5 Neighborhood Amenities That Improve Property Values

Although it might not always feel like it, choosing a place to live in New York City involves more than the price of rent. Whether you're looking to purchase a home or snag the perfect apartment, you want to find a location that offers convenient access to all your favorite aspects of living in a metropolitan area. This could mean a place to walk your dog, proximity to your office or a thriving nearby arts scene.

Property values in NYC are closely related to the amenities different apartments and homes provide. That's why you can expect to pay more for an in-unit washer/dryer. However, neighborhoods have benefits of their own, and these features can drive the personal and financial value of a property more than you might think. Here are five neighborhood amenities that boost property values in NYC.

1. Grocery and Retail Stores

Shopping is a part of day-to-day life, but it shouldn't take up your whole day — especially if you just need a few ingredients for dinner. In busy New York City, proximity to grocery stores and retail shops plays a large role in determining property value. Ideally, you should look for an apartment or home within walking distance of a grocer and several other shopping locations.

Although you may struggle to find a neighborhood that includes all your favorite retail spots, try to locate one with the essentials. The ability to pop in for a few items on your way home from work will save you time and make your property more appealing to any future buyers. 

2. Public Transportation

A walkable neighborhood can offer convenient access to many of the places you visit regularly. However, you will still need to take public transportation to get to other parts of the city. In general, the closer you are to a subway line, the more expensive a property will be.

Indeed, property in New York City neighborhoods tends to significantly increase in value after new lines open nearby or existing ones are improved. The Upper East Side of Manhattan has risen in value by 6% since the Second Avenue subway opened in 2017, and the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn has also seen success thanks to its subway line.

3. Gyms and Fitness Centers

If you are hoping to move into a location that will increase in value over time, look for neighborhoods with gyms, yoga studios or recreation centers. You might even want to peek inside to gauge how much of an impact the gym might have on buyers. 

Nice gyms with new equipment are popular with fitness enthusiasts, and recreation centers with pools, tennis courts and other amenities may appeal to families.

4. Restaurants and Coffee Shops

If you're more of a foodie, you may want to look for property in a neighborhood with plenty of dining options. Nearby restaurants and bars could boost local property value, especially if they're trendy. Just make sure to consider how any late-night noise might impact that value and your quality of life.

Coffee shops also dramatically influence property values in New York and across the country. A coffee shop within walking distance provides a convenient place to work and meet with friends, and it can also lead to a 4.5% increase in nearby home values. Starbucks influences surrounding property values the most. It looks like people really do love their coffee.

5. Public Parks

In New York City, a public park allows neighborhood residents to connect with nature and take a step back from their fast-paced lives. Whether you're looking to go for a jog or walk your dog, a park increases property value in a neighborhood. About half of homebuyers are willing to pay 10% more for a home near a park. 

You don't have to own property next to Central Park to benefit, either. There are great parks all over the city. Staten Island, for example, boasts more than 10,000 acres of green space.

What Amenities Matter Most to You?

All these neighborhood amenities can improve your property's value and your quality of life. However, you might also choose a place to live based on other factors, such as an apartment's proximity to your workplace or the neighborhood's overall sense of community.

Each borough and neighborhood in New York City has its unique charms. Do your research and remember that the amenities in an area contribute to the price of rent. Regardless of property value, choose a location that will allow you to truly enjoy what the city has to offer.

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.

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The Ocean Meets the “Sea of Bananas” at Hotel Hacienda de Abajo

Some people want their vacation to be original and memorable; others are looking for unique natural surroundings and the ability to watch the stars at night. Then there are those, who want a relaxing and luxurious experience with no disturbances and those, who want to come back home telling unbelievable stories about the place they have visited. The team of Luxury Lifestyle Awards can proudly announce that there is a place that combines it all — Hotel Hacienda de Abajo, this year’s winner in the category of The Best Luxury Hotel in the Canary Islands, Spain.

