Karla's View from the Top...

My Favorite London Hotel - Architectural Restoration At It's Best

2012-01-12T13:22:00.000-05:00

I've had the pleasure to stay here twice, and I hope to stay every time i'm in London. A converted railway station, you can still hop the Eurostar to Paris through the lobby. Pure Magic. One day after enough visits, I may even stop calling it the "Saint Pancreas" in my heavy American/ Long Island accent.

"Sir John Betjeman called this Gothic treasure “too beautiful and too romantic to survive” in a world of tower blocks and concrete. Its survival against the odds will cause wonder; the building itself will take your breath away.

After years of devoted restoration, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is being hailed as London’s most romantic building. Its glorious Gothic Revival metalwork, gold leaf ceilings, hand-stencilled wall designs and a jaw-dropping grand staircase are as dazzling as the day Queen Victoria opened the hotel in 1873."

Find out more atStPancrasRenaissance.co.uk

Karla's Real Estate Reading List- Entry #1!

2011-09-28T15:45:00.001-04:00

I get tons of requests form real estate agents new and senior for a recommended reading list,.so I teamed up with amazon and I'm in the process creating a separate page with my selections. I've gone through hundreds of books, coaches, and trainer materials over the last decade, and I'll be showcasing only the books that CHANGED the way I work for the better, all in one spot. The first of many below:

Four Hour Work Week....AKA the book I sleep with under my pillow

Although recommended to me by tons of people- I refused this book for so long bc it was too "mainstream" and I thought - that could never happen. One day my coach suggested and said I was wasting tons of time paying her for what's in this book for under $20. I have it every form- e book, real book, audible....start here with the real book rather than the audio so you can highlight. It's a tool for everyone- but especially independent contractors like real estate agents. I've gone through it over 100 times and still gleam new things.

After a Decade of Painful Testing- I Can Now Name the BEST Agent Shoe.

2011-09-20T15:05:00.000-04:00

And the award goes to....the Merrell Barefoot collection.

All NYC real estate agents know the pain of the wrong shoe when you have 6 more hours of appointments left for the day. We always chuckle when we get the occasional new agent that shows up in "cute shoes" their fist day with no back up plan in their bag and proclaim "but these are comfortable!". Sure they are- from the mall parking lot into the TGI Fridays in your suburb, driving everywhere, 15 steps in any direction lifestyle or former office job.

Now the good news! After a decade long discovery process, I have found the answer. You will never feel so invigorated walking our standard 5-7 miles around the city, up and down stairs, and navigating (aka elbowing) yous way through the busy streets of NYC than in these little monsters. Black and understated with a vibram sole- easily masked under a dress pant and not even too dorky with a skirt. Lets of models- I chose this one.

http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/22877W/50398/Black/J35706?dimensions=0

The Entire collection can be found here:

http://www.merrell.com/US/en/Barefoot_Collection

I've been testing them for 6 weeks- around NYC and Europe. Here is a tip- just because it says "barefoot" doesn't mean you don't wear socks. You can find them at Jackrabbit.

I would love to hear your comments on what shoes rock your world in the agent profession. It's the little things that can change the trajectory of your entire day!

2 Things you MUST do in Venice (Italy)

2011-09-13T11:47:00.000-04:00

1. Stay in a canal facing room the Hotel Canal Grande
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g187870-d1547281-Reviews-Hotel_Canal_Grande-Venice_Veneto.html

2. Eat at La Zucca
http://www.lazucca.it/?lang=en

You will thank me later when you are pretending you are a venetian princess (yes, even the boys) from a century or so ago ;-)

Horseback Riding in Montauk

2011-08-29T09:44:00.000-04:00

I dread the Hamptons- the attitudes of the people, the overpriced and underwhelming accommodation, the traffic, the $12 for half of an egg salad sandwich with no option for a full sandwich...I'm defiantly more of a North Fork girl. However, the south fork does hold one treasure- a STUNNING horse ranch in Montauk. I took a trip this weekend to the Deep hollow ranch Friday morning and did a trail and beach ride. http://www.deephollowranch.com/

Our guide Ana was fantastic- the horses are well cared for, and the views from their private trails and beaches are spectacular. You could not ask for a better experience.

