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Off The MRKT - Where New York's, Real Estate, Life Style, and Culture Converge
Explore Off The MRKT's Favorite Listings of the Week, where we feature the most remarkable homes on the market, showcasing unique designs, luxury amenities, and standout locations that make them our top picks
Read MoreAt the crossroads of some of Manhattan’s most iconic neighborhoods, a new boutique condominium is rewriting what it means to live in the Village.
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Apartment living, specifically New York apartment living, played a central role in the much-loved TV show Friends, providing a backdrop for the lives of our best-loved twenty-somethings, and preparing an entire generation for predominantly apartment-based lifestyles.
Now, with as many as two in ten Americans in hotspots like New York enjoying apartment life, it’s fair to say that, even thirty years later, it doesn’t get better than this for seeing first-hand what apartment life actually entails. Here, we consider the best lessons that Friends had to offer, and how you can turn those same insights towards your hunt for an apartment moving forward.
Lesson 1: Always choose your neighbors wisely
As well as being a much-loved (in the end) character, Mr. Heckles from Friends wasn’t exactly what you would call a decent neighbor. In fact, his banging on the ceiling at even the smallest noises was so ridiculous that it became a running joke. In reality, however, a neighbor like this could make your living situation incredibly difficult. As such, the first lesson that you’re going to need to apply to your apartment hunt is that you should always seek properties with decent neighbors. Obviously, you can't knock on the doors of everyone in a building before buying! However, you can take certain precautions, such as buying in celeb-heavy complexes where you know your neighbors will keep to themselves, or simply taking note of the condition of your neighbor’s properties, how friendly people seem, and whether you notice any noise disruption or other issues during a viewing.
Lesson 2: If you love pets, factor for them in your search
From Marcel through to Chicken and Duck, pets were as much a part of Friends as the friends themselves, and that leads us to our next crucial lesson – if you want pets, factor for them in your apartment search. The simple fact is that not all apartment complexes allow animals, and you won’t want to compromise your property by breaking those rules. Other options, like these cat friendly apartments, will allow certain animals for an agreed fee. In other cases, you may find that apartments are entirely open to animals of all shapes and sizes. Just do your research, and make sure that there’s room for your four (or two…) legged friends before making an offer.
Lesson 3: Choose locations near to friends...or not
Ultimately, Friends is a lesson in friendship, and the importance of being close to the people we love. Buying in a city filled with your nearest and dearest is certainly a great way to ensure that you’re able to put roots down in. Be warned, however, that living across the hall from your closest friends (or even across the street, as Ross found out the hard way…) doesn’t always buy you the privacy, and happy living arrangements, that you need to settle into the perfect apartment.
Apartment living can be great, but it can also get complicated. Get past that by learning from your Friends, and avoiding these pitfalls at the viewing stages!
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
A five-bedroom duplex penthouse at 40 East 19th Street in Flatiron has listed for $9,995,000 through Brown Harris Stevens, offering a 40-foot-wide living room, a two-level private terrace, and pre-war character throughout.
Park Slope led NYC’s August above-asking sales rankings. Explore the neighborhood’s numbers, its brownstone appeal, and what the asking price really tells you.
RockFarmer Properties has launched sales at The Veridian, a renovated 78-unit cooperative on the Bay Ridge waterfront, with studios from the $300,000s and a new rooftop skydeck overlooking New York Harbor.
Bonnie Haydon, mother of Vanessa Trump, has listed her three-bedroom condominium in Southampton’s Whitefield community for $3.75 million.
Marriott International and SomeraRoad have unveiled The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Brooklyn Heights, transforming the historic Hotel Bossert into the borough’s first branded residences.
A five-bedroom duplex penthouse at 40 East 19th Street in Flatiron has listed for $9,995,000 through Brown Harris Stevens, offering a 40-foot-wide living room, a two-level private terrace, and pre-war character throughout.
