Tips To Use When Stocking Your Wine Cellar
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Discover the joys of building a wine cellar, from organizing your collection to enjoying perfectly aged bottles. Start small and create your custom cellar!
5 Ways To Add More Privacy to Your Property
Enhance your home’s privacy with tailored landscaping, architecture, and tech. Transform your property into a secluded haven while boosting its value.
Read MoreWhy Confidence, Not Politics, Will Define New York Real Estate in 2026
By Frances Katzen
Founder, The Katzen Team at Douglas Elliman
Top 10 Broker Nationwide | $3.5B+ Career Sales
2026 isn’t shaping up to look like any cycle we’ve just lived through. The past year was loud with rising rates, political noise, endless predictions about what might break next. And yet, instead of pulling back, New York did what it always does. It adjusted and kept moving. Beneath the headlines, the luxury market has been doing its own thing, and the level of conviction we’ve seen late in the year speaks volumes.
In the final two weeks of October alone, Manhattan saw 67 contracts signed above $4 million. That’s more than triple the roughly 20 contracts per week that most of us consider a healthy luxury market. Even in the immediate aftermath of the mayoral election, when many expected buyers to pause, there were 24 deals signed above $10 million in a single week. That doesn’t happen in a market that’s nervous or retreating. It happens when experienced buyers see value and move. At the top end, real estate decisions aren’t driven by headlines or week-to-week politics. They’re driven by confidence, scarcity, and long-term positioning.
What I’m seeing among New York buyers right now comes down to a few simple truths. Fear exists, but flight does not. Ultra-high-net-worth buyers may be adding second or third homes elsewhere, but that’s about diversification, not abandonment. They still want a foothold in the city where careers, culture, and capital intersect. At the same time, uncertainty has created opportunity. The most seasoned buyers understand that transitional moments are often when real value appears, when competition thins just enough to make smart entries possible. And importantly, confidence is returning fastest at the top. With so many luxury transactions happening in cash, buyers aren’t waiting around for rate cuts to tell them when to act. They already know.
Looking ahead, pricing will be dictated less by macro forecasts and more by inventory or the lack of it. We’re moving into a year where fully renovated, well-located, turnkey homes are going to be increasingly hard to find. Developers slowed or reworked projects over the past two years, and that pause is going to show up as a tighter pipeline just as demand continues to normalize. When great product is limited, pricing power follows. We’re already seeing this in neighborhoods that offer what buyers actually want right now: proximity to work, culture, dining, and a true urban lifestyle.
The new year will bring a clear reshuffling of where strength shows up. Areas like NoMad, parts of Midtown, and well-amenitized sections of the Financial District are positioned to outperform because they now deliver convenience alongside elevated living. Brooklyn remains fiercely competitive, particularly in established neighborhoods tied to strong schools and community infrastructure. One of the most intense pressure points continues to be the $4 million to $6 million range, where demand for move-in-ready homes far exceeds supply. Buyers in that tier are far less willing to take on major renovations, and properties that need work are feeling it.
Despite all the political commentary about New York’s future, the city continues to outperform the broader narratives about cooling or contraction. The value here has never been just about square footage. It’s about access to opportunity, access to networks, and access to long-term wealth creation. Every time the noise gets louder, buyers are reminded that New York’s role in the global economy can’t simply be replicated elsewhere. Many will add homes in places like Palm Beach or the Caribbean, but they rarely give up their New York presence entirely. The pull of the city remains as strong as ever.
As we move into the new year, I expect a thoughtful, measured start rather than a hesitant one, with momentum building steadily into the spring. If rates continue to ease, even modestly, a lot of sidelined demand could re-enter quickly, creating a meaningful snapback by mid-year. Stability will likely return before affordability does, but this market has never waited for perfect conditions to move forward. The advantage in 2026 will belong to those who act with intention rather than speculation, and who understand that timing still matters.
I came to New York at 15 to dance, and the lesson I learned then still applies today. This city rewards momentum. It rewards people who step forward while others are waiting. The buyers who moved early will be the ones best positioned when the rest of the market catches up.
