Ruinart Champagne x New Museum Debut "Forever First" Mixed Reality Pop-Up

Last night, Ruinart champagne and the New Museum toasted to its upcoming Ruinart x NEW INC “Forever First” Mixed Reality Pop-Up with a private viewing of the exhibit before it officially opens to the public on Friday, January 24 for a limited run over two weekends. The exhibit is the latest move by Ruinart, the world’s first established champagne house, as it continues its 290-year tradition of championing the arts.

The celebratory evening brought together art world elite, fashion insiders, and tech leaders to preview award-winning virtual reality project Tree and the never-before-seen augmented reality experience Dawn Chorus. The immersive projects were created by emerging artists who are members of the museum’s esteemed cultural incubator, NEW INC, which Ruinart has supported in recent years in an effort to bring to light artistic works that are defined by original thinking and being first in their field.

Credit: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com

Guests enjoyed Ruinart’s beloved Blanc de Blancs and Rosé champagnes as the museum’s iconic Sky Room was transformed into an exploratory lounge. Highlight attendees included Timo Weiland (dj / designer), Erica Choi, Olivia Lopez, Ariel Adkins (designer), Ash Owens (designer), JiaJia Fei, Scott Albrecht (artist), Hannah Levy (artist), Reese Donohue (artist), Jonah King (artist), Heidi Lee (artist), Eric Shiner (curator), Nicola Vassell (curator), and more, who were awe-struck by the riveting projects. 

In Tree, participants transform into a rainforest tree, via touch, sight, sound and smell, growing from seedling into maturity as they witness fate firsthand in an experiential artwork that exposes the harsh realities of deforestation.

Credit: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com

The multisensorial Dawn Chorus situates both users and the audience amongst virtual birds flocking about a real-life Yamaha piano. Harmonious visuals and sounds demonstrate the phenomena that many marvels perceive as different, such as the frequencies of musical scales, and the flocking patterns of birds, follow the same underlying statistical pattern.

The pop-up will be open to the public Friday, January 24 – Sunday, January 26 and Saturday, February 1 – Sunday, February 2 and available to all museum ticketholders on a first come, first serve basis. In another first for the museum, the pop-up will feature a Ruinart Champagne bar where visitors can purchase Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Rosé champagne to enjoy while they step into the artworks.

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.

How Fintech Is Changing New York Real Estate

The real estate industry undergoes frequent change, whether it comes to renting or buying. Technology is often a big part of these improvements. It has a place in every major industry, and handling property is no different. One major concept that's swept the market is fintech. 

This technology is taking over — especially among New York properties — and it's brought a wealth of gains with it. Learn about it while it's rolling strong, and you can benefit from a smoother way to invest in property.

What Is Fintech?

Fintech stands for financial technology, which aims to streamline financial services for businesses and consumers. This tech offshoot applies to numerous industries besides real estate — any company that carries out transactions can employ it.

Fintech is a segment of proptech, a portion of the real estate industry that uses technological resources to solve problems and complete tasks. Proptech involves innovations such as artificial intelligence and automation, as well as data collection and sustainability.

People often choose the newest and best methods when they want to accomplish a task. If you could streamline a tedious process that usually takes forever to complete, you'd likely pick relevant technologies. That's why buyers and renters often go to property dealers who use fintech — they offer shiny new alternatives to old systems.

The Expansion of Fintech

This efficient method of managing real estate has gained popularity within recent years. Companies are integrating principles of fintech by using blockchain technologies, digitizing their transactions and much more. The Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or JOBS Act, spurred the rise of fintech in the early 2010s. This law reduced some of the small-business regulations created by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which helped them secure higher funds.

Businesspeople viewed this law as an opening for new ways to earn money. They began brainstorming improved methods of managing finances and bringing in revenue. Fintech soon developed as a viable option, and it has grown ever since. Some real estate companies remain mostly traditional while incorporating technological advancements here and there. Others have fully leaned into this new sector to appeal to consumers and make their operations more productive.

New Developments in Renting and Buying

New innovations in fintech are developing fast in New York. Though California was once the capital of finance-based technology, New York City is edging in to take that title.

These advancements can make renting an apartment or buying a home more accessible to residents, especially considering the high cost of living. Here are a few areas of real estate that have benefitted:

1. Digital Mortgage Processes

Blockchain technology is a major component of cryptocurrency. Naturally, it also has its place within fintech. Blockchains decentralize money transactions by sharing them among a network rather than operating around a bank.

This technology eliminates double-spend issues and removes third parties, which lessens the costs of conventional mortgage processes. It also boosts the efficiency of property title searches and allows you to insure your place for less.

Related article: https://www.offthemrkt.com/blogs/must-have-apps-for-food-in-nyc?

2. Software and Algorithms

The platform Built enables banks to process their loans online, especially lenders who are overseeing construction projects. Loan lenders upload data from their construction project onto the site and quickly communicate with their hired contractors.

Collecting all their information in once place allows them to approve and manage more loans without spreading themselves thin. They can see their entire loan portfolio at a glance and make financial decisions as necessary.

3. Crowdfunding

Investors have turned to crowdfunding — also known as peer-to-peer lending — to gain direct access to the real estate market. This strategy is primarily popular among wealthy investors who meet the income and credit requirements that platforms establish. Investors lessen their risk by collaborating with developers on properties, and they also get to choose which projects to invest in.

