Where to Pick the Best Apples Outside of New York City
Hungry for apples? Here are our favorite spots to go this season.
Read MoreYour guide to New York real estate and more
Off The MRKT - Where New York's, Real Estate, Life Style, and Culture Converge
Hungry for apples? Here are our favorite spots to go this season.
Read MoreThe iconic Pink Miami Castle just sold for $10 million. It was initially listed for $8.2M, then agents to famed celebrities, Chad Carroll & Matthew Dugow raised the price and sold it for about $2 million more.
Photo Credit: The Chad Carroll Group
The beautiful home features include:
A Castle-like mansion with 6 bedroom, 7 bathroom custom built home with Gothic architecture and contemporary finishes.
Photo Credit: The Chad Carroll Group
Over 12,000 square feet of living space with a great hall, 30 foot vaulted ceilings, stone fireplaces, antique stained glass windows, French cast bronze chandeliers, Jerusalem stone floors, Cast stone window tracery, gourmet chef's kitchen with La Cornue stove, elevator, rooftop and sun deck.
Photo Credit: The Chad Carroll Group
The outdoors finds 65-feet of water frontage, a keystone-edged infinity pool, elevator, rooftop sundeck, and cement dock.
Photo Credit: The Chad Carroll Group
The seller was represented by Chad Carroll and Matthew Dugow with The Carroll Group at Compass. The buyers were represented by Meredith Zeder with The Jills Zeder Group at Coldwell Banker Realty.
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Martini & Rossi capture the joy of friendship as people reunite across the world. The iconic aperitivo brand joins forces with legendary photographer Greg Williams to capture a historic moment in time for future social reunions.
Photo Credit to MARTINI & ROSSI® X Greg Williams
MARTINI®, the world’s leading vermouth brand and photographer Greg Williams are coming together to curate a once in a lifetime digital photography series of friends reuniting. Friends are being asked to submit images of their in-person gatherings as people hope to safely reunite and create a truly unique moment in time.
To inspire people to capture their own moments of reconnection, Williams, admired for his reportage-style images, will launch the series with a collection of photographs in celebration of friendship, featuring his wife, fashion model, Eliza Cummings. Centered around a typical Italian aperitivo hour in the early evening sunshine, the scene depicts the group catching up over ‘cicchetti’ or snacks in Italian and enjoying the delicious taste of MARTINI & ROSSI Fiero and tonic.
Photo Credit to MARTINI & ROSSI® X Greg Williams
As someone who regularly captures leading talent, Williams is famous for his ability to take authentic, candid, and relaxed portraits of his subjects. To help people less confident with photography, Williams has created a video guide on how to capture unforgettable moments with friends using just a smartphone. Accessible via his and the MARTINI Instagram page, the guide includes tips on composition, lighting, making your subjects feel at ease, the importance of storytelling, and more, all done in Williams’ signature relaxed tone and style.
As part of curating the digital gallery, MARTINI & ROSSI and Williams will be choosing four people to have a once in a lifetime opportunity to be photographed remotely with their friends by Williams himself, using emerging new technology.
Photo Credit to Greg Williams
Victoria Morris, Vice President of MARTINI & ROSSI, comments: “At MARTINI & ROSSI, we understand the importance of time spent with friends, it’s been at the very heart of our brand since it was founded by three friends over 150 years ago. We’ve all missed meeting with friends over the past year but as we look forward, we can start to think about how we can enjoy those incomparable face-to-face moments with the ones we love. Through our promotion with Greg Williams, we want people to celebrate reconnecting and help us capture this extraordinary moment in time.”
Greg Williams adds, “The past year has been tough, and I’ve certainly missed being able to hang out with my friends, that’s why I’m so pleased to be partnering with such an iconic brand as MARTINI & ROSSI on this project. I describe myself as a candid photographer, capturing images in-the-moment, and as friends start to meetup there are going to be so many opportunities to take beautiful shots.
Photo Credit to Greg Williams
He continues; “You’re most relaxed when you’re with your closest friends and when you haven’t seen those people for quite some time, the emotion and excitement can come through in an image that can be kept forever. I am excited to be curating a digital gallery of the best images and to see the joy as friends come together”.
To be in for a chance to be featured in the gallery and of winning a once in a lifetime opportunity to be photographed with friends by Greg Williams, people can submit their photographs to #MARTINIMoments on Instagram.
Photo Credit to MARTINI & ROSSI® X Greg Williams
the first rendering of 580 Gerard have been revealed, designed by Issac & Stern Architects. The site, which was purchased by Silverback Development in Q3 2020, offers 214,800 square feet of development rights.