Located in the most important agricultural area of ​​the Canary Islands — the historic center of Tazacorte, on the island of San Miguel de La Palma, Hotel Hacienda de Abajo is a rather unusual place. The existing luxurious resort is the result of a careful restoration of an old 17th-century sugar farm. Hacienda de Abajo’s uniqueness has been officially recognized by the Canaries’ Government: the resort became the first “Emblematic Hotel” in the Canary Islands, and an essential part of the land’s historic heritage.

The first thing that meets the traveler’s eye is the unique location: a beautiful coast and turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, magnificent gardens with lush vegetation, and unbelievable starry skies that persuade people to tell them their most intimate desires. In this magical place, it feels like the ocean connects with the sky and the “sea” of banana plants to form a haven of perfect harmony and tranquility.

The resort consists of four buildings, spread about an exotic garden of the former farm. The new buildings have been harmonized with the original design of the sugar farm, which was carefully restored in 2010-2012 by the architect María del Carmen. It is notable that the dominance of sugarcane was replaced, at the end of the 19th century, by that of banana plants. The guests of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo are surrounded by some of the world’s most incredible art objects: tapestries with French and Flemish pieces from the 16th-18th centuries; Chinese sculptures, furniture and porcelain from the Tang to the Qing dynasties; European furniture from the 17th-19th centuries; delicate religious carvings from the 16th-19th centuries, a valuable art gallery with works from the 15th-20th centuries, and more. This is yet another reason why the esteemed experts of Luxury Lifestyle Awards believe Hacienda de Abajo is a unique and outstanding resort, worthy of special recognition.

The guests of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo will not only enjoy a calm and relaxing vacation, thanks to the resort’s “adults only” concept, but will also be amazed by all the luxury that surrounds them, both natural and created by man. From the lavish rooms to an atmospheric outdoor pool with trust-based snacks (guests log in their purchases themselves); from a completely mesmerizing Bath House (Spa) to an opportunity to celebrate a special event in “La Capilla”, an unconsecrated chapel, equipped with audiovisual resources, — the professional team of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo has about every trick up their sleeve.

A perfect vacation should definitely be complemented by perfect food. For this purpose, the exquisite El Sitio restaurant offers gourmet dining at the world-class level. The guests have a chance to learn about the cuisine of the Canary Islands from the best, while enjoying the incomparable views of the Atlantic Ocean. A vacation at Hotel Hacienda de Abajo is definitely an experience, in which nothing is missing.

About Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizing, celebrating and promoting the best luxury goods and services all over the world.

The goal of the company is to connect people with the best of luxury. LLA has evaluated more than 10 000 various goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries and analyzed the results to give you a TOP list of the best of the best in the world. Such world-renowned brands as Chanel, Dom Perignon, and Ferrari were proudly named winners. The victory brings companies status and recognition, global promotion and exposure to an entirely new market of customers.

For more information, please visit: https://luxurylifestyleawards.com/

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150 East 78th Street Launches Teaser Website

150 East 78th Street has officially launched its teaser site. The new ground-up 15-story luxury condominium building on the Upper East Side will offer upscale residences with gracious layouts and an extensive amenity collection for wellness and leisure. Sales are slated to launch this spring. 

credit Hayes Davidson

Designed by the award-winning Robert A.M Stern Architects (RAMSA), 150 East 78th Street features distinctive handset Indiana limestone, patterned brick and ornamental metal detailing, all of which draws inspiration from the nearby historic and landmarked buildings reflecting the tradition of the Upper East Side. RAMSA distinguishes the building from other buildings in its portfolio with deep, rich green metalwork, arched windows and a stunning crown that includes a rooftop terrace framed by archways of brick and limestone. Catch a glimpse of the green metalwork in the below exterior rendering!