Barbara Tober hosted a kickoff tea on September 1 for the Denyce Graves Foundation’s Harvest Moon Gala, set for September 28 at Guastavino’s and honoring Ann Ziff, Misty Copeland, and Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
Park Slope led NYC’s August above-asking sales rankings. Explore the neighborhood’s numbers, its brownstone appeal, and what the asking price really tells you.
RockFarmer Properties has launched sales at The Veridian, a renovated 78-unit cooperative on the Bay Ridge waterfront, with studios from the $300,000s and a new rooftop skydeck overlooking New York Harbor.
Andrew Franz Architect has reimagined a 2,614-square-foot loft at 50 Wooster Street in SoHo, pairing a 1895 cast-iron building’s original details with custom millwork, a 32-foot great room and a spa-like primary suite.
New York Fashion Week isn’t just about the runway — it’s about where the fashion crowd goes to eat, drink, and celebrate once the shows let out.
Read MoreThe first crisp breeze of the season has arrived, and with it comes the unofficial swap from spritzes to something a little warmer, bolder, and more layered. Fall cocktails aren’t just about what’s in the glass — they’re about the ritual, the mood, and the moment. Whether you’re sinking into a leather armchair by the fire, bundling up after a weekend apple-picking trip, or just looking to elevate a cozy night at home, this season’s cocktails deliver the perfect balance of comfort and craft. From smoky takes on classics to playful twists with unexpected ingredients like matcha and pineapple gum syrup, these recipes prove that fall drinking is as much about creativity as it is about tradition.
If you’re looking to shake things up this Fall, here are a few cocktails to try:
1.5 oz. Casamigos Blanco Tequila OR Casamigos Reposado Tequila
.75 oz. Fresh Blood Orange Juice
.75 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
.5 oz. Simple Syrup
½ Thick Rim Equal Parts Chili Salt/Sugar
Garnish Blood Orange Wheel
Wet ½ rim of glass with lime wheel or wedge and dip into salt mixture. Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker (and muddle serrano if using.) Add ice, shake vigorously and fine strain into a rimmed rocks glass. Add fresh ice and garnish.
NOTE: To make spicy add 2 Dashes Scrappy’s Fire Tincture Bitters OR 2 Serrano Slices
2 oz Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey
2 oz Apple Juice
2 oz Ginger Ale
1 Lemon Wedge
1 Apple Slice
Build all ingredients over ice in a highball glass. Stir and garnish with a lemon wedge and apple slice.
1.5 oz Sonrisa Oro Especial
1 oz Espresso Liqueur
1 oz Cold Brew
In a shaking glass, add Sonrisa Oro Especial, espresso liqueur, and cold brew. Cover with ice and shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Optional: garnish with coffee beans.
3 oz Laelia Reposado Tequila
¼ oz Agave Nectar
1 Dash Angostura Bitters
In a mixing glass, lightly muddle the agave nectar, bitters, and orange peel. Add the tequila, then fill with ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into a glass.
1 Tbsp matcha green tea powder
½ cup hot water
1 Tbsp sugar
Gold leaf for garnish
Single serving
Whisk matcha powder with water using bamboo whisk until smooth. Mix Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc with sugar. Combine tea and wine mixture. Garnish with gold leaf.
2 parts Reyka Vodka
3/4 part Small Hand Foods Pineapple Gum Syrup
1 part Lime Juice
5 Cilantro Sprigs
Shake and strain into a Montelobos Mezcal-rinsed coupe. Garnish with an orange peel and cilantro sprig.
1 1/2 oz Ardbeg Wee Beatie
1/2 oz lemon juice
1/2 oz Carpano Antica
1 oz apple syrup*
3 oz pilsner (light draft beer)
Shake all ingredients except the pilsner in a iced filled shaker, fine strain into a highball, top with pilsner.
1.5 oz Broken Shed Vodka
1 oz pumpkin maple coffee syrup
Garnish: 1 star anise pod
Pumpkin Maple Coffee Syrup
Mix equal parts cold coffee, maple syrup and pumpkin purée.
