Brooklyn’s One Prospect Park West Launches Sales

Brooklyn’s One Prospect Park West, the first residential development designed by Workstead—the renowned Brooklyn-based design studio known for its hospitality spaces such as Williamsburg’s iconic Wythe Hotel and Hudson’s Rivertown Lodge—has officially launched sales.

Built in 1925 by the Knights of Columbus, the 10-story Classical Revival building overlooks Grand Army Plaza and Prospect Park and, for nearly 40 years, served as a clubhouse and hotspot for society events in Park Slope, one of Brooklyn's most affluent neighborhoods. The lavish club featured a ballroom, hotel rooms for members and guests, a restaurant, a bowling alley, a billiards’ hall, an indoor swimming pool, club rooms and council chambers.

Now, developer Sugar Hill Capital Partners is carefully renovating and converting the building into a rare residential condominium located directly on Prospect Park, with interiors by Workstead. The building offers 64 residences with over 40 unique floor plans featuring locally-sourced design details that create the perfect balance between pre-war and modern design. These hallmarks include arched entryways, hand-laid reclaimed pinewood flooring, custom crown molding, custom Waterworks fixtures and large windows framing views of Prospect Park and the New York City skyline. One Prospect Park West will also feature Workstead's new line of custom lighting, the Park Collection, which has been inspired by the development.

Pricing for current availability begins at $2.395M for a two-bedroom, two-bath home. Sales are being handled by a Douglas Elliman Development Marketing team led by Doug Bowen and Patty LaRocco.

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The Best Spots in New York For Afternoon Tea

Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world. In fact, Beverage Daily's article on the tea industry details that global tea consumption has been on the rise since 2016 as its popularity continues to spread all over the world.

Now, this shouldn't be too surprising as the drink has always been popular in some parts of the globe. A survey by Gala Bingo found that 31% of Brits have more than 5 cups a day. And while it has yet to reach this level of popularity in the United States, a number of tea places have opened up indicating the demand for tea has reached new heights in the country.

Given the multitude of options, how does one select the best place to have tea? To help you out with this, we've put together a list of the best spots to grab a cup of tea in New York. Read on for our picks where you can have your next afternoon tea!

Bosie Tea Parlor

If you're looking for a place that channels France's famous tea salons then the Bosie Tea Parlor is the place for you. While it may not seem like much due to its minimalist interiors, it makes up for it with its massive tea collection that has been meticulously curated by their resident tea expert. They also serve tea salon favorites such as éclairs and Paris-Brests.

Tea & Sympathy

If you're looking for a spot of tea while enjoying a wide selection of British comfort food, you won't go wrong with Tea & Sympathy. One thing you definitely have to try if you ever decide to drop by is their spectacular Victoria Sponge Cake, which is as authentic as one can get outside of the United Kingdom. What's great about this place is that the restaurant has its own British grocery store right next door. Here you can pick up a variety of sweets, tea, teaware for your daily tea needs.

Gotham Lounge

For the penultimate New York tea experience, we recommend the Gotham Lounge at the Peninsula Hotel. This New York institution serves classic British teatime fares such as scones with a serving of clotted cream and seasonal jams. While similar to traditional British tea spots, the Gotham Lounge puts its own spin on things making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Blue Box Cafe

Lastly, this list wouldn't be complete without mentioning the Blue Box Cafe. The Blue Box Cafe was opened by Tiffany & Co. back in 2017. Since then it's quickly become a luxurious tea experience. And when we say luxurious, we mean clotted cream dusted in glitter and cakes shaped like Tiffany's iconic blue boxes. If you're a fan of tea, then you'll want to experience teatime at Tiffany's at least once in your life. Sadly, you'll have to wait a while as the Blue Box Cafe is currently undergoing renovations and will reopen in 2021.

If you're looking for more recommendations, you might want to check out our piece on the best spots for St. Paddy's Day in anticipation for next year's celebration!

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What Are Today's Homebuyers Looking For?