150 East 78th Street will feature interiors by AD100 and world renowned New York-based designer Robert Couturier. By the way, it is Couturier's first fully-commissioned residential building! Drawing from his private home commissions for high-profile clients such as socialite Anne Hearst and the Rothschild family, Couturier brings refinement to each private residence, and every public space, including the building's material-rich hexagonal shaped lobby. Each residence will feature inswing casement windows, oak wood flooring and a kitchen collaboration by Couturier and custom cabinet designer Christopher Peacock.

150 East 78th Street will offer 25 three to five-bedroom unique residences, with select opportunities for buyers to purchase adjunct apartments. The project is being co-developed by Midwood Investment & Development and EJS Group and Alexa Lambert of Compass Development will be the exclusive sales and marketing agent for 150 East 78th Street.

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The Rowan, Astoria’s Newest Luxury Condominium, Launches Sales, Opens First-of-its-Kind Sales Gallery

Queens-based developer RockFarmer Properties is pleased to announce that sales have commenced at The Rowan, Astoria’s most luxurious new ground up condominium.  In addition, The Rowan’s first-of-its-kind sales gallery is now open to the public for tours following the sell-out of the building’s first set of homes released for presales.  Since launching its teaser site, more than 1,500 buyers have expressed interest in purchasing at The Rowan as buyers continue to look outside of Manhattan for well-appointed value.

The Rowan’s stunning sales gallery, located at nearby 29-21 21st Avenue, is a first of its kind for the well-established neighborhood just 15 minutes from Midtown Manhattan.  Buyers will have the opportunity to preview a 3D model of the building and use an interactive sales tool to select their residence.  Visitors can also view a built-out kitchen, living room and bathrooms; preview finishes; and see the building’s dramatic oversized windows first-hand.

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RockFarmer knew from the start that it wanted to create the next generation of new development in Astoria.  The quality of design and construction, unique luxury amenities and location make it an incredible value when compared to Manhattan, LIC and parts of prime Brooklyn,” said Stephen Kliegerman, President of Halstead Development Marketing.  “There are only a few projects on the market today that have seen such a strong response ahead of a sales launch, a feat unto itself.  In fact, demand was so high that we needed to move up our pre-sales timeline to accommodate interested buyers.”

Designed by New York City-based DXA Studio, The Rowan features a terraced massing of light gray brick masonry resting above a 210-foot-long glass retail base.  Located one block from the N train at 21-21 31st Street in the burgeoning Ditmars section of Astoria, Queens, the landscape-focused condominium will boast a dramatic wood and glass enclosed lobby that opens onto a lush private sensory garden—a welcoming respite from residents’ daily lives.  Utilizing the site’s incredible light and air, The Rowan has been designed as a modern, amenity-rich condominium development where natural light, organic materials and native plantings intertwine to create a peaceful urban oasis. 

When complete in late 2020, the six-story luxury condominium will comprise 46 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences ranging in size from approximately 425 to 1,857 square feet.  Asking prices for the carefully crafted one- to three-bedroom homes now available range from $695,000 to $2,495,000, offering an attractive option for buyers looking to move to one of New York City’s most established and diverse neighborhoods.

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You Have To See this 16 Room Greenwich Home For Under $20 Million

For those of you looking to expand outside of the city, a stunning new listing from Halstead: 135 Field Point Circle in Greenwich, CT on sale for $19,990,000.

Related: The Top Reasons to Make the Change to Greenwich

The 9,856 square foot home sits on 2.48 acres of land. It is located in the prestigious Field Point Circle Association, which provides a 24-7 guard attended gate house, and a level of privacy that is difficult to attain. It is close in proximity to the water with Long Island Sound views from many rooms. Completed in 2017 by an award-winning design-build firm, this custom home has the scale and proportions to match its surroundings.

