Inside NYC’s Chicest Secret Shopping Trend: Your Neighbor’s Closet
Forget Fifth Avenue—some of the most coveted deals in New York are now found just down the hall.
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Off The MRKT - Where New York's, Real Estate, Life Style, and Culture Converge
Forget Fifth Avenue—some of the most coveted deals in New York are now found just down the hall.
Read MoreNo cocktail shaker? No problem—this viral Sauvignon Blanc and jalapeño wine hack is giving margarita vibes with zero mixology skills required.
Read MoreExplore the top luxury residences in Florida featuring gorgeous pools to help residents beat the summer heat
Read MoreImmerse yourself in the vibrant world of New York theater from the comfort of your luxurious home in Hell's Kitchen, where historic charm meets modern elegance.
Read MoreFashion, cocktails, and Colombian craftsmanship collided high above the Lower East Side as Zacapa Rum and Agua by Agua Bendita toasted to their stylish new collaboration.
Read MoreFinding the perfect first home is a remarkable milestone, and manufactured homes offer an underrated yet exceptional opportunity for first-time buyers. With affordability, modern amenities, and a lifestyle that suits diverse needs, manufactured homes present a compelling alternative to traditional site-built homes. If you’re onto new beginnings, here’s a closer look at why manufactured homes are great first homes.
For first-time buyers, affordability often tops the priority list when choosing a home. Manufactured homes stand out with their significantly lower purchase price compared to traditional site-built homes. The average manufactured home provides a cost-effective solution that allows buyers to own property without compromising on quality or comfort.
Reduced property taxes further add to the financial feasibility of manufactured homes. Since these homes are often classified differently than traditional homes, buyers can save on annual taxes and create a more sustainable living arrangement.
Additionally, savings on insurance premiums make manufactured homes even more budget friendly. Keep in mind, applying mobile home maintenance tips can also preserve the long-term value of the property, ensuring peace of mind for new homeowners.
One of the standout features of modern manufactured homes is their versatility in design. Unlike the older perception of cookie-cutter models, today’s manufactured homes offer a wide range of customization options to suit individual lifestyles and aesthetics. From choosing open-concept layouts to selecting finishes like countertops, flooring, and lighting fixtures, buyers can design a home that feels uniquely theirs.
Beyond interiors, there’s potential to improve the curb appeal of your manufactured home. Adding fresh landscaping, decorative lighting, or upgrading the exterior personalizes the property even further. These small changes add charm and create a home you can feel proud to show off to friends and family.
Modern manufactured homes are built with energy efficiency in mind, making them environmentally friendly and cost-efficient for first-time buyers. Enhanced insulation, energy-efficient windows, and state-of-the-art appliances support a smaller carbon footprint and a significant reduction in utility bills.
Features, such as ENERGY STAR-certified systems, improve temperature regulation throughout the home and offer consistent comfort while saving money. Sustainable building materials and efficient use of space contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle, giving manufactured home buyers a chance to make positive environmental choices from the start.
Purchasing a manufactured home often comes with an added benefit that traditional homebuyers may not consider: the opportunity to be part of a vibrant and welcoming community. Manufactured home communities often feature shared amenities like pools, clubhouses, and fitness centers, which create convenient options for recreation and relaxation.
Living in such communities builds a sense of connection with fellow homeowners, as many neighborhoods provide social events and activities to foster camaraderie. For first-time buyers, this supportive environment will make the transition into homeownership feel less overwhelming and much more rewarding.
Manufactured homes offer first-time buyers an ideal mix of affordability, customization, energy efficiency, and a sense of belonging. By investing in a home designed to suit personal needs while staying within budget, buyers will lay the foundation for years of comfort and financial success. Manufactured homes are great first homes that offer a chance to truly thrive in a new beginning.
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From courtside cocktails to pro-level training, South Florida’s hottest properties are making pickleball the ultimate lifestyle amenity.
Read MoreNolita Real Estate, Manhattan Townhouse, Historic Homes, Patrick Lilly, CORE Real Estate, New York Luxury Real Estate, Downtown Manhattan, Historic Renovation
Read MoreEven after the first Monday in May, the Upper East Side remains undeniably hot. The renewed buzz isn't just about the allure of new luxury condos like The Surrey and The Giorgio Armani Residences; it's a cultural and residential renaissance that continues to draw significant attention. With a vibrant mix of established and new restaurants, Frida Escobedo’s innovative Met wing design underway, and the newly unveiled, stunningly renovated Frick Collection welcoming visitors, the UES is a thriving hub of activity. Bloomberg’s recent recognition of the Upper East Side as a top travel destination for 2025 is well-deserved.
We're still witnessing a "Great Migration" of downtown dwellers drawn by the UES's dynamic restaurant scene, exclusive private clubs like Casa Tua, unparalleled high-end retail, and, crucially, its top-tier private schools. When clients seek their uptown dream homes, the blend of classic charm and modern vibrancy, access to world-class culture, exceptional quality of life anchored by Central Park, and consistently excellent schools remain key selling points.