The real estate market is constantly changing, with trends coming and going and the needs of homebuyers always shifting. What was an amenity for a home one year could become a drawback for a home the next year. Whether you're looking to buy or sell a house this year, knowing what people are looking for in a home will only help your process. Read on to discover exactly what today's homebuyers are looking for.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Energy efficiency is a big draw for prospective homebuyers in almost all parts of the home. The windows, however, are the area that homebuyers have been focusing on recently. Now that construction has advanced so that its possible to build windows that don't leak air, significantly impacting how much air conditioning or heating you need to use, homebuyers expect that a house won't have drafty windows. As a home can be 30% more energy-efficient with just some insulation and caulking around the doors and windows, homes of any age can check this requirement off the list.

A home with Energy Star-qualified windows is even better for today's homebuyers. These windows have an invisible glass coating, vacuum-sealed spaces with inert gas in between the panes, improved framing materials, and sturdier weather stripping. These all reduce heat gain and loss in a home, which also helps reduce your energy bills. Those looking to build a home in Oregon should see if Energy Star windows are right for them.

Hardwood Floors

In decades past, it was common to build or remodel homes so that it had wall-to-wall carpeting. However, construction norms change. It also used to be common to use paint that had lead in it when building homes, with homes built between 1960 and 1977 having a 24% chance of containing lead-based paint. Gone are the days of lead-based paint and wall-to-wall carpeting. Now, no homeowner wants a house with lead-based paint and 83% of homebuyers want hardwood floors.

Hardwood floors are easier to maintain, more durable, and offer a cleaner look than carpet. All you need to do is refinish hardwood flooring periodically, while carpets need to be replaced every eight to 10 years. Hardwood floors also offer stylistic flexibility, as you can choose the type, size, and patterns of area rugs you want to add to various rooms.

Patio

A whopping 87% of homebuyers want a patio in their new home. A patio is a wonderful backyard feature that allows homeowners to have an easy-to-maintain outdoor living space. Patios also offer great versatility, as a homeowner can use it by putting a few chairs and a table on it or turn it into a luxurious outdoor kitchen.

A Walkable Neighborhood

Anyone who knows anything about real estate knows the importance of the property's location. A major aspect of the location that homebuyers look at is its walkability. About 56% of millennials and 46% of baby boomers prefer to live in neighborhoods that are more walkable. Not only does a walkable neighborhood help a family exercise easily, but it also makes them feel more connected to their community. Many homebuyers are now looking for a strong sense of community where they live and it's tough to have that sense when you can't easily navigate a neighborhood.

If you're preparing to enter the real estate market in one way or another, you have to know what is currently popular. Without up-to-date information, you run the risk of making decisions based on trends that are no longer relevant. Remember to always do your research so that you know what homebuyers are looking for before you dive into the market.

Homes You Need To Make Appointments For This Weekend

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you should make an appointment for this weekend. 

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more!

Upper East Side

WHERE:  50 East 89th Street, 10E

SIZE: 2 Beds | 2 Baths

COST: $1,995,000

About: Welcome home to this brilliantly designed and meticulously renovated corner 5 room, 2 bedroom, 2 bath home. Having undergone a gut renovation to the highest of standards, this mint condition home is truly move-in ready. Enter through a gracious foyer equipped with multiple built-out closets to accommodate all of your storage needs.

As you continue through the entry gallery you are greeted with incredible southern sunlight and a double exposure facing south and east. The open living room, dining room and chef's kitchen boast both style and functionality. The windowed kitchen has been outfitted with top of the line appliances and a marble island with breakfast bar for additional seating. It is rare to find a kitchen of this size, quality and layout. Off the living room, step outside onto your private balcony overlooking 88th Street which is drenched in direct sunlight all throughout the day. The floorplan features split bedrooms offering privacy to both the primary suite and second bedroom. Featuring southern exposures, home office, walk-in closet, ensuite bath and custom built-ins throughout, this is a true master suite like you would find in a home.

50 East 89th Street is a highly sought after full service luxury cooperative located in the heart of Carnegie Hill just one block from Central Park and surrounded by some of the city's best museums, schools, restaurants and shops. Full time doorman and concierge. A private driveway and onsite garage offer a luxury and convenience that few other buildings in the area can offer. Other amenities include a fitness center, laundry room and bike storage. No flip tax. Pets welcome.

Asking $1,995,000. Listed by Joanne Greene and Nada Rizk, Brown Harris Stevens.