Living as an Organized Mess? Try this tip...

2011-08-09T10:31:00.000-04:00

Organization is not my strength- I've worked with many business coaches to organize my professional life for years- now it's time to organize my home! I've hired a professional organizer- whose contact info I will disclose after we meet Wednesday with her permission. She gave me this great tip for what to donate and what to keep. Women are so emotional about holding on to things...time to let it go ;-)

"When it comes to clothing, I always ask myself a few questions about each piece:

-Do I love this? You want to feel confident in all of your clothes, and feel like they reflect and support the woman that you are and want to be.

-Is this something that I wear? If you haven't worn it in a year, chances are you're not going to. You may love a piece in theory, but if you're not wearing it, it's just taking up space.

-Do I have similar items that are in better repair or fit me better? If you have 7 black sweaters, are some of them faded or have a hole in them? Keep only the clothes that truly make you feel good!"

Jackrabbit- Hands Down the BEST Running Store in NYC

2011-07-18T12:28:00.000-04:00

I am a fan of customer service...I study it, I love it, I train it, I apply it with my agents. I was DUMBFOUNDED by my positive experience at Jackrabbit. Walking 5-7 miles around the city a day was giving me major foot/leg pain. I figured some new sneakers would help and Jackrabbit came highly recommended- even though I'm not a major runner. I've shopped for sneakers before, some un- educated kid in a striped shirt or various hustler approaches you, you pick out a pair by color and cuteness, and off you go. This ignorance is what is causing New Yorkers pain in the first place.

http://jackrabbitsports.com/

NOT ANYMORE! Jackrabbit is here!

You are on the treadmill, off the treadmill, filming your running, re-filming your running, being given exercises to overcome pain, and EXPLAINED what's what. Kenny at 14th street could have been a podiatrist for all of his useful facts about my feet and tendons. The sneakers we decided on, a Brooks Defyance 4 and I'm back to my 7 miles plus regimen. I many even bring back the 80's power suit sneaker look...where do I get one of those scan-able name cards?

What's Going on in the NYC Rental Market RIGHT NOW?

2011-06-29T10:49:00.000-04:00

Increased prices, decreased inventory, and higher fees. I tell my clients if you have a good rental- STAY. The bulk of the people we are moving right now are relocation clients, not current Manhattan renters. There has also been an influx of families looking to rent. 3 bedrooms on the upper west side for example, between 6K-10K, that stay on the market less than 24 hours are like finding a unicorn.

For the amount of money you are going to spend on your rental move, I suggest starting to look at sales in NYC. I've been helping my clients find properties to move into that are costing them the SAME to own monthly as they would pay in rent. It's the first time in a long time this has happened.

Here is a little blurb from the wall street journal.

Thursday June 9, 2011 – The Wall Street Journal

The Manhattan vacancy rate in May fell to 0.7%, its lowest level in nearly five years.
Landlord concessions, such as free month’s rent for signing a new lease have dried up!
Average Manhattan rental prices are just a hair below their 2007 peaks.
Bidding wars are back. Several factors – from limited supply in some hot neighborhoods to a lingering aversion to buying an apt in the wake of the housing market collapse- explain why the city’s rental market is heating up.
The end of May through September is usually the busiest time of the year for apartment rentals.
In the city’s most coveted neighborhoods, vacancies barely exist: Only 0.25% of the units are empty in the West Village, for example.
It’s night and day compared to what it was even 12 months ago.
There’s only one cure for the tight vacancy rate: higher prices.

( source: WSJ )

Baby Tigers and Hotel Room Lions....

2011-06-21T09:46:00.000-04:00

The highlight of my weekend was booking a last minute visit to the McCarthy's wildlife sanctuary in West Palm Beach. They rescue animals from owners gone astray, and the authorities when they find a stray tigers abandoned hotel rooms. I didn't realize how many Americans purchase baby lions and try to raise them with their children, or a little turtle that grows into a 200lb $50/day raw food habit and lives130 years. Hilarious. Thank goodness for this place, to pick up these glorious redneck mistakes. Zoos won't take animals from the public.