Photo credited to Issac & Stern Architects.
The $90 million development, purchased with Opportunity Zone equity, will be an eight-story multi-family rental complex comprised of 200 units, with 30 percent designated affordable, ranging from one- to two-bedroom homes, and also include retail space and parking. Residences will feature modern design and premium finishes, as well as a robust amenity package which will include a sun deck, touchless elevators, fitness center, yoga room, grilling stations, screening room, party room, and bike storage.
580 Gerard is ideally situated between the South Bronx waterfront and the express 2, 4, and 5 subway lines -- near local attractions such as the Universal Hip Hop Museum, Food Bazaar (the borough's largest grocery store) and the new soccer stadium megaproject -- all within a five-minute subway ride to Manhattan, 10 minutes to midtown. Demolition plans have been filed and construction is expected to soon begin.
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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!
WHERE: 4 Lexington Avenue, 1R, Manhattan, NY 10010 United States
COST: $459,000
WHEN: Sunday September 19th 1pm-2pm. By appointment only.
Description: Step into your newly renovated home or professional space in the heart of Gramercy Park. This one of a kind studio offers rich architectural details including bronze radiator covers and front door. Immediately upon entering your eyes are drawn to the rusticated stone walls that anchor the unit and the 3 windows. A new white oak floor completes the relaxing look. This apartment can be used as commercial space and would be an excellent therapist's office, design or photography studio or artist workshop.
The spacious kitchen has a granite countertop for dining. Appliances include a 4-burner Amana gas stove and a full-size refrigerator, Frigidaire dishwasher and a new window A/C. The 9-foot-plus ceiling creates spaciousness. The renovated bathroom has a combo shower and bathtub. The apartment has 3 closets for maximum storage.
Sage House was built in 1915 for the Russell Sage Foundation, which was created to solve the causes of social problems. Grosvenor Atterbury designed the building and made the facade entirely of rusticated stone. The double-high lobby and grand entrance immediately create a peaceful feeling each time you return home. The Sage House coop features a 24-hour doorman, laundry room and has bike and storage units for rent. The unit can be used as a home or commercial space. Maintenance is $908.25. The building is pet-friendly and allows 80% financing, pied-a-terres, gifting and has an unlimited subletting after 1 year of ownership with board approval.
Bedroom :
Bathroom: 1
Listing Page: https://www.corcoran.com/homes-for-sale/4-lexington-avenue-1r-manhattan-ny-10010/21056537/regionId=1
WHERE: 1 Morton Square, Apartment 7EW, New York, New York 10014 United States
COST: $2,875,000
WHEN: Shown by appointment only.
Description: Enjoy spectacular river views and glorious sunsets from this modern masterpiece.
Beautiful two (2) bedroom, two and one half (2.5) bath home at the luxurious 1 Morton Square condominium in the heart of the West Village. Apartment 7EW is loft-like with 30 feet of frontage overlooking the Hudson River and directly across from Hudson Park on a charming cobblestone streets. One can enjoy timeless sunsets in this grand home with the breathtaking views and astonishing light. There are 10 foot ceilings and wall to wall windows. The gourmet chef’s kitchen, which is open to the great room, has top of the line appliances including a Viking stove, Sub Zero refrigerator, stone countertops, abundant storage, a breakfast bar – all ideal for entertaining. The split bedrooms are both generous in size and have abundant, wonderfully outfitted closets. The primary bathroom has double sinks, a soaking tub, a separate stall shower and marble counter tops. There are beautiful hardwood floors throughout and a vented washer /dryer.
One Morton Square is a luxurious 6 star condominium designed by Costas Kondylis & Partners known for its “Uptown” full service amenities. They include 24-hour doorman, concierge, live in resident manager, in-house valet service, 3,000 sq. ft. courtyard, 3,200 sq. ft. state-of–the art fitness center, children’s playroom, attended garage which offers valet services and bicycle room. Storage is available to rent.
Asking $2,875,000. Represented by Stephanie Kanner and Roni E. Cowan, Fox Residential.