For more information click here

Clinton Hill

WHERE:  128 Clinton Avenue, 3

SIZE: 2 Bed | 1 Bath

COST: $2,950 a month

About:  Incomparably charming and unique two-bedroom, top floor apartment in a private pre-Civil War Mansion in Clinton Hill.

Huge bright windows bring ample sunshine and garden views to this special hideaway. The apartment features original 12" wide plank wood floors, an impeccable kitchen with a great new gas stove, dishwasher, plenty of custom cabinetry, and an updated bath.

Like a grand country house in the city, the large master bedroom with pitched ceilings and exposed beams can comfortably fit a king size four-poster bed, a large desk, and more. The 2nd bedroom is just as charming, only a bit smaller.

128 Clinton Ave is on a beautiful tree-lined block, steps from Fort Greene Park, Pratt University, BAM, and endless (outdoor) dining & shopping possibilities. Minutes to Manhattan by car or subway, you have the added bonus of the new Brooklyn waterfront bike path right around the corner.

For more information click here

Gramercy Park

WHERE:   34 Gramercy Park East, 3A/R

SIZE: 2 Bed | 2 Bath

COST: $2,295,000

About:  Stunning and sumptuous, this turn-key designer apartment evokes living of a bygone era with all the glorious details of a pre-war cooperative alongside many of today's modern conveniences and a coveted key to Gramercy Park.

Enter a long corridor with Venetian plaster walls and beautiful arched doorways leading to an open plan living and dining room with an incredible decorative fireplace mantle and oversized south and east facing windows. Custom bookshelves line one wall, plaster details frame the room and beautiful herringbone floors create a gorgeous backdrop to many custom details including window treatments, wall coverings, and décor. The entire apartment boasts 10' ceilings giving grand scale to every room.

Two large bedrooms, a bathroom, and two closets are located off the main entry corridor. Both bedrooms retain immaculate plaster detailing, grass cloth wall coverings and bespoke window treatments. A decorative fireplace anchors the master bedroom with two large south facing windows, a wall of custom California Closets, coffered ceilings, and parquet floors. The second bedroom has its own wall of outfitted closets, two sunny windows, and numerous original details.

Conveniently situated off the dining area is a renovated kitchen with custom millwork, Viking range, and stainless-steel appliances. The kitchen is adjacent to a wonderful sitting room that is perfect for casual dining. This room could also be used as a home office or potentially a third sleeping area. Between the kitchen and living room is a second large bathroom with original tiles, Carrera marble and brass fixtures, and custom wall treatment. Nadine Adamson and Kelsey Hall of Brown Harris Stevens are the listing agents.

For more information click here

Win The Kim Crawford US Open Watch Party Kit

Fortunately our favorite sporting event of the year is still happening, unfortuately due to COVID-19 the US Open will not be taking attendees. Long gone are the Summer day & nights sipping on drinks while either fighting for open grounds seats or lounging in one of the many suites. While you won’t be able to attend this year, thanks to Kim Crawford Wine you can win your very own kit perfect for your own at home watch party.

As a proud partner of this year’s US Open, Kim Crawford is bringing all the action to you. Enter for your chance to win the Ultimate US Open Watch Party Kit! It’s time for game, set, splash. Here’s to making every match amazing with Kim Crawford.

Kim Crawford wines began in a small cottage in Auckland, New Zealand. Since 1996, we’ve gained critical acclaim around the world with our dedication to honest, exuberant flavors. We do things unconventionally and believe the moment is what you make it #1 Sauvignon Blanc in the United States1

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.

NYC Presents Perfect Opportunity For Savvy Buyers

As the New York City real estate market reemerges there are indications that this is one of the best opportunities one will see to buy a home.

From first time buyers to those savvy and sophisticated enough to recognize the opportunity the market presents, these trailblazers are the ones that will drive recovery, taking advantage of the moving parts aligned in their favor.

The following are clear indicators why the perfect time to buy is now. 

Long-term vision

First, anyone will need to think about their long-term goals. The city always comes back and this will be the time that everyone is going to look back at and say “I should have bought then.” If you are planning to stay in New York long-term, then it’s certainly the right time to purchase. For those in suburban markets hoping to come to the city, they are able to capitalize on a strong selling market to get a premium on their homes while simultaneously taking advantage of the buyer’s market within the city.

