New to NYC? These Tips Will Help You Survive Your Daily Commute

If you just moved to New York City, you're in for the experience of a lifetime. It's a new, exciting place to be in and you're ready to get started. But even veteran NYC residents can have trouble with their daily commute. What's a new resident to do?

Keep reading to see some must-have tips for surviving your new NYC commute.

If You're Driving...

Know the Risks of Driving in NYC

You might be thinking that other places are just as dangerous as NYC when it comes to driving. In fact, Texas currently leads the nation in car accident-related deaths with one crash reported almost every 60 seconds. However, stop to consider that, in a fraction of that space, NYC still sees almost 230,000 car accidents per year. That's almost half of car accidents (~600,000) reported across the entire state of Texas in a given year.

Watch Out for Pedestrians

As of 2017, there were about 8.6 million people living in NYC. That's more than double the number of people living in LA that same year. Now consider that many of these people will walk to their destinations. When you're driving, it's incredibly important to make sure you keep an eye out for pedestrians. Jaywalking is common and with so many people on the streets at any given time, your vigilance is of the utmost importance.

If You Use Public Transportation...

Check Your Subway Seat

There is nothing worse than getting off of the subway only to realize you've left something on your seat as the railcar lights fade into the distance. Smartphones might be incredibly common -- almost 400 iPhones are sold every minute -- but that doesn't make them any less vital in our daily lives. So before you exit the subway car, make sure you check your seat!

Utilize Navigation Apps

Whether you're an NYC veteran or you've just arrived in the Big Apple, there's no shame in using a navigation app. In fact, multiple apps are designed specifically to help you navigate public transportation. Apps like Exit Strategy can help you navigate the subway system, while others like CabSense can direct you to the best corner to hail a cab from.

Keep Your Hands Clean

Subways are home to millions of commuters every day. With that many people using the same subway cars day in and day out, it's practically set in stone that you'll get sick if you're not careful. You don't want to end up with a respiratory infection or a nasty cough. And those are just two of the most common illnesses diagnosed at urgent care centers annually. In order to avoid coming down with something nasty, make sure to carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you and to use it after you've been on public transportation. Washing your hands frequently and taking immune boosters can also help you out.

If You Walk...

Be Prepared for Any Weather

Even if you're only walking for part of your commute, it's important to be prepared. The weather can change in an instant, and there's nothing worse than walking into a monsoon without an umbrella. Fortunately, it's easy to carry an umbrella or a heavier jacket with you. It may also be worth investing in a pair of watertight shoes for those days when it unexpectedly rains or snows.

Use Crosswalks With Caution

Crosswalk signs are the law of the land when it comes to walking the streets of NYC. You might be tempted to cross the street before a crosswalk sign turns green, but you need to resist that urge. Crosswalk signs are designed to keep pedestrians safe, so pay close attention to them.

Find Good Sneakers

There's hardly anything more useful than a great pair of sneakers when you need to walk around NYC. Those heels or loafers you bought might look great, but nobody is going to be impressed when you sprain your ankle or hurt your feet walking to work in them. A high-quality pair of sneakers will help protect your feet and keep your good shoes looking that way.

New York City is an amazing place filled with different cultures, amazing food, and a whole lot of people just like you. Considering that almost 37% of people have never left their hometown, moving to the Big Apple is a big step! You should be proud. And with these travel tips, you'll have no problem getting around in style.

AD100 and Elle Decor A-List Designer, Shawn Henderson, Lists West Village Home

For those of you looking for a home already designed by one of the countries top Interior Designers, you are now in luck as AD 100/Elle Decor A-List Designer Shawn Henderson just listed his West Village home. Currently listed at 791 Greenwich Street, Unit 3 the home is a 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath currently asking for $1,600,000.

A mint-condition West Village residence in an intimate pre-war cooperative. Just one short flight up to find this bright and spacious loft-like space where you will be struck by its scale, charm, and style. The entire apartment was painstakingly renovated by the owner, acclaimed designer Shawn Henderson.

The layout is truly ideal for both comfortable living and entertaining. The living, dining room and kitchen are open creating a loft-like feeling combined with the charm that is unmistakably West Village. Reclaimed wood beams and pockets of exposed brick are adorned throughout the apartment and there is a restored decorative fireplace centering the living room. The original pine floors from 1875 have been perfectly restored and custom shudders added to all the windows.

There is an abundance of light through the oversized western facing windows with treetop views of beautiful Greenwich street. The windowed kitchen features honed royal Danby marble counters, a Wolf duel range oven, Liebherr refrigerator, Miele dishwasher as well as a mixture of satin black aluminum, stainless steel, and grey oak custom cabinetry.