Bedroom : 2
Bathroom: 2
Listing Page: http://www.foxresidential.com/listing/3515521/1-morton-sq-7ew
WHERE: 813 8th Avenue, 2R, Brooklyn, NY 11215 United States
COST: $785,000
WHEN: Saturday September 18th 11:00am-12:00pm and Sunday September 19th 1:00pm-2:30pm
Description: Welcome home to the sweetest two bedroom Coop in Prime Park Slope. Nestled in a gorgeous, pet friendly, pre-war, self-managed coop, this spacious and bright two bedroom one bath Park Slope beauty has undergone a complete and stunning renovation. There are two sizable bedrooms; the primary is bright and chic and comes with savvy barn doors. The second bedroom, on the opposite side of the apartment, is bright and serene. With a sunny and spacious living room, open kitchen with top of the line stainless steel appliances including dishwasher, white Quartz countertops/breakfast bar and lots of storage, you will be the envy of even the most discerning chef. The recently renovated bath sparkles with glass doors and custom stone work. With sensational lighting throughout, new closets and pristine brand new hardwood floors who could ask for anything more? This exceptional home comes with an oversized private storage unit, free bike storage and a card operated laundry in the basement. Apartment 2R is tucked away in the back of the building offering peace and quiet with lush greenery facing a leafy and tranquil private backyard. Located on Park Slope's coveted 8th Avenue with its stately mansions, iconic brownstones, and classic pre-war coop buildings, you will fall in love with the location. You are a stone's throw away from the 9th Street entrance of the glorious Prospect Park. The F/G trains are located right on the corner of 9th Street and 8th Avenue making transportation to just about anywhere in Brooklyn or Manhattan a breeze. This prime Park Slope beauty is calling you home!
Bedroom : 2
Bathroom: 1
Listing Page: https://www.corcoran.com/homes-for-sale/813-8th-avenue-2r-brooklyn-ny-11215/21243288/regionId=1
109 East 79, the highly anticipated luxury condominium, designed by Steven Harris Architects in collaboration with Rees Roberts + Partners, has announced the commencement of sales. An exceedingly rare new building located just off Park Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side within one of the world’s most desired enclaves of residential properties, 109 East 79 is designed as a tribute and considered update to the historic pre-war addresses that surround it. With subtle nods to Art Deco, Mid-Century, and Bauhaus design, the building enjoys gracious layouts inspired by those of Rosario Candela and J.E.R. Carpenter, though embellished with unmistakably modern touches. 109 East 79 is developed by Legion Investment Group, the New York-based real estate developer, owner, and operator with an established track record of executing architecturally distinguished buildings.
Photo’s courtesy of Noë & Associates with The Boundary
“Bringing a new residential development of this caliber to one of New York City’s most in-demand neighborhoods is an opportunity that rarely arises,” said Victor Sigoura, founder and CEO of Legion Investment Group. “109 East 79th Street’s prime location – with 100 feet of frontage just off Park Avenue – afforded us the ability to create a unique collection of ultra-private residences featuring dramatic volumes of space, an unparalleled level of refinement, and a robust suite of club-like amenities. We are providing a living experience that no other luxury building in the area can offer.” A testament to the rarity of this offering and the pent-up demand for residences of this quality can be seen in the impressive number of contracts that have been quietly executed before the launch of sales, including one of the building’s full-floor penthouses.
“109 East 79 reflects over thirty years of experience designing bespoke apartments, townhouses and country houses in and around New York,” said Steven Harris, founding partner of Steven Harris Architects. “Like the work of Rosario Candela, James Carpenter and Emery Roth, the design began with the apartments. The individual residences are each configured to create the well-proportioned, exquisitely detailed, almost effortless grace for which the best apartments of the first third of the twentieth century are known. 109 East 79 is the product of years and years of experience working on some of the most important buildings in the City. We could not be more proud.”
109 East 79 is one of a small handful of residential projects designed inside and out by Steven Harris Architects, regularly named by Architectural Digest as one of the top design firms in the world. Over his distinguished career, Steven Harris has been celebrated many times over for his bespoke residential work, his “who’s who” of private clients with homes throughout New York City, the Hamptons, New England, Palm Springs, Napa Valley, and Europe. His commercial work for Dolce & Gabbana and Barneys New York elevated the entire category of flagship retail design to new levels. While Harris has designed a number of private commissions within the Upper East Side’s most iconic pre-war buildings, he has, until now, yet to leave his signature on the neighborhood’s streetscape.
Inside the 20-story building, Harris has applied his highly customized approach and unique layering of eras and styles, with 31 two- to five-bedroom residences which emphasize classically proportioned layouts and voluminous spaces, some stretching beyond 6,000 square feet. The residences, each meticulously planned and designed by Steven Harris with interiors and landscaping by Rees Roberts + Partners, are anchored by spacious entertaining and dining areas and layouts emphasizing grand room scale and vistas. Ceiling heights soar as high as 20’ and select residences feature step-down living rooms, an elegant design feature found in some of the finest pre-war residences, a detail that has all but disappeared in new construction in New York City over the past half century due to complexity of execution. Floor plans are oriented to take advantage of views over private gardens, including the building’s own, a calm oasis featuring a water wall, also designed by Mig Perkins.