Minimized competition

Many foreign and out of town buyers who would be interested in taking advantage of the market cannot be in New York because of travel restrictions and safety issues. Even within the city, people are sitting in a holding pattern until they have more certainty, leading them to wait until the market is going up. This leaves a clear field for smart buyers. It's a very civilized environment for a buyer with less competition and ample supply to pick and choose from at their own pace.  

Maximized inventory

Looking for a home can be discouraging but the current market is ripe with options. For seasoned buyers and first-time buyers alike, this is an opportunity to buy something that you never thought accessible from location to size and views. It’s a dream market for taking a step towards purchasing a home you only thought as aspirational previously. In addition to the surplus of inventory available, there is more negotiability and flexible terms for purchasing.

The stock market

Despite recent events, we are still seeing a high stock market as it continues to rally. This runs in contrast to a downturn in the NYC real estate market as the two are usually in sync. So while your money is becoming more valuable in the stock market, we are seeing more deals being negotiated within the real estate market. Further, you can borrow money for as low as 2%. The strong stock market, dip in the real estate market, and low interest and mortgage rates create the ideal combination to seize the opportunity in the buyer’s favor.

Post-COVID due diligence

COVID has offered a new perspective on due diligence. Across the board, buyers should ask questions about the financial health of a building they are interested in to have a clear understanding of if and how a shortfall could be passed on to the shareholders. Instead of being content with the past couple of years, look at closer to a decade of history on any capital assessment. This also includes examining the building’s retail client. You can work with your agent and attorney on due diligence and history of the property.

It's also worth noting that boards are being more flexible with regulations such as sublet policies to make purchasing more appealing.

Brown Harris Stevens’ top producing team of Nada Rizk and Joanne Greene have navigated the Manhattan real estate market for more than 20 years.

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Top Five Best New York City Ice Cream Shops

Caroline Fiske

There is nothing like a cool and refreshing scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day. New York City has tons of ice cream shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From Greenwich Village to Midtown, there are lots of options everywhere in the city. Even the Mayor of New York City Bill De Blasio agrees that New York City has some of the best food in the world. So whether your favorite flavor is the rich and decadent rocky road or the classic and simple vanilla, these ice cream shops have something for everyone!

Ample Hills Creamery

Founded in 2011, this ice cream shop is very well known in New York City. That’s because of what goes inside this magical ice cream. Grass-fed cows provide the hormone-free milk while the sop provides the organic cane sugar, together they make the starring debut. Rich, indulgent, and of course flavorful, there is every flavor for every person imaginable such as “Ooey Gooey Butter Cake” and “Chocolate Trip.” Best of all, you can get these flavors in pint form which is perfect for a Netflix and Chill night, a boy problem night, or just any time of day where you’re really craving some good old ice cream.

Big Gay Ice Cream

Photo Creds: Caroline Fiske

Located at 61 Grove Street and 125 E 7th Street, this ice cream shop was founded by Doug Quint and Bryan Petroff in order to create happiness for the LGBTQ+ Community. It started off as an average ice cream truck then it evolved into a full-on store with lines out the door of customers waiting in the scorching heat. The ice cream flavors are not your typical ice cream flavor names, for example, one of their most popular flavors is the “Salty Pimp” which is soft serve vanilla ice cream with dark chocolate sea salt chunks and dulce de leche swirls. There are also new weekly flavors to try such as the “Marcia Marcia Marshmallow” which is marshmallow ice cream with pretzel bites, hot fudge, and strawberry whipped cream. When you go to “Big Gay Ice Cream,” you will be eating outrageous ice cream flavors while supporting the LGBTQ+ Community.

Il Gelato at Eataly

Photo Creds: Caroline Fiske

Eataly is like the Disneyland of Italian grocery stores. They have everything and anything you crave when it comes to Italian food, including gelato. Just like “Big Gay Ice Cream,” this line is also out the door because it is worth the wait. This gelato is churned in the house daily from only local pasteurized whole milk using ingredients directly from Italy. This gelato is the very definition of smooth and creamy and every flavor from chocolate hazelnut to mango will just melt right in your mouth.

