Gea Elika's Blog, page 128

A Guide to the Best Markets in NYC

There is never any shortage of new things to do in NYC but one thing that never gets old is the markets. Whether you’re a food lover or a fan of vintage clothes shops, NYC has an abundance of both indoor and open-air markets to keep you satisfied. Everything from delicious food to antiques and crafts can be found at these markets which are popular with both tourists and savvy locals.

 

Image by Steel Wool / Flickr

 

Smorgasburg

The New York Times has called it the Woodstock of eating. For the present season, you can find it every Saturday and Sunday at Industry City in Brooklyn. During the summer months, it also opens at Williamsburg and Prospect Park. Here you can find the produce of almost 100 different vendors, most of which specialize in making one thing really well. While you’re enjoying a delicious lunch, you can gaze at the Manhattan skyline from over the East River. Learn more at Smorgasburb.com.

Brooklyn Flea

Smorgasburg isn’t the only reason for making a trip to Industrial City this season. Until the summer months arrive you can find the Brooklyn Flea market there as well. First started in 2008, the Brooklyn Flea is the place for finding anything vintage, from furniture to vinyl records to old knick-knacks. You can also find plenty of T-shirts, jewelry, and prints from the arts-and-crafters of Brooklyn.

Union Square Green Market

First established in 1976, this world-famous market now has over 140 regional farmers, fishers, and bakers selling their produce. Open every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, this sprawling marketplace sees an estimated 60,000 people ramble through it every day. The variety here is some of the best in the city, with fresh fruits and vegetables, award-winning cheeses, artisan cakes and tons more. There are also often free cooking demonstrations.

Chelsea Market

A trip to the Meatpacking District wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Chelsea Market. Taking up almost an entire city block, this former biscuit factory is now one of the best-enclosed food halls around. Its sees about 6 million visitors a year, who come to enjoy its gourmet fare of every variety. No matter what your taste is you’ll find something you like here. Check out Hale & Hearty for homemade chicken soup, the Doughnuttery for three types of mini-doughnuts, and Ninth Street Expresso for the best flat white this side of Surry Hills.

NoLita Market

The summer in SoHo wouldn’t be the same without the NoLita Market. Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from March to December, NoLita is where you can find all things handmade. Every summer, the streets are lined with New Yorkers. All of them out to buy and sell everything from T-shirts to antiques and jewelry. Almost everything you see is 100% homemade and many vendors will even take custom orders.

Rock N’ Shop

Rock fans and art lovers can’t get enough of this one. Dreamt up by Brooklyn indie rock band and art collective the Bushwick hotel, this “alternative mall” can be found at The Paper Box in Bushwick. Here you can enjoy local bands playing on the stage while looking through vinyl records and browsing handmade crafts from over 40 vendors. Neighborhood food stalls also serve pizza, burritos, coffee and other gourmet delights. Learn more at rocknshop.nyc.

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What to know when Searching for an NYC Apartment as an Empty Nester

It’s not just young people who are making the move to the big city. Increasing numbers of empty nesters are also looking to make the switch from the suburbs to the city. The reasons range from wanting to be closer to their now grown kids, to downsizing to better convenience and cultural opportunities. At present, New York is home to almost 1.4 million people over 60, a number projected to increase to 2 million by 2040. Whatever your reasons are for moving, here are the things empty nesters should consider before making the move to the Big Apple.

 

Rent or buy

The first thing to consider is whether to rent or buy. A rental building, as opposed to a condo, is the more stable option. A condo owner could sell at any time which can leave you without a place to live. For shorter term though a condo can also work. If renting, know that it’s pretty common for landlords to require that tenants make 40 times their rent to secure a lease.

If you’re looking to buy, enlist the services of a good realtor who can help you secure a good place. They can help not just with finding a good apartment but also negotiating for a good price and handling the paperwork.

Be realistic about how much space you need and can get

If you’ve never lived in NYC before you need to be realistic about how much space your money can buy. Even if your whole reason for moving is to downsize, be careful about going too far. You may feel that a one bedroom apartment will be fine but if you’re downsizing from a four or five-bedroom house it can feel very cramped.

What sort of amenities do you need?

The New York housing market is crazy for amenities now. On-site gyms, 24-hour doormen, laundry, a pool, the list goes on. All of this can seem very enticing at first but don’t get carried away. Decide on what amenities are important and which you can’t do without. For empty nesters, this might be the extra convenience of doormen buildings where you can receive packages, dry-cleaning and so on. An outdoor space such as a balcony is also a much-requested feature.

