Our Favorite Listing: A Williamsburg Home With Lots Of Private Space

Our favorite listing this week is 33 Frost Street #2B, a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home currently on the market for $1,699,000. Ari Harkov, Warner Lewis, Marc Schaeffer, The Harkov Lewis Team are the listing agents.

33 Frost is tucked away on a charming tree-lined street in chic North Williamsburg, where homeowners will enjoy a quiet oasis at the epicenter of one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the world.. A central elevator opens into the 2, 3, and 4 bedroom homes, allowing for secure, individual access to the apartment - including a private outdoor space - and a virtual doorman provides modern convenience. A single private garage with ample storage space and four rooftop cabanas are available for separate purchase.

Residence 2B is a half floor unit with two bedrooms and a home office, 2 bathrooms, and a private backyard. Direct keyed elevator access opens up to an open great room. The expansive deep kitchen showcases a gracious display of tilework from the floor inlay to the herringbone backsplash, all accented by under cabinet lighting. Chefs will love the top tier appliances by Wolf, Bosch, Bertazzoni, and Fisher & Paykel, as well as the spacious quartz countertop and breakfast bar that look out onto the living room. The enormous window in the living room overlooks the backyards and gardens of the block and brings in an abundance of fresh air and natural light.

A convenient guest bedroom is located off the living space and features sliding doors to a Juliet balcony and a large walk in closet. The guest bathroom showcases a spa-like soaking tub with rain shower fixtures and a stunning marble vanity. The adjacent windowed home office provides the space for an additional guest room, nursery, or home office. The master suite is bright and spacious with oversized windows and access to a gracious private balcony. The en-suite master bath features stunning tile, marble dual sink, and a glass-enclosed shower.

33 Frost Street #2B also has access to the unit’s own private outdoor space. World-class restaurants such as Lilia and Llama Inn bookend 33 Frost, which conveniently lies between both the L and G train at the corner of Metropolitan and Lorimer and Bedford Avenue. McCarren Park is also only a couple of blocks away. The park has a weekend farmer's market, a brand new running track and soccer field, a playground, an expansive outdoor pool complex, state-of-the-art tennis courts, and dog runs.

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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What To Drink At Cinco De Mayo When You Can't Leave Your Home

Chances are that (unfortunately) many of us will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo at home this year without visits to our favorite bars or restaurants. For those of you want to celebrate the holiday but stay in the comforts of your home below is a list of cocktails for you to make and everything you need to have celebrated the holiday without dealing with people from the outside world.

Celebración Punch Created by Milagro Tequila Ambassador, Jaime Salas

• Milagro Silver, 6 Parts

• Guava Nectar (pink), 12 Parts

• Ginger Simple Syrup, 2 Parts

• Lime Juice, 3 Parts

Combine all ingredients in a punch bowl and mix. Top with Club Soda or Prosecco. Garnish with Lime Wheels and White Edible Flowers

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Miami Cocktail Co’s Organic SPRITZ canned Margarita is crafted with 100% blue weber agave wine paired with organic lime, orange, elderflower and ginger juices, and the Paloma SPRITZ is that same agave wine lightly paired with organic grapefruit, hibiscus, and ginger juices. Organic wine and juice – that’s it! Both are only 4.2% ABV and contain 110 calories per can with no sugar added. The fun colored cans will brighten any home bar or fridge! If a spritz isn’t your thing, Miami Cocktail Co. also bottles the Small Batch Original Organic Copper Pot Margarita, made using blue agave tequila, pure organic key lime juice, and a hint of Valencia oranges. Pour over ice, salt your rim and garnish with a lime, and your Zoom party will never know you didn’t make it yourself from scratch!

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Cucumber-Coconut Margarita

• 1.5 oz PATRÓN Silver

• 2 oz Coconut water

• .5 oz Fresh lime juice

• .5 oz Simple syrup

• 7 Thin slices of cucumber, 3 for garnish 

Method: Combine all ingredients (including 4 of the cucumber slices) in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously with ice to chill. Strain onto fresh ice in a highball glass. Garnish with remaining 3 cucumbers.

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New Amsterdam Tropical Spiced Mule

• 1.5 oz. New Amsterdam Vodka

• .5 oz. Cinnamon Whiskey

• 1 oz. Pineapple Juice

• Top w/ Ginger Beer

Pour into an ice filled steel thermos or mule mug and stir together to combine/chill

For the beer lover you can drink the Stella Artois Cidre Sangria Punch created by Omar Flores, Casa Rubio (Dallas, TX), Serves 8 people.

• 1 honey crisp apple – cored and sliced thin

• 1 cup white grapes cut in half

• 1 cup white grape juice

• 1 lemon cut into wheels

• 3 orange peels

• 1 dash vanilla extract

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 cup apple sauce or non-alcoholic apple cider

• 1 tablespoons sugar

• 3 sprigs of mint

• 4 12-ounce bottles Stella Artois Cidre

Directions:
In a large punch bowl add apples, grapes, grape juice, lemons, orange peel, cinnamon, vanilla, apple cider and sugar. Mix thoroughly and allow to macerate for 30-45 minutes. To finish the punch, add cold Stella Artois Cidre, ice and mint. Serve immediately.