Stir everything over ice, then double strain into a double rocks glass over 1 large ice cube. Garnish with a star anise pod.
Cocktail created by Tom Levron
60ml Brugal 1888
20ml Fresh Lime Juice
10ml 1:1 Sugar Syrup
Add Brugal 1888, fresh lime juice and sugar syrup to cocktail shaker. Add ice & shake. Pour into a coupe glass and decorate with a lime twist
Andrew Franz Architect has reimagined a 2,614-square-foot loft at 50 Wooster Street in SoHo, pairing a 1895 cast-iron building’s original details with custom millwork, a 32-foot great room and a spa-like primary suite.
Manhattan studio rents averaged a record $4,186 in August. Explore the cost of living alone, shrinking rental inventory, and the trade-offs behind the price.
Christie Brinkley and Alexandra Richards brought Hamptons style to a night of ocean conservation, headlining Project Zero’s Coral Benefit with a charity auction supporting reef restoration worldwide.
In a neighborhood defined by charm and exclusivity, one West Village townhouse is rewriting the script on scale and sophistication.
Read MoreArchitecturally striking new development by New Empire Corp. continues to set benchmarks in Queens’ rapidly rising luxury market
Read MoreFor one day only, Midtown Manhattan is trading whispers for tequila as PATRÓN unveils its Speakuneasy — a speakeasy-inspired experience with a modern twist.
Read MoreAutumn is America’s most-liked season, and for good reason. Explore the color changes at some of the best fall foliage destinations in the U.S.
Read MoreIn a city where cocktail culture is an art form, two masters of craft have come together to design the perfect vessel for a perfectly mixed drink.
Read MoreWhen paying off a home loan, the timing of your repayments can have a surprising impact on how much interest you end up paying over the life of the loan. Many borrowers simply accept the default monthly repayment structure, but switching to fortnightly payments can sometimes reduce the term of the loan and save thousands in interest.
The question is, which option works best for your circumstances?
Mortgage repayments are usually calculated on a monthly basis. However, lenders often allow borrowers to make fortnightly or even weekly payments. While it may seem like a small adjustment, repayment frequency changes how often money is applied to your loan, which can affect the total interest charged.
Monthly repayments: 12 payments in a year.
Fortnightly repayments: 26 payments in a year, roughly the equivalent of 13 monthly repayments.
That extra month of payments each year is where potential savings come into play.
Buyers like to explore home loan options that allow for bi-weekly payment schedules or penalty-free extra principal contributions. Structuring your mortgage this way can significantly shorten your loan term and save tens of thousands of dollars in cumulative interest over time.
Making repayments every two weeks can help borrowers shave years off their loan term. Here’s why:
Extra repayments: By paying half your monthly amount every fortnight, you effectively make the equivalent of 13 monthly payments in a year, not 12.
Interest savings: Interest is calculated daily, so reducing the balance more frequently means less interest accrues.
Shorter loan term: Even without consciously paying extra, the structure of fortnightly repayments reduces the time it takes to clear your mortgage.
For borrowers who can manage the slightly tighter cashflow cycle, the benefits can be substantial.
Not everyone finds fortnightly repayments convenient. For many, monthly repayments line up more easily with salary payments or personal budgeting. It also provides a sense of predictability, with just one repayment to plan for each month.
While monthly payments may not generate the same interest savings as fortnightly, they still provide consistency and less administrative hassle for households that prefer simple money management.
Choosing between fortnightly and monthly isn’t just about the math. It comes down to how you manage your household finances.
If your income arrives fortnightly, aligning mortgage repayments with your pay cycle may make sense.
If your income is monthly or irregular, sticking with monthly repayments may feel smoother.
Some borrowers like the discipline of fortnightly payments—it forces regular contributions and prevents overspending.
Ultimately, the best option is the one that supports both your financial goals and your lifestyle.