Decide on what neighborhood suits you

If your moving to be close to family this might already be decided on. Otherwise, take some time to learn about the different boroughs and neighborhoods. In general, older people tend to favor the Upper East and Upper West sides due to their relative tranquility. People are coming back to the city because they want to enjoy life, which makes the busy atmosphere of SoHo and downtime no good. Of course, it depends on what your interests are.

Transportation

The proximity of a home to public transport is a big factor in NYC housing, especially so if you’re still working. Getting around in NYC can be chaotic, which tends to make homes located closer to subway stations pricier. Those coming from the suburbs also tend to have a hard time giving up their car. If so, be prepared for a lot of wrangling with New York parking rules. To make it easier, factor in a garage or parking space arrangements in your search.

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L.A. Dual Agency Still Presents Issues

In 2016, California’s high court ruled a real estate brokerage representing both parties needs to protect both the sellers’ and buyers’ interests. The industry defines this as a dual agency, which we do not think provides buyers with the same level of protection and comfort as engaging an exclusive buyer’s agent.

California buyers should know what the decision entails and how it impact them. In fact, it does not provide buyers as much protection as they think.

 

 

The decision

The court’s decision revolved around a wealthy buyer’s purchase. The buyer disagreed with seller’s agent interpretation of the home’s square footage. However, since a buyer’s agent from the same real estate brokerage also represented him, the seller’s agent had a fiduciary duty to disclose this information, according to the rule.

In practice, the ruling did not revolutionize the real estate industry. In these situations where there is a dual agency, there is a duty to both clients. The seller’s agent has the duty to “to learn and disclose all facts materially affecting the value or desirability of the property,” according to California’s Supreme Court.

It is a fine line, and the interpretation is ongoing. But, you should only expect agents to pass along factual information. This might include any flooding or earthquake damage sustained. But, it likely does not include any comment on the quality of the repair work.

However, the seller’s agent does not have a duty to disclose his/her client’s confidential information. This is still true in a dual agency situation where the brokerage firm represents both sides of the transaction.

This means that if a seller tells his/her agent something that could help you, such as a pending divorce situation, you should not expect the seller’s agent to relay this to you.

The ruling does not eliminate a dual agency situation, which remains very lucrative for the real estate brokerage companies. As a buyer, you may face more paperwork and better disclosures, but you should remember that this allows the broker to collect commission checks from both the buyer and seller.

A better way

At Elika Associates, last year we launched our Los Angeles Network of Buyer’s Agents. We are providing the same level of dedication to helping L.A. buyers find their dream home that our New York City clients have been receiving for years.

Our networks of agents strictly represent the buyer. This means there is no dual agency and the corresponding complications that come along with it. There are no conflicts of interest. In fact, if an exclusive buyer’s agent receives information that helps you in your purchase, he/she has a fiduciary obligation to pass it along.

Final thoughts

There is no mystery if your real estate brokerage company represents both sides. California has a law requiring real estate brokers and agents to disclose a dual agency. This has been on the books for more than three decades (lawmakers extended this to commercial transactions in 2015).

Nonetheless, remember, it is buyer beware in these situations.

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A Season by season Guide to Maintaining your NYC Home

One thing you’ll learn with home ownership is that maintenance is a must. If you want to protect your investment it’s important that you stay on top of things that can go wrong with your home. The easiest way to do that is with seasonal maintenance of key things at the right time of year. This approach ensures that you can keep small problems from ballooning into bigger ones. Some of these you can do yourself while for others it’s best to hire a professional.

 

 

Spring

Spring is a good time to give your house a good once-over.

The Roof – Check the roof for any loose or broken shingles. Inspect the chimney for any signs of wear and make any needed repairs.
HVAC systems – If you have central air and heat call your HVAC technician and schedule a maintenance check. This will increase their efficiency and save you on energy bills.
Plumbing – Check all your pipes for any leaks. Also check the ceiling for any tell-tale water stains, a sign of a leak in the wall. Fix whatever you can yourself and call a plumber for what you can’t.

Summer

Summer is a time for enjoying your home but there are still a few things that must be done.

Inspect for pests – As the weather warms pests tend to emerge. Some infestations, like ants, can be dealt with yourself. Others, like termites, require professional assistance. Schedule a visit by a pest control company and take measures to reduce the chance of infestation such as sealing up any holes and sweeping away any debris.
Monitor mold and mildew – Summer humidity can also lead to mold and mildew. Inspect all areas and if you find any use a dehumidifier.
Home improvement projects – Summer is the best time for any home improvement projects. Perform any paint touch-ups and repair any exterior damages.