Bring the bug spray, along with a $20 donation, and you get a private tour, up close and personal with some of nature's best. He also has an impressive venomous snake collection, lots of exotic birds, and tiny monkeys people tried to keep as pets. I believe almost 200 animals in all.
http://www.mccarthyswildlife.com/

The Hurricane Club Review: High End Tropical Wonderland in NYC...

2011-06-14T12:22:00.001-04:00

I popped into the Hurricane Club last night with 7 friends....the food was spectacular, the space was unique- and my drink came in a coconut. Once you spend a few hours in this high end tropical space you forget you are in NYC- it's an odd feeling walking back outside to the real world. Almost Vegas- ish...but on 26th and Park.

Reservations:

http://thehurricaneclub.com/reservations

Website

http://thehurricaneclub.com/

Drink Menu- they have a few huge ones that your whole table can share with a few straws....

Every American owes it to themselves to go to FRANCE

2011-06-13T10:54:00.000-04:00

If you like "pre-war" real estate in New York City, get ready to get your socks blown off by pretty much EVERY building in Paris. It's been an of office favorite destination of Mark David agents lately so I figured my recent trip would get a mention. The architecture makes you want to cry around every turn and I'm upset I didn't get to stay longer. Relaxed people, as they don't work more than 35 hours per week by law with a mandated 8 weeks vacation, pack the streets and cafes as afternoon turns to evening. Here's an article on that:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/06/27/60II/main704571.shtml

The food is amazing, and if you get the chance to journey into the country it's simply serene. My girlfriends stayed a few weeks, went down to champagne region...took a day trip to Amsterdam and also hit Monaco as their last destination. The country is made for effortless wandering and the flights aren't bad. Avoid American Airlines at all costs if you want to move your knees, or say, watch a movie.

I Have a 4300+ sq Foot Full Floor Loft in SoHo for Sale...Perfect for an Artist.

2011-03-31T12:40:00.000-04:00

I'm the exclusive agent on this 4000+ sq foot loft. It's an AIR artist loft for live/work or can be used for commercial space of any type (except brothel or slave ring ;-) for non artists. It can also be combined with the floor below it for a total of over 8000 sq feet. We just sold another AIR (artist in residence) loft down the block- closing this month. The beauty of being an artist with a little cash to throw around is you get to purchase loft space in SoHo for far under the market value per sq foot to live in. Take a look...

Full listing here with my partner Chad...

http://markdavidny.com/Sale/Soho/896161

I Went to Australia and Joined an Ocean Swimming Club....

2011-03-28T15:03:00.000-04:00

...because when you live in Manly beach/Sydney for a few weeks, waking up at 6AM and jumping in the ocean with a hundred or so people just seems like the right thing to do. Manly beach is as close to heaven as it gets- warm people, amazing beach, quick ferry to the heart of the city in the morning, and an outstanding swimming club that welcomes everyone to join (if you can get out there and do the swim), even pasty Manhattanites that have a hard time getting their face wet.

The head of the club is Julie Isabel (below)- a gifted instructor and patient leader. From a recent interview:

Manly Bold & Beautiful Swimmers

"The ‘Bold & Beautiful’ started on Boxing Day 2008, over an innocent breakfast conversation between myself and a friend who said she wanted to improve her swimming and do her Bronze Medallion, so I arranged to take Jenny swimming the following morning at 7am, Jenny arrived with 3 of her girl friends and we all swam from Manly to Shelly and back (~1.5km). They loved it so much we arranged to meet again the following morning, when there were 9 of us, and the rest is history. We swim 7am, 7 days a week and now have over 200 names on the list, of which over 90 swim regularly. Our oldest ‘member’ is 80 and 25 of the ‘Bold & Beautiful’ got their Bronze Medallion in April.Some of the ‘Bold & Beautiful’ are heading over to Fiji for the Ocean Swim in October."