Elegant pre-war architecture and white-glove service in many buildings add to the timeless appeal of the UES. The significant influx during and post-Covid was fueled by the need for more spacious residences, immediate proximity to green spaces, and the strong sense of established community offered by these uptown enclaves during uncertain times.
Meanwhile, securing a coveted reservation at some of the newer culinary hotspots requires planning! The retail landscape is ever-evolving and now includes an expanded presence of new boutiques, along with established luxury brands along Madison Avenue like Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Hermes, and Maison Goyard. Boutique stores like Ludivine offer curated collections from luxury and contemporary designers. The Upper East Side is competing with downtown’s “perfume Alley” on Elizabeth Street, with many notable perfumeries opening along Madison Avenue. Culturally the reopening of the beautifully renovated Frick Collection by Annabelle Selldorf is a major draw.
We continue to observe a gradual shift towards greater pragmatism among coop boards regarding financing and the streamlining of their application processes, likely influenced by sustained market demand. Some buyers prioritize proximity to their children’s schools, and while breathtaking park views are always desirable, practical considerations often take precedence.
The Simonsen Team consistently has access to a curated selection of exceptional uptown properties both on and off the market, with current strong buyer interest focused on fully renovated, move-in ready condominiums offering modern amenities and meticulously restored pre-war coops in prime locations. The market for elegant townhouses also remains highly competitive due to limited availability.
Currently, we are seeing a particularly strong trend towards high-end, meticulously renovated condominiums that offer immediate occupancy and modern conveniences, alongside a steady demand for beautifully maintained pre-war coops in premier buildings. Outdoor space remains a particular draw across all price points.
The Upper East Side undoubtedly has renewed energy and cultural richness right now. The downtown migration continues as buyers recognize the exceptional lifestyle offered by this iconic Manhattan neighborhood. It’s an opportune time to experience the enduring and evolving appeal of the neighborhood.
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A rooftop, a dress code, and an all-star guest list—Emira D’Spain’s White Party proved the unofficial start of summer is as stylish as ever.
Read MoreBy Lisa K. Lippman, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Brown Harris Stevens
Read MoreExplore Off The MRKT's Favorite Listings of the Week, where we feature the most remarkable homes on the market, showcasing unique designs, luxury amenities, and standout locations that make them our top picks
Read MoreLocation is everything for a restaurant, but securing the perfect spot comes with its own set of unexpected expenses. Navigating these hidden costs early on can save restaurant owners significant financial headaches down the road. This guide breaks down the most commonly overlooked expenses so that you can better prepare for the true financial commitment of owning or leasing restaurant real estate.
One of the first expenses you’ll face when securing a property is an upfront building deposit to secure the space. These deposits can range from a single month’s rent to several months’ worth, depending on the size of the space and location. It’s crucial to negotiate these terms ahead of time and ensure the deposit is within your budget. While this cost is refundable in many cases, failing to meet the lease terms could result in you losing your deposit.
Property insurance is another significant cost that many restaurant owners underestimate. It’s vital to have insurance that covers damage to the building, liability risks, and any potential disruptions to your business. Premiums for restaurants tend to be higher than other types of businesses due to the risks involved, such as fires or accidents.
Some landlords may also require additional riders specific to restaurants, such as coverage for fire sprinklers. It’s essential to review your lease carefully to understand which party is responsible for maintaining insurance and to ensure you have adequate coverage.
Most restaurant spaces don’t come perfectly suited to your needs, so renovation costs are often a necessary start-up expense to budget for. Depending on the condition of the space, you may need to renovate the kitchen, dining area, or restrooms to meet your restaurant’s theme and local building codes.
These renovations can cost upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, especially if you’re adding custom features like a commercial-grade ventilation system or upgrading outdated equipment. If you’re considering starting a pop-up restaurant, understanding these renovation costs in advance is equally important, as temporary spaces often need modifications to align with your brand.
The cost of utilities is another expense that can sneak up on new restaurant owners. Restaurants typically require more energy consumption than other businesses, especially during peak hours of operation. Between electricity, gas, water, and waste management, monthly utility bills for a busy kitchen typically comprise around 5 percent of operating costs.
Utility rates vary depending on the building’s square footage and its location, which is why researching these costs beforehand is critical. A miscalculation in this area can impact your profit margins, so ask for prior utility costs when finalizing a lease agreement.
Ongoing cleaning and maintenance costs are another factor to keep in mind. A restaurant property requires regular upkeep to keep things running smoothly and remain appealing to customers. This might include janitorial services, repairing fixtures, or deep-cleaning kitchen facilities.
On top of this, costs for kitchen equipment maintenance can add up if you’re not proactive about managing wear and tear on your appliances. Allocating a portion of your budget for front-of-house and back-of-house upkeep helps you avoid these costs without compromising your operations.
Navigating the hidden costs of restaurant real estate is essential for launching and maintaining a viable, scalable business. These details may seem tedious at first, but they serve as the foundation of a comprehensive financial plan comprising start-up and ongoing expenses. With thorough preparation, you’ll set yourself up for success in the highly competitive restaurant industry.
