The Best Ways to Protect Your Home from Storm Damage
Whether you're experiencing high winds, heavy rain, or even hail, these are four of the best ways to protect your home from storm damage throughout the year.
First Look At Bjarke Ingels The Smile
Bjarke Ingels-designed The Smile has officially launched its teaser website. Designed inside and out by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), this one-of-a-kind new rental development builds on the Copenhagen-founded firm’s mission of breaking the confines of traditional architecture. The gently curved shape of the building was hand-drawn by Bjarke Ingels in a moment of inspiration during an initial meeting with the development team. Now nearly complete, The Smile hugs 126th Street and resembles the welcoming grin of a smile. The curve provides the apartments and the street below with an abundance of direct sunlight. An interlocking checkerboard pattern dots the façade, making each home a bright pop of activity and life.
"The Smile brings a soft, curvilinear expression to Harlem’s 126th street as it nestles between the two neighboring buildings. The street wall leans inwards as it rises upwards in a relaxed gesture. The homes rise above and beyond the Gotham Retail Plaza, cantilevering over to 125th street as it captures the views and sunlight from the south. The Smile is designed for the desires of Harlem’s residents of today – joining the diverse Harlem neighborhood, integrating wellness amenities and offering generous roof gardens."
Located in Upper Manhattan in the heart of Harlem at East 126th Street and Lexington Avenue, The Smile overlooks Harlem’s historic “Main Street” and cultural capital, 125th Street moments from the subway and Metro-North stations.
Photos credit: Vizerio Architectural Visualization
The Smile provides residents with a robust amenity package including complete spa, fitness and work-from-home experience, that will adhere to all CDC guidelines and enhanced occupancy, maintenance and cleaning measures. The list includes The Smile Rooftop Club, with swimming pool, three whirlpools, grilling and dining areas and open-air movie theater all in a beautiful landscaped setting with panoramic views of the Harlem River and Manhattan skyline. The Smile Fitness Club, a state-of-the-art fitness center that includes yoga and personal training rooms. The Smile Spa, a facility on par with the city’s leading spas and featuring a Hamam, sauna and steam rooms, color-changing LED Himalayan salt room, cold room and private treatment rooms.
Developed by Blumenfeld Development Group (BDG), The Smile will continue the firm’s dedication to investing in the surrounding community. The company has been active builders in the neighborhood since 1994 – in fact, The Smile creatively cantilevers over Gotham Plaza, a mixed-use building on 125th Street completed by BDG in 2002. BDG is also a strong patron of the arts and philanthropic causes, and will be housing neighborhood non-profit and performing arts group MAMA Foundation for the Arts on site.
The Smile will launch leasing this summer and pricing for the market-rate apartments will start at $2,256/month. Brown Harris Stevens Development Marketing is the exclusive leasing and marketing agent for The Smile.
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These NYC Rental Listings Are Not To Be Missed
Now is the perfect time for you to move into your dream rental apartment in New York City! Because of the pandemic heavily impacting both vacancies and signed leases. An unbiased source for real estate in Manhattan called UrbanDigs showed in their June 2020 Sales & Rental Report that Manhattan saw the highest number of monthly new listings since July 2017. The combination of high inventory with fewer leases signed means the pressure is on for landlords, they are more than willing to give out concessions, offer deals, and negotiate the monthly rent. Below are some of the best rental listings that are currently on the market. Each has a standout feature that makes them irresistible, whether it be great value for money, great amenities, or a great location.
128 East 83rd Street, Apt 4B
This gorgeous two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment on the Upper East Side could be yours for just $2,950 per month. According to UrbanDigs, the median rent on the Upper East Side for July is about $4,750 per month for 2 bedrooms. This amazing deal is only once in a blue moon and it doesn’t mean you have to compromise anything. According to the listing description, “The apartment features loads of brownstone charm: high ceilings and exposed brick throughout, with recently refinished floors.” It is both a fourth-floor walkup and a one-year lease and this walk up to this apartment will give you the toned legs of your dreams. This property is listed by Rebecca Brooksher and Shawn Fagan of Warburg Realty.
160 Central Park South, Apt 460
Central Park South is one of the most well-known addresses in New York City. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom home is located in the famous Essex House. The rent is $6,000 per month, and it is described as a “New York Lover’s Opportunity” in the listing description. This apartment is within walking distance to Broadway, Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Fifth Avenue, and Central Park. It also includes things you can find in a 5-star hotel such as high-speed WiFi, TV cable, a 24-hour spa, and maid service. This property is listed by Cecilia Serrano and Hala Lawrence of Warburg Realty.