Avión Blood Orange Margarita

• 1.5 oz. Avión Silver

• .75 oz. fresh blood orange juice

• .5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice

• .75 oz. agave nectar

1. In a cocktail shaker add all ingredients with ice. Shake and strain. Serve over fresh ice and garnish with an orange twist.

Serve with Late July's NEW Cantina DIPPERS

While you're enjoying these cocktails you can try and make homemade salsa created by Late July Snacks CEO & Founder, Nicole Bernard Dawes

Ingredients:
3-4 medium-large heirloom tomatoes, chopped/diced to 1/4″
½ medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small bunch of cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
1-2 limes, juiced
Salt to taste
 
Optional ingredients: Mango, avocado, tomatillos, sweet corn, black beans

Directions:
1. Prepare the tomatoes, onion, garlic, cilantro and jalapeño. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and stir well. Juice the limes and add salt to taste. Consider adding other optional ingredients or prepare a second version using mango as a base. Can prepare up to an hour ahead.

Balcony and Terrace Decor Ideas for Your NYC Apartment

When you are an urban dweller, it’s challenging to get enough of the great outdoors. You know that you need to get your sunshine vitamins, but sitting on a stoop gets uncomfortable after a while. Why don’t you transform your balcony or terrace into a fresh air oasis where you can unwind and dream? This space will soon become your favorite room in the house. 

1. Add a Small Outdoor Kitchen 

You probably don’t have sufficient space to put in a deluxe outdoor kitchen, but you can do a lot with a small space. For example, if your kitchen window opens to the area, can you add an extended shelf to make a countertop? This arrangement gives you a spot to place condiments and buns when you fire up the grill. You can also install a counter along the inside of your railing and add some barstools to make an alfresco dining spot. 

2. Protect Your Privacy 

Even if you adore your neighbors, you don’t necessarily need spectators when you lie in savasana after a fresh-air yoga session. Why not install some fencing to create a private oasis from the world. You can go for natural designs, like bamboo fencing that features warm shades that complement nearly any decor. You can even plant the rapidly growing stuff to make a jungle-like privacy screen. 

3. Make Your Garden Grow 

If you don’t have a garden yet, why are you still waiting? You don’t need to spend much money at all to get a little harvest going at home. Learn how to save your seeds from the organic produce you buy from the grocery. Tomatoes, peppers and beans make superb choices for the novice gardener. 

4. Light It Up 

If all you use to illuminate your space is a bare bulb, you’re doing yourself a disservice — and attracting moths. Get strings of globe or fairy lights at your local discount store to make your balcony resemble a wonderland. Draw inspiration from the way cafés create similar effects. You can also get a constellation globe and enjoy views of the Big Dipper on your ceiling even when light pollution makes the real thing invisible to the naked eye. 

5. Cozy Seating 

Folding metal chairs gripe your back something awful after only minutes. Invest in quality patio furniture that you can sink into and relax. A hammock always makes nap time a miniature vacation — just imagine you’re sunning yourself in Tahiti. If you find that the collection you want is out of your price range, you can reupholster old outdoor furnishings you find at a thrift store. As natural fabrics tend to fade with the weather, stick to synthetic blends for longevity.  

6. A Little Entertainment 

Finally, while you can’t crank up your stereo without raising complaints from the neighbors, some background music sets the tone for meditating or kicking back with a cold one. Invest in a pair of wireless Bluetooth speakers to bring your playlist outside. If you have a wall that’s protected from the elements, you can hang an outdoor TV so that you don’t miss game day while you take in the fresh air. 

Make Your NYC Balcony or Terrace Into a Retreat 

You don’t have to head to the park to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine in the city. Transform your NYC balcony or terrace into an oasis and enjoy the best of outdoor urban living. 

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.

Al Fresco Party Hosting: 4 Tips To Ensure An Amazing Experience For All

As spring gives way to summer and the mercury soars, hosting parties where al fresco dining takes centre-stage becomes an incredibly popular choice. There’s something about eating outside that is undeniably charming; whether it’s a barbecue for a small group of friends or a birthday party for a huge number of guests, dining outside always adds something extra special to the experience.

To ensure you can make the most of the delights of any outdoor dining experience you host this year, keep the following tips in mind… 

#1 - Include food options you don’t need to cook 

Al fresco dining is often preceded by al fresco cooking; most commonly on a barbecue or grill. However, this type of cooking can be rather intense, as you’re removed from your usual cooking environment and don’t necessarily have everything you need to hand as readily as you would in your kitchen. It’s therefore preferable to opt for a balance of food that you cook and food that you either pre-prepare or order in; choose one main dish to cook during the event, and then explore options such as salads, soft pretzels, and canapes to round out the menu for your guests. 

#2 - Address the insect threat 

Insects can ruin an al fresco dining unlike almost anything else; the persistent buzz of both flies and wasps is both distracting and potentially unsanitary, and you’ll naturally want to make sure only your invited guests are able to enjoy your food. 