The Master Bedroom has floor-to-ceiling custom closets and there is a massive walk-in dressing room all outfitted with custom cabinetry. The windowed, master bath is outfitted with Waterworks tiling, heated terrazzo floors, unlacquered brass fixtures, a custom-built vanity, and an oversized walk-in rain shower. There is central air and a washer dryer for your comfort and convenience.

Michael J. Franco of Compass Real Estate is the Listing Agent

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Brooklyn Condo Quay Tower Unveils Completed Amenities

Quay Tower, has just unveiled its spectacular collection of amenities designed by AD100 Designer Marmol Radziner. The building is rapidly approaching completion, and the intricately crafted spaces seamlessly evoke the condominium's singular location alongside the iconic Brooklyn Bridge Park.

“The completion of the amenities at Quay Tower is the latest milestone for this game-changing project,” said Robert Levine, President and CEO of RAL Companies. “This is the only condominium of its kind in the highly desirable Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, and the building’s thoughtfully curated amenities were intentionally designed for spectacular relaxation and entertainment experiences. As a testament, we opted to dedicate a significant portion of the valuable rooftop square footage, usually exclusively reserved for penthouses, to two communal rooftop amenity spaces for everyone to enjoy the outstanding views.”

Most notable about the high-design amenity oasis at Quay Tower is the intentionality of design and orientation. A perfect example, the design and development teams opted to dedicate significant top-floor square footage - the very same as the record-setting penthouse! - to two expansive indoor/outdoor amenity lounges. Sleekly designed, the north-facing Sunset Lounge is surrounded by city and river views while the south-facing Sky Cabana offers unprecedented vistas of the harbor and beyond.  

Indoors, Marmol Radziner's commitment to artfully highlighting the defining pillars of the Quay Tower lifestyle - park-side and waterfront living - into the condominium's communal spaces remains ever-present. The striking lobby, dedicated music room, children's playroom and state-of-the-art fitness center all offer multiple exposures, and unlike most luxury residential amenity spaces, are situated above ground to provide incredible views of the park, waterfront, and beyond.

“At Quay Tower, we have created the new standard for Brooklyn living,” said David Wine, Managing Partner at Oliver’s Realty Group. “Rather than an after-thought, our amenities have been a leading component of our health and wellness-focused lifestyle, with exclusive partnerships and sophisticated design that connects the building to the surrounding Park.”

Referencing Marmol Radziner's West Coast roots, the lobby at Quay Tower employs California modernism with its double-height ceilings and ample natural light. A custom Armani Grey marble reception desk surrounded by Ziricote wood anchors the expansive room and two original commissioned modern artworks elevate the high level of design in the lobby as well as speak to the park-facing location.

Pricing for two-bedroom residences begins at $1.695M, with occupancy expected this fall. Douglas Elliman Development Marketing is the exclusive sales and marketing firm for the project. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit quaytowerbk.com.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Benefits of Using a Property Buyer’s Agent When Purchasing Overseas Property

House hunting for luxury overseas property can be exciting and fun, but it’s easy to get wrapped up in daydreams of what a new life abroad will be like. Unless you have some who’s on your side, though, you’re essentially shopping blind – and you can easily get into trouble without even realizing it. A property buyer’s agent works on behalf of the client and works to find them their perfect home. They will then work with the buyer and guide them through the entire process, offering advice and support along the way.

Property Buyer’s Agent vs. Regular Real Estate Agent

Most often, a seller will hire a listing agent to market and sell their home. A buyer will hire a buyer’s agent to help them find the perfect home, make negotiations and complete the purchase. Listing agents have expertise in marketing and selling, and they work on behalf of the seller and their best interests. They may have the same skills as the buyer’s agent, particularly market knowledge and location expertise, but their priority is the seller, not the buyer.

You may hear additional terminology, too, like “selling agent” and “seller’s agent.” These terms sound the same, but they actually refer to two different kinds of agents. The selling agent is the same as the buyer’s agent; they gain the “selling agent” title once the buyer and the seller enter into a contract. The selling agent still works on behalf of the buyer, despite the confusing term. When it comes to the term “seller’s agent,” it’s simply interchangeable with “listing agent.”

There are also cases where a real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller. Moving.com has a great explanation of what happens in this situation.