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With spring in full swing and warmer weather enticing New Yorkers to gather and socialize, now is the perfect time to explore some of NYC's top developments featuring luxurious entertaining spaces. From chic bars to stylish lounges and elegant dining areas, these condominiums offer residents the perfect settings for hosting memorable gatherings, all within the comfort of their own buildings. High-design condos like Monogram NY, Sutton Tower, and Front & York showcase the importance of providing upscale entertainment options, embracing the concept of layered entertaining where residents can seamlessly move from cocktails to cozy lounges and sophisticated dining areas.
Photo Credit: Recent Spaces
Designed by Ismael Leyva Architects with interiors by the acclaimed studio Neri&Hu, Monogram NY is a stunning new development situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This elegant condominium effortlessly blends serenity with the vibrant flair of New York City. Residents at Monogram NY can indulge in the top-floor amenity package known as the "Sphere Club." This sophisticated bar and lounge is attended by dedicated staff and offers sweeping panoramic views of the iconic New York City skyline, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a private club. The Sphere Club also includes a reading room lounge with a fireplace, an intimate bar, and a private dining room with a catering kitchen, all enveloped by expansive city skyline vistas. These luxurious spaces provide residents with the perfect settings to host events and gatherings, ensuring a tailored experience for every occasion.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Sutton Tower
Standing as the tallest residential tower along Manhattan's East Side waterfront, Sutton Tower is a defining New York address that boasts unrivaled views and dynamic design by the celebrated designer Thomas Juul-Hansen. The condo building's thoughtful amenity collection, known as The Sutton Club, embodies the Upper East Side’s tradition of grand entertaining. The large private dining room, adorned with warm, elegant finishes and an adjacent chef’s demonstration kitchen, is ideal for hosting and toasting with loved ones on special occasions. Residents also enjoy a secondary dining lounge, providing a more casual, intimate space for gatherings. The entertainment opportunities continue in the building’s skylit club lounge and adjacent terrace, as well as the plush screening room equipped with custom sofas, a wet bar, and a cinema-level audio-visual system. These amenities ensure that Sutton Tower residents have an array of options for hosting any type of event in style.
Photo Credit Colin Miller
Front & York, designed by celebrated architect Morris Adjmi, offers an amenity-driven luxury urban experience in DUMBO with one of NYC's largest and most comprehensive amenity collections, spanning 150,000 square feet. Perfect for residents looking to host intimate gatherings or holiday get-togethers, Front & York features a luxurious wine room connected to a chef's kitchen, creating an ideal suite for custom dining experiences. The development also boasts a dedicated party room with a beautiful dinner table for more formal sit-down dining experiences, as well as a billiards lounge complete with a pool table and bar, making it the perfect customizable suite for any occasion. These thoughtfully designed spaces ensure that residents can entertain in style, whether it’s a casual get-together or a grand celebration.
A Seamless Entertaining Experience
Monogram NY, Sutton Tower, and Front & York exemplify the trend of incorporating upscale, versatile entertaining spaces into residential developments. These condominiums not only provide luxurious living spaces but also create an environment where residents can host memorable events without leaving the comfort of their homes. From intimate lounges to grand dining rooms and everything in between, these developments offer the ultimate entertaining experience, reflecting the sophistication and elegance of New York City living.
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In a city where the skyline is constantly evolving, few addresses command attention like South Beach’s Collins Avenue. On May 16, the energy behind that evolution took center stage at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach, which hosted an exclusive panel event, Lincoln Road Reimagined, bringing together Miami’s top minds in real estate, architecture, and development to discuss the transformation of the 100 block of Lincoln Road and the entrance to the iconic beachwalk.
Katherine Kallergis, Frederik Eklund, Kobi Karp, Russell W. Galbut, Dayssi Kanavos, Lyle Stern & Andres Arcila
Moderated by The Real Deal’s Katherine Kallergis, the conversation unfolded inside a sleek new sales gallery, just unveiled within The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. The event spotlighted how this landmark stretch—fittingly nicknamed “Billionaires’ Beach”—is rapidly reshaping thanks to a collaboration between the State of Florida, the City of Miami Beach, and the ownership families behind The Ritz-Carlton and Sagamore Hotels.
Paul Kanavos & Pietro Belmonte
Panelists included real estate star Fredrik Eklund of EKLUND | GOMES, renowned architect Kobi Karp, and Flag Luxury’s Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos and Peter Kanavos Sr., who are spearheading the residential vision. Also contributing were Andres Arcila of Naturalficial, Russell W. Galbut of Crescent Heights, and Lyle Stern of Vertical Real Estate—each offering sharp insight into Miami Beach’s next chapter, which is being shaped as much by thoughtful design as by walkability, culture, and lifestyle innovation.
Following the discussion, over 150 guests enjoyed a rooftop reception complete with elevated bites and desserts by Chef José Andrés. With signature flavors like Tuna Tataki, Mini Lobster Rolls, and Garides in garlic-lemon beurre blanc, the fare matched the event’s upscale tone—an ode to the luxurious and communal spirit the new Ritz-Carlton Residences promise to deliver.
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