Last Night Martha Stewart x Belvedere Vodka Own World Cocktail Day with Quality over Quantity Initiative

Last night, Belvedere Vodka launched Quality over Quantity, a U.S. initiative to inspire mindful consumption and celebrate the brand’s all-natural philosophy and quality stance with an immersive mixology session with renowned lifestyle expert, Martha Stewart.

Guests joined Martha and Belvedere Global Education Manager, Alice Farquhar on Belvedere’s Instagram channel (@belvederevodka) to learn more about the initiative, mix up cocktails, and try their hand at creating the new superfood Belvedere Berry Zest cocktail. The half-hour session offered many light-hearted Martha-isms

Martha posts on Instagram the Drake “Switch” challenge featuring her Silver Saber Bespoke bottle tagging Drake himself and Snoop Dogg to join in with her!

The Quality over Quantity initiative is motivated by the values of the Belvedere brand, to be transparent and honest in making a lasting positive impact on the environment. Made from nature, Belvedere has introduced its newest range of quality, all-natural, superfood cocktails. Now more than ever, consumers are looking to brands that are authentic and passionate about nourishing the natural character of the earth and the people who live on it.

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COVID Vacation Cancellations: How to Deal With Disappointment and Plan For Future Trips

The coronavirus pandemic has had drastic effects on how we live, work, and socialize. And while the health risks of COVID-19 are probably your main concern right now, you might also be dealing with the fallout of business and school closures, event postponement, and even vacation cancellations.

It might seem frivolous to be focused on your inability to take a trip. But if you'd been saving up for an island getaway or a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, having your plans canceled due to pandemic can make you feel angry, depressed, and helpless. You might be wondering how to pull yourself out of that rut or whether you can recoup any of the expenses from the trip you never got to enjoy. You may even be wondering when you'll be able to plan a post-pandemic vacation. Let's talk about why you shouldn't feel guilty for being disappointed or asking for a refund -- and how long you might need to wait before vacationing again.

Refund or No Refund: That is the Question

First, let's talk about whether you might be entitled to a refund for some of your travel expenses. According to a recent study, 82% of U.S. businesses that fail have cash flow problems. Not surprisingly, many Americans are experiencing cash flow problems of their own right now; while millions have been laid off, other business owners who are staying afloat are having to make major sacrifices and depend on government aid to do so.

As a result, any refund you can obtain will probably help your financial situation. It's best to wait until the date of your trip gets closer, as outright cancelations from an airline or hotel may result in a refund. You'll generally fare better if you personally aren't the one to initiate the cancellation. Rather than cancel out of fear, wait and see whether your reservations will be canceled by the carrier or hotel. You'll need to check the individual provider's policies and cross-reference them with FTC guidelines to make sure you're doing everything possible to get money back. It's helpful to know what these companies are required by law to do before making contact with them about your trip. The more you know, the better position you'll be in.

You might not get so lucky, however. Some companies may offer credits or reimbursements, which can be a way for these brands to stay afloat during this time. If that's the case, you might have to take what you can get. You might also want to check with your credit card company. Since the development of synthetic polymers exploded in the decades following 1940, we depend on plastic for everything from travel gear to the cards in our wallet. Your credit card company might actually offer some kind of cancellation coverage.

Although COVID-19 cancellations aren't covered by most travel insurance policies, you never know. Approximately one in six Colorado drivers operated their vehicles without insurance in 2012 -- and passengers who actually invest in travel insurance are even rarer. If that doesn't work, you might be able to request a discount from your travel provider for a future trip. That could come in handy if you're required to accept a credit or reimbursement.

One word of caution: remember that the person you talk to on the other end of the line is a human being who is likely very overwhelmed with the influx of angry callers. Although the situation is certainly frustrating, these individuals are doing the best they can in an unpredictable situation. Wait times may be long and answers may be dissatisfactory. Remind yourself that millions of others are experiencing the same issues and that customer service centers weren't set up for this kind of crisis. You may truly not be entitled to a refund, depending on the circumstances -- but a calm and kind attitude can go a long way in a stressful situation.

Cancellation Blues: You're Allowed to Feel Sad

Whether or not you're able to obtain any kind of refund, you're probably going to feel disappointed that your trip couldn't happen as you planned. You might have been looking forward to your getaway for months or saved up all your PTO to manage a long weekend away. Coupled with the fact that you can't go to restaurants, go shopping, or see your friends during this time, it's easy to feel down in the dumps.

You might even feel guilty about being depressed over your canceled trip. After all, thousands of Americans have died from coronavirus already. Millions have lost their jobs. Graduations and weddings have been canceled. Births have happened without the support of loved ones. Being upset over a canceled trip to the Maldives or to Disney World might seem trivial.

But while it's important to maintain a healthy sense of perspective, it's also okay to grieve over these canceled plans. In fact, it's probably the best thing you can do. Trying to deny and minimize those feelings will only make you feel worse. Yes, recognizing your privilege is important -- but so is mourning a trip you never got to take due to circumstances beyond your control. There will certainly be other vacations in the future, of course. Still, it's okay to give yourself time to be angry or sad. It's only natural.