#3 - Take account of issues related to light 

There are two light-related issues that can be problematic for an al fresco event. The first is too much light; bright sunshine sounds wonderful in theory, but can be highly problematic in practice due to the threat of burning, so make sure there’s plenty of shade available for your guests while they eat. On the other end of the scale, light can be problematic in terms of there being too little, especially for events held in the evening; solar lights, firepits, and mains-powered LED lights are all options that can make sure everyone can see both their food and one another if dining after sunset. 

#4 - Always have backup plans just in case of rain

Even if you have checked the forecast and you’re as good as certain the weather will hold up, it’s still advisable to think the unthinkable and strategize as to how the party can go on even if the weather does turn. Being able to move an event inside is perhaps the best choice in this regard, so it’s worth readying the interior of your home just in case this becomes necessary. In particular, have a backup plan for how you will prepare food if you do have to decamp indoors; an indoor grill can be an excellent option for your main meal in such a scenario. 

In conclusion 

Eating al fresco is always a joy, but with the tips above, you can be confident you’ll make the most of your outdoor dining every time you have the chance to experience it. Enjoy! 

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 Most Popular Paint Colors for NYC Apartments Right Now

Every year, different color trends take over apartments around the world. We've embraced bold accent walls and pops of color, but what's popular right now? If you're ready to spruce up your place, take a look at these tried and true paint shades. They're a mix of trendy tones and cult favorites – perfect for a New York City space.

Here are the most popular paint colors for city dwellers.

1. Soft Whites

For the most part, apartments tend to stick to neutral hues. That's no surprise because renters don't often stay put for too long. As a result, soft whites, like Benjamin Moore's China White and Snow Leopard by Portola Paints, remain excellent choices. When tenants move to a new apartment, bright neutrals allow them to style their new space as they wish. Plus, natural woods and metals work well with muted colors – and those elements are huge.

2. Dark Blues and Greens

Many higher-end apartments turn to bold shades to stand out from other residences. For example, designers love Club Navy by Ralph Lauren Paints because it exudes luxury and style. Everyone knows that affordable New York City apartments aren't humongous – and stark, deep shades can make those areas feel a lot larger than they appear on paper.

3. Fun Oranges

When companies remodel an apartment, several choose to emphasize the home's entryway. If you move to one of these newly renovated buildings, it's not unusual to see brightly painted front doors. A lot of people love orange, as it's a lively shade that complements contemporary features and makes dull areas pop. Apartment dwellers who prefer walk-up properties could add bursts of orange to their interiors instead.

Benjamin Moore's Orange Sky mixes orange and yellow to produce a gorgeous tone. Blood Orange by Sydney Harbour Paints would be a vibrant alternative.

4. Earthy Reds and Browns

A lot of apartments stay away from bold tones – but if you're a New Yorker, you know that brick accent walls aren't hard to find. As a result, red tends to be a trendy color. You could add removable wallpaper to mimic those rustic bricks, but red cabinets and other small touches work as well. Chocolate brown and red wine shades seem to be more on-trend than not this year.

These hues emphasize warmth and energy, which couldn't be more perfect for a cozy New York City apartment.

5. Bold Grays

Like dark blues and greens, plenty of apartment dwellers love bold gray accent walls. They're not overly obnoxious – which could be a turn-off for potential renters. Instead, they provide enough character and style for everyone. If you don't want to commit to navy blue, for example, Magnolia's Prairie Smoke leans toward blacks and browns. Therefore, it matches any aesthetic!

Plus, different shades of gray work together perfectly. One room can feature a dark accent wall, while another could use a lighter shade throughout. Like a soft white, gray remains popular for NYC apartments. When you choose to move out, your landlord may not even mind that you painted!

These Are the Best Shades for Any NYC Apartment

Everyone has their own specific style. That said, you can count on these shades to remain popular throughout 2020 and beyond.

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.

5 Hampton Homes to Escape the City

Briana Gonzalez

Whether you are looking for a summer getaway home or are planning on moving closer to the beach, these Hampton homes offer a change of pace and escape from bustling city atmosphere. Known for it’s mix of rustic rural scenery and ocean-side activities, the Hamptons are a group of towns, villages, and hamlets where many people tend to go to in the summer months to unwind. These Hampton Homes below are all from East Hampton - one of the Hampton’s only two townships.

1 High Point Rd, East Hampton  

image source: outeast.com

Price: $1,495,000

This newly renovated 4 bedroom and 3.4 bathroom contemporary designed home has rustic elements from the fire place, white oak flooring, and even the winding staircase. The sliding glass doors let in a lot of natural lighting and allows you to overlook the open outdoor space, with a brand new deck equipped with a Jacuzzi. Located close to Maidstone Park, Haven’s Beach and Barnes Hole Beach.  