Fall

Fall is all about preparing for the winter. Once you’ve done the annual fall cleaning ensure that everything is in working order for winter.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Fall is usually the time when this should be done. Replace the batteries in your detectors and do a test to ensure they’re still functioning.
Service the boiler – It’s now approaching the time when your boiler will be working overtime. Change the filter and inspect it for any cracks or damage. If possible, have a professional service it.
Weatherstrip windows and doors – Check the seals around your doors and windows to ensure they’re as energy efficient as possible.

Winter

Winter need not be the time of your discontent. Although this is the time for buckling down there are still some things you can do for preparing your home.

Frozen pipes – Frozen pipes can lead to cracks and water damage. If you have any outdoor faucets shut them down and drain them before the cold weather hits. Insulate what pipes you can and keep an eye on your thermostat.
Inspect fire extinguishers – It’s good to do this every season but with increased kitchen activity over winter now is a good time to do it. Check the pressure gauge and inspect it for any cracks or missing parts.
Stock up on supplies – if you have a fireplace or stove stock up on firewood. Also have plenty of ice melt for clearing your steps or driveway.

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Options for Holding a Property Title

Looking for a home, particularly for the first time, is an exciting time in your life. However, you should not let this cloud your judgment. A clear-headed mind when you are making a large purchase is best. This requires long-term thinking, which can prevent misunderstandings later on.

There are various options for you to hold the title to your new home. Those unmarried will find this particularly important. You should not merely assume equal ownership is the only way. You can pick the way that you and the other person find the fairest.

 

 

Sole Ownership

This is the simplest form of ownership. There is only one name on the title, as the name implies. Of course, that individual has the rights and responsibilities that go along with homeownership. There are appropriate situations where this is used. For instance, it is useful if one party has bad credit, or there is an understanding that the person on the takes sole financial responsibility for the purchase and upkeep.

On the other hand, the party on the title has no financial stake. It is also important to note that the name on the deed determines ownership and not the mortgage. Should the relationship end, you walk away with nothing, even if you have put in sweat equity and money. The property’s owner can do whatever he/she wishes, including selling it (and pocketing all of the proceedings), and leaving it to whomever he/she chooses in the event of that person’s death.

Joint tenancy

Ownership is split equally when you hold the title as joint tenants. Both names are on the title and have the same financial stakes and responsibilities. Should one person die, the property automatically transfers to the other. The process skips a time consuming and potentially costly probate. It also avoids nasty estate battles.

This seems equitable, but this means equal ownership, regardless of the financial commitment. It does not matter if one person earns significantly more money and makes most of the mortgage payments. This could prove troublesome in the event of a break-up.

Tenants in common

Two names are on the title, but you can split the percentages however you deem fit. You need a will with this option since the other person’s interest in the home does not automatically pass to you. If you do not have a will, your interest in the property goes to your heirs. This could go against your wishes.

The situation creates potential complications that you can ease by spelling out your wishes in your will. For instance, you may want the other person to live in the home after you pass on.

Changing the title

You can change how the title is held. In fact, it is advisable if your situation has evolved (e.g. you get married or break up). This is an area where hiring a lawyer is advisable. While it is typically a simple matter, you want to make sure there are no mistakes. An attorney can explain the options in order for you to make an informed decision.

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What Millennials Want in a Home

In 2015, millennials surpassed baby boomers as the largest segment of the population. According to the 2016 NAR report, Millennials-those born between 1980 and 2000 – now make up 35% of the buyer market with 68% saying their current home is only a stepping stone. However, they’re proving to be a difficult market to pin down.

Many are waiting until later in life to start families. Others are saddled with student debt and low wages, which is preventing them from amassing significant savings. Regardless, many of them still express a wish to be homeowners.  What they want in a home is now leading to big changes in home design. Here’s a look at what millennials want in a home and why.

 

 

Practicality

Compared to older generations, millennials are more pragmatic in their housing needs. There’s more desire for multi-functional rooms that can serve dual purposes. Spare rooms are also making a comeback as they can be designed by the owner to meet whatever their needs are such as a game room or optional bedroom. In terms of square footage, for most millennials, it’s a case of less is more. Minimalism is the new buzzword as people look for ways to optimize their space and cut down on wastage.