Manly Bold and Beautiful Swimmers can be contacted through Julie Isbill Mobile 0438 363452 julie@boldandbeautiful.usor on her blog http://www.pacificjules.com.au/bold--beautiful.html

So if you are ever in Sydney - hop the ferry to Manly and do this swim. It's such a beautiful experience to wake up this way as opposed to the standard Manhattan coffee, argument, and public scowling!

MYSTIQUE!!! (What the heck is that?) Answered here....

2010-12-15T16:10:00.001-05:00

If someone ever throws a free trip to Mustique at you...don't hesitate to take it (like I moronically did for several weeks). It's essentially an invite only exclusive island that you can only get to by private charter. You can rent villas there weekly and be the "inviter" if you happen to be rolling around in $100 bills like Scrooge McDuck. When we found out the probablilty of bumping into Mick Jagger at the beach was high, I grabbed the girls and flew over. I am forever grateful to have been invited on this amazing trip. Thank you thank you. Here are some of my pics...

The Island from the Air

View and pool at our villa

Our little little plane...

Macaroni beach

Action squad

The diet was 80% champagne- not too much in the fresh fruit dept there.

Hiking trail that wrapped around the whole island- I even appear to look relaxed?! Almost meditative....(champagne).

Here's a link to a forbes article on the island and some excerpts in case you too want to go:
http://www.forbes.com/2004/01/08/cx_cv_0108dow.html

Mustique is unlike any other Caribbean island. Having frittered away most of his fortune, Scottish brewing heir Colin Tennant, now Lord Glenconner, purchased the island in 1958 for $67,500. He founded The Mustique Company to develop the island, and limited the development to only 120 villas. "Villa" is an understatement for the Mustique homes--compound is a better description. Properties range from two to nine bedrooms, and all come with a full staff, a butler and a "mule," the island term for a golf cart, which is how most people get around. Every golf cart is inscribed with the name of the villa to which it belongs, and it's not uncommon to be driving around the island and receive an impromptu lunch invitation from a fellow owner.In 1960, he gave a 10-acre parcel of land to the late Princess Margaret as a wedding present, and the island quickly became an exclusive playground for the ultra-wealthy and well-born.

While there may be fewer aristocrats and more celebrities these days--home owners include Mick Jagger, designer Tommy Hilfiger and publisher Felix Dennis--the island is still surprisingly casual despite the net worth of its residents.

Moving as Pain....A Humorous and Potent Article on the Process!

2010-11-16T13:39:00.001-05:00

I wanted to link to this article written my friend and fellow agent Stephanie Tiboris. It's so her- fumbling and honest in her expereience looking for an apartment from back int he day, being taken advantage of, and vowing to make the process better for others. I'm so proud to have her on my team. She is an Upper East Side expert and has a nearly 100% return ratio with clients adoring her service and sending their friends. Read on and you will see why.

Moving is a Pain..especially in NYC.: Yes, I get it.

I really do. Moving stinks. Espec...: "Yes, I get it. I really do. Moving stinks. Especially in New York City. Don't get me wrong. We live in a wonderful city. A city where d..."

Here is a picture of us- probably a few drinks in....

I Love You Caroline Penthouse!!! Check this out....

2010-11-03T15:41:00.000-04:00

Every time I step into one of these penthouses at the Caroline I just melt. It's everything you would picture a Manhattan penthouse to be- SPECIAL. Fireplaces/ Soaking tub overlooking the city skyline/ Massive terraces/White Glove service...if you want this one it's $17.500 a month. I'm checking my bank accounts now!

The wraparound views from this 2,150sf penthouse are unbelievable. Here are the stats....