Related: These Connecticut Vineyards You Have To See

The first floor strikes a balance between formal entertaining areas, and casual family rooms, with multiple paved porches at the rear, overlooking the over-sized, landscaped rear gardens and pool. The second floor includes a generous master suite with large walk in closet, plus 4 further family rooms, all en-suite. The third floor contains an office / homework space leading to the roof deck and panoramic water views. The lower level includes a large custom bar, and entertaining area with golf simulator, gym area, and guest or staff suite. Parking for 4 cars with discreet entrances on either side of the home. Truly a rare and unique property.

Related: 5 Reasons to Move to Connecticut

The lower level includes a large custom bar, and entertaining area with golf simulator, gym area, and guest or staff suite. Parking for 4 cars with discreet entrances on either side of the home. Truly a rare and unique property.

Related: Where To Eat Next Time Your In Greenwich

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Why You Still Need Sunscreen In The Winter

The days are getting colder and the leaves are changing colors. Fall is upon us which means we will all soon be layering up and be spending our days cozying up by the fire watching scary movies or going outside to go pumpkin picking. The days are going to be shorter which means less sunlight. This does not mean however, that we can skip our use of sunscreen. In fact, this should be part of our routine all year round.

The cooler weather does not affect the UVB/UVA rays that are emitted by the sun all year. Yes, the days may be shorter but UVA rays still pose a threat to skin all the time, even when it is cloudy!

Related: Korean Skincare BE: Your Guide to Flawless Skin on a Budget

Not only does sunscreen decrease the risk of skin cancer, it also helps with anti-aging and premature wrinkles. Regardless of gender, race, and skin type, everyone should be including SPF in their own skin care regimen every single day.

The CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM is recommended by dermatologists:

The Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion is often recommended for people with more sensitive and dry skin:

This neutrogena Clear Face break-out free sunscreen is popular for oily/acne prone skin:

A personal favorite of mine and one that I have been using for years is available at a drugstore near you the La Roche Posay Daily Antioxidant Serum with Sunscreen:

It can be hard to choose what type of sunscreen to use when there are so many on the market. One says it is mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 15 while the other says it is a chemical sunscreen with an SPF of 30. Which one is best for you? It is simply personal preference.

It is important to understand the differences between the two. A chemical sunscreen is known to absorb into the skin which then absorbs the UV rays converting them into heat energy. While a mineral or physical sunscreen lays on top of the skin and reflects the UV rays — this is often seen as the sunscreen that shows up white on the skin (sometimes applied to the nose in movies or shows). While it is recommended that people with acne prone skin use a mineral or physical sunscreen because it less known to clog up the pores, there are still many that trust a chemical sunscreen.

Nowadays it’s easier to incorporate sunscreen to your daily routine. Products ranging from makeup to moisturizers to serums all have SPF in them. These are some recommendations based on skin type and price.

For those with oily/acne prone skin:

This supergoop! Sunscreen and primer is an innovative clear sunscreen that won’t be ashy on people of color and is perfect for those with oily and acne prone skin

DRAFT

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Our Favorite Listing: The Most Expensive Home on the Market in Dumbo

Our favorite listing this week is 168 Plymouth, one of the last loft conversions in New York City. Earlier this month, the storied gem of a project in Dumbo, designed and developed by Alloy (the team behind One John in Dumbo), topped out and Alloy listed Penthouse A, which once listed will be the most expensive home on the market in Dumbo.

A full floor with direct elevator entry, Penthouse A will be listed for $6,850,000 and is a 3,062 square foot home that features 4 bedrooms, a study, 3.5 baths, and over 1,565 square feet of outdoor space spread across 3 distinct outdoor spaces (terrace, courtyard, and roof deck). The penthouse sits on top of one of the two historic buildings that compromise 168 Plymouth originally built by Masury & Sons Paintworks in 1891 and 1921 to house their manufacturing and distribution facilities.