Location

Although often touted as a generation that prefers city living, many studies show that this applies to only a small portion (5% to 16% – depending on the study). With such a large demographic though this still translates into big numbers.

When it comes to location, millennials want a place that is close to work and things to do. One study, out of 1000 respondents, found that 33% favor a home that is less than 10 miles from a major city. While 30% are willing to settle for a home no more than 25 miles from a major city. Location may be something their willing to sacrifice on but one thing they want is quality of materials.

Design

Home design is one of the top motivating factors in choosing a home for millennials, with an emphasis on functionality. As many millennials have few savings to put into design after closing they prefer homes that come ready made with all the amenities they desire.

A generation ago, the living room was the center of the home, nowadays that has shifted to the kitchen. An open floor plan is now the preferred option with many favoring an integrated design that allows more flow during social gatherings. Millennials are also far more in-tune with the style of home they want than previous generations. Information is now so freely available online that buyers can spend time deciding what they want before their home search even begins. What they want is a home that fits their social lifestyle.

A home office space was also found to be an important factor in choosing a home. Even if the buyer doesn’t work at home full-time a recent study found that 80-90% of the US workforce plan to telework at least part-time.

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40 Bleecker

Set for completion in 2019 and topping out at 12 stories with 61 residential units, 40 Bleecker looks set to bring a new definition to style in NoHo. Back in 2015, Broad Street Development acquired the two buildings which previously occupied the site. According to The Real Deal, the site was acquired for $178.5 million. Since then, a new building rising in their stead, one that promises to live up to its promises.

Architecture

 

 

Rawlings Architects, which previously worked with Broad Street on the condo conversation at 215 Sullivan Street, were tapped for the design. The finished project, which is set for completion sometime in 2019, will top out at 12 stories with 61 one-five bedroom apartments along with six penthouse units.

The final look is something that provides a modern flair while also tying into the look of the surrounding neighborhood. The main façade of the structure is comprised of tan brick and metal with floor-to-ceiling punched-glass windows. Floors 10-12 incrementally taper upwards which are dedicated exclusively to the six penthouses.

Through the formal entry, the foyer is an expansive 10-foot ceiling which both absorbs and reflects light. The entrance lobby features a luminous stone fireplace with large surrounding windows that bring a delicate balance between light and privacy. From the subtle curve at the northwest corner, residents can look out at stunning views of Manhattan from a rare vantage point in NoHo.

The interiors 

 

Image courtesy of 40 Bleecker

 

The interiors are no less impressive. Designer Ryan Korban was hired for the job whose previous work includes Alexander Wang’s sleek NoHo loft and showrooms for Balenciaga and Altazurra. This is his first condo project and he hasn’t held back in the luxe materials and maximalist style that usually defines his work.

 

Image courtesy of 40 Bleecker

 

Each apartment has a tailor-custom kitchen design by korban which merges refined detail with rich materials. Elegant Italian cerused oak cabinetry with fluted bronze-hued glass contrast beautifully with the kitchens Brustalist-inspired features.  In reference to his design, Korban stated “Masculine contrasts with feminine, traditional with modern, soft with brutalist.  40 Bleecker is a new way of living and sets the tone for the future of design and development downtown.”

 

Image courstedy of 40 Bleecker

 

Amenities

First-class amenities and services include a 58-foot pool, basement storage, fitness center, on-site parking, laundry room and an outdoor entertainment space. Broad Street also tapped Edmund Hollander of Hollander Design to create a landscaped garden. The space will feature sustainable greenery, reflecting pools, Zen waterfalls, as well as private group seating.

 

Image courtesy of 40 Bleecker

 

Availability

There are currently six units available. All ranging in size from seven rooms to three rooms and ranging in price from $1,775,000 to $6,130,000.  More units are expected to become available as construction continues.

Neighborhood

40 Bleecker sits in an area of NoHo that has seen a lot of luxury activity in the last few years. The area around Lafayette Street is home to Annabelle Selldorf’s 10 Bond, Morris Adjmi’s 11 Great Jones Street, Herzog & de Meuron’s 40 Bond Street. 40 Bleecker occupies the corner of Bleecker and Mulberry streets, right next to another luxe NoHo condo, the Schumacher.

The area features plenty of restaurants, arts and entertainment centers, health and recreation centers and nearby subway stations. 40 Bleecker isn’t just a beautiful building, it’s a place you can feel at home. With all the latest modern amenities and local conveniences, 40 Bleecker is set to be one of the top luxe condos in NoHo.