Ready to Plan Ahead: How Soon is Too Soon?

Once you come to terms with the fact that your vacation won't be happening, you might be looking for a means of escape. Planning a vacation is one of the best things for your mental health; in fact, data has shown that the benefits you reap from the planning process can be more pronounced than the once you experience from the actual vacation itself.

But of course, you won't want to risk planning another vacation that's destined for cancellation. Although one survey found that 72% of Americans are already making plans for their next vacation, a separate survey found that nearly half of Americans have already canceled their summer travel plans for this year. In other words, it's probably not looking good to take a trip in July. Some experts are recommending that travelers wait until at least the fall and early winter of 2020. Others may urge individuals to wait until disease experts have given the all-clear and all aspects of the economy have opened up (and have stayed that way). It really depends on what you're comfortable with and how travel might be impacted at your departure and destination hub.

Speaking of, you'll probably want to stick closer to home for your post-pandemic vacay. Domestic trips are definitely going to be the better way to go, as we don't know what international travel will look like in the coming months. Some people are even choosing to drive, rather than fly, and to go to a more familiar location to gain more control in an uncertain situation. You'll also want to consider your lodgings and accommodations before you book. For example, you should explore cancellation and postponement policies and assess options for self-sufficiency (like an in-room kitchen and fridge so you can avoid a buffet or crowded restaurant). While businesses will likely be open again by that time, they might be dealing with limited capacity and will likely be taking more precautions than before. Find out as much as you can about your airline carrier, hotel, and other businesses you plan to visit before you book and ask questions about how they plan to keep visitors safe.

And if you don't yet feel comfortable planning your next vacation? That's okay, too. You might not feel financially confident enough or you might be dealing with major stresses at home or at home that could impede you from leaving any time soon. Many museums and other tourist attractions have made their offerings available online, so you can enjoy a little escape from the comfort of your own home whenever you need a break.

While a canceled trip is undoubtedly frustrating and upsetting, we can acknowledge that loss and keep the bigger picture in mind. Eventually, we'll be in a position to start traveling again. Until that time, it's important that we stay home and do everything we can to keep our families and our neighbors safe. The more effectively we do that, the better position we'll be in to get back to normal.

Using Your Tax Return on Your Home

The COVID-19 pandemic is not the only major event that working Americans should concern themselves with. Tax season is underway, and while the deadline is April 15th in most circumstances, it has been extended to July this year due to that pandemic. There has even been talk of a payroll tax cut to help business and households during this difficult time. Either way, if you have filed your taxes, you may have received some money, and you can invest it in your home if you so choose. If you have filed your taxes, you may have received some money, and you can invest it in your home if you so choose. If you need helping filing your taxes, you can speak to a credentialed tax expert online whether you're in New York City or anywhere else in the USA. If you are a business owner, you may have also undergone an audit, which can be done in more than one way. Perhaps the IRS audited you by mail, or you visit an IRS office in person, or a field audit is performed (the IRS visits your place of business) -- the three main types of tax audits. Assuming that you are in good financial shape, how can you put that money to good use?  

Fresh Plumbing

Your home has a number of utilities in it that must run smoothly, and that certainly includes water, both to receive fresh water from the public utility and sewage disposal. What might go wrong with your plumbing? Often, your pipes, sinks, and showerheads will develop leaks, and this dripping water will add up fast. If your shower head is leaking just 10 drips per minute, that calculates to 500 gallons per year (that's enough for 60 loads of dishes in a typical dishwasher). In fact, statistics suggest that all leaking American homes combined waste an incredible one trillion gallons of water per year. Leaking water will pad the water bill, and this loose water will stain the drywall, spur mold growth, and pool on the floor or in the basement. Also, old toilets, sinks, tubs, and showerheads are not water efficient, and are padding your water bill even if they aren't leaking.

So, you can spend some of your tax return money on a plumber who can diagnose and fix any issue with your plumbing, from a backed-up sink to a leaking bathtub faucet. A plumber will fix or replace any leaking pipe to prevent leaks or water sprays, and they can also recommend new showerheads, toilets, and tubs that are more water-efficient, and install them if asked to. Such new features are an up-front expense, but they pay for themselves over time with savings, and they look nice the whole time.

Improve Or Build A Home Office

Home offices have existed for years, but in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are taking on new significance. Some experts even say that home offices may become the new norm after the pandemic ends, and whether or not they're right, it may be a smart idea to invest your tax refund money this way anyway. Home offices are popular and practical for many reasons. For example, they don't require any commuting, so that saves you time and takes a car (and its air pollution) off the road. A regular office is also rather noisy and dirty, and the noises make it difficult to concentrate on phone calls while dirty air, carpets, and doorknobs contribute to sick day rates. You dodge all of that by working at home, where the environment is clean and quiet, but you will need to fully furnish that office first. If you couldn't afford that earlier, maybe you can now.

Current technology allows working professionals to conduct business anywhere, from their homes to a chartered jet to a hotel room, and you can easily take advantage of that. Designate a room to be your home office, and get the right furniture in place, from a computer desk and swivel chair to filing cabinets and shelf units, and set aside room for a printer or fax machine, too. You will need a PC or a laptop with good video chat services and a reliable internet connection, so you can send and receive files via email and Cloud data storage alike.