Some borrowers prefer to stick with monthly payments but make additional contributions whenever possible. This can be just as effective as fortnightly payments, provided you’re disciplined. Whether you direct lump sums from bonuses, tax returns, or savings into your mortgage, the result is the same—lower principal, less interest, and a shorter loan term.
The key is ensuring your loan allows extra repayments without penalty, something worth checking with your lender upfront.
For those unsure which repayment structure suits their circumstances, it’s worth having a conversation with a mortgage broker Sydney based. Brokers can model repayment scenarios across different lenders, showing how fortnightly versus monthly plays out in real numbers. They can also factor in loan features like offset accounts or redraw facilities that may further reduce interest costs.
There’s no single right answer when it comes to repayment frequency. Fortnightly payments can deliver meaningful savings over time, but they also require a cashflow rhythm that not every household can maintain comfortably. Monthly payments, while less aggressive in cutting down interest, still offer reliability and simplicity.
The most important step is to actively consider your options rather than defaulting to whatever your lender sets. Whether you choose fortnightly or monthly, structuring your repayments with a clear plan helps ensure your home loan works for you—and not the other way around.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Marriott International and SomeraRoad have unveiled The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Brooklyn Heights, transforming the historic Hotel Bossert into the borough’s first branded residences.
A five-bedroom duplex penthouse at 40 East 19th Street in Flatiron has listed for $9,995,000 through Brown Harris Stevens, offering a 40-foot-wide living room, a two-level private terrace, and pre-war character throughout.
Park Slope led NYC’s August above-asking sales rankings. Explore the neighborhood’s numbers, its brownstone appeal, and what the asking price really tells you.
RockFarmer Properties has launched sales at The Veridian, a renovated 78-unit cooperative on the Bay Ridge waterfront, with studios from the $300,000s and a new rooftop skydeck overlooking New York Harbor.
Bonnie Haydon, mother of Vanessa Trump, has listed her three-bedroom condominium in Southampton’s Whitefield community for $3.75 million.
Marriott International and SomeraRoad have unveiled The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Brooklyn Heights, transforming the historic Hotel Bossert into the borough’s first branded residences.
A five-bedroom duplex penthouse at 40 East 19th Street in Flatiron has listed for $9,995,000 through Brown Harris Stevens, offering a 40-foot-wide living room, a two-level private terrace, and pre-war character throughout.
Barbara Tober hosted a kickoff tea on September 1 for the Denyce Graves Foundation’s Harvest Moon Gala, set for September 28 at Guastavino’s and honoring Ann Ziff, Misty Copeland, and Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
Explore Off The MRKT's Favorite Listings of the Week, where we feature the most remarkable homes on the market, showcasing unique designs, luxury amenities, and standout locations that make them our top picks
Read MoreDon’t step into the real estate world without knowing your avenues for securing cash as an investor and exploring high-stakes property opportunities.
Read MoreMiami’s wildly popular Motek makes its New York debut on September 15 in Flatiron, bringing kosher-style, seed-oil-free Mediterranean cuisine to 928 Broadway.
Read MoreThe Hamptons are famous for their beautiful beaches and luxurious estates, but they also offer a treasure trove of lesser-known culinary delights. As we navigate the bustling summer season, it’s the perfect time to discover those hidden culinary gems that provide memorable dining experiences. From quaint cafés tucked away on quiet streets to seafood spots serving the freshest catch, the Hamptons have a rich variety of eateries waiting to be explored.
For those who love farm-to-table cuisine, there are local farms that transform their fresh produce into mouthwatering dishes you won’t find anywhere else. These places not only support local agriculture but also offer a unique and authentic taste of the Hamptons. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting for the summer, discovering these hidden culinary gems can make your stay even more special.
Finding these spots requires a bit of insider knowledge and a spirit of adventure. From talking to locals to taking scenic detours, there are many ways to uncover the best-kept secrets in Hamptons dining. Let's dive into some of the charming cafés, seafood havens, and local farms offering fresh cuisine that make the Hamptons a foodie’s paradise.
