How to Host a Virtual Housewarming
Moving during the Covid-19 crisis is a new experience. Learn how to host a virtual housewarming when an in person gathering isn’t an option.
Where To Workout In The Hamptons
Gyms and indoor fitness centers may not be open and may not be the safest option these days, but the Hamptons are offering outdoor classes that follow CDC guidelines so you can stay on top of your workout routine! From cycling class to group workouts, the Hamptons has everything you need to get a good workout outside.
SoulOutside by SoulCycle
SoulCycle is a company that offers cycle classes to members of the Soulcycle community. With many different classes for you to choose from in Bridgehampton, Water Mill, Montauk, Southampton, and more, you can take a class outside with your favorite instructor. Soulcycle has benches set up for easy shoe fitting and access to restrooms and changing rooms. To reserve a time, go on the SoulCyle website.
One Ocean Yoga - Bridgehampton, NY
Located on the Channing Daughter’s Winery, One Ocean Yoga offers yoga classes overlooking the beautiful views of the winery. During the Covid-19 pandemic the classes are limited to 20 people, reservations are required, and you need to provide your own mat and equipment. These yoga classes are perfect for a relaxing workout with breathtaking views of the Hamptons.
Fhitting Room - East Hampton, NY
Fhitting Room HIIT classes are taking over The Clubhouse Hamptons outdoor space and offering HIIT (high intensity interval training) classes on Saturdays in East Hampton. The classes are by reservation only and no equipment is required.
Barry’s Bootcamp - Southampton, NY
Floor workouts outside? Barry’s Bootcamp has you covered! Each class is 50 minutes long providing weights and bands that are safely cleaned for you to use during your workout. Masks must be worn throughout the class and headphones will also be provided for use of the ‘silent disco’ sound system.
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Schools and their impact on the real estate market
What will back to school look like this September? The question is dominating casual conversations, back to work plans, and influencing real estate decisions.
The flexibility of rentals
Scott Harris, a top agent at Brown Harris Stevens
Schools, jobs, childcare, and schedule coordination are just a few of the things that a family has to juggle on a regular basis, and all are currently amplified. For owners looking to transition from their current home, many are gravitating towards rentals as an intermediate step. And on the flip side, sellers are opting to list their homes for both sale and rent in an effort to expedite the process and take something off their plate, even if just for a year. Anytime a family is considering, “what do we do right now,” flexibility is always an attractive option in the absence of real information.
A change in search parameters
With a combination of in-person and virtual learning a probability, people may opt for a property closer to their child’s school in an effort to simplify the commute. Unless full isolation measures go into effect again and parents are continuing to pay New York City private tuition are caught elsewhere, it’s not sustainable to put down roots in another market and place children in those schools.
Shifting needs of childcare
Childcare can put pressure on a dual family household in the best of times. When school begins, families generally transition to part time babysitters to full time nannies given the adjusted time needs with class occupying the afternoons. However, with an uncertain school schedule as the new year approaches, families question the best path forward. Many households may opt for one parent to remain in home indefinitely, which could impact both home needs and budgets.
Let’s get to flat ground
From optimizing the space to learning the ins and outs of a new building, there are always a number of unknowns when moving. When due diligence is rushed, details can be overlooked and people might find themselves in a suboptimal position. Marathon runners are taught not to make strategic decisions while running up or down a hill. With that in mind, people may opt to stay put until there is a clearer view of the path ahead.
Scott Harris, a top agent at Brown Harris Stevens, has successfully transacted more than $750 million of New York City residential properties.
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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.
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Soho
WHERE: 42 King Street #3
SIZE: 2 Beds | 1 Baths
COST: $1,975,000
About: Touted for its stunning minimalist and cerebral design, this exceptionally rare home in downtown's chic, coveted West Village is unlike anything on the market. The gracious two-bedroom, one-bath residence with a handsome study-den combines the highest attention to detail, color, texture, and light for remarkably refined living atop a charming 1840's townhouse.
Upon arrival, a private landing opens to a formal gallery wrapped in high-end wallcovering and illuminated by a skylight, ushering in a world of tastemaker design. From elaborate moldings and coffered ceilings to inspired surfaces and hand-mixed paint, not one aspect is left undone. This includes clever space-saving storage solutions and Jeffersonian touches like deep doorways containing hidden paneled closets further adding to the appeal. At the heart of the home, a sleek gourmet kitchen affords custom cabinets, secluded top-of-the-line appliances, and thick slab countertops for the chef.