With a proper webcam and microphone, you can have a virtual presence in any meeting, and this saves a lot of time and money that would be spent on traveling somewhere in person for a meeting (and cuts down on pollution). You will need either a wireless adapter or an ethernet cable to connect your computer to your home's router and be sure your device is well connected to the printer and fax machine. Make use of binders and folders for printed documents and organize them, and ensure that your device has proper virus protection software. Virus protection programs do cost money, but that's worth it if you can shield your PC from viruses that try to steal, corrupt, or delete files and personal information of yours.

Kitchen Remodeling

Home remodeling is very skill-intensive and requires the hiring of a crew of contractors, and if you can afford this, then you can totally remake one or more rooms in your house to refresh the entire thing. About one in three home remodeling jobs includes the entire house, and the kitchen and master bathroom are popular targets for remodeling in particular. After all, a clean, fresh, and well-stocked kitchen is the perfect place for cooking and serving food (if you have no dining room), and remodelers can upgrade or replace just about anything you ask them to.

For example, you can spend your tax return money on workers who will sand down and refinish your cabinet doors, or replace them entirely. The old countertop can be removed and replaced with a tough, attractive model with no scratches or burns or stains on it, and you can hire plumbers to have a brand new sink installed, too. Flooring experts can remove old tiles and put down new ones, and your old appliances such as the stove or fridge can get replaced with clean, modern models that have more features. This is a good investment, too, since it boosts the property's value when you put it on the real estate market. Kitchen and master bathroom renovations can yield an ROI (return on investment) as high as 70-80%.

It may be tempting to spend your tax return money on a vacation or a new car, but if you redirect your money to your house, you can make it a much more practical and comfortable place to be, and that investment will pay off for years to come.

How NYC Developers Are Giving Back

While the city is dealing with COVID-19 we are seeing a number of developers across NYC giving back to their local neighborhoods and assisting in the relief effort throughout the City, helping out healthcare workers, local residents and businesses and their own employees who continue to work.

Some, like CIM Group, have donated hundreds of N95 masks from their closed construction site to hospitals, others like F&T Group and Rockefeller Group are supporting local restaurants and donating meals to nearby residents, and still others like the LeFrak Organization have taken a unique position and contributed thousands of dollars to a fund created in appreciation for their building staff who continue to work and keep their residents safe during this time.

F&T Group courtesy of AiA

LeFrak Organization

The LeFrak, Fisher and Olnick families, who make up the ownership of Gateway, are matching contributions to a Go Fund Me page organized in appreciation for building staff at Gateway, the Battery Park City residential complex. Created by residents of the development, the Go Fund Me will provide e-gift cards to express thanks and support for Gateway staff who continue to work during the pandemic. Residents have currently raised over $15,000 for the fund to support Gateway staff—including doormen, security personnel, maintenance workers and porters—and Gateway Residential Management will match donations dollar for dollar, up to $50,000.

The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria

Since opening its doors in 1931 in the midst of the Great Depression, Waldorf Astoria New York has stood the test of time as a coveted New York institution. Some of New York’s most famous recipes were also created, or rumored to have been created, at the Waldorf, including the namesake Waldorf Salad, Red Velvet Cake, Eggs Benedict and Thousand Island Dressing.

Waldorf Astoria New York touched on that food history to create an Instagram campaign to support God’s Love We Deliver, partnering with social media food influencers to create a traditional take on three of the Waldorf Astoria’s most famous dishes - the Waldorf salad, a Rob Roy cocktail, (a direct descendant of the famous Manhattan cocktail,) and the red velvet cake. Check out the campaign on Instagram. Waldorf Astoria New York has pledged $25,000 toward matching donations to God’s Love We Deliver—Please use this link for your donation to count twice.

River Park Brooklyn

River Park Brooklyn partnered with Operation Feed Brooklyn, an organization providing regular meal deliveries from local restaurants to those who need it. With hospital cafeterias closed, healthcare workers are struggling to find resources to feed themselves while working hard all day. At the same time, restaurants are also struggling: to stay in business and to support relieved or furloughed staff.

River Park's first meal donation was prepared by Mile End Deli and delivered to the Maimonides Medical Center. Their second meal donation came from Cobble Hill's Henry Public Saloon to the NYU/Bellevue Juvenile Justice Mental Health Team at Crossroads Juvenile Center. 

75 Kenmare

Proudly perched at the intersections of four distinct cultural epicenters - SoHo, NoHo, the Lower East Side, and Little Italy - 75 Kenmare has always admired the spirit of their beloved neighborhood NoLita. Uniquely charismatic, artistically charged, and an enigmatic destination they're lucky to call home. 

To support their neighbors during these difficult times, every two weeks, the team at 75 Kenmare will be partnering with different local eateries and donate those meals to the heroic doctors and nurses helping fight COVID-19 throughout the different downtown hospital. For the first dropoff, 75 Kenmare partnered with Slice Out Hunger to donate pizzas from their local favorite Lombardi's to the incredible team at NYU Langone.