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Inside the Luxurious Upper West Side Penthouse: Elegance at 235 West 71st Street
Welcome to a world of unparalleled luxury at the penthouse of 235 West 71st Street, a crown jewel nestled in the heart of New York City's Upper West Side. This expansive 5,000-square-foot residence is a masterpiece of design and comfort, boasting five bedrooms and four baths, each crafted to offer an experience of grandeur and sophistication.
A Grand Entrance
Step into the grand foyer, and you're immediately struck by its elegance. The gallery walls, perfect for showcasing an art collection, lead you into a realm of refined taste and style. This is where the journey of luxury living begins, setting the tone for what's to unfold.
The Heart of the Home - The Great Room
The great room, a sprawling 70-foot-wide space, is bathed in natural light streaming through south-facing picturesque windows. It's a harmonious blend of three distinct areas: a cozy sitting area, a formal living room, and an elegant dining room. Each space is designed to host memorable gatherings, from intimate family dinners to lavish parties.
Cozy Corners and Elegant Spaces
The library, with its roaring fireplace, offers a snug retreat for those chilly New York evenings. Picture yourself unwinding here with a favorite book and a glass of fine wine. The adjacent den, a versatile space, can be transformed into an elegant den or a private sanctuary, depending on your mood.
Culinary Delights in the Eat-In Kitchen
The penthouse also features a large eat-in kitchen, a chef's dream, where culinary creativity comes to life. It's a space that invites both cooking and conversation, making it the heart of everyday living.
A Serene Escape - The Primary Suite
The primary suite is a haven of tranquility, offering quietude amidst the city's hustle and bustle. With its northern and eastern exposures, the suite is a serene escape, complete with a cozy seating area, ample closet space, and a luxurious marble-clad bathroom.
Rooftop Oasis
Ascend the grand stairwell to discover the pièce de résistance - a private rooftop oasis. This 1,200-square-foot terrace is a sun-soaked sanctuary, offering panoramic views and an idyllic setting for entertaining or solitary reflection.
Conclusion
The penthouse at 235 West 71st Street is more than just a residence; it's a testament to the art of fine living. It's a place where luxury meets comfort, where every detail is meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled living experience. This is not just a home; it's a lifestyle, a statement of elegance and sophistication in one of New York City's most coveted neighborhoods.
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Our Favorite Listings For The Week
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 MoreOff the MRKT Favorites: Must-Have Picks for December 2025
Off The MRKT’s favorite items for the month from luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreHoliday Cocktails That Actually Feel Festive (and Don’t Taste Like a Candle)
Drinks to get you through the holidays
Read MoreThese Luxurious Amenities Make Holiday Entertaining a Breeze
The holidays are quickly approaching, and for those who are hosting this year, it takes more than a little holiday magic to put together a memorable party. For the lucky residents of New York City's luxury buildings, entertaining can be chic and effortless by simply booking the thoughtfully-designed event spaces that are part of the impressive amenity packages. These elegant spaces aren't your typical dining rooms, but go above and beyond to provide a beautiful backdrop for all your holiday parties. Let the holiday soirees commence!
Below are some of the top event spaces in amenities around the City:
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The Best New Luxury Buildings for an Epic New Year’s Eve Soirée
New Year’s Eve has officially entered its “host era.” More renters (and their friend groups) are skipping the velvet-rope scramble in favor of buildings that feel like ready-made private clubs—think skyline lounges, private dining suites, and rooftop setups that do half the work for you. The new luxury flex isn’t just the apartment; it’s the amenity stack that can carry a real party, from the first cocktail to the last countdown toast.
Below, five standout buildings in Brooklyn and Philadelphia—plus one Center City icon—where the communal spaces are designed to host.
The Dupont (Brooklyn, NY)
Rockefeller Group’s first residential project in Brooklyn, The Dupont, is an instant standout thanks to its unparalleled location along the North Brooklyn waterfront in Greenpoint as well as striking interiors by AD100 design firm Workstead. These elements come together beautifully with the property’s Rooftop Clubhouse, which feels almost tailor-made for a New Year’s Eve bash. With sweeping East River, Manhattan and Greenpoint views, the design-forward space delivers the kind of cinematic backdrop typically reserved for penthouse parties, no planning required. Image credit: VMI Studio.