4. Online Marketplaces

The fintech company Roofstock allows you to receive greater access to single-family housing investments. It offers numerous resources for people planning to invest in rentals, including property management tools.

You can analyze a listing's details, such as the payment history and title report, and make an offer to buy. You'll be able to remotely check in on your investment while a property manager handles the on-site tasks. Marketplaces like these allow for flexible, affordable ownership from any city.

FinTech Makes Properties More Accessible

These developments give you an idea of what to expect the next time you rent a new apartment or move to a new home. The New York real estate market is transforming to provide more access and remove the middleman.

Barriers to renting and owning can dissolve with time, but it will take broader acknowledgment and adoption of fintech. A revolution in modern housing could be on the horizon.

Holly Welles is a real estate blogger covering design, finance and market trends for apartment dwellers. You can find more of her work on her blog, The Estate Update.

Related article: https://www.offthemrkt.com/blogs/5-tech-innovations-set-to-change-real-estate-in-2019

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.

New York City Homes With Privacy In Mind

With all the new condos and apartment buildings being built all throughout NYC, we have seen everything when it comes to amenities – from Vitamin C showers to lavish doggy spas and beyond. However, many buyers constantly find themselves looking for a home where they can have the ultimate privacy.

The demand for these types of features for privacy has risen and new developments are adding  amenities such as secured entrances, private elevator banks, luxury porte-cocheres, and additional levels of staff and security so that individuals will never have to step onto the sidewalk outside their apartment, or even have to go through the main lobby. If you are one of those individuals that are looking for this “must-have” luxury amenity, here’s a list of some buildings that offer next-level privacy.

108 Leonard

The Developers at 108 Leonard went to extensive lengths to include an impressive private, heated, covered motor reception with private parking, allowing residents to drive straight into the enclosed vestibule and enter the building without ever stepping outside. The developers have expected, and have had confirming feedback from potential buyers, that affluent residents and high profile individuals specifically appreciate this feature. 108 Leonard also features three lobby entrances – on Leonard Street, Broadway and Lafayette Street – in addition to a separate private entrance on Catherine Lane.

The Centrale

Ceruzzi Properties’ The Centrale also features a private porte-cochere spanning from 49th Street to 50th Street with a private covered entrance that leads directly to the elevators. This allows residents to drive in and immediately hop into the elevator, while also avoiding the hassle of having to come in contact with other residents or outside guests.

One United Nations Park

Located in the Midtown East corridor, just south of the storied United Nations headquarters, One United Nations Park was designed with the highest level of privacy in mind. A private porte cochere and indoor motor court welcomes residents home, and they are whisked up to sun-drenched apartments clad in the finest finishes, such as Calacatta Lincoln marble countertops and custom oak flooring. The limited collection of expansive duplex residences in the building has double height ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows that are layered black glass on the exterior, but remain completely translucent from inside the building. This reaffirms that residents won't be distrubed once inside their home.

Jardim

Tucked away in Manhattan’s West Chelsea neighborhood, Jardim is the first U.S. residential development by Isay Weinfeld, the world-renowned Brazilian architect and interior designer known for his hotels and high-end homes, including the ultra-chic Fasano Hotels around the world. The Portuguese word for garden—Jardim—is a fitting name for this plant-filled property, which boasts an ultra-private urban park that envelops the two 11-story towers that comprise the development. In addition to the 36 residences and gardens, amenities include a skylit swimming pool, fitness center, spa facilities and a brick-vaulted private tunnel that connects West 27th and 28th Streets, leading to views of the garden’s dense greenery through a lattice wall in the lobby—serving as the ultimate paparazzi-proof porte cochere. Jardim is developed by Centaur Properties and Greyscale Development Group.

Greenwich West

Hudson Square’s newest residential tower, Greenwich West, offers a modern downtown lifestyle in one of New York City’s most vibrant and exciting neighborhoods. Located at 110 Charlton Street, the 30-story building is being designed by a team of acclaimed design world visionaries led by French female architect Francoise Raynaud, founder of the Parisian architecture and design firm Loci-Anima. One of the tallest buildings in the area, the residential tower provides unprecedented views of the Hudson River, New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, and a robust amenities offering including private parking. A rarity in new developments, Greenwich West will boast an automated parking garage that lets those who use it go directly into the building hassle-free. To retrieve your car, you can request your car by the app and have it waiting for you when you get downstairs, or have the doorman call it or call it from the automated screen. Never having to leave the building when entering or exiting, it's a safe haven for all.

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.

Décor And Decisions: Preparing Your Home For Old Age

When you retire you can have so many different thoughts and emotions. Perhaps now is your time to truly enjoy the life you've been working towards but you also need to think about preparing yourself for old age and the associated ailments with decline. As we get older we have got to start thinking about our worldly possessions and that day when we pass away but we also need to make sure that we give ourselves that metaphorical security blanket. From a real estate perspective we need to prepare our home for old age but what do we need to do so everything is done and dusted so we can start to enjoy our twilight years?

Deciding On Sharing The Assets

The topic of probate law can be very complex but when we are looking at our home from an inheritance perspective we could decide to downsize before we get too old and pass it onto our dependents. It's always a sticky issue when we are looking to pass our home down as part of some form of inheritance. Sitting down with a legal professional gives you the opportunity to understand what has to be done at this point. But it's also part of really getting to grips with who you really want to inherit certain aspects of your estate. A home is a very complex part of an estate because there are many factors. A good example would be if the mortgage hasn't been paid off. But if you've paid off the mortgage and you are looking to live there you also need to determine if someone has a power of attorney if you're not able to make certain decisions later in life. From the perspective of real estate, this has to be someone you can trust.