31 Rivers Rd, East Hampton

image source: douglas elliman

Price: $2,499,000

Imagine as though you were in a luxe resort with this 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom East Hampton Home. The outdoor dining and lounge area - with outdoor gas burning fire place- is perfect for summer months hosting parties for watching the sunset. The double height ceiling and wood burning indoor fireplace is perfect to enjoy all year round.

32 Hedges Banks, East Hampton  

image source: corcoran.com

Price: $3,495,000

Soak in the amazing panoramic views from the modern waterfront overlooking Gardiner’s Bay. The open concept allows for natural lighting to soak through every room. Equipped with a fireplace, outdoor pool, dining area and kitchen, the atmosphere is a contemporary yet cozy getaway.

40 Wireless Road, East Hampton

image source: sothebyshomes.com

Price: $4,450,000

Less than a mile from East Hampton’s Main Street, 6 bedroom and 7 bathroom home has the esteemed distinction as an “inhabitable work of art” - a home custom built by seasoned designers and considered art. The minimalist design in accompanied with references to Greek and Roman architecture. Walls of glass and oversized windows allow light to shine among the wood floor and create shadows among the arcades. The dining room table seats 14 or more people, with ambient lighting above and alongside the master staircase, in the hallway, and under the kitchen island as well. An extra wide staircase leads to the master suite with a sunken bedroom and an arch through the master dressing room. Equipped with an entertainment space, a guest suite, wine room, and home gym, this home has ample outdoor space and offers solar panels, and high efficiency boiler and water heaters for Eco-friendly sustainability.

43 Settlers Landing Ln, East Hampton

image source: outeast.com

Price: $2,999,999 

This traditional style East Hampton 6 bedroom and 6.5-bathroom home has an authentic barn style outdoor aesthetic with a modern interior. The vaulted ceilings and fireplace are covered in clear cedar, and the entertaining area expands into an open concept barn-like space with similar high ceilings. The master bathroom has amenities like a walk-in shower and a soaking tub. Accompanied by ample outdoor space, the backyard has an outdoor pool surrounded by green landscapes to create an outdoor oasis. 

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 New York real estate market has not gone anywhere

Nada Rizk

New Yorkers are known to be forward thinking and resilient –– and this applies to the city's real estate. While we are definitely in a current market pause, and will probably continue to be in one until the situation calms, the Covid-19 outbreak hasn't fully stopped purchases that were already underway from being completed and we continue to market some available properties. As everyone adjusts to this global pandemic, we do not know what the new norm will be once the Coronavirus settles, however, there is a strong indication for market activity. We have been communicating with clients––from investors, to local residents––and it seems that so far, people remain committed to buying properties in New York. None of our buyers and sellers have expressed an interest in changing their plans.

There is a strong foundation for a market recovery

We expect to see a delay in our usual real estate Spring peak seasons due to the city's lockdown and global restriction of travel, but there is every indication that the city will still have an active real estate season. Transactions that were in progress have remained on track and the market report (for the months of Jan-March) which came out in the midst of New York's quarantine, pointed to many more deals being made, with sellers willing to adjust their prices and buyers interested in seizing these opportunities. Interest rates will remain historically low. Traditionally, the success of the stock market and low unemployment rates tend to favor sellers. This past year, these were at opposing ends prompting some buyers to seize this unusual occurrence of a robust stock market coexisting with a strong buyer's real estate market.

It will remain a buyer’s market

We feel that when we return to business it will remain a buyer’s market. Buyers who have been on pause with their search will be eager to move forward and sellers who have had a property sitting on the market will be just as eager to sell. Everyone will be anxious to move forward.  Buyers will be motivated and looking to take advantage of opportunities in a market that continues to offer low interest rates, high inventory and realistic pricing.

Joanne Green

We anticipate a lot of activity due to pent-up demand, but we don’t think that will translate to higher prices, just more accurate pricing and deals being consummated. There may be opportunities in new development as developers continue to offer incentives.

What the market will look like

While buyers looking for a primary residence are unlikely to buy their new home sight unseen, they are reevaluating their new home needs given the current situation and preparing a list of properties to view as soon as possible. There will always be real estate needs – relocation, expansion, downsizing, etc. We expect there to be a lot of activity and deals being made.

New Yorkers are resilient - they like to move forward as we’ve seen after other setbacks we’ve experienced. We have adapted quickly to a new way of working despite everything changing. We have managed to continue our lives, work, school in a different way but know everyone misses their old lives and are eager to regain a sense of normalcy and move forward.

Nada Rizk and Joanne Greene are a top producing team at Brown Harris Stevens.

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.

Our Favorite Listing: A TriBeCa 3 Bedroom Soon To Be On The Market

Our favorite listing this week is 111 Murry St. residence #44A in TriBeCa, soon the on the market, it hs3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms asking for $6,495,000.

Located on a transfer floor of the building with ceiling heights 18" higher than other residences in the building, #44A is a residence that exudes scale, height, view, and luxury. At just under 2,000 square feet and with three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, the corner home enjoys jetliner views that wrap from river to river, encompass the entirety of Manhattan, and stretch to the Atlantic Ocean and Westchester.