Benefits of Hiring a Buyer’s Agent

The property buying process varies from country to country, making it difficult to handle even if you’ve purchased property before. For example, France has especially strict regulations to follow, and navigating the buying process can be daunting, especially if you don’t speak the language yet. There are a number of benefits of hiring a buyer’s agent:

They know about hard-to-find properties.

Publicly listed properties are only part of what’s available. For privacy’s sake, high-profile sellers, like athletes, celebrities and wealthy businessmen, don’t always list their properties when they’re for sale. When it comes to luxury property in sought-after destinations, buyer’s agents will know about everything available in an area, including the hidden gems that others don’t have access to.

They have a vast network with prime connections.

The longer a buyer’s agent has been in the business, the more trustworthy connections they’ve made. When you’re ready to view or buy a property, your agent can connect with listing agents, notaries, developers and anyone else you’ll need to work with. This also means they’ll be able to uncover information about the property that could make or break your sale, like if the building has specific challenges (plumbing that needs a major overhaul, for example).

You don’t have to rush to learn the language.

One of the biggest perks of hiring a buyer’s agent is that they’ll be an expert in the area where you want to move, which includes being fluent in the language. You’ll probably want to learn the language of your new home country at some point, but until then, you don’t have to muddle through meetings, hoping you understand what’s going on.

There’s no cost to you.

Hiring a buyer’s agent doesn’t cost the buyer anything. The agent gets paid when the home is sold, and they take part of the sales fee, which is paid by the seller instead of the buyer. Technically, the listing agent is paid their commission, then the listing agent’s broker pays the brokerage for the buyer’s agent. It’s a little confusing and what’s most important to know is that the payment doesn’t come out of your pocket, but The Balance goes into it more in this article.

Overall, a buyer’s agent has one goal in mind: making the buyer as happy as possible. They’ll answer your questions, conduct extensive research and stick by your side from start to finish to make sure that happens.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

RE/MAX Launches First and Only Manhattan Office

RE/MAX’s latest expansion into the Manhattan market makes their brand-new office the first-of-its kind and only one in the borough. Headed by Broker/Owner Shoka Mamedov, the Manhattan office marks an exciting milestone for the international company traditionally known for its strong ties within the suburban market.

The office was launched earlier this month by real estate professional Shovkat Mamedov who, along with her rapidly growing team, will bring RE/MAX’s world-class services and brand name, known around the globe, to this competitive, new market.

“Our Manhattan office is in an ideal location to bring the RE/MAX brand to this thriving commercial and luxury residential market,” said Mamedov.  “The advanced technology and the international network that RE/MAX offers will allow us to make an immediate impact. We have already received a tremendous response from brokers, agents and clients, especially those looking to invest in Manhattan’s active hospitality market.”

With extensive experience in the New York real estate market, Shoka has sold hundreds of residential and commercial properties in all the boroughs of New York City. She and her team are leveraging both RE/MAX’s Commercial and Classic Collection brands to attract local customers and those from abroad. She has also partnered up with Carlo Seneca, Owner of C & A Seneca Construction who is one of the most sought after Hospitality Builders in NYC who along with Shoka made a turnkey office with Real Estate, Development, Construction, Architectural and Design services. And they together will spearhead a huge Hospitality division for RE/MAX in Manhattan.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Listings are now Live for Waterline Square's Rentals

The new Upper West Side, luxury residential development to open this year, Waterline Square, launched leasing last month for its collection of spacious studio to four-bedroom rental homes and now you can see the home offerings and floor plans as listings just launched.

With architecture by Richard Meier & Partners, Rafael Viñoly Architects and KPF, plus interiors by Champalimaud, Yabu Pushelberg and Groves & Co., the rental residences at Waterline Square boast condo-level features such as high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the remarkable views, as well large kitchen islands, walk-in closets, wine refrigerators, fully-integrated appliance packages designed by Bosch, vented washer-dryers and five-fixture bathrooms.

All three towers offer a suite of curated amenities and resort-style services, in addition to each tower having access to tower amenities such as private dining rooms, media rooms, game rooms, residents’ lounges with gas-burning fireplaces, libraries and furnished terraces.

In addition, rental residents also have access to the extraordinary Waterline Club — the 100,000SF shared amenities space that is designed by Rockwell Group and connects the three buildings. Just outside their doors, the lush 2.6-acre park is present, as will be a dynamic hospitality program with concepts by Cipriani and Empellón.