445 West 54th Street, Unit 5B
Coming with Sonos speakers in every room, a Nest thermostat, a one-touch control complete home system, a 3-zone wine fridge, a well-kept elevator, and so much more. This breathtaking 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is just the apartment to rent for you! The listing description says that this wonder is “a remarkably quiet oasis full of modern amenities, as well as over 800 cubic feet of built-in storage.” The open concept kitchen has Quartz countertops, as well as many name-brand appliances and pull-out cabinets. A giant walk-in closet and a luxury bathroom are all that awaits for you in the master bedroom. This entire apartment has been designed with functionality and easy living in mind. This property is listed by Michael J. Franco of Compass.
307 East 8th Street, Apt 6C
This penthouse duplex apartment in a historic brownstone built-in 1900 with two bedrooms and two bathrooms is every modern minimalist’s dream come true. The sun-lit space with clean lines and an amazingly airy feeling can be rented for $7,000/month. And oh, there’s an enormous private rooftop as well as an open center island kitchen to the spacious living/dining room. A gorgeous spiral staircase connects the two floors. To top it all off, this home is right in the heart of the East Village, an area whose eclectic charm and endless entertainment options are highly sought after. Listed by Ted Karagiannis of Warburg Realty.
Whether you are looking to visit the city for a couple of months or just a month, these apartments are just the beginning of the search for your ideal rental apartment. Since a lot of New Yorkers are moving out of the city due to the pandemic, rent prices are now lower than ever. The Big Apple has now become The Bargain Apple!
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.
Most Popular Home Styles in the U.S.
Choosing the right house is not always an easy task, especially when there are so many beautiful homes on the market in various shapes, sizes, and styles. In addition to finding a home that fits your specific spatial and functional needs, your new house must also match your individual style preferences. Luckily, there is no shortage of beautiful architectures around the U.S. Different styles are usually recognizable by variations in building materials, size, roof style, and overall floor plan, as well as other key markers depending on the style in question. Utilize the following list of the most popular home styles in the U.S. to help you discover which architecture style best matches your individual aesthetic.
Ranch
Ranch-style homes are known for their single-story stature and are extremely popular in the western and southern regions. These homes are very low to the ground and typically have no basement, nor any stairs at all. In some instances, a ranch-style may toe the line to a split level; however, in most cases, all rooms are located on the same floor. Open floor plans are very popular in ranch-style houses and are often a more affordable option than a multi-story house. Ranch homes are popular among young couples for this reason, yet they are also favored among elderly homeowners due to the lack of stairs and ease of accessibility.
Mediterranean
Mediterranean-style homes seek to replicate the easy, pastoral beauty of the French, Italian, or Spanish seaside. These homes often feature curved archways, tiled roofs, exposed beams, and beautiful balconies that are perfect for a Shakespearean soliloquy. Mediterranean homes are more popular in the warmer regions of the U.S. This style seeks to create an effortless flow between the indoors and outdoors, making it easier for homeowners in warmer climates to open up their windows whenever they want.
Farmhouse
The farmhouse is perhaps the most popular home style in the U.S. While most other home styles reign supreme in specific regions, the farmhouse is favored all around the country. Farmhouses adopt a more casual style and are, therefore, suitable for homes in a variety of locations. These homes are equally as popular in the suburbs as they are in a rural setting and are generally accompanied by a large stretch of land. Wrap-around porches and sectioned floor plans that separate formal and casual spaces are common in this style.
Victorian
Victorian homes are some of the most easily recognizable on the market. These homes are the epitome of doll-house chic and are decorated with classic exterior ornaments. Victorian homes rose to popularity in the late 1800s and have been stunning potential buyers ever since. Bay windows, full porches, dormer windows, and elaborate front doors are all staples of Victorian homes. And, of course, no Victorian home would be complete without a towering turret or two.
Contemporary
As we move into the 21st century, modern and contemporary homes have become increasingly popular. This style maximizes on the minimalist trend, incorporating large windows and heavily contrasted color palettes throughout the design. Contemporary homes tend to look a bit boxier and do not feature a traditional roof. Sleek design elements take center stage in this style, with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and technology acting in supporting roles.
Our Favorite Listing: Historic South Street Seaport Penthouse Hits the Market for $3.995M
Inside this weeks virtual tour
Read MoreBrooklyn’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.
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.
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
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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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.