Modifying Your Home In Preparation For Old Age

If you decided to stay in your home there are ways for you to adapt it to your needs. As we get older, it's natural that we may not be able to use the facilities as we once did. It is surprising that many people have not actually considered this. In fact, many people don't want to think about getting old because it forces them to confront their mortality. But when you get to a certain age you have to think that modifying the home can help to reduce stress and anxiety in the long run. There is no point in waiting for a doctor to tell you that you need to make adaptations to your home. The goal in this is to maintain your independence. If you could stay in the home that you love for longer you are going to be happier. But we have to remember that when we modify our property we don't want to be ripped off in the process. You have to look at the property and see what you will need as you get older. But you also need to ensure you hire a contractor that you can trust. Adapting your home can consist of modifying your bathroom to make it easier to use as well as minimizing fall hazards. You may also want to consider making sure the place is well lit. It's not something you think about but installing a remote control light that works to switch the light on when you get out of bed at night can make life easier.

Making Sure You Enjoy Your Twilight Years

Preparing for old age means confronting our mortality but when we look at it from the perspective of real estate we need to make it somewhere that is going to ensure our happiness. After you've made modifications to it think about what will keep it feeling like a home. You could bring in an interior designer to help you with this but it shouldn’t require too much thought. The great thing about the property as it is is that you've already done a lot of work in improving the curb appeal over the years. Even if you haven't done any work on the house now might be the perfect opportunity to make it your haven as you enter your twilight years. Making your home a happier place is your right especially if you've been working for decades and are now looking forward to proper downtime.

Preparing your home for old age is not necessarily something that comes easy. The goal is to make sure it's ready in terms of inheritance but you are still on this planet so make sure your home is what you want it to be.

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.

Where To Celebrate The Chinese New Year In New York City

Saturday, January 25th is the official day of the Lunar New Year, but this town is celebrating all month long. Restaurants are running special menus, offering deals and throwing parties to honor the year of the monkey. Here’s where to get in on all that eating action.

junzi

junzi will be launching a First Rice Bowl in Honor of Lunar New Year. This hearty rice bowl uses millet rice, a traditional northern Chinese combination called Da Xiao Mifan (literally translated to big and small rice), as the base. Sweet and spicy firecracker chicken thigh marinated in chili, garlic, and Sichuan spices is the main protein. Cabbage and leeks, a soy-marinated egg (also a new limited-time topping available for all other bowls), and caramelized shallots and carrots are also served in the bowl. Customers can opt-in for additional chili oil in the end.

Lighting firecrackers is a living tradition celebrating Lunar New Year in China. “The name is a celebration of the new year, of good luck, and of prosperity,” Chef & Culinary Director Lucas Sin introduces the idea behind this festive dish, “We're serving a dish that is, on one hand, an ode to the classic American Chinese chicken dish and on the other, a calling to Firecracker Chicken's traditional Chinese roots by doubling down on seasoning from Sichuan and grains from Northern China.”

RedFarm

With locations in the West Village and the Upper West Side, RedFarm is a farm-to-table inspired modern Chinese restaurant that redefines this beloved cuisine. The brainchild of Chinese food expert and legendary restaurateur Ed Schoenfeld together with Executive Chef Joe Ng. To celebrate Chinese New Year, RedFarm, the farm-to-table inspired modern Chinese restaurant, is offering a special à la carte menu of luxurious dishes from Jan. 23-26.

Delightful fare by Chef Joe Ng includes Gold Coins (Uni Dumplings Stuffed with Spinach & Shrimp), The Dragon & Phoenix (Sautéed Live Santa Barbara Prawns, Duck Egg Aroma), Bounty of the Earth (Slow Cooked Wild Mushrooms with Snow Pea Leaves) and Wealth (Grilled Alaskan King Crab with Fresh Perigord Black Truffle & Corn). 

Little Alley 

Little Alley has a seafood forward CNY menu this year, including Steamed Lobster with Glass Noodle, Lobster with Ginger Scallion, Spicy Crab, Salted Duck Egg Crab, Dry-woked Prawn, Steamed Whole Fish with Chopped Chili, Blanched Clams, and Stir-Fried Clams with Basil. Available from 1/22 - 1/26.

Tang Hotpot

Tang Hotpot will serve exclusively Lunar New Year Prix Fixe on Jan. 24 (CNY eve) and 25 (CNY). It will be $75 per person or $99 per person with three glasses of Wine/Beer/Sake. In addition to the fact that hot pot is an extremely festive dining format, it brings people together and that's all Lunar New Year is about. The prix fixe will include what Chinese must eat on the day -- dumplings. These dumplings will come from Sage Collective, a sister restaurant of Tang Hotpot.

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.

Lavish Modern Carroll Gardens Townhouse Hits the Market for $10M

New to the market in Carroll Gardens, a townhouse that once was the neighborhood’s most expensive sold property, has just hit the market for $9,995,000 with Douglas Elliman. Located at 181 President Street, this sprawling 5,356sq.ft. home features 5-bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, with elevator access to all four levels. Amenities include a landscaped roof deck, a basement viewing room, a wine cellar, a library/bedroom with a wet bar, a large terrace with an outdoor kitchen off the great room, an elevator, a sauna, an expansive home gym large and a two-car garage with a Tesla charging station.