The light-filled kitchens have hand-painted custom Italian cabinetry offset by polished nickel trim and wire brushed rift cut white oak feature walls, along with countertops and backsplashes of honed Imperial Danby marble, and custom stainless steel islands finished with Nordic Gray marble slabs. The primary baths include Olympic Danby marble, custom vanities and fluted glass shower enclosures that show a subtle Art Deco influence, while freestanding tubs, in select residences, add a modern sense of luxurious indulgence. Cool gray tones of Maya quartzite bring a rich glamour to the powder rooms
The generous scale of 109 East 79 has allowed for the inclusion of a series of residential amenities with the same level of elegance as the building itself. The building’s soaring double-height lobby leads to an intimate lounge and library, each looking out onto a landscaped garden. Upstairs, The Wright Fit-designed double-height fitness center also overlooks the garden and will feature an international squash court / multipurpose sports court with retractable basketball hoop, as well as a movement studio with Pilates and Gyrotonic equipment. Amenities also include a spa equipped with treatment rooms, steam room, sauna, and hair salon, a screening room, golf simulator and a fully equipped game room.
109 East 79 lies at the heart of the Upper East Side, with the city’s finest retail flagships, culinary destinations, hotels and cultural institutions within easy reach. Two blocks away is the expanse of Museum Mile including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum with The Frick Collection just to the South. Nearby restaurants include Sant Ambroeus, Via Quadronno, Orsay, The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Daniel by Daniel Boulud. Madison Avenue, just a block away, offers an unparalleled selection of luxury retailers and fashion houses.
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Explore, learn and travel all around the world within the comfort of your own home, or book a flight and set your wings towards a new country. As borders are slowly opening back up, we are slowly retuning to our regularly scheduled programming of jet setting around new cities and enriching ourselves in new and distinct cultures. To prepare for our grand holidays, or virtual escapes, we are enlisting the wonderful expertise from Context Travel.
Picture via @ContextTravel
Context Travel is a network of scholars and experts who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology, who offer private, custom, and small group walking tours in 60 cities across six continents for almost 20-years.
Recently launched, the digital learning program is called “Context Learning,” and it offers live interactive seminars and courses on a variety of cultural and historical topics with the company’s vast network of well-versed, PHD or MA-level degree scholars. Think of this as a LIVE version of Netflix where there are tons of options to choose from, select which one is most of interest to you and learn about your favorite subject.
Picture via @ContextTravel
Context is now the only travel company that allows you to start learning before you hop on a plane. Due to popular demand for long form travel, and because Context participants have built relationships with their experts/scholars over the course of the pandemic, Context is now taking one step further to launch Context Journeys – the brand’s first fully planned, multi-day, small and group tours in cultural capitals across the globe.
Picture via @ContextTravel
Journeys will be led by the brand’s network of scholars, many of which hold PhDs or other terminal degrees in their field and teach at the university level, who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology.
Picture via @ContextTravel
Recently launched new programs for those interested in the culture and history of Mexico City, both through Context Journey (in-person, multi-day group tour experiences) and Context Learning (virtual courses and conversations online).
From its ancient ruins to its cosmopolitan neighborhoods, bustling markets to world-renowned museums —Mexico City should be at the top of everyone’s (in-person or virtual) travel list. For those ready to take flight and enter this vibrant, historically fascinating city in-person, then Context Journey has the perfect itinerary for all: 4 fully planned days guided by experts in Mexico City including a luxury hotel accommodation at the 5-star St. Regis Mexico City.
Highlights of the Context Journey Mexico City Multi-Day Tour Include:
Learning about the art and dramas behind the famous artist couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, with guided visits through their homes and studios
A local look at Mexican food and beverage with an exploration of Mercado Coyoacan and surrounding neighborhood
Taking a guided excursion to see the Aztec ruins and pyramids of Teotihuacan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a practicing archeologist
Interested travelers can learn more about the full itinerary and offerings for the Context Journey Mexico City tour here, and can book the multi-day journey ahead of its January 13th 2022 start date.
Those ready to start learning about Mexico City now can opt for Context Learnings’ Mexico City courses. From the Day of the Dead: Mexico's Celebration of Life After Death with Jazmin Caraveo-Tunon to Tequila and Mezcal: An Introduction to Mexican Spirits with Chantal Martineau—There are plenty of options of these expert-guided, culturally enriching courses, available now for registration.
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September is national bourbon month, and no better way to celebrate than the launch of your new favorite bourbon. Today, Hudson Whiskey, hailing from the distillery that started the New York whiskey revival, introduced its oldest release to date - Four Part Harmony, a four-grain bourbon whiskey aged a minimum of 7 years.
