank products, John has the tools and industry knowledge to help clients succeed.
John serves on the Board of Spiritus Christi Prison Outreach (SCPO), a non-profit organization that provides transitional housing, permanent housing, and support service to homeless justice-involved individuals seeking to transition back into society successfully. Since 2017, John has coached JV and Varsity Basketball at East High School, proving he is an avid fan of all sports, especially basketball, football, and golf. He and his wife, Sara, and their two children reside in the community, where he continues to make a difference while providing guidance and sound advice to clients.
Panelist – Christopher Thomas
Broker/Owner
New 2 U Homes LLC
Christopher Thomas is a respected real estate broker, entrepreneur, and community advocate whose career is defined by a commitment to transforming lives through real estate. As the Founder and Broker/Owner of New 2 U Homes LLC, an independent brokerage based in Rochester, NY, Christopher has built a reputation as a leading voice for first-time and first-generation homebuyers, particularly those from historically underserved communities.
Since purchasing his first home at the age of 18, Christopher has remained deeply passionate about real estate. In 2008, he and his wife founded New 2 U Homes, which has grown into one of Rochester’s most recognized and trusted brokerages. His team specializes in helping motivated individuals—regardless of their financial past—navigate the complex path to homeownership. The company’s guiding vision, “Helping motivated people achieve their real estate goals,” underscores every aspect of its operations.
Christopher also works extensively with investor clients who share his dual commitment to revitalizing communities and generating long-term, sustainable income. These partnerships often focus on improving housing quality and neighborhood conditions, helping to strengthen the fabric of Rochester’s urban core.
Looking ahead, Christopher is focused on expanding his impact through the development of affordable housing and inclusive communities, both in Rochester and in other cities across the United States. These future ventures are centered on increasing access to quality housing, particularly for lower-income individuals and families, while addressing systemic barriers to homeownership.
Beyond his professional work, Christopher’s personal interests—golf, motorcycles, traveling, personal development, and Tai Chi—reflect a life grounded in continuous growth and balance. It is this same balance and intentionality that he brings to every client interaction. Each person who walks through the doors of New 2 U Homes LLC is met with empathy, respect, and unwavering support.
Through his innovative approach, community-focused mindset, and deep reservoir of industry knowledge, Christopher Thomas continues to be a trusted advocate for equity in real estate and a catalyst for positive change in the markets and communities he serves.
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