544 Carroll (Brooklyn, NY)
Avery Hall’s newly debuted luxury rental tower at the nexus of Park Slope and Gowanus, 544 Carroll, offers one of the borough’s most elegant options for an intimate, high-design gathering. The property’s striking Private Dining Room has been outfitted with a dramatic, heavily veined marble slab table that immediately anchors the space, as well as midcentury-inspired furniture and a convenient kitchenette. Comfortably accommodating 20 guests, it’s the ideal venue for a sophisticated dinner party before the ball drops. Image credit: Courtesy of Avery Hall.
One Thousand One (Philadelphia, PA)
Signifying Philadelphia’s largest-ever residential development, and designed and developed by Post Brothers, One Thousand One, comes with an unprecedented 140,000 square feet of amenities. The rooftop Canopy Club, known for its resort-style pools, seamlessly transitions into a winter lounge destination thanks to its sleek indoor-outdoor spaces. It’s a glamorous setting for a larger group looking to ring in 2026 high above the city. Image credit: Courtesy of Post Brothers.
ICON
Yes, the name fits. ICON at 1616 Walnut is a historic Art Deco building reborn as a luxury rental with a rooftop Sky Deck that leans heavily into hosting: grilling stations, seating, and dramatic city views that immediately give “private NYE” energy.
Inside, the building’s amenity stack reads like a party toolkit—club-level spaces with a communal kitchen and lounge areas, plus entertainment-friendly touches like billiards and shuffleboard that keep a night moving even after the ball drops.
Piazza Alta (Philadelphia, PA)
One of Philadelphia’s most successful luxury rental communities, Piazza Alta continues Post Brothers’ signature ‘ultra-amenitized’ approach. The on-site Ombra Room feels straight out of a private social club, complete with a stunning cocktail bar, lounge seating, liquor lockers, and cigar and billiards rooms. It’s the perfect choice for a tasteful New Year’s Eve celebration, or for winding down the night with a refined final toast. Image credit: Courtesy of Post Brothers.
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A Fast-Moving 2025 Sets the Stage for a Competitive 2026
Manhattan real estate has always played by its own rules, and 2025 was no exception. While national headlines highlighted buyers slowly re-entering the market, New York charged into the year at full speed.
Read MoreHoliday Bottles Worth Opening (and Gifting)
From elegant gift sets to timeless bottles, find the perfect wine to elevate your holiday celebrations and bring joy to every table.
Read MoreCurb Appeal and Your Property: What You Need To Know
Curb appeal is always a major factor in the value and appeal of a home on the market. Here, we explain what to know about curb appeal and your property.
Read MoreInside a 300 square foot apartment
Ever wanted to know what it’s like to live in a 300 square foot apartment? Many of us have had our small apartments, but this takes the cake. Or should we say cupcake. Serhant agent Talia McKinney shows us one on this weeks.Tiny Spaces.
In this episode, Talia takes a look inside Caitlin Widener's gorgeously designed tiny apartment only steps away from Prospect Park. This handcrafted Brooklyn home is intentional with every single design choice. Make sure to take inspiration and let us know in the comments your favorite part of this tiny home!
Doorman Etiquette: When to Tip Your Building Staff
The weekend of Thanksgiving marks the tip-off of tipping season in the hospitality industry. For residents of full-service buildings, this means it’s time to spread goodwill to the staff members who have helped you out countless times in your day-to-day.
Of course, as with any tipping culture, the “rules” and common etiquette can be unclear to anyone not in-the-know. How do you know when and how much to tip your building staff in NYC?
Tipping your staff during the holiday season is not only generous but expected. Let’s explore when you should tip, who you should tip, and how much you should give them during the holiday season.
How Much Should You Tip?
Tipping isn’t a requirement when you live in a full-service building, but it won’t go unnoticed if you don’t tip your staff. How much you should tip can vary depending on your location and the various tasks the staff performs for you.
There are many behind-the-scenes workers in a resident’s full-service building. Doormen often work brutally long hours and have many responsibilities ranging from signing your packages to security detail to hanging up your dry cleaning.