Shared by only one other apartment on the landing, the entry to the home is highly private. After entering through the gracious foyer, the open-plan feel immediately greets you with corner views and light. The chef's kitchen, designed like the rest of the home by AD100 interior designer David Mann, is open to the living and dining area and has fully vented top-of-the-line appliances and finishes. Each bedroom is gracious and enjoys a different perspective of the view, and each has their own en-suite bathroom clad in marble and limestone. 

The master bedroom is replete with multiple walk-in closets for ample storage and an enormous and graciously appointed master bathroom with double vanity, soaking tub, and oversized stall shower, all with stunning northern views of the city.

Herringbone-style white oak wood flooring outlines the residence, and it also boasts automatic shades, a full-sized vented washer/dryer, and heated floors in all bathrooms.

111 Murray is a new height in global luxury. The building offers 157 residences over its 800 feet of height, with architecture by KPF, amenities by David Rockwell and landscape architecture by Edmund Hollander. The building offers over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities including full-time concierge and resident manager, fitness center by the Wright Fit, 25-meter pool, plunge pools, hammam, private Dry Bar, children's playroom, teen room, lounges, catering kitchen, patisserie with daily breakfast and coffees, valet parking, and multiple outdoor spaces and gathering areas. 

Ian Slater at Compass is the listing agent.

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

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Considerations When Planning a Driveway Paving Project

Assessing the state of your home’s overall appearance and deciding what to spruce up, pare down, eliminate, or add is part of the equation before listing residence for sale. The parking and garage area are among the first things prospective buyers will see. Here are considerations when planning a driveway paving project.

Budget and Materials

Driveways can be paved with gravel, stained concrete, asphalt, stone, or brick. Each has benefits and drawbacks, but cost will probably be your main determining factor. Each has benefits and drawbacks, but cost will probably be your main determining factor. Gravel is the cheapest, while brick and stone are costly. Professionals should install concrete, asphalt, and stone or brick pavers. However, some experienced DIYers may get away with creating a concrete drive on their own. Nowadays, you can find a wide range of concrete tools including the big blue easy float online so if you are thinking about taking on your driveway paving project yourself, doing some research can help you to plan your next steps.

Maintenance

Different materials need various types of maintenance. For instance, tarmac often develops potholes and other damage over time, so having a reliable tarmac contractors available for upkeep can be very useful.

Think about the climate in your location. While gravel is cheap and relatively easy to install, it’s a headache for snowplows. It can also develop potholes. Concrete is easier to plow, but can develop cracks after repeated rounds of freezing and thawing. Asphalt can survive snowplowing but must be re-sealed every few years. Asphalt, concrete, brick, and stone all could stain, while gravel kicks around and you’ll have to sweep it back into place and replenish it from time to time. Think about how much time and effort you are willing to invest in keeping a new driveway looking nice while you think about listing your home.

Style, Design, and Fit

It’s usually not a good idea to make your house look way out of range of the other houses in your neighborhood. An expensive brick or stone drive looks odd when surrounded by gravel and concrete drives on either side and across the street. A gravel drive looks a bit, shall we say, rustic next door to stone pavers. You can add a little personality to your driveway—a brick or stone edging adds a little interest—without looking like you intend to overprice your house. Additionally, blacktop driveway paving is often an affordable option that complements various architectural styles, providing a polished look that integrates well with neighboring properties.

If your driveway is in front of your house, it should integrate nicely with your gardens and walks. Think about the practical matter of pulling in and out of the driveway. A lazy lane is easier to back onto than a busy, four-lane, divided street. If you have the space, your driveway design might accommodate a t-shaped area as a way to turn around. If you have a one-car garage but two cars, one of those cars will need a pad to the side of the drive to keep out of the way of the car that lives in the garage. Limited space limits your design options, but if you have the room, curves are more interesting than straight lines.

Drainage and Sustainability

Many newer paving materials are permeable to allow rainwater to soak through. Some types of paver installations allow decorative, low-growing herbs, grass, or moss to populate the spaces between blocks. If permeable materials won’t work for your installation, or even if they will but you get a lot of rain, you must consider proper drainage. The drive should pitch gently away from the house to allow runoff into a trench drain, slot drain, catch basin, or swale, and from there into a storm sewer or other acceptable drainage area. Some newer or expanded homes have garages on the lower level and driveways that slope down. Proper drainage is critical in such installations.

Upping your home’s curb appeal may not require planning an entirely new driveway paving project. Concrete might get a fresh look with a good power washing, and a professional paving company can re-seal asphalt and make it look new.

Wine 101: 3 Key Things Every Wine Lover Should Know

It’s always a good time to educate yourself on the things you love. Whether you want to learn more about your favorite language or your favorite drink, there’s always more to learn. If you love the taste of Rosé or the way that bottle of Pinot Noir pairs with your steak, then it may be a good idea to learn more about why your wine is the way it is. To help you on your way to deeper wine knowledge, take a look at three things every wine lover should know!

What Does It Take To Be A Wine Expert? 