“Penthouse A sits above the Concrete Daylight Factory structure which was originally built by Masury & Sons Paintworks in 1921. The design features oversized windows, restored columns with 12’ plus ceilings and wide white oak flooring throughout. Alloy’s considered design features a mix of modern materials and warm finishes that meld timeless craft with modern technology. One of a kind glass windows on the first floor of Penthouse A open onto a large terrace perfect for taking in the surrounding views, not to mention the rooftop terrace on the second floor of Penthouse A which provides stellar views of the East River and the Manhattan Bridge." Jared Della Valle, CEO and Founder of Alloy Development

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.

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Explore NYC through these Desserts

Briana Gonzalez

With a wide array of dessert shops and patisseries in New York City, often you can be tempted by cookies, cupcakes, and chocolate treats. Maybe this time you want to try something new or go for classic comfort- it’s never a bad time to treat yourself and others to something truly indulgent. This month try any one of these desserts sure to induce a sugar rush.

The Exploding Chocolate Bomb

image via

Quite literally dropped from a foot above your table, this chocolate bomb can be found at De Mole in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Bringing a new spin on classic Latin American/Mexican dishes, Chef Jose Luis Flores, with over 25 years of experience under his belt, specializes in Mole Poblano- a staple dish in Mexico. The Chocolate Bomb is made with Venezuelan chocolate, and filled with homemade ice cream and a collection of sweets like chocolate cookie crumbs, cinnamon-vanilla cookies, coconut custard, fresh mixed berries and edible flowers. The large chocolate sphere is hand painted with edible gold paint.

The Tarte Framboise

image via

Have a sweet tooth? Take yourself to Sweet Rehab, a French Patisserie that creates desserts right in front of its customers. The menu is seasonal and includes both vegan and gluten free options. Using sustainably grown ingredients, enjoy the tarte framboise, topped with raspberries, among many of their fresh desserts.

The Matcha Lava

image via

Try a dessert that hits the spot at The Spot Dessert Bar, currently serving seasonal desserts by iron chef Ian Kittichai. The Matcha Lava is a warm dark chocolate cake filled with matcha ganache, served with matcha green tea ice cream.

S'mores at Parker & Quinn

image credit: Jenna Murray/IGC Hospitality

This s’more is the perfect size for two, made with marshmallow, graham crackers, nutella gelato, and chocolate. Located by Bryant Park in the heart of the Garment District, enjoy a selection of rich desserts after enjoying signature meals that change with the season.

The Big Banana

(Image credit: Jenna Murray/IGC Hospitality)

You can find this big banana at Trademark Taste + Grind, a space that has aimed to pay ‘homage to the strong, independent women ruling NYC.’  The big banana offers a twist on banana pudding and includes marshmallow fluff and brown butter wafers. Also try other desserts like tiramisu pie and brûlée cheesecake.

The Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet

(image credit: Ryan Gleason)

Make a reservation at Boulton & Watt, a rustic eatery where you can enjoy brunch, late night dinner, and signature drinks. On the menu you can find the chocolate chip cookie skillet, a warm and home-y dessert served with a glass of milk. Located on the lower east side, this cookie is baked classically to perfectly satisfy that sweet tooth craving.

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Yabu Pushelberg and GID Development Group Celebrate Design at Waterline Square

On Thursday, February 13th, nearly 50 guests gathered in the residents' lounge of Two Waterline Square to celebrate its striking design by highly-celebrated hospitality design firm Yabu Pushelberg.

Vincent Pedone, Marco DiMuzio, Christine Linsley, James Linsley, Kelly Sullivan, Garrett Gourlay, Michael Gubbins. Pursuit (@agencyinpursuit)

James Linsley, President of GID Development Group, and Glenn Pushelberg, Principal of Yabu Pushelberg, engaged in a lively Q&A discussion moderated by Corcoran's Jodi Stasse. Pushelberg spoke about design choices in the lounge, sharing insight into the firm's inspiration behind Two Waterline Square's residences and shared amenity spaces. 

Following the Q&A, guests enjoyed dessert, champagne and signature mimosas catered by Cipriani, which will be opening its first-ever large-scale food market and full-service restaurant inside Two Waterline Square later this year. 