2,150 SQ FT
2 BED WITH 2 ½ BATHS/FORMAL DINING AREA
2 LARGE PRIVATE TERRACES, ON EACH SIDE, TOTALING 1,000 SQ. FT.
LIVING ROOM/DINING ROOM HAVE PANORAMIC UNOBSTRUCTED VIEWS
PET FRIENDLY/ RENT STABILIZED
STATE-OF-THE-ART BUILDING SECURITY
EXQUISITE SUITE FINISHES AND EXCEPTIONAL BUILDING AMENITIES

INLAID MARBLE FOYER ENTRY GALLERY; 2 PRIVATE TERRACES WITH PLANTER BOXES AND VIKING GRILL

MARBLE BATHROOMS; GRANITE KITCHEN WITH SUB-ZERO REFRIGERATOR AND WINE COOLER; VIKING STOVE; MIELE DISHWASHER AND WASHER/DRYER; JACUZZI

EXPANSIVE CLOSETS; CUSTOM BRAZILIAN CHERRY FLOORING WITH INLAID MAHOGANY BORDER AND CROWN MOLDING THROUGHOUT.

WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACES WITH MARBLE SURROUNDS AND HEARTHS, & CARVED WOOD MANTLES.

44,000 SQ FT NEW YORK HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB WITH 50 FOOT SKYLIT POOL

1 YEAR FREE TENANT MEMBERSHIP COMPLIMENTS OF NEW YORK HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB FOR A LIMITED TIME

The Fall of the TEMPORARY Wall in NYC

2010-10-29T14:38:00.000-04:00

This article is a little older but still important as a lot of my clients ask about this. Temp walls were quickly being phased out starting mid summer- drying up some nice doorman options for shares and driving prices down in doorman buildings that used to be able to cater to the share market for landlords. The one bedrooms that could convert to 2 and 2 bedrooms that could convert to 3 are only allowed now with a bookcase divider of sorts. We have several options for our clients for approved structures from our temporary wall companies, but they usually lack complete privacy as they aren't allowed to have doors or touch the ceilings.

Here's the NY Times article
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/18/realestate/18cov.html?_r=3&partner=rss&emc=rss

Blue Hill at Stone Barnes...High Heels on a Farm? YES! So Fresh and so Green ;-)

2010-10-15T11:50:00.001-04:00

Blue Hill at Stone Barnes (http://www.bluehillfarm.com/) has a massive cult following amongst New Yorkers. It's located on a farm about an hour out of the city, where they grow and raise almost everything on the menu. It's formal high end dining with a price fix menu for either 5 or 8 courses (plus all the extras they send out it works out to about 10 courses). You tell them what you don't like to eat and they make sure it's excluded from your dishes- otherwise it's totally chef discretion. The landscape is stunning and we even scored a private glimpse into the kitchens. It was pure magic seeing those people work, and as you dine they bring out some of the farm fresh veggies for you to look at in their pre-prepared form. We got to see honey combs, mushrooms we never thought existed, and various other amazingness that nature provides. This place goes on the list of things a foodie MUST do before they die.

Sometimes you just want to post a cute picture of your dog....

2010-10-08T15:45:00.000-04:00

...And some commentary from your grandpa.

I sent him this picture from last night and I got this back (I'm guessing bc Napoleon is usually a little more high strung- just like his mama).

DID YOU DRUG HIM , HE LOOKS LIKE HE IS A SLEEP,
YOUR BLOG, VIEW FROM THE TOP, IS GREAT,
THANKS WE ENJOYED IT,
LOVE GRANDPA AND GRANDMA

I promise to have some CONTENT next!!

Mark David Office Becomes Bus Terminal for Jon Stewart Rally!

2010-09-30T18:03:00.000-04:00

Our office building is the hottest location in SoHo- that being said we share with some very creative tenants- including the Huffington post. I was drifting off to sleep last night when I heard my work address announced. It should make for an interesting day!

Have you heard about the " The Rally to Restore Sanity" being organized by Jon Stewart? Last night on the Daily Show Arianna Huffington offered open invitation to all New Yorkers offering transport to the D.C rally. The departure location will be 560 broadway...

Arianna Huffington Pledges Unlimited Buses to Jon Stewart's Rally

Tonight, Arianna Huffington visited The Daily Show, and dropped a bomb on Jon Stewart when she pledged an unlimited amount of HuffPo buses to his "Rally to Restore Sanity" for New Yorkers who need to hitch a ride. Video inside.