Morgernstern’s

SCOTT LYNCH / GOTHAMIST

Have you always wanted to go to an old fashioned ice cream parlor? Well, Morgernstern’s is the place for you! This ice cream shop may look old fashioned but their flavors are most certainly not. Yes, they have the classic chocolate and vanilla but there are also the not so classic flavors and toppings like sesame honeycomb, pickled pineapple, cinnamon whiskey, and green tea pistachio. You can not only order ice cream with crazy toppings, but you can also order ice cream cocktails such as the “Salted Caramel Pretzel Old Fashioned.” So if you like simple ice cream with a modern twist, then come to Morgernstern’s!

Taiyaki

photo cred

Waffle cones are a typical way to have ice cream, but at this Japanese ice cream shop ordinary shaped waffle cones just won’t do. These waffle cones are meticulously shaped like Japanese fish. The light and crispy fish-shaped waffle cones, ice cream with custard or a red bean filling, and the variety of topping choices from wafer stick to mini mochi rice cakes are the perfect complements to the Japanese way of satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ice cream is the trick to beating the heat this summer, so whether you are in Manhattan or Brooklyn, one of these five ice cream shops will cool you down. Now go get your fabulous summer New York City ice cream before it is fall!

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Tools Professional Roofers Use

Roof repair is a job for licensed roofing contractors. There is always the risk of a fall, and some of the tools professional roofers use require skill and experience for proper use.

Pitchforks, Shovels, and Scrapers

Usually used for full replacement or repair jobs where large sections of shingles must come off, roofers use shovels, pitchforks, or scrapers to pry old shingles up from the underlying plywood. The nails holding the shingles should come up along with the shingle.

Pry Bar and Roofing Hammer or Hatchet

These can be used as scrapers also, but their claw-hammer end is useful for pulling out stray nails stuck in old, torn shingles or other parts of roofing that didn’t come off in the first round of removing shingles. A roofing hammer is a specialized tool that can pound nails but also has a cutting blade on the other end. Professional roofers often use these to hammer nails in tight spots, scrape shingles off, and cut shingles with a utility blade incorporated into the tool. Some are even magnetized to collect stray nails.

Nail Guns and Hammer Tackers

A lot of the job with roofing is fastening plywood, felting, and shingles. Pneumatic nail guns (and attached air compressors) do the heavy job of attaching plywood to trusses or rafters and attaching shingles. Hammer tackers, as opposed to staple guns, apply felting as an underlayment for shingles. They look like hammers but, when pounded against the roof, they drive a staple into the surface.

Tin Snips and Chalk Line

Roofs require detailed work to maintain straight lines and trim flashing to fit properly. Straight or curved tin ships trim the flashing. Roofers will also have to attach gutters and may use powered shears to cut them to size.

Safety Equipment

Hard hats, safety harnesses, and roofing shoes that provide toe protection with a sole that won’t harm the roof are required for roofing jobs. On steep roofs, you may have noticed horizontal boards called brackets or toe boards, applied to the roof to provide slightly more secure footing. Pros know these aren’t enough to prevent falls entirely, and some can’t provide full support without additional bracing, depending on the pitch of the roof. If your home is in Texas, for example, find a residential roofing contractor in Arlington TX to do the job right. Not only does a roofer have to be safe; he has to keep your home safe too.

Boom Trucks or Hoists

It isn’t possible, safe, or allowable to carry heavy bundles of shingles up ladders. Roofers use ladder hoists or boom trucks to deliver shingles from the ground to the roof.
Roofing repairs or replacements require refined skills. Professional roofers like Northern Kentucky Roofing Company, use tools that are powerful and made to perform roofing tasks exclusively. Many states require licensure. Because working above ground on a roof is dangerous, make sure any contractor under consideration for a project can provide proof of insurance.

Roofing repairs or replacements require refined skills. Professional roofers use tools that are powerful and made to perform roofing tasks exclusively. Many states require licensure. Because working above ground on a roof is dangerous, make sure any contractor under consideration for a project can provide proof of insurance.

The Best Farmers Market In The Hamptons

Catherine Doolan

Farmers markets are a summertime staple especially in the Hamptons! Farmers markets are a great way to incorporate fresh produce into your summertime cooking favorites. From fruits and vegetables to baked goods, farmers markets have everything you need. Here are a few markets that are open in the Hamptons.