Studios at the complex start $3,938/month; one-bedrooms at $5,425/month; two-bedrooms at $8,625/month; three-bedrooms at $9,933/month; and four-bedrooms at $15,000/month.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Tips on Saying No to Your Friend with Benefits

While having a friends with benefits (FWB) relationship allows one to hang out and have fun with someone without any serious commitments, it can sometimes pose a challenge when it comes to saying “no.” It may be turning down a request for a while because you do not feel like doing whatever your partner is requesting. It could also be about ending the relationship.

So, how do you say “NO” to your friends with benefits effectively? Here are some tips on doing it:

Explain why you cannot make it or if they displeased you

You may not feel excited about having fun with your FWB at a given moment when they suggest that you hook up. It is critical to pause and reflect on why that idea may not be appealing to you at that time. It could be that you are tired, for example after a heavy workout, or you could be feeling sick, or you may have a school or work assignment that is almost due and you need to complete it. It may also be that your FWB did something to you, failed to do something, or said something that hurt you. You should let your partner know why you cannot manage to be there at that moment.

If you are busy wrapping up some assignments that are almost due, then tell them that. If you were offended by their actions or omissions, let them know that. You may tell them that you still value your friendship, but if you are to keep being friends, then they should know that they hurt you when they did what they did or said something that you felt was a bit unfair. Seek to straighten out things and continue enjoying each other’s company.

Promise to make up or give an alternative

After explaining your reason for saying “no” at that moment, you need to let your FWB know that it is not a blanket NO, but you still want to continue enjoying the “benefits” and keep the friendship. You can offer to hook up the next weekend or at another convenient time. Maybe it is a friend that you met on a dating site like Happymatches and have not yet got to know each other well, having hung out only a few times. Assure them that you are glad to have met them and wish to keep the friendship. You may give an alternative of doing a video call and chat for some time and exchange pleasantries. You can soften your NO at the moment by promising to spend a longer time with them next time or try new things.

Communicate clearly when saying no to end things

Unlike in official relationships in which breakups normally require a face-to-face meeting or phone conversation, friends with benefits relationships are casual. This can allow you to break up through an email, text message, or any other non-personal method. But you may also choose to respect the preexisting friendship and break up in a more personal way. If you decide to use non-personal ways, ensure that you clearly and concisely state your intention to end the friendship and leave no room for misinterpretation since you will not be there to clarify anything. You could choose to use a non-personal method when you fear that a face-to-face encounter could weaken your resolve, or your FWB is likely to try to manipulate you, or when meeting is a bit more difficult like in a long-distance relationship. You need to be ready to handle the breakup, and if you feel that there are chances of the friendship relapsing, you should cut any communications. Better still, if your FWB has no problem with it, you may agree to continue being friends but do away with the benefits.

You have to be able to say no to your friend with benefits and stand your ground. Whether it is a no for a moment or to break-up altogether, you need to be forthright and always seek your best interests. After all, you are just in it for the benefits and friendship without a serious commitment.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Important Mortgage Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

When you’re purchasing your first home, there’s a lot to think about. In addition to finding the perfect location and coming up with a budget, you’ll also have to consider many factors regarding your mortgage. To keep your stress levels down and to be as prepared as possible, read our list of some of the most important mortgage tips for first-time home buyers.

Shop around

Settling for the first quote you get from a mortgage lender could cost you thousands of dollars in the long run. We suggest researching a variety of mortgage lenders and comparing at least three quotes before you make a final decision. Spending the time to shop around will be well worth it in the end.

Prequalify

Before making an offer on a home, you must prequalify for a mortgage. For you to prequalify, a lender will thoroughly examine your finances. After the inspection, you’ll receive an estimate of how much money a lender may be willing to give you based on your income, credit, and current debt. It’s important to note that even though you prequalify for a mortgage from a specific lender, you’re not exclusively committed to them yet. You’re still free to shop around for better interest rates, but having that prequalification letter will significantly improve your chances of closing a deal on the property you want.

Get the right mortgage for your budget

There are two main types of mortgages: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate. The main difference between the two is the way their interest rates are determined. The interest rate for fixed-rate mortgage loans is determined when you take it out, and it will not change. An adjustable-rate mortgage, on the other hand, has an interest rate that may fluctuate after the introductory period ends. Fixed-rate mortgages allow for easier budgeting, but adjustable-rate mortgages offer more flexibility when it comes to refinancing. Ultimately, the type of mortgage that’s right for you will largely depend on your budgeting preferences.

Avoid 30-year mortgages

30-year mortgages attract many home buyers due to their lower monthly payments. In the long run, however, you’ll end up paying tens of thousands of dollars more in interest than if you choose a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage. As such, you should try to choose a mortgage option with a shorter timeline.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.