F&T Group

F&T Group — the prestigious Flushing developer behind game-changing mixed-use projects One Fulton Square, Queens Crossing and Tangram that have redefined the neighborhood — has teamed up with Asians in America (AiA), a charitable organization dedicated to increasing social services and community activism among Asian Americans founded by Democratic Assembly candidate Steven Lee, to purchase and deliver over 1,200 meals from Flushing’s most beloved restaurants to those on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. F&T Group is proud to have found an opportunity to support their restaurant tenants while also giving back to their community. The real estate firm paid for the first 1,200 meals all prepared and delivered from the restaurants at the company’s mixed-use properties One Fulton Square and Queens Crossing, including eats from TKK Fried Chicken, Spot Dessert Bar, Nanxiang Xiao Long Bao, Guan Fu Sichuan, Hope to See You, PappaRich Flushing, and Szechuan Mountain House. The food was sent to workers at the 109th Precinct, Flushing Hospital Medical Center, New York-Presbyterian Queens and the local fire departments. F&T is working with AiA in an effort to continue delivering meals to first responders and expanding their outreach to serve individuals and families who cannot afford or are unable to access fresh food at this time.

CIM Group

New Line Structures and CIM Group donated 350 N95 masks from their Front & York development in DUMBO to Mount Sinai West hospital to assist in the relief effort and provide health care workers with personal protective equipment. CIM Group is exploring additional initiatives to support residents and businesses in DUMBO and New York City.

Rockefeller Group

NoMad’s new Rose Hill tower was quickly up and running with virtual tours and demonstrations and has been conducting regular “virtual open houses” for large groups of real estate brokers. Rose Hill’s developer — the historic Rockefeller Group of Rockefeller Center fame — is using the funds that would typically be allocated for “regular" open houses and is supporting first responders and neighborhood retailers. For example, most recently Rose Hill partnered with NoMad's Bourke Street Bakery, and instead of feeding 60 hungry real estate brokers at an open house, Rockefeller took the event budget and had the shop bake and deliver 60 care treat packages to the heroes at nearby Bellevue Hospital. Rockefeller Group and Rose Hill will continue to help other neighborhood businesses and first responders at least twice a week.

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.

Real estate operates on one of the most basic of all economic principles, supply and demand

Ian Slater

Typically when looking at New York City, throughout recent history, demand has remained relatively unchanged (save for blips of more international demand, demand for different types of product, or shifts in taste) whereas SUPPLY has been the most major issue. Countless articles have been written about the “oversupply” of luxury residences in Manhattan and Brooklyn, with speculators saying that we will have a dropoff in pricing because so many developers will be holding so much luxury product as we charge into the 2020’s. 

What we are seeing now is a very interesting shock to the system, where demand has essentially halted for a very short period of time. We don’t know precisely when or how it will pick back up. 

There are stories out of China and the Far East that buyers are “revenge shopping” and demand for apartments and homes is now exceeding pre-crisis levels for a short time, and supply can’t keep up. And there are arguments made in NY, by myself included, that supply will likely face a shock within the next couple of years because of a lack of more development (banks likely won’t finance it, developers will not be able to finish projects, etc.). But now there is also the glaring issue that demand for apartments and homes, particularly in cities, may be adversely affected for the short term. 

Regarding pricing, we know that New York is resilient and will stabilize and grow over the long term. Plain and simple. What we care about is the short term and how this will affect pricing over the upcoming quarters. I want to share some data and stories from my own work right now.

SUPPLY:

• Number of apartments on the market in Manhattan alone right now is down about 31% from typical levels this time of the year. That is crazy. Sellers have removed their product from the market and brokers are holding back their typical spring listings. 

• Developers might not introduce product for a while, or not be able to build it, causing a larger supply crunch.

DEMAND:

• Demand at this exact moment is down very low, because of the basic difficulties to transacting. Even WHEN somebody is ready to transact, many buildings are not allowing showings, and the city has still deemed real estate showings non-essential. San Francisco just extended their lockdown until June 1; I would be surprised if NYC didn’t follow suit.

• Online traffic on the WHOLE is down just over 10%. For my own listings though, it has been stable. Inquiries for virtual tours has climbed, and international interest in NYC has grown (because of people sniffing deals). 

• People who were not buyers before have become them. I am 28. Most of my immediate peers are not buyers or hadn’t thought about it. But they are not planning to leave New York, most of them have not lost their jobs, and with interest rates low and a perception of prices dropping, more attention has turned to buying.

So what will this likely cause? It has the potential to be a whole big nothing. According to studies run by Zillow, national prices are expected to drop 3% due to coronavirus. To put this in perspective, from 2008-2012, prices dropped 30%. In New York, they dropped only 11%-- so take ⅓ of the drop in ‘08, and can we expect only a 1% drop? But, I do expect because of sheer fear and shakiness, prices for buyers will drop more than this in the extremely short term (Q2). 

The other thing to think about in the short term is opportunity on the SELL side to be noticed. A WSJ article today points that many high-end sellers are choosing to put their homes on the market because there are simply less of them. Think about how much easier it is to get noticed when over 30% of the competition is gone. Will you field low offers? Yes. Will you face some hurdles in showings? Yes. But do you have a better opportunity to “stand out” if your property is special? Probably!