Knowing a great deal of information about wine isn’t as easy as you’d imagine. The romantic and inquisitive journey to studying wine can bring you historical and cultural importance, and, most importantly, a job title. Some people even take up wine courses to expand their knowledge on the field. Certain individuals around the world call themselves as wine experts, wine connoisseurs, or sommeliers. 

A sommelier is known as a wine expert that typically works in a fine dining restaurant. They’re sought for their compelling knowledge, and experience with wine tasting and selection, service, storage, and food pairings. If you consider yourself a wine lover, you can take your interest further and obtain a sommelier certification. 

The Court of Master Sommeliers introduced four levels to becoming a certified sommelier, from Level 1 to 4 Sommelier. Before qualifying for a sommelier certification for a higher level, you’ll need to first possess a certification for the preceding level. To practice a wine-related career in a renowned food establishment, it’s best to get a certified Level 3 Sommelier or Advanced Sommelier certification. The advanced level proves to be the most challenging next to the Master Sommelier certification, as only 14 students pass this evaluation annually.

By pursuing sommelier certification, you’ll be able to broaden your knowledge about theoretical wine knowledge, including the history, geography, and type of grapes used for every wine. Also, you’ll be immersed in the following wine-related activities: 

• Wine tasting and service

• Wine decanting

• Choosing the right wine bottle price range

• Assisting guests in navigating wine menus

• Learn proper wine serving temperatures

• Achieving a standard five-ounce wine pour

How to Store an Open Bottle

If you don’t finish a bottle of wine the day you open it (which is probably a good thing) then you need to make sure that you’re storing it properly. Many people shove the same cork back into the opening while others opt for store-bought wine stoppers. These are good options, or you can even go with plastic wrap and a rubber band! Either way, you want to keep air from leaking into the bottle.

That said, you also need to pay attention to the temperature you’re storing the wine at. Though red wine shouldn’t be served chilled, it should be put in the fridge to slow down the oxidation process.

• Red wine: Stored at 57–64 °F

• White wine: Stored at 46–50 °F

• Champagne or sparkling wine: Stored at 41–44 °F

• Rosé or dessert wine: Stored at 52–55 °F

The Reason Behind that Dry Mouth

If you’re a fan of red wine, but don’t quite understand why your mouth dries out after a few sips, then you need to do some research on tannins. Long story short, they are compounds that exist in grape skin and stems that release into the wine. They bind with the proteins in your mouth and add to that drying out sensation. That’s why, when you pair a tannin-forward wine with a nice slab of red meat, you don’t notice that dry mouth sensation as much—it’s binding to the protein in the meat rather than the protein in your mouth. When you know about tannins, you’ll have a better idea of what to pair with your favorite bottle of red.

A Few Tricks on Chilling Wine

Though you shouldn’t chill red wines, your bottles of white wine, champagne, and most dessert wines taste better and showcase more flavor when they’re chilled. Though you may feel tempted to pop the bottles in your normal fridge, those temperatures might be too cold and end up seeping the flavor out. You can pop the bottles in a wine fridge or you can try out some of these awesome chilling techniques!

• Chill the wine with frozen grapes—they won’t dilute the wine like ice cubes will.

• Put salt in with your ice bucket—salt reduces the freezing point of ice and lowers the temperature of your wine bottle.

• Chill Champagne with wet paper towels and then put it in the freezer for 5–10 minutes.

These are just a few of the important things every wine lover should know. There’s much more out there—you just have to take the time to look!

10 Best Tech Gifts for Mother's Day

Briana Gonzalez

If you’re looking to send the mom in your life a gift this Mother’s Day, take a look at these innovative and personalized tech gifts. Regardless of her personality - whether she enjoys fitness, gardening, fashion or enjoys a more classic and sentimental gift- these gift options are small ways you can show her how much you care and appreciate everything she does daily.

Spinning Heart Messenger

With the heart box, up to 20 people can send love notes and quick messages to the wooden digital box. Change the message daily and the heart spins to let them know a sweet message is waiting for them. Available for $99.99.

Cooluli Skincare Mini Fridge

Perfect for the beauty-loving mom in your life. Through temperature control, most skin care products need to be kept at a certain temperature to ward off bacteria and prolong shelf-life. Available for $139.99.

Bissell Smart Purifier

Gift mom this air purifier that is chic and compact so she can place it anywhere in the house! Looks almost like a speaker and can make air cleaner by filtering allergens like dust, pollen, and pet hair. Available for $329.99 here.

Aero Garden

Perfect for the gardening or foodie mom, you can grow up to 6 different herbs, vegetables, or flowers all year long- no sun or soil needed. The contemporary design is perfect and compact enough to keep in your kitchen or inside space. Available for $139.99 here.

Unwind Live Well Gift Set from Modern Sprout

here.Help Mom relax this Mother’s Day through the Unwind gift set, designed with lavender aromatherapy tools and equipped with a sleep mask to help her sleep. Available for $50.00 here.