De Vera SoHo...This Place Rocked My World on a Thursday Afternoon!

2010-09-24T11:39:00.000-04:00

I hate being indoors for too long, so while I was taking a wander around my office to clear my head yesterday, I walked past this stunning building that was more museum than store on Crosby and Walker. I've never seen anything like it. It's comprised of art pieces of glass, stone, wood, metal, and jewelry. There is nothing quite like it in NYC...it was awe inspiring so if you are down here- it’s a definite stop.

Profile from NY Mag

Well known on the San Francisco design scene, Federico de Vera travels the world buying everything from Japanese lacquerware and vintage Venetian glass to nineteenth-century Philippine Santos figures and European decorative arts. Contemporary work is interspersed among the antiques, as is jewelry created by De Vera from a combination of old and new materials. Highlights include a nineteenth-century Italian Carrera marble hand; an Italian Vetro Corroso vase by Carlo Scarpa, circa 1933; and a thirteenth-century Tibetan figurative temple fragment made of gilt copper. The mix is incredible, from architectural remnants to vintage and contemporary glass pieces to nineteenth-century dolls from India. But the real star is the jewelry. De Vera designs most of it himself, and, like his store, it’s a mixture of old and new in such a way that it’s a challenge to discern which is which. Rose-cut diamonds are De Vera’s obsession, in rings, earrings, hanging from leather cords, or set into a dazzling necklace. Sounds pricey, and on average it is.

Olio- a New NYC Contender in the Battle for Best Nepolitan Pizza

2010-09-14T11:47:00.000-04:00

In the war for Neapolitan pizza in NYC there are only 2 real players....my beloved Keste and now Olio, started by award winning pizza man Giulio Adriani. I was going in as a skeptic- but the pizza is just as good with an even better, more creative, drink menu from the minds at Employees Only. Pro's- closer to my house and their buratta appetizer is so fresh and huge it will feed a small army- cons- no Nutella!! So I think it's still a pretty equal playing field of amazingness. As always- pictures attached.

OliO, 3 Greenwich Ave., nr. Sixth Ave.; 212-243-6546

US OPEN! First Night- Federer and Venus....Just 10 Minutes from Penn Station.

2010-08-31T15:44:00.000-04:00

I was lucky enough to be invited to the first night of the US Open- Venus is a beast and rocked it with those amazing noises she makes- and Federer...well- no explanation needed there. It's a MUST GO- the food is great and the "official" drink of the matches (grey goose and melon balls) makes tennis that much more interesting. The train takes about 10 minutes from Penn- we even ditched the driver because it was so much easier than the traffic. I didn't have my real camera bc it was last minute- ya'll get iphone shots here.

Testimonial Time! A dynamic team...

2010-08-10T16:41:00.001-04:00

Jacqueline Nassirzadeh and her team are always overflowing with referrals... because in this business, referrals are a direct reflection on service. I get testimonials for her all the time and got this one today so I thought I would share. If you want a dynamic team to work on your next home- this is it. Give me a call and I'll set you up.

Check out what their clients are saying about them!

“Jackie gets it done! She is one of the most honest and heart felt people we have ever met in NYC. She explains any and all questions about the application process, and worked overtime to help us stay within budget. We look forward to recommending her to everyone we know and when it comes to us ever buying a home, she will be the only one we come to!”

“We don’t know where to even start! So professional, and kind from the first phone call. She is so easy going and knowledgeable about the renter’s market. She took the time to listen to our needs and concerns in regard to our apartment search. She quickly found many listings that matched our wants and needs. After 2 hard days of running all over Manhattan and many follow up calls, we found the apartment for us!”

Here’s a little about her…

Jacqueline Nassirzadeh started her Real Estate career in January of 2006. Since then she has transitioned into an agent that will make your experience both rewarding and easy. Her Persian background has made her strong, hardworking, truthful, and diversified. The most important thing to Jacqueline Nassirzadeh is making sure that all her customers’ needs and goals are met with honesty and integrity. She is fluent in Farsi, French, English, Hebrew, and working on Spanish and Portuguese at the moment she has worked her way to the top from being an agent to becoming the leader of her own team. Jacqueline's vast knowledge and understanding of the market combined with her up front and sincere approach make working with her a breeze. Whatever your real estate needs may be Jacqueline will be there to guide you and relieve your pain

Testimonial Time-MICHELE CEDO, a True Asset to our Luxury Team!