Douglas Elliman’s Jessica Peters, Monica Breese, Fredrik Eklund and John Gomes have the listing.

Designed by Workshop DA, the home boasts an array of finishes that channel Brooklyn's industrial heritage. Immersed in luxury and modern convenience, no expense was spared in crafting this expansive 5,356 sqft residence. A central skylight and over-sized windows allow natural light to radiate throughout. The private elevator makes for easy access to all four levels in addition to a multi-car garage outfitted with a Tesla charging station; accessible through a motorized, solid Mahogany door. 

Noteworthy characteristics include a striking steel staircase adjacent to custom walnut shelving that doubles as a green or accent wall. The home spans 35-feet wide, with an exterior constructed of brick and walnut, inclusive of a curb cut. The private multi-car garage easily fits two large cars with ample space for a private at-home gym or work studio. 

The contemporary design aesthetic of the home is exemplified by some of its most standard features like rift-sawn limed oak, wide-plank flooring laid in a herringbone pattern. Step out of your private elevator to enter an expansive twenty-nine foot (29ft) wide living room. Twelve foot (12ft) ceilings, combined with a wall of floor to ceiling glass doors that fully open, create seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining. Elevate your private outdoor dining experience! The landscaped terrace is outfitted with a kitchenette, grilling station and an elegant pergola that provides shade for the built-in seating area. 

A sunny, eat-in chef's kitchen is fully equipped with appliances by Miele, Wolf and Liebherr, including a five-burner gas cooktop, wall oven, microwave, warming drawer and coffeemaker. Nublado countertops + backsplash and a Blanco fireclay apron-front sink perfectly complement the white and walnut custom cabinetry. 

The third floor offers three gracious, sunlit bedrooms and two stately bathrooms with abundant closet space while maintaining the privacy of the Master Floor above. The Master Floor is the definition of refinement, showcasing an impressive bedroom with a king-sized walk-in closet and views of Lower Manhattan. The lush Master Bathroom encompasses a freestanding oval tub, a sky lit shower, and a stunning custom marble vanity. A chic home office and library, equipped with a wet bar, is just across the corridor. 

The serene roof terrace with open views of the Manhattan skyline is an ideal place to relax. The terrace is professionally landscaped with built-in speakers and custom lighting to show off the Bluestone floor tiles, complimented by custom horizontal pipe fencing. Not to be forgotten, the cellar level of the home features a temperature-controlled wine room and a media room perfect for an at-home theatre. 

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.

Related Stories

• The Real Estate Apps You Should Be Using

• Step Inside this $23,500,000 Greenwhich Village Townhouse

• Malcolm Forbes Former Townhouse Closes

Exclusive Interview with Myles Wyatt Clohessy

Myles Wyatt Clohessy is an up-and-coming actor living in NYC, and we got the chance to talk with him about his acting career, traveling, being big on Instagram and more! He recently starred in the indie hit, Last Ferry, and has a number of exciting projects on the horizon. He is also a former semi-pro soccer player, was recently married last year, and he also has his own TV production company. 

Myles Wyatt Clohessy

1. Congrats on the release of your latest film, Last Ferry. What was your experience like filming on the iconic Fire Island? What film/tv projects are next for you?

• Thank you! I had the greatest experience ever on Fire Island. Believe it or not, it was actually my first time ever on the Island so I didn't know what to expect. And I ended up spending over 3 weeks shooting there and it was beyond words beautiful. It was preseason so it actually gets a little (sometimes very) chilly out there, especially at night which we ended up shooting a lot of scenes during, but the landscape is utterly outstanding. On my off-days or in between scenes I would honestly just marvel at the natural beauty and I explored the island quite a bit. There’s an abundance of natural beauty, hiking trails, and friendly deer so I honestly had the time of my life, definitely an experience I'll never forget. My next project is actually my first series regular role. It's a new medieval mini-series being shot in Spain, Morocco, and Italy this year and I'll be in 8 of the episodes. I will be starring some pretty big names so I'm really excited about that next venture. 

2. Speaking of islands, where have been your favorite places to travel? Any destination you haven't been that you're dying to go to?

• Honestly, my favorite place thus far has been the Amalfi Coast and the Island of Capri! I just went this past summer for my Honeymoon and it was so incredible. The people, the food, and the views were unbeatable. I remember just hiking to this cafe at the top of Positano and just looking out across the mountains and the Mediterranean and thinking life couldn't get much better than this. I would recommend to anyone! I'm currently dying to go to Greece. It looks incredible, especially the coastline, so maybe a 2020 adventure!

3. What is your favorite neighborhood in New York City? Do you have any go-to restaurants, coffee shops or bars?

• I'd have to say my favorite neighborhood in the city is tied between the Upper East Side where I live because it's full of just so many beautiful buildings, especially close to the park. I think it's the closest thing to any European city like Paris in terms of residential architecture and of course, the best park in the world, Central Park, is right there so it kind of is really just so, so pretty. And then there's the West Village with its cobbled streets, cute cafes and hidden restaurants, and I make a trip down there every week to go out or just walk around. My go-to coffee spot is JAVA GIRL which is this uber-cute coffee shop in my neighborhood on the Upper East Side. It's very bohemian, full of character, French and African music, decorates for every holiday, and best of all, the workers know my order by heart now so it just feels really cozy and warm there. Love doing writing there. 