The Hamptons are home to some of the most charming cafés you'll find anywhere. These cozy spots offer a perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal or a cup of coffee. One favorite is the Blue Door Café, known for its delightful pastries and homey atmosphere. The outdoor seating area is great for soaking up the summer sun while enjoying a freshly baked croissant or a steaming latte. This café is also family-friendly, making it an excellent spot for breakfast or brunch during your summer vacation.
Another must-visit is Beachfront Brews, a delightful café located right near the shore. With its stunning ocean views and relaxed vibe, it's the ideal place to unwind after a day at the beach. We recommend trying their iced coffees and specialty sandwiches, which are perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely afternoon snack. These charming cafés offer more than just food and drinks; they provide a relaxing environment where families can connect and enjoy the beauty of the Hamptons together.
The Hamptons are famous for their seafood, but there are many underrated spots that deserve your attention. One hidden gem is Fisherman's Delight, a quaint seafood shack that offers some of the freshest fish you'll ever taste. We love their crab cakes and clam chowder, both made with ingredients sourced directly from local fishermen. The casual setting makes it a fantastic place for family outings, where kids can explore the nearby beach while waiting for their meal.
Another excellent but lesser-known spot is Ocean's Catch, tucked away from the more crowded areas. This seafood restaurant offers dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Their lobster rolls and grilled shrimp are fan favorites, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a great choice for a family dinner. By exploring these underrated seafood spots, you'll not only enjoy some fantastic meals but also support local businesses that take pride in serving fresh, high-quality seafood.
The Hamptons are known for their rich agricultural heritage, and visiting local farms that serve fresh cuisine should be on your summer agenda. One of our top picks is Green Valley Farm, where you can enjoy meals made from ingredients sourced directly from their fields. The farm-to-table dining experience here is unmatched. We suggest trying their seasonal salads and freshly made pies, which showcase the best of local produce.
Another standout is Hilltop Farm, which offers a delightful dining experience amidst rustic surroundings. They serve a variety of dishes that highlight the farm's freshest vegetables, herbs, and meats. Their weekend brunches are particularly popular, featuring hearty farm-fresh omelets and artisanal breads. Eating at these local farms not only provides a delicious meal but also supports sustainable farming practices in the region. These farms let you taste the true flavors of the Hamptons while enjoying a picturesque setting.
Finding hidden restaurant gems in the Hamptons can make your dining experience even more memorable. One effective tip is to explore areas off the beaten path. Quaint side streets and lesser-known neighborhoods often house some of the best undiscovered eateries. We recommend asking locals for suggestions, as they often know the best places that aren’t featured in tourist guides.
Another useful approach is to attend local farmers' markets, where many vendors operate seasonal food stands. This can lead to discovering pop-up restaurants and food trucks offering unique and tasty meals. Social media can also be a helpful tool. Following local food bloggers and Hamptons-based social media accounts often yields recommendations for hidden dining spots. By dedicating a little extra time to uncovering these restaurants, you’ll be rewarded with delicious food and a unique dining experience.
There's something truly special about the dining experiences awaiting you in the Hamptons this summer. From cozy cafés and underrated seafood spots to local farms and hidden gems, the variety of culinary delights is vast and inviting. We know that exploring these unique places can turn a simple meal into a memorable adventure for the whole family.
As you plan your summer activities, consider stepping off the beaten path to discover these incredible dining spots. Each visit supports local businesses and enriches your connection to the Hamptons community. If you're ready to explore the best of Hamptons dining, follow along with Off The MRKT for more recommendations and insider tips. Live the Hamptons lifestyle, venture out, and make every meal an unforgettable experience.
Marriott International and SomeraRoad have unveiled The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Brooklyn Heights, transforming the historic Hotel Bossert into the borough’s first branded residences.