The Smart Mirror

Looking for something for the fitness loving mom in your life? With the smart fitness mirror, you can have certified trainers from the country's top fitness studios provide motivation and live feedback all personalized for you in the comfort of your own home. Also create customized playlists while you work out. Available for $1,495.

Infrared Heating Pad

hereBring the spa to the mom in your life with the Infrared Heating Pad. It uses deep penetrating Infrared Rays to warm your muscles, allowing you to completely unwind and relieve stress. Available for $149.99 here.

Fit-Smart Yoga Mat

This smart-yoga mat is self rolling and comes with built in yoga routines powered by Women’s Health. As you sweat your grip improves because of the top layer and the bottom layer sticks to the ground easily. Designed for sustainability, this mat is eco-friendly as well. Good for the environment and you. Available for $89.95.

Ember Temperature Control Smart-Mug

Perfect for the coffee or tea loving mom, the temperature control mug keeps your drink at the exact temperature you prefer for one hour and you can select your personalized LED color. Available for 79.95$.  

Digital Photo Frame

Gift Mom something sentimental this Mother’s Day with The Sawyer Digital Photo Frame from Aura Frames lets you share photos from your iOS or Android device to the frame with the user-friendly Aura Frames app. Each photograph is displayed with automatic color correction and light balance enhancing each image. You can cycle through photos and change from portrait to landscape. Available for $249.99

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.

Bring the Performing Arts Home with these Virtual Live-streams

Briana Gonzalez

As drawn out as the days are indoors, it is a privilege to be able to have extensive resources at hand to help keep us occupied, safe, and able to support our communities in any ways we can. Local theater and various performing arts being no exception. These centers bring people together, naturally, inspiring us through a combination of music, fantasy, and creativity through performers dedication to their art. If you find yourself bored or have some spare time; below are a few performances you can live-stream from home.  

The Metropolitan Opera’s Nightly Met Opera Streams

image source: metopera.org

Every day the Met will showcase a different encore presentation from their Live in HD series, available for free, from 7:30 p.m. EST until 6:30 p.m. the following evening (in case you couldn’t catch it at the show time).  The streams are also available through the Met Opera on Demand apps for Apple, Amazon, and Roku devices and Samsung Smart TV.  

Feinstein’s #54BelowAtHome

image source: 54below.com

In addition to showcasing many upcoming performers for the next few weeks, the line-up consists of a few past performances in their archive as one-time only events on YouTube. Visit their website for upcoming schedule of live-streamed events.

BRIC Brooklyn’s Stay Home with BRIC 

image source: bricsartsmedia.org

Support the leading presenter of free cultural programming in Brooklyn by tuning in to BRIC’s live-streams available on their instagram as well as their website. This virtual series includes artist interviews, musical performances, dance parties, while giving light and reflecting the diversity encompassing NY. Tune into their virtual poetry slams on April 20th and 27th or create a dance party at home with Brooklyn’s virtual DJ party on April 19th.  

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.

Must Read Luxury Stories in Douglas Elliman’s Spring/Summer 2020 Elliman Magazine

Briana Gonzalez

Annually, Douglas Elliman releases Elliman magazine across the country for the spring season. This year due to the current climate, in effort to maintain the same accessibility, the latest issue of Elliman is free digitally. As we continue to social distance within our homes, the Spring/Summer 2020 issue revitalizes the spirit, through the focus on creative lifestyle ideas reflecting the outdoors and the summer sun.

image source: https://www.elliman.com/elliman-magazine

Able to turn the pages like a print copy, the magazine engages the reader in captivating images and stories of Douglas Elliman’s portfolio of resale, new developments and rental properties. Fill your home with the feeling of spring through tips of recreating lush floral arrangements (Flower Power, pg.5) or get inspired to add Pantone’s color of the year -Classic Blue- throughout your home (Rhapsody in Blue, pg. 13). Follow the quest of becoming a Master Sommelier (Grape Expectations, pg. 8) or get captivated by the cover story on a chic La Jolla estate on the sea (Curves Ahead, p.14).

For Elliman markets nationwide, the Elliman magazine incorporates a representative column entitled: My Neighborhood, written by a long-time resident. This issue features guides to NYC’s East Village; The Pines (Fire Island) and East Hampton on Long Island; Rye, New York; Carbondale, Colorado; Montrose, Houston, Texas; South Beach, Florida; and Venice Beach, California- with an international My Neighborhood column from Pienza, Italy. 

The print edition will be available in May, however you can read through the pages of the official digital copy here.

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 To Navigate In The Current Market

Barbara Fox

After 30+ years as a residential real estate professional, I thought I’d experienced it all – but then along came this unprecedented pandemic. Nevertheless, while we are certainly in unchartered waters now, there are some relevant takeaways from what I’ve learned navigating other uncertain markets such as the post 9/11 period and several business recessions. Throughout it all, I’ve witnessed the strength and resiliency of New York City, and its residential market invariably bounces back.  Please keep that in mind, buyers and sellers, along with the following points during these difficult current times.