Nobody has to have completed Econ 101 to understand simple supply and demand. But digging into it and understanding the short term and long term effects takes a bit more thinking. 

Ian Slater is the Founder of the Slater Team at Compass and can be reached at slater@compass.com or 646.645.8192

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Compass: Continues Accelerated Agent Growth, Hires Christopher Covert

Compass,has announcedthat Christopher Covert has joined the firm. Covert is known for his aptitude in interpreting market data, providing his clients with sound counsel to secure the best deals - from modern and historic homes to waterfront properties. 

Christopher Covert

"Chris is a forward-thinking entrepreneur who we are so excited to have in the Compass family," said Rory Golod, President, New York Region. "We believe he will continue to do amazing things here with access to our technology platform and suite of services."

Covert joins Compass on the heels of the best month for organic agent growth in the company's history. Other recent big hires in the New York region include Mark Leventhal, Maria Lanzisero, Donna Spinoso-Gelb, Shelley Scotto, Angela Dooley, and Nick Colombos.

All agents joining Compass at this time are welcomed with a seamless and personalized virtual onboarding experience that comprises the use of innovative tools such as the Enboarder platform. 

In recent weeks, Compass has launched new digital tools to enhance the way agents operate including an exclusive marketing suite, Virtual Agent Services. It includes enhanced 3-D staging, virtual open houses, and live postcards - each enables agents to optimize how they engage with their target audiences in highly customizable ways. 

"The real estate business has been changing, and the COVID-19 outbreak has only accelerated the transformation in how we live and conduct business," said Covert. "I feel that Compass is distinctively positioned to pivot into the future of the industry, and the future is now."

Prior to Compass, Covert was a top-performing agent at Saunders & Associates, and before he entered real estate, he had a 20-year career as a Creative Executive in Film, Television, and Music. 

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Luxury Condo's With Insta-worthy Libraries

Alexandra Reconco

Amenities of all kinds exist in all of the newest luxury condos around New York City but most of them do not have the luxury of having a library. A library actually enhances the sophisticated feel of these luxury condos by offering residents a chic space to study with classical and interesting books to read. Now you won’t need to go study or read in a public library but now you can do all that at the luxury of your own building.

The Chatsworth

The Chatsworth, one of the most iconic and prestigious buildings on the Upper West Side, offers residences a sophisticated library and business center. Designed by Pembrooke and Ives this space creates an intimate atmosphere for lounging and relaxing and perfectly captivates the historical and luxurious legacy of The Chatsworth. There are also double sliding doors which can be used to divide the room and duplicate the space into two areas.

The Shephard

The Shephard, located at 275 West 10th Street, has been thoughtfully redesigned, reengineered, and totally renovated to become one of the finest and most special residential buildings in Manhattan. Residents can enjoy the beautiful paneled library which comes with a carefully curated book selection by publisher Assouline. The library space also opens up to a beautiful garden with outside seating, perfect for a mid-day read.

One57

This luxurious condo rises to over one thousand feet above midtown Manhattan with South-to-North views of Central Park. Along with an extensive list of amenities, One57 offers an exclusive Resident’s Lounge, designed by Thomas Juul-Hansen. This incredible space has a curated library, an upholstered billiards table, and a 24-foot aquarium. Residents can utilize this space to quietly read or study in the comfort of their own home.

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Join Our Team: Editorial Internship Opportunities at Off The MRKT

Are you passionate about real estate, events, food, and more? Off The MRKT is looking for enthusiastic editorial interns to join our dynamic team. This is your chance to kickstart your career in real estate journalism and gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, exciting environment.

Kickstart Your Career in Real Estate Journalism:

Our editorial internship program is designed for individuals who are eager to dive into the world of real estate and lifestyle journalism. You'll have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects, contribute to our digital content, and learn from experienced professionals in the field.

What We Offer: A Comprehensive Internship Experience:

At Off The MRKT, we're committed to providing our interns with a well-rounded experience. You'll be involved in various aspects of journalism, from researching and writing articles to attending events and networking with industry professionals. Our goal is to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in journalism.

How to Apply for an Editorial Internship at Off The MRKT

If you're ready to take the first step towards an exciting career in real estate journalism, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter to Jeremy@offthemrkt.com with "EDITORIAL INTERN" in the subject line. Tell us why you're interested in this opportunity and what you hope to bring to our team.

Joining Off The MRKT as an editorial intern means becoming part of a team that's at the forefront of real estate and lifestyle journalism. Don't miss this opportunity to develop your skills, build your portfolio, and make valuable industry connections. Apply today and start your journey with us!

Best Luxe Homes in Greenwich Connecticut

One of the oldest towns in Connecticut, the coastal town of Greenwich is only a 50-minute train ride away from NYC. If you are looking to find a change of pace, relax on one of Greenwich’s four beaches on the Long Island Sound or find yourself downtown where you can enjoy new restaurants and immerse yourself in the arts. Below are a few homes in or around Greenwich that perfectly combine luxury with the classic feel of Greenwich.   