2010-07-12T15:24:00.000-04:00

Born and raised in New York, Michele knows the city better than anyone. More specifically, she dominates the market on uptown luxury rentals on the Upper East and West sides. She is absolutely, without a doubt, our go- to expert.

Michele is constantly building strong relationships with her clients, garnering strong testimonials like these for uncovering Upper West Side and Upper East Side luxury market finds....

“Michele really listened to what I was looking for and was invested in finding me a space that I loved. She was thorough and patient throughout the process and helped me navigate the market with personalized service and care. I would enthusiastically recommend Michele to anyone looking for a broker in NYC.” -Liz K

"Michele was able to understand what we were searching for, a charming house. In this strange economic period, between the huge opportunities that NYC offers, it's important for a client to be guided gently to a better understanding of the real value of properties. Then in the end, the best thing that can happen is when a particular house has something special, the same house is telling you: "It's me."
At that point, the offer is the final and most important act, and that is where the sharp negotiating skills and prowess of the broker comes in. We got our charming house with Michele because she did all this with us."
John & Patty

If you're on the hunt for a broker who has the NYC real estate market covered and goes above and beyond with each and every one of her clients, I recommend seeking out Michele before seeking out an apartment. Write me with what you are looking for and I'll put you in touch!

Did you know you can get to some good surfing in just 45 minutes from NYC?

2010-07-06T18:31:00.000-04:00

I was always under the impression that to get some good surfing in, I would have to board a 12-24 hour flight to do it. Although I will still use this as an excuse to travel to far, far, away, Long Beach, Long Island isn't a bad alternative. I wandered out on my friends balcony, and behold, SURFERS...lots of them, from families to 70+ old pros. Don't expect great waves but it's a wonderful place to learn or just get out there to get your fix. Lots of paddle boarders too (amazing core/balance workout). You can go between the flags at Lincoln Road, there are no swimmers to hit (even better) and it's just a 45 minute or so drive or train ride from Penn station. Clean water and beautiful beach. Here's a photo I snapped from our apartment. Not bad right!?

This website has live shots so you can know when to go. You can also rent boards right on the beach or grab a lesson. It's a good day trip!

http://www.surferjims.com/surfcam.htm

LUXURY loft for under $3000?? You can have it in my new exclusive be@William

2010-07-01T11:04:00.000-04:00

This hot new loft on William and Platt is seriously sexy. This is a steal for just $2950 a month and the furniture can be negotatied to stay as well. The pricing is far less than the other units in the building because we need to move it ASAP. Health club, laundry room, rooftop deck, anything and everything that you could ever dream of in a NYC apartment. What I like about the be@william is it's a boutique style building- not an overpowering complex. Reminiscent of the Mondrain in Miami. it's also over 800 square feet.

Here is some commentary and pictures from my trusty assistant Rachel:

The loft itself is absolutely BREATHTAKING. From the hardwood floors to the high ceilings to the gorgeous windows... it looks like a dream apartment. This one has the ability to be converted into a 1 bedroom, or you just leave it as an amazing open loft...up to you.

Let's start with this gorgeous lounge in the building

If you live here you have access to this incredibly chic rooftop deck

...And now for the inside of this spectacular apartment:

Check out the link for it: http://www.beatwilliam.com/

Jean Georges...You Can't Mess with a Classic

2010-06-30T12:21:00.000-04:00

In the past 30 days I have been to every hot, new, shining star in the sky restaurant you can name....The Lion, Kenmare, Minetta Tavern (for the 15th time-consistently amazing), and the list goes on. However, nothing downtown chic can hold a candle to the elegance of a 4-7 course meal at Jean Georges at the Trump International Columbus Circle. If you need to impress someone, propose marriage, or have the last meal of your natural life, this is the place to do it. My girlfriends and I were lucky enough to have someone else foot the bill for it all- but that's beside the point. We are outstanding company and you can't put a dollar amount on that right?! If you go for lunch, and cut out the top shelf scotch, I hear you can get a really reasonable rate. I had that asparagus dish he's preparing up top-insane. I also snagged a photo of one of our dessert plates from my blackberry…

A West Village property you can OWN for the same price as a RENTAL- and move right in just as easily!