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Qetaifan Island North, a New Way of Luxury Experience and Qatari Hospitality

When one of the richest countries in the world launches a mind-blowing development of the biggest entertainment destination in the region, this project has every chance to become a globally recognized location. Qatar is going to impress the business and leisure tourists from all over the world with Qetaifan Island North, a magnificent waterfront hub that has already become the winner of Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the category of The Best Luxury Real Estate in Doha, Qatar. This exclusive development will provide a new perspective on lifestyle and hospitality in a global context.

The driving force behind Qetaifan Island North is a real estate development company Qetaifan Projects, which was founded in 2017. The company`s objective is supporting Qatar’s economic vision by building cities of sustainable and intelligent infrastructure.  Qetaifan Projects is a subsidiary of Katara Hospitality, a leading global hotel owner, developer and operator based in Qatar.

The award-winning development is located on the northern part of Qetaifan Islands off Lusail City, a futuristic project aiming to create a modern and ambitious society. As an important part of this ambitious project, Qetaifan Island North represents a new way of life and the country`s future iconic destination featuring unique attractions and sumptuous facilities inspired by the region`s rich nature and culture.

The island spans approximately 1.3 million square meters, 129000 of which will be allocated to the state-of-the-art Waterpark. This is the main attraction of Qetaifan Island North; the theme of the oil and gas industry is complemented by the unique design of the Waterpark`s 21 rides. The most impressive of them is The Icon Tower with 80 meters in height making it the highest water slide in the world. The Tower is located on a small island opposite to Qetaifan Island North. It can be reached by the train that passes by the overwater bridge connecting two islands.

The distinctive sea views will look even more beautiful from the rooms of the luxury hotels surrounding the Waterpark. The lavish hotels meet all the criteria for winners of Luxury Lifestyle Awards. These hotels will provide their guests with true comfort and unique experiences including exciting shopping, spas, gyms, opulent restaurants, cafes and ballrooms. In total, the hotels will offer 350 rooms with capacity of 1500 guests.

The luxury hotels` guests will have an easy access to the retail plaza with food and beverage, entertainment, edutainment and other retail services. There is also the Souq, a unique market inspired by traditions of QAtari culture, overlooking the Linear Park. This park is the island`s main artery, where all zones are connected together. The visitors of Qetaifan Island North seeking for the family-friendly activities can enjoy their time by the artificial Salt Canal linked to the sea. There are lots of community facilities over the canal side, among them shopping outlets, snack stalls, prayer rooms, seating, meeting rooms, game rooms and a kid’s club.

The residents of Qetaifan Island North will experience the luxury lifestyle in its entirety. The area of residential community covers 15750 square meters with 107 sumptuous beach villas with spectacular views of the waterfront. The island`s residents are offered a school, a comprehensive medical center and a mosque.

The family-friendly Beach Club is planned to be the first completed facility of Qetaifan Island North. It is the perfect place for exquisite leisure for the whole family. The grown-ups can have a great time on the beach, in the infinity pool; restaurant, spa and gym are also at their service while the kids enjoy their own special area.

Qetaifan Island North is designed to be a central entertainment destination for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The experts of Luxury Lifestyle Awards are confident that it will be a perfect place to experience an unforgettable leisure and see the best of Qatari culture and hospitality.

About Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizing, celebrating and promoting the best luxury goods and services all over the world.

The goal of the company is to connect people with the best of luxury. LLA has evaluated more than 10 000 various goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries and analyzed the results to give you a TOP list of the best of the best in the world. Such world-renowned brands as Chanel, Dom Perignon, and Ferrari were proudly named winners. The victory brings companies status and recognition, global promotion and exposure to an entirely new market of customers.

For more information, please visit: https://luxurylifestyleawards.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.