[ 40 Bleecker ]

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Examining the Fourth Quarter 2017 Real Estate Market

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), created more than 120 years ago as New York State’s first real estate trade association recently released its fourth quarter New York City Residential Sales Report. It is instructive to analyze the market in order to understand underlying trends that can help your negotiating position.

 

 

An overview

The overall New York City residential real estate market appeared to slow in the fourth quarter from its red-hot pace. Overall, the total consideration fell 12% from the year-ago period to $10.7 billion. Sales volume was also down, dropping 2% to 11,631. However, the weakness stemmed from the luxury end of the market, which continues to struggle, with unit sales falling 38%. Meanwhile, listings ranging from $1 million to $3 million saw a 10% increase.

The average sales price for homes, which includes co-ops, condos, and one-to-three-family residences fell 1% to $917,000. It is useful to remember that extreme prices skew average prices, and weaker activity at the higher end of the market could have influenced the figure. The median price, which is a better reflection, rose 7% to $618,000.

Condo prices were similarly skewed, with the average price dropping 14% to $1.57 million but the median price up 4% to $925,000. Co-op prices remained strong, with the average and median sale prices up 5% and 6%, to $739,000 and $439,000, respectively.

We further analyze sales results for Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, which are most relevant for our clientele.

Manhattan

Not surprisingly, the borough with the highest price also had the largest decline. In fact, it was the only borough which had an average price decline and was responsible for the overall 1% NYC drop. Manhattan’s average price fell 7% to $1.8 million. However, the luxury market, notably condos, likely weighed on the result, with the median price 5% higher, to $1 million.

In the condo market, the median price fell 5% to $1.47 million, although this was better than the 19% decline in the average price. The median price per square foot was 1% higher to $1,538 and the number of sales dropped 1% to 1,111.

Co-ops performed well. The median price rose 2% to $775,000. Interestingly, the average price rose 5% to $1.23 million, indicating the higher end of the market did well. It is unclear if this can last, with unit volumes falling 8% to 1,505 and buyers receiving more for their money, with the median price per square foot falling 2% to $1,129.

The Financial District/South Street Seaport was a particularly strong performer. The average sales price rose 44% to $1.7 million, and the number of sales rose 48% to 83.

Brooklyn

Brooklyn experienced a strong sales increase. The median price rose 6% to $735,000, besting the average price’s 5% increase.

Condos saw a 6% increase in the median price, to $857,000. On a square footage basis, it was 29% higher to $1,036. This could have been due to a lack of supply rather than higher demand, with the number of sales down 1%. Williamsburg was weak, with volumes less than half the year-ago total, down 54% to 65.

The median price for a Brooklyn co-op rose 17% to $410,000. It was $553 on a per square foot basis, 11% higher. The number of units sold edged up 2% to 578.

Queens

The median price for all properties rose 12% to $525,000, similar to the 11% increase in the price per square foot. The number of sales was up 1% to 3,943.

Condo sales were strong, with the median price 21% higher than a year ago, or $583,000, with the price per square foot reaching $698, or 26% above 2016’s fourth quarter. There were 17% more sales, with 362 closed. Flushing and Long Island City were particular bright spots. The former is the borough’s most active condo market, with 125 sales, up 84%.

The Queen’s co-op market was not as strong, though. Despite starting from a lower base, the median price rose 12% to $275,000, and the price per square foot was $383, 7% higher. However, the number of sales dropped 10% to 1,101. Rego Park/Forest Hills/Kew Gardens were a drag on the borough.

Final thoughts

We have presented the data on a year-over-year basis since real estate is cyclical. While most of the data was down from the third quarter, the period is typically active. These points can provide useful discussion points with your buyer’s agent.

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Secret and Underground NYC Attractions You Need to Check Out

If you’ve grown tired of the more well-known attractions in NYC (as well as the crowds), the city has some lesser known and strange attractions that are worth seeing. Some of these are hidden in plain sight and might take a bit of searching to find. If you feel up for an adventure, these secret NYC attractions are well worth a visit.

 

Image courtesy by idk tonight

 

1. Track 61 under Grand Central

New York is known for its extensive underground system. It’s no surprise so that there are a few secret abandoned subway stations. Track 61 is one that has to be seen. It was built to allow Presidents and other impotent dignitaries to move without the public noticing them and enter the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. In 1944, by Franklin D. Roosevelt used it to keep his polio secret from the public. You can still find an old trail car tucked away in the powerhouse.