4. How long have you lived in NYC and how does the city compare to other places you've lived?

• I've lived in NYC for almost 2 years now full time. However, my parents have had an apartment in Chelsea since the 90's so I've been in and out of NYC my whole life. I don't think there's any city anywhere in the world that compares to NYC. It's just the most unique, craziest, and most wonderful city in the world in my opinion. 

5. What has been your favorite city or country you've ever filmed?

• I'm set to shoot this show in Madrid this spring so I can’t imagine I'll have shot anywhere as cool and as full of history as when I shoot in Madrid, so I'm really looking forward to it. 

6. How has having a massive social media following affected your life and career?

• I think it's really only affected my personal life and career positively. It's helped me reach out to people in and out of the business that I would have never been able to connect with before and helped me create some really amazing business ventures internationally. Like my collaboration with Curious Hotels, a chain of really nice boutique hotels around Europe that I work with as a brand ambassador and promotional model, and none of that would have been possible without social media. 

7. If you could live anywhere in NYC, where would you live? What about in the world?

• It would either be in a townhouse/brownstone in the West Village or one of the many beautiful mansions on the Upper East Side...I have a long way to go before I can do that... but I'm working on it! 

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.

6 Ways the Internet Has Changed the Real Estate Industry

According to Pew Research, 90% of Americans under the age of 65 use the internet. Nearly every aspect of how Americans work, shop and play has been impacted by this technology and the real estate market is no exception. Here are six of the ways the internet has changed the real estate market.

Real-Time Updates

When print media, such as the local newspaper, was the primary medium for real estate listings, a listing could only be changed whenever the next copy of the paper was printed, which might be as much as a week in some markets. Most online listings can be updated at any time, making it much easier to modify ad copy that isn't attracting buyers, update the price, announce an open house or let potential buyers know that the property is no longer for sale. 

Whether you choose to work with this commercial real estate marketing agency or do some research online, you will be able to receive real-time updates on properties that fit your needs and preferences. This increased speed of information has made the process more efficient for both buyers and sellers.

Mobile Information

Smartphones allow buyers and sellers to access a wealth of information from almost anywhere. This means that if a buyer is driving around and spots a for sale sign, rather than having to jot the number down and then call during business hours when they get to a landline phone, they can immediately access the price, features and other information about the home on their mobile internet. Mobile internet also makes it easy for real estate professionals to look up information on the fly when showing a home to a prospective buyer. 

Buyer Access to Online Listings

Before the internet, buyers were largely reliant on newspaper classifieds and real estate agents to find out what homes were for sale. Real estate professionals relied on printed copies of MLS listings to look up information for buyers and come up with suggestions. Today, buyers can easily access real estate listings through a variety of online resources. This allows buyers to get an idea of what properties they are interested in looking at and bring a list to their real estate agent, saving time and reducing the chances of agents showing buyers properties that they have no interest in. Most online listings have the price, features of the home, tax information, photographs and other useful information that allows buyers to prescreen a listing, increasing the chances that any home they go to look at will be one they are interested in buying.

Increased Productivity for Real Estate Professionals

The internet has made the process of selling real estate more efficient for real estate professionals. Because it is so much easier to communicate with potential buyers and sellers, the internet has taken much of the footwork out the process. Agents no longer need to get in their car and drive to someone's home to present an offer or get paperwork signed. They don't have to search through ponderous books to look for listings. They can easily take digital photos of properties and immediately put them on the internet for potential buyers to view. They can use the Internet as a Leasing Tool, an advertising medium, a way to pre-qualify buyers for financing and much more.

Beacons

The Internet of Things is a network of interconnected devices that communicate with each other. One of the tools the IoT has brought to the real estate industry is beacons. Beacons are small, Bluetooth enabled devices that can transmit a URL. Whenever someone with a smartphone comes in range of a beacon, they get a notification that a beacon is available and can choose to interact with it. This means that by placing a beacon in a home that is for sale, anyone within range with a smartphone can be alerted that the house is for sale and receive information about the property if they choose to interact with the beacon. This essentially allows a home to sell itself to potential buyers. 

Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms allow real estate professionals to reach thousands of potential buyers for free. Agents can post links to their listings, announce open houses, answer questions and find potential buyers through social media. They can also share photos and videos of properties for sale to entice buyers.

The internet has made the process of buying and selling homes easier and more efficient than ever before. With new advances in technology happening daily this trend is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. 

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.

To buy or not to buy: Decisions when you retire

In a lot of Western countries, there is something of an expectation that we are all meant to get on the housing ladder in record speeds. As it turns out, not everybody joins this elusive club. Or, at least in some cases, some people might join it, but join it very late in the day. It means that they have a big decision to make when it comes to their era of retirement.

Bearing this in mind, today's post is all about summarizing the two options. There's no right or wrong answer when it comes to buying or renting in your latter years - it depends on your individual circumstances. Let's demonstrate this through the following article.

The case for buying...

There is a huge benefit of heading off into retirement mortgage-free and for some, it's what dreams are made of. This is by far and away the biggest advantage of buying a home ahead of retirement, and the fact that you no longer have that burden of paying to live in your house is of huge significance.