Concierges cater to their tenants most of the day, so showing them extra gratitude can go a long way. A general rule of thumb is to tip your building staff a week’s worth of their wages during the holidays. If you have a financial setback and can’t afford to tip as much as you’d like, consider including a small gift and/or a note with your gratitude and well-wishes.
You can also find tip calculators online to make this a breeze.
Who Should You Tip?
During the holidays, you should tip your building’s superintendent, doorman, elevator operator, newspaper carrier, handyperson, and housekeeper.
These workers do everything they can to meet your needs throughout the year. They keep the building running satisfactorily and keep you, your packages, and your vehicles safe. If you’ve ever been worried about being stuck in an elevator, losing a package to theft or having a car vandalized, these staff members have been behind the scenes preventing these problems.
The building’s superintendent typically receives the highest tip – around $75 to $200 on average – and your doorman or concierge comes in at a close second. Being a doorman can make having a personal life difficult and there isn’t much room for advancement in the hospitality industry. If you’re a generous tipper, youdoorman and other building staff will likely go above and beyond for you throughout the year.
Your tips are greatly appreciated. You must thank these people for their duties during the holidays, as their struggles are likely similar to yours.
When Should You Tip?
Holiday tipping is to show gratitude for the services you receive throughout the year. Many buildings put a card under every door in the building to extend holiday greetings and remind residents of the pecking order of their staff. Senior employees typically receive higher tips than new employees. These cards are usually distributed during the first week of December.
From Thanksgiving weekend, you can begin tipping your building staff for the holidays. You can also extend tipping until after Christmas. It’s best to tip as early as possible to assist your staff with seasonal expenses. The specific date of your tip doesn’t matter as much as the generosity you convey by tipping those who go above and beyond their call of duty.
Why Should You Tip?
Your building staff performs everyday tasks that save you time and money. From getting groceries, keeping your packages safe, and promptly tending to maintenance needs, living in a full-service building comes with plenty of perks.
Co-op fees and rent are included in building staff wages, but tipping is more than just a kind gesture. The hospitality industry comes with perks like tipping for a reason. Building staff doesn’t have the normal perks other jobs have, like an above-average salary to support their families in an expensive city.
Doormen see many personal moments and keep your secrets. These service industry professionals are worth every dime you can spare for them. Some doormen in New York City are part of a union that provides benefits but also has a salary cap so they can’t make more than a certain amount of money per year without tips.
They fully appreciate the tips they are offered during the holiday season and count on them to meet their financial needs and obligations.
Tipping Your Building Staff
Tipping your building staff in NYC is a nice gesture that won’t go unnoticed. The holiday season is financially difficult for many people, especially in the service industry. Show them a little extra thanks and make their holiday season. You will benefit from your generosity in many ways throughout the coming year.
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.
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A Glimpse into Manhattan's Prestigious Residential Skyscrapers
Billionaires’ Row, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, is the epitome of luxury living, showcasing an unparalleled collection of prestigious residential skyscrapers. This famed stretch of real estate, where architectural prowess meets lavish comforts, has captured the attention of the world's wealthiest and most discerning buyers. In this article, we will take an exclusive peek into the opulence, extravagance, and allure that defines Billionaires' Row.
From the world's tallest residential buildings to innovative amenities that redefine modern living, you will uncover the elements that make these Manhattan skyscrapers so coveted and exclusive. Join us as we explore the enigmatic world of Billionaires’ Row, providing insight into the remarkable lifestyle, architectural marvels, and grand interiors that epitomize this iconic New York City destination. Embrace the unparalleled grandeur and immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Manhattan's most prestigious residential towers.
The Origins of Billionaires' Row
The famed Billionaires' Row stretches along the southern edge of Central Park, from 57th Street to Columbus Circle, encompassing the most valuable real estate in New York City. Its moniker stems from the ultra-wealthy clientele drawn to the extravagant residential developments, with some of the world's most successful entrepreneurs and celebrities calling this prestigious location home. Billionaires' Row represents the pinnacle of luxury living in Manhattan, characterized by extravagantly designed skyscrapers with breathtaking views, world-class amenities, and unmatched privacy and exclusivity.