Just like the cultural tapestry of its eponymous state, Hudson Whiskey’s new, matured bourbon offering is a sum greater than its parts. Featuring the rich sweetness of corn, sharp peppery notes of rye, the smooth subtlety of wheat, and the light fruitiness of malted barley, the flavors work together like a jazz quartet—a perfectly harmonious combo that ends on a high note every time.
“Hudson Whiskey has been looking forward to this moment ever since our humble beginnings upstate, so we’re thrilled to unveil our oldest release to date,” says Paul Coffey, Senior Brand Manager of Hudson Whiskey. “Four Part Harmony is ready to ‘wow!’ dedicated Hudson fans and turn other whiskey drinkers’ heads with its bold, yet refined taste. This release shows Hudson Whiskey’s intent to continue pushing boundaries and paving the way within this pivotal time in the American craft whiskey movement.”
Below are some bourbons we’ll be trying, and so should you.
Fistful of Bourbon is a blend of five straight American bourbons – literally a fistful – that together delivers the best that bourbon has to offer. 100% straight American whiskey, Fistful was born from over 100 years of whisky making prowess from William Grant & Sons, but with a cowboy spirit and a touch of Hollywood nostalgia. The first from-the-ground-up American whiskey from the award-winning portfolio, each ‘finger’ of Fistful has a distinct flavor: balanced and sweet, green, leafy floral notes, soft spices and hints of nutmeg, buttery toffee, cinnamon and licorice.
Gold Medal at San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017
Deep amber in color. Rich notes of dark fruit, caramel, sharp honey, chocolate and marzipan on the nose. A full-bodied mix of vanilla, dark caramel, hazelnut, apple, fruit and spices on the palate. The finish is long and creamy with lingering hints of honeyed apple.
Blanton's is the Original Single Barrel Bourbon that retains its uniqueness today by virtue of world wide critical acclaim. It has been awarded international gold medals, grand gold medals, and recommendations from noted spirits writers like Paul Pacult. The individual barrel selection process is one that involves one of the most respected Master Distillers in the bourbon industry. Elmer T. Lee introduced Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon in 1984 and since that time has been enshrined in the Master Distillers' Hall of Fame. Elmer searched the honey spots of Warehouse H to personally select those barrels destined for greatness. Unlike other brands which are restricted to certain ages, Blanton's strives for a distinctive flavor profile across an array of years.
Just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month (September) Woodford Reserve announces today a multi-year partnership with Williams Sonoma. This is the first time the beloved retailer establishes a relationship with a whiskey brand.
The range of cocktail mixers include the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour and Mint Julep. Guests who visit the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky may enjoy the signature cocktails onsite and purchase the mixers.
Additionally, Woodford Reserve and Williams Sonoma will be leading virtual online cocktail classes starting today through the 29th where consumers will learn how to make the signature cocktails and hear about the history of bourbon from Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. Additional products and experiences with the partnership will be announced in the coming months and years.
“Woodford Reserve was crafted to be enjoyed on its own or in delicious cocktails. I cannot think of a better partner than Williams Sonoma, which is known for bringing people together around food and drink,” Master Distiller Chris Morris said. “Both Woodford Reserve and Williams Sonoma strive to help people enrich life.”
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Multidimensional Real Estate Brokerage Opens New, 15,000-Square-Foot Headquarters Designed for Collaboration, Inspiration and the Future of Work
Read MoreNew York City is back baby, and with that is the grand appetite of hungry New Yorkers. Renowned New Jersey chef and restaurateur, Zod Arifai, has opened his newest New York City restaurant, Wicked Jane in Greenwich Village. Wicked Jane is based on an à la carte basis that gives curious foodies and wine-lovers alike the chance to sample the multi-course tastings to come.
Photo via @WickedJaneNyc
Wicked Jane was opened with the intent of creating a 16-course (and then some) fine dining experience that intertwines Chef Zod’s passion for using innovative cooking techniques to elevate simple and seasonal ingredients with bold complementary flavors.
Chef Zod Photo via @WickedJaneNyc
Wicked Jane offers a new à la carte experience each week, and features some of Chef Zod’s favorites dishes from the original tasting menu, such as the lightly cooked salmon with rice purée and bonito broth, fluke tartare with shaved daikon and horseradish tarragon sauces, braised lamb belly with a spicy housemade yogurt topping and chickpea purée, and seared duck breast with red cabbage, turnip, and a fig red wine emulsion. And for those who need a solid foundation of carbs to start, guests also have the opportunity to try Chef Zod’s signature housemade sourdough bread and housemade cheese that are each made with his very own starters.