5 Feather Hill, Westport

image source: elliman.com

Price: $1,975,000

This 6-bedroom and 7-bathroom Colonial home welcomes you with a grand foyer leading into the formal living room equipped with a fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is furnished with 150-year old reclaimed limestone from France, while the dining room opens into the sunroom. Have fun outdoors with the stone patio and in-ground heated pool with a spa- perfect for parties or relaxing days at home. As you enjoy the pool, look upon the professionally landscaped acres, with a garden bed of roses, peonies and other floral arrangements.

252 Overlook Drive, Greenwich

image source: sothebyshomes.com

Price: $4,995,000

Built by award winning 30+ builder, this home is entirely brand new in walking distance to downtown Greenwich. In a private gated community with 24-hr security, the 6-bedroom and 7-bathroom home has many modern architectural elements such as high ceilings but with a traditional exterior design. The kitchen has features by Wolf/Subzero and Miele, while all designer finishes throughout are by Katherine DiLascia.

7 Indian Head Road, Riverside

image source: sothebyshomes.com

Price: $4,950,000 

Short distance away from Old Greenwich, this home was recently customized with new state of the art improvements such as Control 4 Smart home system and a 3-car heated garage. Enjoy summers outside with landscaped yard, heated pool, covered terrace with a fireplace, a sport court and a built-in gas grill perfect for barbecues. The kitchen comes with a large center island, built-in banquet and opens into a large family room. Indulge in the lower level’s wine cellar and media room.  

578 Riversville Road, Greenwich

image source: corcoran.com

Price: $5,995,000

This colonial home is in Appleyard, a Greenwich compound that offers “unparalleled resort style living.” Enclosed by bucolic stone walls, the gated entryway opens to a cobblestone courtyard. The family room, living room and library are connected by a gourmet kitchen that is between the solarium, dining room and terrace. Former home of Tommy Hilfiger, amenities include a professional grade theater and music studio at the far end of the home.

34 Beechcroft Road Mid-Country East, Greenwich

image source: elliman.com

Price: $8,495,000 

Brand new, built by acclaimed Voce-di Design Studio, this modern home has a cutting-edge design and clean-lined modern aesthetic. The facade is built with black Belgian granite, as well as the second-floor terrace, outdoor kitchen, fireplaces, chimney, all around the perimeter of the home and the pool area. The exterior siding is made with Brazilian Garapa wood with a zinc roof, the backyard includes an infinity-edge pool, outdoor shower and a stunning guest house. Luxury spills into the make-up of the interior, equipped with soaring windows and reclaimed French wide board floors.  

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NYAA & 108 Leonard Launch Unique AIR Program

As we all know, residential real estate and new developments in Manhattan have shifted gears - focusing on how to offer their residents comfort and entertainment while remaining safe and within the social distancing guidelines.

A new initiative at 108 Leonard - their Artist in Residency Program (A.I.R), which is part of a larger initiative with the New York Art Academy (NYAA). The A.I.R. program was in development long before the pandemic hit. 108 Leonard, an original McKim, Mead & White architectural conversion in Tribeca, launched an exclusive partnership last year with the NYAA - a natural alignment that emphasized both partners' foundation in history, art and design. Through this partnership, residents receive exclusive access to NYAA exhibitions, private tours, celebrity events, private panels and talks, and more. 

Tabitha Whitley

One of the most exciting aspects of the partnership is the Artist in Residency Program, is that artists in New York have a very difficult time finding appropriate studio spaces at reasonable costs. Therefore 108 Leonard decided to offer, at no cost, large, light-filled studio space to students and alumni at NYAA. Artists are given coveted space to” said Shalaiwah Alveranga, Senior Manager, Marketing and Design at Elad Group. 

Artists are given coveted space to work on their art. Selected artwork from the Artist will also be curated to hung within the common spaces of 108 Leonard and residents and the public alike (through select events) will be able to purchase these works of art. Artwork and artists will be in rotation. The current Artist in Residence is the tremendously talented, Tabitha Whitley.

In response to the recent pandemic, 108 Leonard and NYAA have been working together to come up with alternative solutions to continue to provide art benefits and access through the A.I.R program.  Residents will be able to have first-access to NYAA's digital offerings. Additionally, Tabitha hosts regular livestream drawing classes not just residents, but for the public alike. After the classes, participants are encouraged to share their drawings with the audience. 

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 Turn Your Basement Into a Living Space

Many homeowners choose to use their basements as nothing more than glorified storage space. However, your basement can and should look just as warm, stylish, and inviting as the rest of your home. That’s why a great way of transforming your basement is by literally making it a new living space, whether it’s for you, a family member, or guests who visit. This is a worthy project to pursue, but it’s important to know how to turn your basement into a living space while meeting the necessary building codes required by local authorities.

Check Your Measurements

Many homeowners may think that you can transform your basement into a lavish living area whenever and however they’d like. However, that’s not the case. There are local regulations you’ll have to meet to legally start this project. One measurement that must be up to code is your ceiling—most states legally require it to reach a height of at least seven feet.