Architectural Marvels of Billionaires' Row
Billionaires' Row boasts an impressive roster of renowned architects and developers responsible for creating some of the most innovative and eye-catching residential buildings globally. Among these architectural masterpieces stand:
1. 432 Park Avenue: Designed by architect Rafael Viñoly and developed by CIM Group and Macklowe Properties, 432 Park Avenue reigns as the tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere. With interiors by Deborah Berke Partners, the building exudes an air of modern elegance. Residents can enjoy the unrivaled city and park views, with every detail meticulously designed to offer the utmost luxury.
2. One57: Developed by Extell and designed by architect Christian de Portzamparc, One57 features 90 stories of ultra-luxe living. Known for its captivating "waterfall" facade, this tower includes a limited collection of residences above a five-star Park Hyatt hotel, providing lavish hotel amenities to its residents.
3. Central Park Tower: Developed by Extell and designed by architects Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill Architecture, Central Park Tower claims the title of the tallest residential building globally and the second tallest building in the United States. The 1,550-foot skyscraper houses opulent living spaces with breathtaking views, lush interiors, and one of the largest and most exclusive private club offerings in any residential building.
4. 53W53: Developed by Hines, Pontiac Land Group, and Goldman Sachs and designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, 53W53 stands as a work of art in its own right. With its unprecedented design and unique relationship to the Museum of Modern Art, this high-rise captures the essence of New York City's appreciation for both art and architecture.
Luxurious Amenities and Services
Residents of these iconic Billionaires' Row towers enjoy unparalleled services and amenities as part of their lifestyle. Some notable offerings include the following:
1. Spectacular Views: One defining aspect of these luxury skyscrapers is the unobstructed panoramic views they offer, allowing residents to gaze upon Central Park, the Manhattan skyline, and even beyond the ocean.
2. Wellness Spaces: Residents can access state-of-the-art gyms, spas, and treatment rooms to prioritize wellness, often accompanied by personalized fitness plans, yoga studios, massage services, and indoor swimming pools.
3. Entertainment Amenities: Some buildings offer private dining rooms, catering kitchens, movie theaters, and children's playrooms designed to entertain and cater to residents' desires for luxurious living and leisure.
4. Exclusive Clubs: Buildings such as Central Park Tower offer residents an expansive and private club encompassing multiple floors dedicated to wellness, dining, and entertainment, echoing the luxury of a five-star hotel experience.
The Impact of Billionaires' Row on New York City's Real Estate Market
The rise of Billionaires' Row has significantly impacted New York City's real estate market. These ultra-luxury residential buildings command exorbitant prices and have raised the bar for luxury living in Manhattan. As a result, the city’s real estate landscape now caters to higher expectations in terms of design, amenities, and quality.
However, the extravagant prices and exclusivity of Billionaires' Row properties have also raised concerns about limited supply and affordability in the broader real estate market. These iconic skyscrapers embody the pinnacle of architectural innovation, heralding a new era of opulence in New York City's real estate realm.
The Art of Living on Billionaires' Row
Becoming a resident of New York City’s prestigious Billionaires' Row requires more than just financial wherewithal – it demands an appreciation for the finer aspects of life, an eye for design, and a desire for unparalleled service that transcends the ordinary. From enjoying unparalleled views of Central Park to embracing the most innovative and luxurious amenities, living on Billionaires' Row represents the culmination of a lifelong pursuit of excellence and affluence.
Make Your Mark on Billionaires' Row with Off The MRKT
The sheer opulence and grandeur of Manhattan's iconic Billionaires' Row are unparalleled, enticing the world's elite to embrace this luxurious lifestyle. As you embark on your journey to become a part of this prestigious enclave, let Off The MRKT be your trusted partner in navigating New York City's most exclusive residential skyscrapers.
With Off The MRKT by your side, enjoy personalized and professional assistance throughout your real estate journey, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome. Begin your search today for an unparalleled living experience amidst the awe-inspiring architectural marvels and breathtaking amenities of New York City's Billionaires' Row. Learn more about luxury and celebrity houses in New York at Off The MRKT’s real estate features!