Nearby, an elegant dining room serves as the perfect backdrop for intimate dinner parties amidst a carefully curated ambiance. Get lost in magnificent garden views, framed by generous south-facing mahogany custom French windows with restoration glass and UV protective coating in the oversized living room with airy 10'6" ceilings, anchored by a statement-making 19th-century limestone mantle. And for the ultimate in rest and relaxation, the tranquil master suite comes complete with a sitting area, large closet, and woodburning fireplace with plenty of space to unwind. An oversized glass shower surrounded by crisp whites and subdued grays creates an oasis of calm in the singular bath.
For more information click here
Midtown East
WHERE: 865 United Nations Plaza, #11B
SIZE: Studio | 1 Bath
COST: $695,000
About: 865 United Nations Plaza 11B is the newly renovate apartment you’ve been waiting for - triple MINT condition, high floor with open views, great light & location. This exceptional Junior-1, studio space in a PRE-WAR CONDO allows for a wonderful home or investment property. Meticulously gut renovated 11B is situated on the 11th floor creating bright, open, eastern views inclusive of the park at The United Nations & the East River. No expense was spared in this renovation.
New wood floors welcome you throughout the large 559sf home with a separate alcove. The living space has been thoughtfully divided with windowed pained French-doors to create separate living and sleeping areas. Enjoy the beautifully appointed and fully renovated kitchen, featuring stainless steel appliances including a Kitchen Aid dishwasher, Bertazonni 5-burner range, Bosch Refrigerator and GE Microwave, granite counter-tops and plenty of custom cabinetry for storage. The beautifully maintained windowed bathroom has a deep, soaking tub, a new vanity sink and basket-weave marble tile floors. Finally, enjoy the sunny river-views in absolute quiet and cool with the newly installed city-quiet windows and two new HVAC systems.
Westhampton
WHERE: 181 Dune Rd
SIZE: 9 Bed | 8.5 Bath
COST: $28,000,000
About: This Westhampton Beach Oceanfront Compound soaring high above the dunes in one of the most desirable locations in the Hamptons, has 12,000 sq. ft. of Modern Living. Owned by one of the most successful advertising-brand tailing-author & entrepreneur and designed by NYC famous Interior designer Patricia Bonis. This home is the pinnacle of opulent oceanfront living, 150 ft. of Prime Oceanfront jetty protected beach with a 43 ft. heated gunite pool, hot tub, cabana and expansive 5000 sq. ft. cedar wood porch for your outdoor enjoyment and oceanfront entertaining The luxurious living space includes the finest of high end finishes, double height living room with 10 foot floor to ceiling soaring walls of glass with marble gas fireplace and formal dining room with wet bar.
The masterfully crafted kitchen features unique quartz counter tops, sleek cabinetry, top of the line Wolf appliances plus a large center waterfall quartz island with seating to please the most discerning gourmet. Enjoy the convenient bright ocean side breakfast area with built-in seating. The living space includes 9 bedrooms & 8 1/2 baths large enough for all your entertaining needs. The screening room for your favorite movies with a gas fireplace for all your gatherings. Experience the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Ascending to the second level of the luxurious master suite with seating area & gas fireplace. This home has a state of the art gym, spa inspired marble bathroom with custom double vanity with soaking tub & sauna. The master suite has custom design walk in closets. Relax in the family room-office with gas fireplace, wet bar and sweeping views of the ocean with private deck & views of Moniebogue Bay with amazing sunsets.
A separate stairway leads to the finished lower level for staff or guest quarters with, large laundry room & 3 car garage. The house is a Crestron smart house,run from your phone anywhere & everywhere.Runs your HVAC system,lighting system,pool and spa,audio, visual,your weather,your sonos and much much more. The wireless system is contiguous all over the three levels of the home,backyard and your private beach with beach speakers.Own this extraordinary convenient location, arrive by plane with the ease of access to Francis S. Gabreski Airport. Enjoy shopping along Main St to the wide array of fine dining choices plus a foray into the diverse cultural line-up offered at Westhampton Beach Performing Center. Enjoy this grand resort living on the Ocean.
Where To Cycle Around New York City
Going out for a bike ride, is risky but rewarding. Now that the weather is warming up, here are a few great paths to take. Especially as the weather warms up over the next few weeks.
Hudson River Greenway
This 11 mile stretch across the Hudson from Inwood to South Ferry is not only the most heavily used bikeway in the city, but it is part of the 300 mile East Coast Greenway, spanning from Maine to Florida. Aside from stunning views of the riverside, various landmarks like the George Washington Bridge and the Hudson Yards also surround riders. With a lane this long, it can be used for either a slow but casual ride, or a rather intense workout routine.