There are other benefits that you need to focus on when you make your decision, though. The first is inheritance. This might not be a topic that some people like to think about now, but if you are contemplating leaving anything to your children then a house, due to the way in which property prices historically increase over time, is one of the best gifts you can give.

On the subject of the rising prices of property, let's think about some worst-case scenarios. An emergency might mean that you suddenly require an influx of money, and if you own your home you obviously have this option. You can take out equity against it, and not have to worry about where you can quickly source some money from.

The case for selling...

In truth, the cases for buying are relatively straightforward. This next section is where we throw a few curveballs.

Firstly, is your home in an area which is suited to elderly living? As this infographic by Advanced Dental Care shows, not all areas are equal and a quick dig into data can reveal whether or not your home falls into this category. Then, there's another strand to this process; is the home itself suitable? Again, you may have bought it decades ago when you were in your youth, but is your body able to cope with the stairs and other parts of it which might no longer be suitable?

Another point that a lot of people forget are the maintenance issues. Again, when we are young, these aren't really a big deal. It almost becomes satisfying to cut the grass, paint the walls or do anything else which keeps our home in tip-top, condition. As you age, these become real chores though. Do you want to be left with this aggravation? Or would you just prefer that a landlord takes over the reins and does it all for you?

Finally, let's finish with money. We spoke about having the ability to release equity in emergencies when it comes to owning a home. On the flip side, if you haven’t bought one, there’s a chance that you already have a nest egg ready to use in these emergencies. This is why we said at the top of today’s article that this is really custom decision, where there are no right and wrong answers. Owning a home in retirement might be perfect for some, but other people’s circumstances might mean that it’s just not the right move for them.

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.

The Classic Status Symbol (Private Entry Foyers) Make A Comeback in Condos

The entry foyer that has been a status symbol of the rich in many historic homes is now making a grand return in today's luxury condominiums. In an age of openness and oversharing, ie. Instagram, Snapchat and Instagram, a number of designers and developers are helping buyers reclaim their privacy by reinventing and reintegrating this classic staple. From wood flooring medallions with a basket-weave motif, ash veneer panels, custom-designed concrete walls and more, this age-old concept is being reinterpreted today.

The Symon

At Studio DB's all-new 13-story boutique luxury condo project in Brooklyn Heights, The Symon, the New York-based design firm led by husband and wife Damian and Britt Zunino – who are known for their custom homes and high-end interiors work for a roster of celebrities in New York – accentuated the 59 one-to-four-bedroom residences with custom entry foyers. Residents are welcomed home through large solid panel doors, crown molding accents, eight-inch baseboards and rich inlaid wood flooring medallions with a basket-weave motif. Oversized divided-light windows and custom washed-oak floors fill the homes with natural light and warmth once inside.

 555 West End Avenue

Across the bridge and nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side, 555 West End Avenue offers 13 breathtaking, one-of-a-kind residences with unmatched architectural magnificence from the building's origin as a prestigious private school. The expansive three-to-five-bedroom residences are outfitted with elegant entry foyers, creating the perfect balance between classic Uptown apartment layouts and the dramatic volume and soaring ceilings of a Downtown loft.

180 East 88th Street

Over on the Upper East Side in the coveted Carnegie Hill neighborhood, 180 East 88th Street is an iconic condominium tower offering only 48 graciously-appointed residences with soaring ceiling heights, pre-war-inspired details and stunning views of Central Park. Many of the condominium’s gracious residences have been outfitted with a formal, elliptical-shaped entry gallery. These spaces have been appointed with herringbone flooring from Austria, plaster cove details and wainscoting, and provide the perfect bridge from the exterior’s pre-war architectural inspiration to the contemporary residences.

77 Greenwich

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s “New Downtown,” 77 Greenwich, a new luxury condominium with interiors by the renowned Deborah Berke Partners—the firm known for the interiors at the world’s tallest residential building, 432 Park Avenue,  boast's 90 residences that feature a distinct entry foyer/gallery space lined with ash veneer panels that guide residents to open kitchens and gracious living spaces. The foyer floors are sandblasted/brushed Bianco Mist Quartzite.

100 East 53 Street

And finally, at the new landmark tower by Foster + Partners and developer Aby Rosen 100 East 53 Street, many of the condominium's coveted residences have been carefully constructed to include a grand entry foyer, including the building's limited-edition collection of Downtown-style skyscraper lofts located in the base of the building. Residents enter through a striking oak entry door and then transition into the apartment through the entry gallery, which features architectural concrete walls and diamond-polished, high grade concrete flooring.

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.

Jessica Chestler and Ben Jacobs Join Douglas Elliman

 Douglas Elliman Real Estate,has welcomed Jessica Chestler and Ben Jacobs to the firm, launching The Chestler Jacobs Team based out of the 575 Madison Avenue office.  Jacobs, who is dually licensed, will split his time between New York and Florida and will also be based out of the 1111 Lincoln Road corporate office in Miami Beach.

Chestler and Jacobs have over $350 million of combined sales under their belts.  They will continue to serve the needs of their clientele throughout New York City while also catering to clients looking to invest in or relocate to South Florida.  Chestler and Jacobs bring a keen understanding of the market and over 15 years of experience working with buyers, sellers, tenants and owners to their new role.  Jacobs, having grown up in a real estate family, will contribute his strong background and unique expertise navigating the specific ins and outs of various New York City neighborhoods in addition to those in Miami.  Both come to Elliman from CORE Real Estate.