Westhampton Beach Farmers Market - Westhampton Beach, NY

The Westhampton Beach farmers market is located on the Village Green in the center of town. The market has over 50 vendors including vendors of fruit, breads & pies, local wine, and many more. The market is open every Saturday from 9-1 pm. Face masks required.

Less than 4 months away! 🌱Who is ready for May? 👩🏼‍🌾⛅️

Amber Waves - Amagansett, NY

The Amber Waves market in Amagansett is on 25 acres of land where they grow over 300 varieties of produce. The market has a cafe for a quick bite to eat, and Amber Waves also participates in local farmers markets as well. Amber Waves is open 7 days a week.

A total ecosystem of wellbeing from soil to root to eater. Community Supported Agriculture. ✨2020 CSA sign up is live ✨📷:@wellnesswithricki

Montauk Farmers Market - Montauk, NY

The Montauk Farmers Market is located on the Montauk Green and is open every Thursday from 9-2 pm. The market has unique vendors so you can buy anything! Soap is among the many unique items that you can pick up at this farmers market.

Farmers Market Saturday's are our favorite Saturday's! Check out our story for a list of Summer Farmers Markets dates + times 🍓🥕🥬

Southampton Farmers Market - Southampton, NY

The Southampton Farmers Market takes place every Sunday in Agawam Park. The market is open from 9am-3pm. The market not only sells fruit and vegetables, but woodwork, dairy products, and flowers.

Flower bouquets are here at the #southamptonfarmersmarket #agawampark @southamptonchamberofcommerce #flowerbouquets #flowers #medicinalherbs #echinacea #echinaceapurpurea #yarrow #anisehyssop #marshmallow

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Tips Every New Homeowner Should Know

Buying a home is no easy task. There are so many steps you need to take that you were never formally taught, such as how to take out a mortgage or how to hire a realtor. Owning a home isn’t any easy task, either. Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibilities that nobody tells you about. If you recently bought a home, keep reading for some tips every new homeowner should know.

Finances

Buying a home is an expensive thing to do, but it’s also an investment. If something were to happen, you want to be able to prioritize your finances in a way that helps you preserve your house. Consider starting a home emergency fund. This will help you prepare in case of a disaster or accident.

Home Improvement

If the home you bought needs a little TLC, consider prioritizing the different home improvement projects you have planned. Making updates can get costly. Don’t let it all pile up unless you have the funds to make it all happen.

For instance, when you notice small leaks on the roof, don’t wait until it can no longer hold water to call a professional. Minor issues will only get worse over time and lead to costlier repairs later on. Call a professional choice roofing company, explain the problem and if possible have them come inspect the entire roof. The same goes to appliances, plumbing, electrical, and other home necessities. If you can’t fix it yourself, call a professional who can. Don’t use faulty devices as they can pose a safety hazard. Doing also shortens their lifespans.

Home Care

When you buy a home, nobody warns you about the problems you may come across in the future. Home care is something new homeowners should take the time to research. Knowing how to prevent a roof leak or a flooded basement can save you the hassle of paying for repairs and service in the future.

Air Filters

No one ever mentions this, but make sure to change your air filters. The filters in your HVAC unit keep your heat and air running smoothly as well as keep dust out of your home. If you just moved in, replace the air filters immediately. Otherwise, keep in mind you need to replace them every 90 days. Be sure to mark your calendar to stay on top of it.

Neighbors

Take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors. Making friends with your neighbors can be useful, because you never know who you might live next to. Plumbers, landscapers, or painters could be living on your street—they would be your best point of reference should you ever need their assistance. It’s also a friendly thing to do if you have kids. Neighborhood friends create the best memories for your kids to look back on.

Just like buying a home, owning one can come with challenges and problems that nobody ever warns you about. Every new homeowner should follow these tips to preserve and maintain the quality of their new place.

The Holl-Geller Team Leaves Corcoran For Douglas Elliman

One of New York City’s top-selling real estate teams, The Holl-Geller Team led by Caroline Holl and Stephen Geller, have joined Douglas Elliman from Corcoran today. The team, which also includes Michael Russell and Jennifer Geller, will be based out of Douglas Elliman’s flagship 575 Madison Avenue office.  