Photo via @WickedJaneNyc
To highlight the delicate flavors found in each of the carefully prepared dishes, Wicked Jane’s in-house Certified Level 3 Sommelier is readily available to offer a curated wine pairing experience based on each guests' preferences and his personal recommendations; From Togonidze’s 2018 Rkatsiteli Mtsvane Kakheti [Skin-Contact white wine] from the Republic of Georgia to Praesidium’s 2015 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva from Italy, there is a perfectly distinct wine for every course.
Photo via @WickedJaneNyc
The restaurant features an outdoor gazebo with white and black checkered floors and fairy lights, while the inside space boasts tastefully thought-out decor and chic purple velvet seating picked out by NYC-based interior designer, Dustin Malstrom.
Photo via @WickedJaneNyc
Wicked Jane is located on 15 W 8th Street, book your reservations for the most luxurious dining experience now.
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Building a new house comes with many decisions, but the most significant benefit is deciding which features to add. When building a new home, some things to factor in are functionality, practicality, and aesthetics. When you consider all these things, you are likely to end up with a beautiful home. Below are examples of home features to consider when building.
Most homeowners want to have rooms they can use in various ways depending on their current and future family needs. A space that can be used as a home office and a guest room or a basement that can be used as a crafts room is a big advantage to most people. Even when building townhomes, it is good to incorporate flexibility, especially if you plan to rent out the apartment in the future. According to the housing market research group Metrostudy, there has been a 20% increase in new townhome construction over the past year. Where builders started with just about 1,800 townhouses, more are about to come up this year, especially from homebuilding giants like David Weekley and other local developers. One common thing in all this is how builders want to ensure people can enjoy flexible spaces. It is an attractive factor and likely to incentivize people looking to buy townhouses.
Anyone in the homebuilding industry for many years understands how vital a kitchen space is to a client. This is because a kitchen is considered the heart of every home. Most people have many uses for the kitchen, like hosting guests, having family dinners, and, most importantly, cooking. Depending on your needs, some of the things you might want to add to the kitchen include under-cabinet lighting, an oversized island, walk-in pantry, open shelving on the upper cabinetry, integrated appliances, and a breakfast bar. You can pick two or three features based on your preferences and add them.
Most homeowners look for sidings, windows, roofs, and other external features that will not require frequent maintenance. For instance, when it comes to siding, most people favor aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass compared to wood products. This is because one does not want to keep incurring repair and maintenance costs down the road. When it comes to roofs, metallic roofs are also among the preferred roofing materials. Metal roofs are durable, with a 40-70 year lifespan, depending on the material. On top of that, due to modern innovations, it is available in multiple designs and colors, giving people a wide variety to choose from.
Most people often get surprised when they learn that the air they breathe inside their home could be more polluted than the outside air. Most homes are closed off from the world due to various reasons like bad weather, extreme heat, and allergens. This can cause the allergens and pollutants inside the house to build up. An indoor air quality system helps clean the air as it cycles. You can implement it with your HVAC system or have it separately. For instance, you may want to consider smart C02 and smoke detectors that monitor the air quality in your home. They are affordable and help you stay healthy and breathe with ease.
This design continues to gain popularity among people building homes. Open concept floor plans integrate the living room, dining, and kitchen into one space. When combined with large windows, excellent paint color, and the right flooring, the result is a beautiful home. Large windows help bring enough light into the room, and since there are no partitions, the light flows naturally in that space. When it comes to flooring material, consider natural stone as it lasts longer than artificial stone. In addition, natural stone comes in various shades, allowing you to pick something that matches your home.
When building, there are many features to consider for a new home, so that everyone is likely to get what they want. If you are unsure, consult with a professional builder or go through home magazines for ideas.
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 week.
Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more! And be sure to view our new Listings Calendar
Newly renovated and listed at $22M, the 7,433-square-foot, 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom home features a teak (and very zen-looking) media room, a mid-century solarium and neon accents throughout. This spectacular, five-story townhouse is a rare find, offering the stately elegance of a classic Upper East Side mansion coupled with a sense of modern sophistication and state-of-the-art systems associated with new construction. Newly renovated and rebuilt, 48 East 81st Street is the ideal place for both calm, intimate living and elaborate entertaining. Throughout the spacious residence, each room reveals an extraordinary level of detail, from imported South African wood floors and Venetian stucco walls, to hand-run plaster moldings, leather flooring in the master suite, all-teak cinema room and gourmet chef's kitchen. Other noteworthy features include IPE garden, master bathroom with soaking tub and changing room with his-and-her closets, grand parlor, entertaining salon, dining conservatory, library, and teak roof deck. Aside from the exquisite design and high-end appointments, the home boasts top-of-the-line lighting, security and audio/visual systems.