Buyer Demand 

Prior to the March order to shelter in place, our spring sales market was showing an uptick in activity for the first time in over a year.  There were abundant buyers in need of new homes and poised to purchase at that time, and sellers had become more realistic in their asking prices. Then, of course, activity came to a screeching halt in March.

I believe that once the city is back up and running, the pent up buyers’ need or desire to purchase will resurface. Those buyers who were poised to purchase before the pandemic will have had sufficient time to browse listings online and set their wish list during this period.  Having spent an inordinate amount of time hunkered down in their current homes, buyers will have acquired more insight into exactly what their home needs should be going forward. Once restrictions ease, I envision them picking up the hunt for the right property in earnest.  

Sellers Keep Calm 

First and foremost, I don’t believe there is any benefit to sellers removing a property from the market during this period. With “days on the market” having been suspended since March on listing websites, there is no real downside to keeping a listing in the public eye for interested browsers. Once showings are activated again, I advise sellers against rushing to lower their asking prices. In the negotiations that ensue, anxious sellers who need immediate deals will have to be willing to take what they can get.  But as activity ramps back up, we should see a surge of pent-up buying needs and as more buyers are looking for properties, and as demand increases, prices will begin to firm up.  So, don’t panic, this business standstill will end.  Our market has endured many downturns, but eventually life resumes.

As far as listing new properties, my advice is that now is not the optimal time.  It will definitely be better to hold off until restrictions ease and properties are again available for showings.  Take this time now to prepare your property – clean it up, declutter closets and cabinets, etc. – so that when the market resumes, you can put your property’s best foot forward. 

About Barbara Fox

Barbara Fox founded Fox Residential, a boutique real estate firm specializing in the sale of Manhattan’s most upscale residential properties, in 1989. Fox Residential Group currently has 30 agents skillfully assisting buyers and sellers in all boroughs of New York City. 

Barbara provides expert guidance to clients based on her unrivaled knowledge of Manhattan’s housing inventory, in-depth understanding of shifting market conditions, and savvy negotiating prowess. She is an active member of the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), serving on its Residential Board of Directors and as co-head of its annual fund-raising gala event.

A North Carolina native, Barbara resides on the Upper East Side of Manhattan with her husband and a menagerie of dogs and cats. She is the founder of WOOF Dog Rescue, a nonprofit organization which rescues and rehabilitates homeless dogs and cats from the New York City shelters and then finds them permanent, loving new homes.

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.

First-Time Home Buyer? Don't Start Your Search Without These 3 Tips

Preparing to purchase your very first home can be an exciting time, and for good reason. This is a step toward putting down roots, toward more financial stability, and maybe even a more serious phase in your current relationship. But before you get too ahead of yourself, make sure you're equipped with the right knowledge to make your first home purchase go off without a hitch. Here's what you need to know.

Know Your Market

It's easy to brush this off as part of your real estate agent's job. But truthfully, it's just as important for you to understand the market you're trying to make a purchase in. Say you lived in Hawaii and wanted a house in Maui. If you aren't aware that almost 45% of homes sold in Maui go to out-of-state buyers, you might go into your housing search unprepared for that complication. Even in markets that typically don't cater to vacation home buyers, there may be certain trends that could make or break your home buying experience. Looking at factors like the market demographics, past housing trends, and local institutions can give you a better idea of what kind of challenges you might face looking for homes in any particular area. If you're not sure where to begin, working with your real estate agent can help you get a better idea of what kind of market you're getting into.

Determine Your Budget

There's almost nothing more exciting than looking at beautiful homes. But before you get attached to the prettiest house on the block, you need to determine just how much house you can actually afford. This means determining how much you're willing to put forward as a down payment, as well as what your monthly budget will look like after you've made your purchase. And before you settle on an ideal monthly mortgage payment and move on, make sure you're leaving extra room in your monthly budget for things like HOA fees, taxes, insurance, and the like. Even security system services need to be factored in. When you consider that police respond to upwards of 38 million alarm activations annually, it might be something worth setting money aside for. Ideally, you want these things to take up no more than 25% of your monthly budget.

Ask the Right Questions

When you're touring different homes, asking questions is a must. But more than that, asking the right questions is a must. It's easy to ask about when the building was constructed and what the neighborhood is like, but that information won't tell you what kind of issues you could be inheriting with your purchase. As an example, almost 50% of homes in the DC area didn't sell the first time they were listed. Don't you think it would be beneficial to know why? Make sure to come in with a keen eye. Look for stains on the ceilings and floors, make note of any strange smells, and check different items for signs of disrepair. And if you're at a loss for questions, make sure you include the following:

• How long has this house been on the market?

• When was the roof last replaced?

• What is the reason for selling?

• What's the condition of the flooring under the carpets?

• How often has this property been sold?

When in doubt, make sure you're asking these questions during any house tour. They can give you some excellent insight into the condition of the house you're looking at. In addition, the answers might alert you to a hidden issue the previous owners didn't describe in the listing.

When you're purchasing your first home, it's important that you don't leave anything up to chance. Good research, great planning, and a willingness to ask some tough questions can help you make buying your first home a good experience.