Before starting this project, make sure to study the local building codes you must meet to begin because, depending on your situation, you may have to do major construction on your basement floor to get that room to regulation height.

Add Insulation

If you or another party is going to live in the basement, you’ll have to make sure it’s optimized for the right temperatures. Installing insulation into the floor and walls will help combat low temperatures in the basement. Moreover, adding underfloor heating to your basement can further enhance the comfort and warmth of the space, making it truly livable and cozy. Installing insulation into the floor and walls will help combat low temperatures in the basement. It will also help combat dangerous moisture buildup and can improve the basement’s sound quality. By doing this, you can stay safe and healthy while recording a podcast, blasting music, or playing video games with great audio results.

Install a Window Well

Not all properties have the means of adding a window well. For instance, if your basement is above ground level, you can just add normal windows. However, basements located below ground will need window wells to bring in fresh air and natural light. Without that, the basement can feel less like a living space and more like a prison cell. Window wells also help combat moisture damage and provide your basement with an egress.

Many states will require you by law to have an egress in an underground living space, and window wells can help solve that problem. Window wells come with a thorough list of necessary maintenance procedures, but given the benefits they provide, these installations are well worth your time and effort.

Learning how to turn your basement into a living space is a great way to improve the value of your home. By taking the proper steps to complete this project, you can transform that glorified storage space into a lavish, welcoming area that you can spend time in. Once you get these requirements out of the way, you can start adding the fun stuff, such as TVs, beds, games, a bar, and all the amenities that make a living space your living space.

Mother's Day Meals Mom Can Indulge In

With everyone properly social distancing or in quarantine for
health and safety, the way we are spending Mother's Day this
year has been altered. For those who are able to spend this time with
their families, it is clearer how much more we should shower
those we love with affection- especially mothers. Instead of
going out to eat this year, some meal services are that are offering specials. Take a break from the take-out with these meals you don’t need to be a pro to prepare.

Caviar's Mother's Day Package

In honor of her mother, Angie Mar & the Beatrice Inn Family want to make this meal accessible for you to prepare in your own homes. One of their favorite Sunday dinners is Porchetta with roasted ramps, shallots, and onions- coming with a hearts of romaine and bitter green salad. Their family favorite and beloved dessert of Brown Butter & Sage Apple Pie has been passed along to the cooks at the Bea, so they will be sending the pies home, ready to be baked, with a wedge of d'affinois cheese on the side, so you can garnish it as you like when it comes out of the oven.

A delicious dinner for four- this package is $265, available for Pre-Order for Pick Up or Delivery on Caviar. Order by Tuesday, May 5th so they can begin preparations, you just need to select the pick up or delivery date as Friday May 8th, or Saturday May 9th. Or, you can also call and place your order.

Hungry @ Home

HUNGRY @ HOME is a subscription-based, family-style food delivery service that will provide direct-to-your-door, no-contact meal drop off for NYC families. All meals are coming directly from top local chefs, for $100 they provide a healthy family-style meal with 2 mains courses and 2 side dishes, 8 total servings. Currently they are offering a special Mother’s Day menu and for every family-style meal you order, HUNGRY donates four meals to help others in need. Not only are you gifting the mom in your life, you're helping your community as well.

image source: thegoodsmart.com

The Goods Mart: Mother's Day Snack Box

While she waits for dinner, gift Mom a surprise snack box! Founder Rachel Krupa initially created the initiative as a way to pivot during COVID-19 crisis – customers are able to create a custom box (with choices like vegan, paleo, or gluten free snacks, all non-GMO) and send either to a loved one or send to healthcare workers in need at NYU, Mount Sinai, Sloan Kettering and more (donating over $7K in healthy snacks to date). So for Mother’s Day, Krupa created a special female-founded Snack Box created by female entrepreneurs including Purely Elizabeth’s grain-free pancake mix; Biena Chickpea Puffs; Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers; Three Wishes Grain Free Cereal; Kween Granola Butter and Real Coconut Chips. 10% of each box purchased will go to the Restaurant Workers Community Foundation. You can choose between a $20, $40 and $60 box 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.

It's Official #ReturnofRoséSeason

Photo via @TheWhisperingAngel

Spring has finall sprung and it's officially the #ReturnofRoséSeason where we can now drink our favorite pink beverage! Our favorite pink drink that causes havoc in the Hamptons with a shortage and has it's very own Pinknic festival on Governors Island. The struggle to keep your composure as await sunnier skies, lighter clothing and outdoor dining is REAL. In addition to these small pleasures, rising temperatures mark our favorite time of year: Rosé Season. Below is a roundup of five reasons you should already be thinking (and drinking) rosé, including the first-ever rosé from Maison Louis Jadot. Wether your spending the season in bridgehampton or off to bushwick don't forget to bring your favorite rosé

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Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2017 Rosé

Noble Vines 515

Château Peyrassol (SRP: $29) - the blend is mostly Cinsault and Grenache, two thin-skinned grape varietals that grow well in a warm climate and that are ideal for  rosé production. The blend shows aromas of white fruits, citrus and white blossom with a delicate and silky smooth palate full of classic berry flavors, citrus, florals and bracing minerality. As a treat for the 2019 vintage, included in the blend for this year is Tibouren, a rare Provençal variety that creates wild, earthy and herbal rosés. It’s incredibly hard to find as little is grown, making this an extra treat. 