Douglas Elliman’s Allison Chalfin has the listing.
Courtesy Douglas Elliman
If location and charm are what you are looking for in a home, look no further. This five bedroom, six and a half bath home was gut renovated and updated in 2008. The renovations brought the house up to date while still respecting and highlighting its original 1980 authenticity. This home has a rich history, it was one of the first homes built on little plains, and later it became the home to renowned artist Larry Rivers. Upon entering the front door, the natural light and original stained glass windows set the mood for the entire home as you enter the large entrance hall. The fine details and artistry is showcased throughout the house with the stained glass windows, stair details, and antique doors. The carefully curated renovation enhanced the experience and existing beauty of this home. The sizeable expansive kitchen is one of the many focal points for of the first floor, with overflow into the spacious den, an informal dining area, and plenty of counter space.
The .5 acres of mature landscaping makes the backyard feel like the perfect oasis, steps from the heart of Southampton Village and Little Plains Beach. Behind the rose bushes and lush greenery, there is a one-bedroom, full-bath guest house with its own kitchen, living room, and patio. The guest house has its own private footpath to Little Plains.
Listed for $8,495,000 | Agents: Michaela Keszler, Paulina Keszler – Douglas Elliman.
Courtesy of Warburg Realty
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment is located at 130-134 East 67th Street Apartment 3B, and is chic, stylish, and loaded with high-end amenities. Upon entering, owners are greeted by a large living room, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and marble mantle. Natural light floods in from the two huge windows overlooking 67th Street, and adjacent to the living room, the dining room makes for a perfect, bright, and cheery entertaining space. Plus, the windowed kitchen is outfitted with the latest appliances and even has a washer and dryer. Additionally, there are hardwood floors and 9.5-foot ceilings throughout.
Further into the unit, the primary bedroom features yet another wood-burning fireplace, along with a custom walk-in closet, and an attached, windowed bathroom that has dual sinks and a glass soaking tub and shower. The second bedroom doubles as a library, with built-ins and another large walk-in closet. It also has a western exposure, overlooking the Park Avenue Armory.
This property is listed for $2,168,500 by Allison Chiaramonte, Tania Isacoff Friedland, and Sarah Minton of Warburg Realty.
The spectacular penthouse residence at 498 WEA possesses a grandeur, both in scale and workmanship. Set atop a quintessential Upper West Side landmark constructed in 1910 by Neville & Bagge, this newly constructed full-floor duplex is a rare combination of prewar craft and contemporary artistry, perfect for entertaining as well as restorative time at home. Thoughtfully designed by CetraRuddy Architecture to accommodate a 21st century lifestyle, this uniquely exceptional home boasts spectacular finishes and grand proportions. The premium grade details that grace the interiors impart a pervasive sense of quality, and the curated design ushers in a new vernacular - where space and light mix with elevated materials to infuse traditional forms with inventiveness. Upon entering the penthouse, the new oversized windows welcome an abundance of light from all directions, keeping the home bright and airy. Represented by Louise Phillips Forbes of Brown Harris Stevens. Asking $12,600,000.
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Explore this week’s favorite listings featuring standout Chelsea properties—from prewar icons to luxury High Line residences—curated by Off The MRKT.
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Take a walk on the wild side, Savaje brings culinary fantasies to life high atop Hyde Midtown Miami!
Picture via @SalvajeMiami
Imagine a space where the lush intrigue of the Amazon jungle, the passion and spice of Spain, and the mysticism of Japan coalesce, where the senses rejoice and the wildest side of us comes to life — this is what a gastronomic experience at Salvaje is like! If you thought you’ve tasted the best of Japanese and Spanish cuisines, think again! Salvaje brings your wildest fantasies to life, elevating the culinary standards for hospitality decor, flavor profiles, and energetic ambiance to unforeseen heights.
Picture via @SalvajeMiami
The 170-seat space boasts a retractable roof, bamboo daybeds, and an indoor/outdoor dining room featuring signature golden rhinos, oversize palms, and an assortment of illuminated light fixtures. Providing consistent service and expectations of the unexpected throughout the eight locations spanning the globe — Miami, Barcelona, Ibiza, Marbella, Madrid, Colombia — Salvaje has amassed an international reputation, and recently expanded to two new locations in Guatemala and Panama in August.