"We are so excited to have Jessica and Ben joining our team," said Brad Loe, Executive Manager of Sales in New York City for Douglas Elliman. “They have both consistently brought a high level of enthusiasm and professionalism to their individual work and are a great fit for each other and for our firm.”

The newly formed Chestler and Jacobs Team will also include Blanca Stempel and Michael Kahler.  Stempel, a former fashion executive with a passion for real estate and an eye for visual detail, worked alongside Jacobs during their time together at CORE.  A native of Valencia, Spain, Stempel now owns real estate in the Hudson Square neighborhood of New York City and understands the needs of clients looking to call New York home.  Kahler, a creative dealmaker with over 12 years of marketing, sales and sales management experience to his credit, is originally from Dallas, TX and has lived in Manhattan and Brooklyn for the past six years.  Chestler and Jacobs also currently reside in New York – Chestler in TriBeCa and Jacobs in both Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Miami Beach, FL.

"I have always admired Ben’s work ethic and personal character," said Chestler. “He goes above and beyond for his clients which is something I also pride myself on.  I know that we’ll work well together, and we’re thrilled to be embarking on this new phase under the auspices of Douglas Elliman’s excellent reputation in this industry.”

"Jessica is a true pro, always offering innovative ideas and with an unmatched understanding of social media and the future of our field," added Jacobs. “With Douglas Elliman’s established brokerage throughout the country, it was an obvious decision to combine our skills and resources, as well as bringing in Blanca and Michael, in order to service our relocation and investment clients under one brand.”

In addition to real estate, Chestler is passionate about travelling, biking, golfing, and collecting contemporary art.  She sits on the young associate boards of both the Rema Hort Mann Foundation and the Union Settlement as well as the Henry Street Settlements board for their annual Art Show.  In his spare time, Jacobs love to travel, read, play tennis and spend time with his family.

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.

9 Cocktails To Drink On Valentines Day, Even If Your All Alone

Valentines Day, is a day you can celebrate with your partner, your girlfriends (Galentines Day) or even a fine night by yourself. To celebrate the most romantic night of the year we’ve scoured some of the best Valentine’s Day cocktail recipes around. Who says you can’t have love in a drink?

Bananas For You

• 1.5 oz. Santa Teresa 1796

• 1 oz. dry Oloroso sherry

• 0.25 oz. white crème de cacao

• 0.25 oz. Frangelico

• 0.25 oz. Giffard banana liqueur

• 3 dashes chocolate bitters

• 1 dash Angostura bitters

 Stir with ice and strain. Float a very thin layer of banana cream on top. Pour into a Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with banana ash dusted across half the cream float.

---

A Rose by Any Other Name

• 35 mls Rose and Almond Infused Grey Goose Vodka*

• 10 mls Crème de Cacoa Blanc

• 10 mls Rose Liqueur

• Rose Champagne or Prosecco

Stir the Vodka and the crème de cacoa, rose liqueur and vodka. Strain into a flute and top with champagne. 

*Infuse 1 bottle with 4 large tablespoons of dried rose pedals. Add in 8 drops of organic almond essence. Strain the rose pedals after 1-2 days or to taste.

---

Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit + Rose Sprtiz 

Ingredients:

• 1.5oz Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit & Rose

• 3oz Soda Water

Method: Serve in a wine glass with ice and your choice of fragrant herbs, crisp citrus or other fresh fruit.

---

Belvedere Luxury

Ingredients:

• 2 oz / 60 ml Belvedere Vodka

• 0.5 oz / 20 ml Dry Vermouth

• 2 Dash Chocolate Bitters 

Method: Stir all ingredients in mixing glass over cubed ice and strain into chilled coupette. Garnish with two thin truffle slices.

---

Chandon Rosé Is My Jam

• 1 TBSP Raspberry Jam

• ½ oz Simply Syrup

• 1 oz Hibiscus Tea, steeped and cooled

• 4oz Chandon Rose

Method: Add jam, tea and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker and shake. Strain mixture into a flute, coupe or wine glass. Top with Chandon Rosé. Garnish with fresh raspberries for an extra treat!

---

Hendrick’s Gin’s Riviera Rose

• 2 parts Hendrick’s Gin

• 1 part Giffard Pamplemousse

• ½ part Apricot Liqueur

• 1 part Fresh Lime Juice

• ½ part Egg White

Method: Combine ingredients and shake with ice, then shake without ice. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a rose petal.

---

Espresso Martini

• 1.5 oz Volcan de mi Tierra Cristalino

• 1 oz Mr. Black Coffee liquor

• .5 oz Ancho Reyes Roja liquor

• .25 Vanilla Bean syrup

• 1 oz cold brew

Glass: Coupe

Method: Shake ingredients together Garnish: Toasted marshmallow

---

Cocktail Bling

Created by Pam Wiznitzer, Creative Director of Seamstress (NYC)

• 3/4 oz Campari

• 1.5 oz SKYY Vodka

• 1 oz Lemon-infused Cinzano Bianco*

Method: Stir ingredients in mixing glass with ice and strain into a coupe glass over crushed ice. Garnish with edible gold flake and, if desired, Campari on the Rocks candy ring from Sweet Saba

* Lemon-infused Cinzano Bianco: Slice four lemons and let them steep in one bottle’s worth of vermouth overnight. Strain back into bottle and keep refrigerated.