The Best Home Goods Deals for New Homeowners

Owning a home is a wonderful achievement. It’s a place of your own that you can furnish to your heart’s desire. However, some of us can get carried away with this step, purchasing every single machine, furniture, and knick-knack that we think might be fit for the house.  

Remember, it’s not cheap to buy a home. In fact, it might be the most expensive item you’ll be paying for every month, if you got a mortgage. If you bought it in cash, it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. On top of that, you also just paid for closing and moving costs. 

To avoid further financial drain, you want to be smart with the goods you buy. Here are some tips to ensure you’re getting the best deals for goods in your new home:

1. Furniture

Most homeowners make the mistake of rushing to buy furniture to fill up their home. These costs can quickly add up and often, it ends up being a waste when you realize it doesn’t really fit the space.

Instead, give it some time. Get familiar with the interiors of your house and determine the type of furniture you really need. The nicest rooms are often furnished with second hand furniture found at thrift shops, garage sales, pawn shops, flea markets, and dollar stores. You can easily get high-quality tables, chairs, sofas, and desks at these places for a much cheaper price.

You can even swap furniture. Try looking for fellow furniture hunters in your local Facebook groups or go to sites that specialize in bartering such as BarterOnly, TradeAway, and SwapRight. 

However, there are some things you absolutely must not buy used. Items like mattresses and pillows should be brand new. A good mattress can be pricey but the payback is better sleep. In addition, you want a high quality pillow that supports your sleeping habits. You might need a pillow to reduce back pain, avoid allergies, or prevent neck pain. Whatever the case may be, you’ll want to take time with these items as you’ll be spending a third of your days in the bedroom.

2. Appliances

Most homes will come equipped with appliances. If it’s a new home, great! The appliances may well be in tip top condition. However, if you’re buying an older home, you may end up inheriting appliances that need repair.

Check appliances like the cooktop, refrigerator, washer, and dryer as you'll be using these often. Get it repaired as soon as possible or consider replacing it. You’ll have the option to buy new or used. Just like furniture, you’ll save a lot of money when you buy used appliances.

If you decide to buy new, ask if there’s a discount if you pay cash. Most stores will allow some room for negotiation. It saves them the hassle of financing and they’re guaranteed to get their money.

3. Home Tools

Home tools can get really expensive. Not only that, you also have to pay for repair in case it breaks down. To save money, consider buying used tools. Search for people in your area that are downsizing. You might just get a great deal buying tools like a lawnmower, garden supplies, and screwdrivers. 

4. Renovations

Get to know your home before deciding to renovate. You may find that a simple change in furniture can make a big difference in how your home looks. If you do decide to renovate, take on one change at a time. Hiring contractors take a toll on your bill, not to mention the supplies that you need to buy for the project. 

If it’s just a minor change such as upholstering furniture or painting the walls, consider doing it yourself. You’ll feel more fulfilled undertaking a project to beautify your home.  

What was the best deal on an item you got for your home? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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.

Luann de Lesseps Attends Slate 20th Anniversary

Last night Slate, which has been a staple on W. 21st Street in Chelsea since 2000, celebrated its 20th anniversary on 2/20/20 with a blowout bash.

Luann de Lesseps Photo Credit - Andrew Werner

Special guests including Real Housewives of New York star Luann de Lesseps, Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice, Jersey Shore star Vinny Guadagnino, Bravo’s Summer House stars Lindsay Hubbard and Luke Gulbranson, former Ms. Venezuela International Luisa Diaz and Mets great John Franco joined The Lure Group CEO and Slate’s owner Aristotle Hatzigeorgiou to toast the momentous occasion.

VIPs were treated to creative cocktails crafted by Liquid Lab NYC and an over the top spread of Slate signature dishes from Executive Chef Darryl Harmon, who also celebrated his birthday that evening.  Contortionists, Fire Eaters, Stilt Walkers, Electro-Robots and Drag Queens performed to the delight of the crowd and DJ Chuckie took to the stage to cap off the night with an epic set, which went till 2 in the morning.