The Holl-Geller Team is in the top 1% of all NRT agents nationwide and have had two “Big Ticket” sales in The New York Times – one in January 2015 for a $52.9 million full-floor apartment at One57 and one in April 2013 for a $13 million deal at 25 Columbus Circle, 69B which was the most expensive sale of that week . 

“Caroline and Stephen are two of the leading agents in New York City real estate and we are thrilled to have them join Douglas Elliman,” said Howard M. Lorber, Executive Chairman of Douglas Elliman Realty, LLC. “Caroline and Stephen’s backgrounds in finance and law combined with their exceptional and discreet service to their clients are what differentiates them. We look forward to their success at our company.”

“We are thrilled to have Caroline and Stephen joining our team,” said Brad Loe, Executive Manager of Sales in New York City for Douglas Elliman. “Their in-depth knowledge of the New York marketplaces and business acumen make them a great addition to Douglas Elliman where they will be working from the 575 Madison Avenue office.”

Caroline and Stephen are both long term New Yorkers (lifelong, in Stephen’s case) and have a passion for the city they call home as well as an encyclopedic knowledge of all of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s unique neighborhoods. Caroline and Stephen also specialize in the specific challenges facing international buyers given Caroline’s European background. In addition, through their partnerships with top agents in the Hamptons and Palm Beach area, they have a long and successful track record of helping their clients in those locations.

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Five tips for buyers to ensure a successful transaction

The Halstead Fahy Team

New York City real estate can be tricky to navigate for first-time and repeat buyers alike. With endless amounts of market data available, experiencing the process firsthand is the best training for what one truly needs and wants in a home.

From creating the initial wish list to reconciling that a must-have might be more of a nice-to-have, the following tips can help ensure an elevated home buying experience.

Chris Halstead and Sharon Fahy

Don’t create your dream list from the Internet

The decision to purchase a home is an exciting one, and buyers often jump online to begin the process. While online listing aggregators like StreetEasy and others are good resources, not even the savviest buyer can fully appreciate every nuance through viewing listings online. Pros warn not to firmly set your sights on specific attributes solely through online viewing. The height of a low- versus high-floor, noise level from an adjoining wall, and the feel of the neighborhood are among the things best experienced in person. 

Decode nice-haves and must-haves

In New York City, people can be very resistant to considering an opposite side of Central Park, moving outside a specific proximity, or venturing north or south of a particular street. It’s important to be open minded during your search and to look beyond these pre-determined boundaries. Through exploring new areas, more often than not, buyers have architectural options they did not know existed and find the perfect home within walking distance of the same park or perimeter.

Similar to location, nice-to-have and must-have features frequently change once people begin to see properties in person. A home is meant to last for years at a time – even if the listing does not appear to be a sweeping match, check the box and take a visit, it’s worth an hour of your time.

No detail is too small

While it is a real estate agent’s job to listen, it is the buyer’s job to share. It is important to communicate every detail of your dream home with your agent. And when viewing apartments, nothing is too trivial, and all feedback is good feedback, even if it is negative. An agent is not responsible for how an apartment was renovated so it will not hurt their feelings. Open and transparent communication ensures that the agent is able to focus the search and be more efficient in presenting you with homes that would truly be a fit. Your agent may also be able to pick up on features that you verbalized, but didn’t even realize.

Look at things from the seller’s perspective

The past two years have been a fluctuating market and many buyers have tried to take advantage of the opportunity. What they may forget is, buying a home is a two-sided transaction. We’ve seen buyers who will just put in offers on homes trying to get a deal and then wonder why it wasn’t accepted. Buying a home is a gray area because it deals with very personal topics to people – emotions and financials. When making offers, consider from the seller’s perspective if an offer is reasonable. This makes for a more productive conversation rather than going into with blinders on solely from your own viewpoint.

Allow your priorities to change

As we’ve seen in recent months, unexpected circumstances can cause our property-priorities to shift as we reevaluate what we need on a day to day basis. Trading space for an incredible amenity package may be something that was essential before, but is less so now. A small private terrace and a carve out for an in-home treadmill may for the foreseeable future be more valuable than a tricked out roof deck and state-out-the-art building gym. Priorities change, and lifestyles do as well. The home that may have been a fit yesterday may not be today, and that’s okay.