Coney Island Boardwalk
One doesn’t usually think of this thoroughfare as particularly cyclist friendly, especially when it gets crowded during the busy summer season. But even with the occasional cyclist during the day, biking is primarily allowed between 5 and 10 am. For those willing to commit to making the trip to the beach this early, they’ll get an intimate ride that’s augmented by the calming ocean breeze. At least until the oceanside restaurants and amusement rides open for the day.
Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway
But for those who don’t feel like waking up early to go cycling in Brooklyn, this 2.2 mile path is a perfect alternative. Running alongside New York Bay, this trail goes from Red Hook to Brooklyn Bridge Park, though cyclists will have to park their bikes upon arrival, since bikes are prohibited in the park and the surrounding promenades. Though if that ride still isn’t enough, there’s always the option of extending the ride to include crossing the legendary Brooklyn Bridge.
Bronx River Greenway
This path is currently a work in progress. Of the 23 miles planned, 10 miles are currently available in three separate segments: one mile near Oak Street on Mount Vernon, a 4.6 mile stretch that connects Bronxville and Scarsdale Avenue, and a 5 mile route from Hartsdale to Valhalla. Even though the complete opening is still quite a few years away, what is available right now is just as scenic as any existing bike path in the city.
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Discover The Wines of New York
New York heralds a rich and lengthy wine history, and continues to maintain strong relevancy as a wine producing area, coming third in place behind California and Washington state. The country’s first bonded winery was founded here in New York, and the oldest operating winery in America is housed in New York as well.
Now, New York wine country boasts seven official wine regions, along with several additional subregions. There are more than 1600 family vineyards and over 400 wineries throughout New York, with the wine (and grape) industry generating “more than $4.8 billion in economic benefits annually for New York State.”
For those unfamiliar with the history of wine production, that says a lot. Evidence accounts for winemaking in ancient cultures dating back as far as 6,000 B.C. and New York’s community of wine producers continue adding onto this centuries old tradition.
If you’re interested in discovering some of the wines New York has to offer, here are a few New York wineries you should know:
Brotherhood Winery
The Brotherhood Winery was established in 1839, and is America’s oldest winery. Located in Washingtonville, New York, Brotherhood is less than an hour and a half from New York City, and welcomes guests for tours, tastings and live music. If you have a special occasion on the horizon, such as a wedding, birthday party or corporate gathering, the Grand Salon can accommodate. The 19th century space offers a charming setting with a deeply historic backdrop, making it the ideal destination for any memorable event.
One Woman Wines & Vineyards
The name behind Claudia Purita’s Long Island winery is literal. An Italian native, she grew up on her family's farm and has brought the values learned to her vineyards. “Her Story” illustrates a woman who’s attentive to the smallest details, patient and willing to go above and beyond for the sake of quality. Out of that perseverance came an array of wines, with selections for those who favor red, white or pink. While her wines are available for purchase online, One Woman Wines also has a tasting room with nine wines available for tasting and seven reserve wines for purchase.
Red Hook Winery
The Red Hook Winery opened in 2008 and since then, their focus has truly been on bringing New York wines to consumers. They produce all of their wines “from grape to bottle” at their urban winery on Pier 41 and sell a host of options for wine lovers to sip on- like orange wines and unique red and white blends. This winery has received quite a bit of media coverage, and perhaps for good reason. Celine Bossart recounts her visit for Edible Brooklyn: “there’s something that Red Hook Winery brings to the table that’s very different from the others in its class: whereas the typical négociant tends to keep the spotlight in one place (on itself), a sharing-is-caring approach is more their style.” Red Hook Winery is now open for outdoor seating and wine tastings, which you can book in advance on their website. Visit!
Ben Ish Winery
Ben Ish Winery is only one of less than a handful of wineries located in Brooklyn. The company only offers dry red wines that are kosher, and carry Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Old Vine Zinfandel. Currently, all of their wines are out of stock; which makes sense, as the winery has won several wine making competitions in the past. Perfect for those that like to stay indoors, Ben Ish Winery delivers throughout the five boroughs, as well as the Five Towns section of Long Island and Monsey, located in Rockland County, NY. Check out their testimonials page to hear from previous satisfied customers.
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Off The MRKT Top 5 August Necessities
Off The MRKT’s Top 5 luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreThe 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!
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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.