Slate is a massive 16,000 square foot adult playground, which boasts three bowling lanes, private event spaces on multiple levels, a private karaoke room, a BYOB (Be Your Own Bartender) pouring station with 20 adult beverages on tap and a 20-foot slide to get partygoers from the top floor to the ground below without having to lift a foot.  That's in addition to having an arcade, ping pong and pool tables, Skee-Ball, pinball and an 8-player foosball table. Slate also has 100 HD-TV’s in addition to multiple video walls accompanied by a Funktion 1 sound system. 

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Fifteen Hudson Yards Reveals The Skytop

Hudson Yards has announced the opening of Skytop, the latest amenity offering at Fifteen Hudson Yards. Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro with interiors by Rockwell Group, Skytop is the highest outdoor residential amenity space in New York City standing at more than 900 feet in the air.

This one-of-a-kind indoor-outdoor space, at just over 6,000 square feet, was built to accentuate the cloverleaf-shaped curves of the building’s crown. Skytop offers an indoor private dining room that seats up to 18 guests, along with a full catering kitchen, bar and lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows as well as a separate lounge. Outdoor features include an open-air terrace wrapped in an approximately 60-foot-tall glass screen wall featuring 14-foot-tall multi-stemmed white oak trees housed in custom 3D carved wooden planters.

“Skytop is the moment where Fifteen Hudson Yards morphs into its deepest and most dramatic inflection point, so our intent was to take advantage of the tower’s energy and celebrate its extraordinary views. The amenities are conceived of as fluid spaces that open up to the rooftop, creating the feeling of an extension of a penthouse with a vast window onto the city,” said David Rockwell, Founder and President, Rockwell Group.

Fifteen Hudson Yards offers a collection of 285 one- to four-bedroom condominium residences. Related Sales and Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group are the exclusive sales and marketing agents for Fifteen Hudson Yards. You can find more information at LiveHudsonYards.com.

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5 Keto Desserts You Have To Try From Explorado Market

One of my favorite parts about grocery shopping is creating new dishes and quite honestly the desserts section. Since going on keto, this has limited the foods such as fruits and desserts. Following a keto lifestyle sometimes takes away the magic that comes along with filling up my cart with fruits. The controversy over including fruits in the keto diet is a big one and one you have to tackle from every angle.

Having too many sweets like dessert or even fruit, can take you out of ketosis and inhibit fat burning. Fortunately, I discovered Explorado Market a keto bakery and grocery store online, with some of the best keto desserts I’ve ever tried. Best part is you can eat without worrying of breaking keto.

Chocolate Chip Soft Batch Cookies

individually wrapped cookies. (1 serving per cookie) (220 cal per serving: 18g Fat, 6g Protein, 3g net Carbs)   These incredible soft batch cookies are perfect for those on the keto diet. Tested time and time again and found there's no impact to blood sugar (everyone is different, results vary).

Keto Chocolate Chips

Speaking of chocolate chip with only 1 net carb per serving, these Keto chocolate chips are sure to be your new favorite treat. Melts like a dream! Perfect to go with yogurt or your favorite baked good.

Dairy-Free Vanilla Frosting

Perfect addition to all your Keto treatness... With 0 grams of net carbs, this frosting blend is perfect for diabetics and those on the Keto diet. You get 10 servings per tub of this delicious frosting.

Premium Chocolate Keto Nut Butter 

Get rid of those terrible sugar-filled energy packets (too much sugar and it’s not sustainable energy) – get the right energy your body craves with Fat Fit Go. This 10 pack offers a discounted price over buying singles.  These 1oz chocolate nut butter Fat Fit Go packets are the perfect travel companion. Our pro-tip keep them in the fridge for a nice thick consistency.

Cranberry Orange Soft Batch Cookies

Like the chocolate chip cookies, these are perfect for those on the keto diet. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these cookies go great with either nut butter.

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