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.

What to Know About HVAC Before Buying a Home

House-hunting can be a draining yet exciting time. Once you finally find that perfect place, all you’ll want to do is throw your hat in the ring with an offer—but you should learn a few things about the house before making an offer. If you’ve never owned a home with an HVAC system or if you aren’t too familiar with them, you may want to learn a little about the one in the new house before buying it. Check out this guide on what to know about HVAC before buying a home.

Have the equipment inspected

Before you close on your new home, be sure to request that the current owner has the HVAC system inspected. Many homeowners take great care of their HVAC systems, but some leave them unmaintained for years, which will likely lead to failure and other problems. Having the equipment evaluated will provide you with an itemized list of issues and potential issues as well as a more in-depth understanding of the functioning of the system as a whole.

Ask about insulation

Ask about what type of insulation is used in the home—if any. This is important to know because insulation can settle over time if it’s not regularly maintained. This can cause leaks or drafts in your home, which greatly affect your ability to evenly cool or heat your home. If the house needs new or added insulation, you may want to request that the current homeowner takes care of this before you buy, as it can render your HVAC system less useful and make your energy bills increasingly high.

Learn about the model and upkeep required

When you own the home, you’ll need to be sure to upkeep the HVAC in every way required. El Paso County homeowners like to reach out to the best heating and cooling Colorado Springs services they can find who can always come out and check the system themselves. Having a pair of professional eyes should always be welcome. Be sure to learn what kind of refrigerant is being used and what you need to do to keep it safe. Look for a reliable local HVAC specialist to service your unit whenever necessary and to perform preventative maintenance. Once you’re moved into the home, be sure to keep an eye out for telltale warning signs that you need a new HVAC unit, as many homeowners don’t notice until theirs fails completely.

Hmmm, Should You Invest In An Apartment Or Condo?

Don’t make the simple mistake of thinking an apartment is like a condo. They may look the same, they may even be priced similarly, but they don’t have the same features. But let's start off with the things they have in common and the things that make them unique from each other. This is crucial to know for anyone looking to invest in both or just one of these types of properties.

Similarities, in investing

• Both are location-dependent when it comes to price. However, a condo is less focussed on location and more on residential settings. An apartment that is worth investing in, will be in the city center, in a high-rise building. A condo, on the other hand, doesn’t have to be in either, but usually, the best is.

• Both will have shared features, such as piping, plumbing and usually, the air conditioning unit. This is something that will be made known to clients beforehand. If there is a water leak or similar issue in a neighboring property, most likely, the client’s property will be affected too. 

• Both will have shared internet services with other clients. You can buy your own router and equipment, but they will be sharing landlines to receive the internet. Standalone properties will have their own landline, per household.

The key differences

• The best selling point of condos is their amenities. They usually have swimming pools, fitness centers, gyms, laundry services, and common hangout areas. These features are usually not available in apartments.

• They are usually in residential settings. If you need more information, check out this page of current condo opportunities. They are located in business districts, shopping areas and other leisure zones such as sports stadiums and casinos. Many condos all over the world, like The Dylan Condos in midtown Toronto, are also situated in suburban areas where there could be gated communities and quiet school zones. If you need more information regarding the differentiation between condos and apartments, you could visit some Toronto homes for sale and see for yourself.

• Condos are usually for the more mature client. Apartments will be chosen by young professionals, just starting out in life and seeking to be closer to their place of work. Condos are for the older person, that is not looking for a house but not looking for an apartment and wants something in between.

• Condo prices tend to rise more than apartment prices. This means that a more affluent client will be searching for this type of property. You will also find that condo clients like to stay long-term instead of short 6-month and below contracts that apartment clients desire. 

So what should you do?

Condos are tough to get into as a first-time investor in property. Real estate challenges exist in every type of property field but, condos are best to get involved with when they’re developing. Apartments are easier to invest in because there’s so many of them. They are also a little less stable in terms of short-term investment but if you pick the right city of work, you should be more successful. 

If you want to know more, check out the list of condos available and read their descriptions. Note how they’re being advertised and focus on that key demographic.

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.