---

The Balvenie’s My Bonnie Lass

Photo and recipe creation by The Balvenie Brand Ambassador Naomi Leslie

• 2 oz Balvenie 12 DoubleWood

• 2 barspoons Berry Preserves

• 1/4 oz Allspice Dram

• 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• 4 dashes Molasses Bitters

• 1 Egg White

Method: Add all ingredients to tin and shake briefly without ice. Then, add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a lemon twist.

---

Bee Mine

Created By: Aberfeldy Scotch Whisky 

• 2 oz. Aberfeldy 12 Year Old infused with Cacao Nibs

• 1 Shot of Espresso 

• ½ oz. Salted Wildflower Honey Syrup

  Infused scotch: Infuse the Aberfeldy 12 with cacao nibs overnight. After 24 hours, strain the liquid. 

  Honey syrup:  To make the honey syrup, mix 2 parts honey to 1 part water then add twolarge pinches of sea salt to the syrup.

• Cocktail: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake long and hard, and finely strain. Serve the cocktail in a coupe glass. 

---

Our favorite listing this week is 508 West 24th Street, Unit 5th Floor, home to NBA Player Carmelo Anthony. The ten-time NBA All-Star, has listed his New York City condo. The home is the largest unit in the Cary Tamarkin designed building at 508 W 24th that overlooks the High Line and is walking distance from world-class shopping and prominent art galleries.

251 East 51st Street, Unit 2M, listed on the market as a Compass "Coming Soon," is a recently renovated, perfect pied-a-terre (and ideal one bedroom for all the rest of us). What truly sets this pad apart from the rest is the dreamy outdoor terrace with endless possibilities and city views. Accessed by the living room and overlooked by the bedroom, this 24x12 outdoor space is an oasis in the center of the Midtown hustle and bustle.

Our last #openhouse roundup will you be checking out this #parkslope home? #nycrealestate #brooklynrealestate #milliondollarlistings #luxuryhomes #OffTheMRKT

DNA Development announced that closings have commenced at 350 West 71st Street, the successful Upper West Side luxury conversion that seamlessly combines two historic pre-war buildings into one stunning contemporary condominium with a classic façade. As construction nears completion, the seven-story building’s 38 elegant residences and bespoke amenities are coming to life, as DNA welcomes its first residents.

Our favorite listing this week is located at One West End, the sculptural glass residential tower designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli within Riverside Center. At $19.5 million, 29B offers 5,302 square feet of interiors space, with four bedrooms, five and a half baths, a media room, lofted library, and a double height great room leading out to a 3,000 square foot terrace with impeccable views.

8 Wines to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Whether you are spending Valentine’s Day alone or with your significant other, everyone deserves the gift of a bottle of wine. Here are 11 wines that are sure to set the mood and make this special day one to remember.

Joseph Phelps

 A 2016 Pinot Noir that offers juicy raspberry and savory spices with notes of cranberry, clove and candied orange peel, guaranteed to impress your date. Retails for $85.00

Dom Pérignon Vintage 2006

Dom Pérignon latest Rosé Vintage 2006 is committed to bringing out the thrilling red characteristics of Pinot Noir, opening with dark notes of spices and coca and followed by the fruity flavors of roasted figs, apricots and candied orange. The latest rosé pairs well with simple, authentic food originating from France, Spain or Italy, playing on the mellow and rich textures which the wine complements perfectly. Retails at $349.00

2016 Solaia

The nose offers powerful notes of plum jam and berry fruit. Perfectly integrated sensations of chocolate and licorice give way on the finish to hints of fresh mint. This vintage recently obtained a 100-point score from Wine Advocate.

Saldo 2017

Deliciously smooth, this dark ruby red Zinfandel is filled with bold aromas of black licorice, black pepper, cherry and baking spice. Its distinct quality and rich palate make it perfect for cold weather sipping and paired alongside Valentine’s Day menus of flavorful red meat and chocolate covered desserts. ($32 SRP),

2016 BV Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

 The latest vintage of Napa’s ‘first cult cabernet’ is bursting with a bouquet of cassis, blueberry, blackberry, violet and wild sage; lingering flavors of dark blackberry, root spice, chocolate and molasses. SRP: $145

2018 SLW Viognier Napa Valley

This wine has racing acidity and a steely minerality which adds to its crispness and complexity. Layers of white peach, hints of lemon grass and raw almond are plentiful on the palate, leading to a long, elegant, delicately floral spiced finish. SRP: $32.00

Bonterra 2018 Rose

Bonterra 2018 Rose celebrates the fresh, lively spirit of the organic viticulture practices that Bonterra adheres to and reflects their unwavering commitment to sustainability and the environment. Honestly, if Bonterra was a person, you would want to date them. Refreshing on its own, but also the perfect accoutrement to a bouquet of roses or a light Valentine’s Day dinner. (SRP: $16, available nationwide and on Bonterra.com)

Rotari Brut Rosé 2014 

Rotari showcases the charming duality of Pinot Noir with a touch of Chardonnay and is filled with intense flavors, delicate aromas, and persuasive perfumes. This sparkling wine is reflective of the Dolomite territory, which is uniquely expressed in each glass. Pop open this elegant, complex offering to celebrate this milestone. 

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.