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery 2019 Rosé (SRP: $20.00; purchase here) – This Paso Robles style Rosé is dry and aromatic with muted strawberry, white cherry, red apple fruit on entry and melon with chamomile flower on the mid-palate. Serve this wine to guests with either cobb salad or roasted chicken seasoned with garlic, thyme and lemon.

Bonterra’s new 2019 Rosé - a Grenache-based blend that exudes aromas of ruby red grapefruit, red cherry and watermelon while flavors of pomegranate, red berries and a hint of peach meet the palate. If a glass of wine isn’t hitting the spot for your reader’s backyard, rooftop or open-window happy hours, I’d suggest going for the canned variety or turning the Bonterra Rosé into a refreshing twist on a Frosé.

Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2017 Rosé -. Produced in the traditional saignée method from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, this structured, dry rosé is bursting with red fruit flavors and aromas, like raspberry and red currant, and balanced with an intriguing minerality on the finish. It pairs beautifully with a great variety of summer foods.

M de Minuty 2017, bottled in the traditional curvy Provencal bottle, is a vibrant, dry rosé with balanced white peach and candied orange peel aromas and a smooth, round mouthfeel. Pale in color, it’s marked by a racy acidity and beautiful freshness.

Want to make sure your glass matches your drink. Grab a few of our favorite pink stemmed glassed by Riedel (SRP $100/glass, $540/set of six) Maintaining the series’ tell-tale slim profile and color-pop stem, the hue of the new Fatto a Mano Pink glasses is a soft rose, perfect for springtime, when it will be released, in comparison to the more primary colors of the original series launch.  Playful and demure, it’s as versatile as your readers’ tastes, perfect for rooftop gatherings or for bachelorette party gifts!

Meiomi Delicate & Dry 2016 - Light salmon in color with just a kiss of pink hue, Meiomi Rosé is delightfully dry with vibrant acidity. The wine opens to delicate aromas of watermelon, orange peel, and subtle hints of rose petal. The palate offers a lush mouthfeel with flavors of stone fruit and strawberry with a cool minerality on the finish.

Whispering Angel : The Rosé that causes a frenzy among those out East and around the country. Whispering Angel is a fan favorite of celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker and Andy Cohen, and even had it's very own gummy bear made by Sugarfina. A refreshing, refined, and with plenty of juicy, enticing, strawberry and berry fruit, this rosé should be in everyone’s cellars, without exception. Drinkable is an understatement and you’ll keep on coming back for seconds… We defy you to resist.

Louis Jadot Rosé: Hailing from Coteaux Bourguignons, a new appellation created in 2001 by the Institut National des Appellations Contrôlées, this Burgundian rosé is floral and fruity, offering a fantastic value from the most trusted name in French winemaking. Available beginning April 1st, this versatile wine has notes of fresh red currant and raspberry and pairs perfectly with salads, pasta or grilled fish.

Masi Agricola Rosa dei Masi : A serious name in Italian winemaking has produced a unique rosé, made with the Refosco grape; native to the Veneto region. The Rosa dei Masi represents a new take on the rosé wine category due to the producers specialty Appassimento technique—using 100 percent dried grapes in the production. The Supervenetian rosé has intense aromas of just ripened fruit on the nose and a well-balanced and refreshing acidity. Serve with light pasta, shellfish and seafood.

Alta Vista Rosé : This Argentine rosé of Malbec is striking, due to its deep and intense color. It’s made with two different maceration techniques of Malbec grapes and a low-temperature vinification that enhances the freshness of the fruit. The two wines are then blended in equal proportions before clarification and stabilization. The South American rosé will show fruity aromas of ripe cherries and floral notes of red roses. Pair with bright, fresh salads or with light pasta dishes.

Maison Saleya Rosé : Named for the flower market in the French city of Nice, Saleya Rosé is the essence of summer in a bottle.  This quintessential Provence-style wine is a dry and elegant rosé, featuring floral aromas with bright citrus, white peach and red berry flavors.

Caposaldo Rosé : A fantastic value for any day of the week, this dry rosé is made with 100 percent Corvina grapes that are sourced from estate owned and estate controlled vineyards only. It has bright strawberry and raspberry notes on the nose that carry into the vibrant and refreshing palate.

2016 Noble Vines 515 Vine Select Rosé Draft: Grown in windy valleys along California’s sunny Central Coast, Noble Vines 515 Rosé is a traditional composition of Grenache layered with Syrah and other aromatic varieties.  Widely used in Provence, France, Grenache offers flavors of cherries and blueberries, with spicy notes, and extra body and richness.  Noble Vines 515 Vine Select Rosé is made in a dry traditional style, showcasing a bright bouquet of raspberry, watermelon and Meyer lemon.  Medium bodied, with a rich mid-palate, this snappy wine has a lively start with flavors of grapefruit and strawberry, then cherry, culminating in a fresh creamy finish.