Picture via @SalvajeMiami
Their consistency between all locations is key and evident through their eccentric menu offerings. Imported ingredients such as octopus from Galicia, Alaskan King salmon, Japanese tuna, and Wagyu beef as well as a seasonally shifting sushi and omakase menu are just a few of the offerings of the highest quality used to exhilarate your palate. Enjoy unique performances from Spanish club dancers on the hour every hour, along with hysterically chic cocktails designed and flavored to leave you craving more.
Picture via @SalvajeMiami
Don’t be surprised when your beautifully hand-crafted concoction is served in an unorthodox tusk or bee glass!
Picture via @SalvajeMiami
And as if we needed another reason to visit, Salvaje’s ‘Sunset Sessions’ are sure to provide some ease for your energetic spirit, offering incomparable views of the sun-bathed cityscape and specially priced menu items Monday through Thursday from 5-7PM. Book your reservations for the most wild dining experience at Salvaje Miami.
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If given a chance, plenty of people would choose to have all debt eliminated from their lives. A mortgage is a huge loan that follows most of us as we get older because of the sheer amount of time to pay it off. People seeking to be genuinely debt-free often have a goal of clearing their mortgage early, but that option isn’t always the best.
In the last decade, homebuying rates have risen by around 1 million per year. More people are taking out mortgages, so it’s more important than ever that you consider whether paying off yours early is right for you. While you may think you’re ready to rid yourself of the debt, more factors at play might convince you to keep it around for a bit longer.
Benefits of Choosing to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early
Paying off your mortgage is typically a great achievement. If all things align right for you and you see a path toward an utterly debt-free life, it might be time to pay off your mortgage and ultimately own your home.
Freedom from mortgage payments means you can contribute that extra money to some other place in your life. You could build your retirement fund or pad your safety net. You can eliminate another massive debt that could have held you back from accomplishing true financial freedom. Paying off your mortgage early is exceptionally tempting if you have the money because of all the freedom it gives you.
If you want to pay off your mortgage aggressively, consider changing your payments from monthly to biweekly. Doing so would give you enough time to make plans for future payments and other lines of credit so that paying off your mortgage won’t affect you negatively.
5 Reasons Why You Should Keep Your Mortgage
Choosing to pay off your mortgage isn’t a simple decision. While it can open up channels of financial freedom for you, it can also hold you back from other financial goals. It’s crucial to analyze the risks of eliminating debt before you do it so you’re fully prepared to make the decision that’s best for you.
Did you know that you can deduct what you pay in mortgage interest from your taxes? According to the IRS, you can claim interest from the first $750,000 on a home mortgage, which means many people could continue getting this tax deduction for the duration of their mortgage.
Without a mortgage, you potentially lose that money that could have helped soften the blow of taxes on your wallet. Before you pay off your loan, think about whether you want that yearly tax deduction.
Your first target should be debts with high interest rates. For example, if you have student loans, you should consider paying those off before looking at your home investment.
Any other debt should go before you touch your mortgage, as your home is an investment for an average of 30 years. Focusing on paying down other loans can give you the same sense of accomplishment toward financial freedom while positively impacting you.
You could use the money you used to pay your mortgage off in full for something else that will build a better life for you in the future. Saving for retirement is an important one — imagine the difference dropping a lump sum into your retirement account could make instead of using it on your mortgage.
Also, if you haven’t built up your savings account, you should focus on trickling additional money into it. Your savings account should be full of three to six months’ worth of expenses to keep you afloat in case of an emergency.
You also shouldn’t withdraw money from your savings to pay off your mortgage. While it might seem nice to be free of the financial burden, you also won’t have a cushion to fall back on if something goes wrong.
You may have to pay your lender a fee if you choose to pay off your mortgage when owning your home for only a short number of years. If you’ve had your mortgage for a while, you may not have to worry about paying an extra fee, but it’s always best to ask your mortgage lender in Cincinnati if they have this sort of fee before making a big decision like paying off your mortgage.
Your credit score will undoubtedly take a hit if you remove one of the lines of debt-repaying options. The change could be small, but it’s still something to keep in mind if you don’t have other ways to build your credit. Paying your mortgage every month can help you maintain an excellent credit score.
If your mortgage was your only line of credit with a low balance on it, then paying it off might hurt your score and cause it to plummet because that account doesn’t exist anymore.
Pros and Cons of Paying Off Your Mortgage Early
Once you decide to pay off your mortgage, you’ll find that many of your financial goals have been accomplished. What will you do next? Having a clear objective in sight can keep you motivated to build generational wealth.
If you don’t pay off your mortgage all at once, you have something to drive you onward, something you’re working toward while enjoying your life to the fullest.
Author
Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief of Renovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications.