Inside NYC Apartments Renting For Up To $5K A Month

With New York City rents at a record high, ever curious what you can actually get for $5K a month? Make It Marathon looks inside three New York City apartments renting for $1,300 to $5,150 per month.

Courtesy of CNBC Make It

Elena Taber, 23, lives with two roommates in a 3-bedroom apartment in New York City's East Village. Together they pay $5,150 a month in rent. Elena works as a full-time YouTuber and pays $1,850 for her room. She moved into the apartment in February 2019.

Nikki Lee, 26, lives with her husband Dyllan in a 1-bedroom apartment in New York City's Gramercy Park. Together they pay $3,800 a month in rent. Nikki works as a data scientist at Spotify and Dyllan is a lawyer. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Nikki was used to her two architect parents pointing out design details in homes and buildings in their neighborhood. That appreciation for design was a blessing and curse when it was time for Lee to look for her own place in New York City with Dyllan. She wanted a one-bedroom apartment on the second floor of a building, a preference she admits is "weirdly specific."

Hattie Kolp, 29, lives in a 2-bedroom rent-stabilized apartment in New York City's Upper West Side. Hattie has been living in this apartment since age 10. She is a special education teacher and part-time interior designer and Instagram blogger.


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The Best New Homes With Fireplaces In New York City!

Fall is in the air and the following properties are some of our favorite listings where we plan to bundle up with a glass of wine and embrace the change in seasons.


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Fall Cocktails You Don't Want To Miss Out On

Summer is over, and the brisk chill air has hit the city. As the leaves begin to turn and we take out our Aumtmn fashion, you may find yourself sitting by the fire, hopefully with a cocktail in hand, Whether you enjoy a classic apple-based drink or an Irish Coffee to get through the day.

If you’re looking to shake things up this Fall, here are a few cocktails to try:

The Ketel One Perfect Martini

  • 1.25 oz. Ketel One® Vodka

  • 0.25 oz. dry vermouth

  • Lemon twist

Stir vodka with ice in a mixing glass. Strain into a martini glass Garnish with a lemon twist


Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Tea-Se-Tea

Created by Tullamore D.E.W. Brand Ambassador Gillian Murphy

Mint to garnish. Add all ingredients to a punch bowl. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint. Serve over ice in a wine glass.


Appily Married

  • 1 1/2 ounces Ketel One Vodka

  • 1/2 ounce apple juice

  • 1/2 ounce pink grapefruit juice

  • 2 bar spoons honey syrup

  • Cinnamon sugar, for rim

Chill a cocktail glass and coat the rim with cinnamon sugar. Add Ketel One Vodka, apple juice, pink grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake until well chilled. Strain into cocktail glass and serve


Fistful OF PSL (makes approximately 2 drinks)

  • 1 part of Fistful of Bourbon

  • 2 cups of milk

  • 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree

  • 1/2 tablespoon of pumpkin spice

  • 1/2 cup of coffee

Add all ingredients except for the bourbon in a warming vessel - this could be a pot on the stove for a few minutes or in a bowl, covered with Saran Wrap, cut 3 slits and microwave for 1 minute. Once warm, pour in Fistful of Bourbon and transfer into your favorite mug. Top with whip cream and dust with pumpkin spice.


CASA GRATEFUL

  • 2 oz. Casamigos Blanco Tequila

  • 1 oz. Fresh Cranberry Juice

  • .75 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

  • .5 oz. Simple Syrup

  • 2 Dashes Peychauds Bitters

  • 1 Pinch Cinnamon

  • Garnish Dehydrated Orange Wheel, Star Anise and Cinnamon Sprinkle 

Combine all ingredients into tin shaker. Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass. Add fresh ice and garnish.


Nikka TSUKIMI

  • 2 parts Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky

  • 0.75 part Fino Sherry

  • 0.5 part apricot liqueur

  • Lemon zest

    Stir over ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon zest.


The BEARFACE Espresso Martini

  • Ice

  • 1 oz coffee liqueur 

  • 0.5 oz simple syrup

  • 1 oz coffee

  • 1.5 oz BEARFACE Triple Oak Whisky

Shake, stir, strain, top with espresso beans 


La Piña

Photo Credit: Ashley Randall

  • 1 ½ oz Dos Hombres Mezcal

  • ½ oz Herradura Reposado Tequila

  • 1 oz Pineapple Juice

  • ¾ oz Lemon Juice

  • ½ oz Chambord

  • 1 ea Egg White

Add all ingredients in shake, dry shake. Add ice, shake and strain into a coupe. Place under Ripple Machine to print floral design.


Is This $22,000,000 NYC Townhouse Worth it?

This week Youtube Eric Conover gives us a tour a beautiful 22 Million Dollar New York City Townhouse in the heart of the Upper East Side that has a zen inspired backyard oasis. 48 East 81st Street is a House located in the Upper East Side neighborhood in Manhattan, NY. 48 East 81st Street was built in 1924 and has 5 stories and 1 unit.

Courtesy of Eric Conover

Would you move into this home?

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Our Favorite Listings For The Week

Looking for a new place to live or just curious about what's on the market? Check out our favorite homes you won’t want to miss out 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


courtesy of Evan Joseph Photography

145 Reade Street features four bedrooms, seven bathrooms, four half bathrooms, and nine fireplaces, three of which are wood-burning. The property was originally built in 1910. In all, the home is 10,582 square feet with multiple outdoor areas (totaling 1,231 square feet) including an outdoor kitchen and patio, as well as a coveted pool with city views. Soaring ceilings (12 ft+ on most floors) and spacious room sizes can be noted throughout the home. The home also has a commercial grade elevator to access all six floors, radiant heated floor (even under the sidewalk outdoors), AV wiring throughout, and extensive custom millwork. The exterior, clad in limestone and brick, is framed by custom steel windows imported from England by Critall.

Enter into a grand foyer with a sweeping staircase drawing the eye upwards to ceiling heights extending up to 24 feet. While not only providing a generous entry, the space can also be utilized as an extra area for entertaining beyond the separate formal living and dining rooms. The large eat-in chef’s kitchen - also situated on the ground floor - features an oversized Lacanche stove as well as a fireplace, a built-in banquet, and a patio.

The top of the house is dedicated to entertainment with two exterior terraces; a front patio with a 17-foot pool that is both heated and salinated, and a back patio that features a full outdoor kitchen, dining, and sitting area. Additionally, there is an indoor sitting area and bathroom including an outdoor shower situated just off the pool. .


Courtesy of Genevieve Garruppo Photography

The Legendary Pyramid House is an undisputed architectural masterpiece (b. 1961, renovated in 2006 by architect Hal Hayes). It offers an irreplicable site, unbelievable views, true mid-century style, unparalleled peace and privacy, and sophisticated yet unpretentious living. The centerpiece is the great room with its soaring ceiling and wall of glass (living room, kitchen and dining) overlooking the dunes (Fire Island National Seashore), the ocean and the bay. Beneath, the enormous primary suite (dressing room, large bathroom and private study) looks out to the dunes on one side and the pool deck on the other. Across the pool deck are 2 guest cabana bedrooms and a bathroom in between, all in the shape of pyramids. Cooling ocean breezes flow day and night in this sophisticated, relaxed compound. Multiple decks and work areas in the home offer privacy and convenience and graceful separation of space. A trophy home that has the potential to produce extraordinary income.


Courtesy of Daniel Milstein Photography

7 Dwight Lane is a sprawling modern mansion in the well-heeled and picturesque enclave of Greenwich, CT. This area is known for its old-world colonial homes so the property really stands out in the crowd for several reasons - it offers resort-style living at its finest with an incredible lineup of amenities and is also fully equipped with forward-thinking features including energy efficient innovations and the latest smart home tech.

The 7 bedroom/9.3 bathroom home is set on over five landscaped acres on a private lane. It was thoughtfully designed for seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining. Inside, the architecturally significant home – complete with elevator access on every floor - boasts dramatic formal spaces with 20' ceilings and colossal windows, plus elevator access to every floor.

Amenities include multiple casual lounge and gathering rooms, a 24-seat tiered movie theater, gym and wellness and spa center with sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and more. Open the doors to an impeccably appointed outdoor oasis with a stunning pool with waterfall feature, spa, outdoor living room with fireplace, areas for lounging and dining, as well as an illuminated tennis court and sports field.


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Wines You Can't Miss Out On This Month

Each month we scour the world for some new wines that we can’t wait to share with you. From Long Island to New Zealand, no wine is off-limit. Perfect for a night in, or a collector’s piece for your top shelf, here are our favorite wines for September.

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First Look: Introducing New UES Condominium The Matteo - Woods Bagot, Nest Seekers International & Boomerang Development Group

A first look at The Matteo, a 15-story luxury condominium rising at 323 East 79th Street by Boomerang Development Group. The Matteo marks the developers first foray into the Manhattan residential market and brings a boutique property, comprised of full-floor homes, each with direct elevator access and one duplex residence, to a neighborhood where this is surprisingly a challenge to find.

With architecture and interior design by Woods Bagot, the property will offer 14 new residences. The design team created The Matteo as an ode to the Upper East Side, resonating with the neighborhood’s rich history. The subtle gray masonry façade’s brickwork is meticulously arranged in distinctive patterns which imbue a contemporary feel. Inside, residences are comprised of three- to four-bedroom homes, each with private outdoor space, and interiors expertly tailored in neutral palettes that lend a luxe aesthetic, including plank and chevron patterned engineered hardwood flooring and Carrara marble surfaces throughout.

Know for trend-setting new construction properties within the Tri-State Area, as well as and Brooklyn’s most fashionable neighborhoods, Boomerang possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies affecting the city’s residential real estate landscape. The team recognized the demand for more refined and spacious offerings within a boutique-style property on the Upper East Side.

Selling The Hamptons star, Bianca D’Alessio of Nest Seekers International, along with her team The Masters Division, are leading exclusive sales and marketing efforts for the property.

Homes are priced from $3,750,000.

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Condo vs. Co-op: Guide to NYC Ownership

If you’re looking to jump from renting to owning in New York City, you’ll likely need to choose between a condo or co-op. Many people combine the two types of homes in the discussion, but the truth is that they’re very different experiences with distinct advantages and disadvantages. 

Many people enjoy the relative ease of buying either a condo or co-op. The prices for these properties are significantly lower than a house and give young professionals less to take care of throughout the year. People also enjoy co-ops and condos due to their proximity to everything — multifamily buildings are the best bet for enjoying life in a densely populated city.

There are many things to consider before selecting the best option for you.

The Difference Between Condos and Co-ops

Condo and co-op aren’t interchangeable terms. Condos are private residences in a multifamily building that includes ownership of any commonly used space. Co-ops have owners that share an interest in the property instead of the individual unit.

They do have similarities, of course. Both are typically managed by associations — condo associations and co-op boards — but the latter have far more power over things like applications and community living standards. 

Similarly, both offer the convenience of living in a multifamily building versus your own private property. You will not be held responsible for the street removal of snow in the winter, for example, which often requires the use of contracted services with heavy equipment and careful removal in NYC. You may also get access to helpful amenities like a doorman, package receptacle and more.

Finally, one stark difference is availbility. There’s a more significant number of co-ops in NYC than condos, but there tend to be more condos on the market at once. Consider the advantages of both home types to help you decide which to buy. 

Buying a Condo

Condos are more straightforward to finance than co-ops since you aren’t as involved in the building. Due to this, you also can keep greater privacy since no one will be deciding on whether you can live there or not.

Condo boards do exist, but they tend to be much less strict than co-op boards, which can take months to approve and will likely require an interview. Co-ops also tend to involve other community residents in the decision. 

Owning the unit means you have fewer fees to worry about than if you lived in a co-op, where you have a stake in the whole property. You will have to pay for utilities and will likely have “common charges” to help take care of the building, but you won’t have the same stake in the entire property that you would in a co-op.

Co-ops tend to have more rules than condos, making condos an excellent choice for you if you want more flexibility. If you decide to lease out your condo, you’re more likely to succeed than trying to do so with a co-op. 

Buying a Co-Op

One of the most significant benefits of living in a co-op is a sense of belonging, with you becoming an investor in the entire community. Many people like co-ops because they provide a sense of permanence they might not feel in other parts of the city. 

Co-ops tend to be in older buildings, providing a more centralized location than most condos. Many are remodeled with luxury amenities you won’t find in condos, including pools, gyms and green spaces. 

While fees in a condo are generally lower, co-op purchase prices tend to be cheaper. There’s also a stricter purchasing process, with the board approving you after a series of reviews and an interview.

Living in a co-ops has both advantages and potential disadvantages. Co-ops tend to have stricter rules than condos, limiting noise and outer decor to certain times of the day or year. Operating like homeowners associations to those less familiar, co-op boards are enabled to oversee aspects of communal living and set standards that may or may not contribute to every resident’s quality of life.

For this reason, co-op purchases can be rife with uncertainty. While co-ops make up 74% of the housing stock in NYC, they are not subject to the same scrutiny in regards to application transparency and fairness that rentals and private homes are. Many applicants have experienced unexplained rejections or, once they moved in, experienced board members and neighbors eager to exercise control over their living situations.

Co-ops can involve tradeoffs. Many beautiful, well-located buildings in the city are co-ops, so purchasing one opens up amazing properties for residents. Some may enjoy the sense of community and input a well-managed co-ops creates, while others may chafe from the influence of their neighbors.

What’s the Difference Between a Condo and a Co-Op?

In general terms, condos offer freedom while co-ops provide community. Still, the experience depends on the individual group that controls the building and the culture established there. 

Deciding to purchase a residence in New York City means you’ll never be far from all the action, but it gives you the freedom and sense of permanency that renting fails to provide. Once you move into your ideal place, you’ll feel right at home.

Author

Evelyn Long is the editor-in-chief ofRenovated. Her real estate work has been published by the National Association of REALTORS®, Rental Housing Journal, and other online publications

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6 Things to Know Before Moving to Texas

If you're considering buying a new home in Texas, there are many things to consider before moving to the Lone Star state. Below are many laws, activities, and things to know before transitioning to Texas. Research and brush up on these pointers before purchasing a home in this state.

1. Consider Texas Home Prices (Which are Currently Rising)

Texas home prices will also differ depending on location - home values in Houston have increased by almost 8% in the last year alone. With so many people moving to Texas, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the different home prices in Texas and choose a neighborhood where home prices are affordable and not at their peak. Being smart about your Texas home purchase can help you find a home that builds equity fast and is worth the investment.

2. Texas Crime Rates Differ By Location

Crime in Texas will differ depending on which part of the state you move to. For instance, in the first five months of 2019, almost 91,000 crimes were reported to the Houston Police Department. However, Trophy Club and Fulshear are considered some of Texas's safest cities with low crime rates. Suburban areas and rural towns often report fewer incidents, making them attractive to families or individuals seeking a quieter, safer lifestyle. Thoroughly research the area of Texas you will move to and consider the crime rates in order to get an idea of the safest cities in Texas. Tools like online crime maps, local law enforcement reports, and community reviews can offer valuable insights. Additionally, consider factors such as neighborhood watch programs, the presence of nearby law enforcement agencies, and the overall community atmosphere to ensure your new home aligns with your safety expectations.

3. The Weather in Texas Varies Greatly By Region

Texas is a vast state with many different climate regions. For example, the Gulf Coast region has hot and humid summers with mild winters, while West Texas is arid with temperatures ranging from below freezing in the winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Keep this in mind when buying a home, and prepare your home so you can save on energy bills during the peak of summer and winter. According to Rpsc.energy.gov, upgrading your HVAC unit is one of the best ways to improve your energy use: almost 50% for electric and 10% for gas. Use Energy Savings to compare electricity plans in Texas.

4. There Are Lots of Unique Things to Do in Texas

Whether you love the outdoors, want to experience world-class museums, or enjoy live music, there's something for everyone in Texas. For instance, Houston is home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Johnson Space Center, while Austin is known for its live music scene and annual festivals like SXSW. There are also many state parks and natural attractions to explore in Texas. Big Bend National Park, for instance, is a huge park that covers over 800,000 acres and features beautiful desert landscapes.

5. There Are Many Different Types of Homes Available in Texas

From ranches and country homes to urban apartments and condos, a wide range of housing options are available in Texas. If you’re considering the Houston area, you might want to Find an apartment in Woodland Houston TX to enjoy a blend of urban and suburban living. It's essential to figure out what type of home you're looking for and where you want to live before beginning your home search.

6. Texas Has a Diverse Population

Texas is a culturally diverse area where you can feel at home with a rich melting pot of people. One thing that makes Texas so unique is its diverse population. According to the most recent census data, over 28% of Texans are Hispanic or Latino, and almost 13% of the population is African American. According to new Census data, nearly 31 million people moved to the United States in 2019, many of whom moved to Texas due to its friendly immigration laws. There are also significant populations of Asian Americans, Native Americans, and people of European descent living in Texas.

Now that you know a little bit more about what to expect when moving to Texas, you can start researching different areas of the state and begin looking for your new home. Remember to take your time, ask lots of questions, and thoroughly explore any area you're considering moving to. Once you've found the perfect place to call home, you can start enjoying all Texas offers.