2. Tribeca’s Dream House

Those in need of a meditative art space should check out the Dream House, located off Church Street in Tribeca. For a small price, visitors can spend as long as they want in this purple-lit incense smelling room. Looped, minimalist music plays inside which changes based on whether visitors are standing or lying down.

3. The Houdini Museum

Did you know there’s a Houdini museum located just around the corner from Penn Station? To find this nondescript museum you need to go through a lobby on 7th avenue and take the elevator to the third floor. It first opened in 2012 and houses a wide collection of Houdini related memorabilia. Escape tools, restraints, and promotional posters fill the walls and glass cases. The best part? It’s free.

4. Roosevelt Island’s Smallpox Hospital and Cat Sanctuary

Built-in 1856 in the Gothic Revival style, this abandoned and spooky hospital still stands on the island. It treated and quarantined people with smallpox before eventually falling into disuse. In 1975 the city declared it a landmark. If you’re expecting to find ghosts, you’re more likely to find stray cats.

5. The Freedom Tunnel

Long a fixture of NYC urban explorer lore, the Freedom Tunnel can be found under Riverside Park from West 72nd to West 122nd Streets. Regular trains operated through the tunnel until 1980 when the track was closed off. After that, it became a haven for graffiti artists and homeless alike. It gets its name from Artist Chris “Freedom” Pape, who first came here in 1974 and spray-painted artwork throughout. In 1991, Amtrak began using the tunnel again and started kicking people out. It still draws lots of curious visitors, but it’s no longer the city-under-the-city that it once was.

6. Radio City’s Secret Apartment

Radio City Music Hall has been a New York Icon since it first opened in 1932. It’s Art Deco style with luxurious drapes, gold leaf and incredible murals draw crowds of visitors every year. What’s less well known is that it houses a secret apartment. It was built for Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel, as a thank you for all the groundbreaking shows he put on there. The visually stunning room hasn’t been lived since Roxy died in 1936, but the room still exists. It can only be rented out for the most luxurious events.

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A Millennials Guide to Moving to NYC

With a population of 8.5 million and growing, NYC is definitely a popular place to be. For millennials, moving to the Big Apple can be both an exciting and daunting time. You’ll have a lot to prepare for and without some insider knowledge, it’s hard to know where to start. Don’t fret though, this article here will help you with that. Whether you’re a millennial who’s just arrived in the city or will be soon here’s how to get started.

 

 

Finding a place to stay

There’s no denying it, New York, especially Manhattan, is an expensive place to live. You’re very lucky if you can find a studio apartment for less than a $1000. In Manhattan, the average rental price hovers around $3000. Chances are you’ll be sharing with someone. in 2016, 72% of millennials shared their apartment with someone other than a partner, according to a report from New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer.

Greenwood is the No.1 spot for millennials with roughly 27 applications per listing. Such popularity, however, makes it tough to find a place. See the report by app Roomi for more information. Other popular spots are Brooklyn with the neighborhoods of Bushwick and Bedford-Stuyvesant being the most affordable.

When you’re ready to start apartment hunting, get ready for a lot of legwork. Aim to set aside at least three months’ worth of rent for those places that ask for the first month, last month and a security deposit. If you’d rather save yourself a lot of effort, put aside a broker’s fee which can often net you a lucky find.

Landing a Job

If you don’t already have a job waiting for you in NYC then start looking for one as soon as possible. You’re going to be living in one of the most expensive cities in America so you need to have your finances in order. Linkin Jobs is a great place to start. The best opportunities are in the communications or advertising field, which New York is something of a Mecca for.

When negotiating contracts with employers try to swing some extra perks. Things like subsidized monthly metro cards, a moving allowance or a signing bonus can go a long way in helping you settle in.

Getting Settled

Speaking of which, make the time to settle into your new neighborhood and learn about the city. When you have free time, use it to explore your neighborhood and the other boroughs. There’s always something going on somewhere in the city and you can find plenty of free things to do.

To keep things under control, make a budget with a category for every single expense. Take care of bills and other big expenses upfront and plan out your ‘fun money’ for each week.

The activity in New York never stops. Even after living years there you’ll still find things to surprise you. Outside of the bigger attractions, there are plenty of lesser known ones. Check up on timeout.com to see what’s going on now and in the coming months. No matter your lifestyle or interests you’ll always find something to do or see.

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