2010-06-24T16:06:00.000-04:00

The market rarely gives us sponsor owned units...apartments you can purchase at a co-op price with the condo style of "no board approval". This one on Jane averages out to about $3000 a month in mortgage and maintenance expenses like any other charming 1 bed West Village rental- but you get to own it, build equity, and get tax deductions! Yes- that fireplace works.

41 Jane 5A. 499K Open House This Sunday 11:30 to 1PM. Stop by or contact me for an appointment.

Broker Summary:
This gorgeous Pre-War home is located on Jane Street, the best street in the village. South facing with amazing sunlight, original detail, high beamed ceilings, working fireplace, and walk-in closet in the bedroom. Just steps from the west side subways, the Highline, amazing restaurants & nightlife in the Meatpacking District, and steps from Chelsea Market! Sponsor Unit, No Board Approval!!!

Keste- the Best Burrata Pizza Pie (Followed by Nutella Pie) in NYC

2010-06-14T16:34:00.000-04:00

I HATE culinary mediocrity if you are going to spend the calories and the hard earned cash- so I will never steer you wrong! I was turned on to Keste by one of our managing agents and I've been addicted ever since. If you like burrata ( think a fresh, softer version of mozzarella) cheese the Keste pie is by far the best. You have to ask for it though- its' not on the menu. All of their other pie's are legendary too, but being lactose intolerant, I have to pick my battles. If you are a Nutella fanatic like I am, and they pair their award winning chewy crust with it for dessert and it's heaven. Any of the salads are great to start. You can find keste here...

www.kestepizzeria.com

271 Bleecker Street

New York, NY 10014-4102

(212) 243-1500

Enjoy!

Just Got a Hot New Union Square/East Village Landlord for Our Clients-NO FEE!

2010-06-08T16:10:00.000-04:00

We are so lucky to have just gotten a new landlord that lists with only a few brokers - AND he is one of the few to still be paying broker fees for our clients! Here is a sampling of what's available TODAY from the list this morning. If you want to see anything just shoot us an email karlas@markdavidny.com. We will be getting more soon.

I am going to have our newest and greatest intern Rachel roll them out for you below!

Second Ave/ E 74th Street--- $2,100

Looking for a one bedroom on the upper east side with a totally RENOVATED kitchen, high ceilings, and hardwood floors??? if so don't let this apartment slip away!!

Third Ave/E 10th Street---$2,500

Just steps from Union Square, this two bedroom apartment with FRENCH DOORS and large bedrooms cannot be passed up!

1st Street/ Second Avenue---$2,900

This amazingly located two bedroom apartment offers marble countertops and high ceilings!

First Ave/ E 12th Street--- $2,000

If you're in the market for a one bedroom, you better not miss this HOT new listing with great naural light and plank floors throughout!!

Second Ave/ E 6th Street--- $4,900

BRAND NEW LISTING- three bedroom apartment with gorgeous hardwood floors, incredible lighting and great open floor plan... just look at all of this space!!

Third Ave/ E 10th Street--- $1,750

Just REDUCED studio in the East Village has incredible sunlight that highlights the gorgeous exposed brick around the fireplace!

BELMONT STAKES! Won $14....killed a $300 blackberry!

2010-06-08T15:08:00.000-04:00

Belmont Stakes was so much fun! People were dressed up, we got some grandstand seats gifted to us right near the finish line, and the drinks were flowing (into the keys of my blackberry rendering it useless on a VERY busy real estate Saturday). It's not recommended to visit Belmont ANY other time of year- but on this one day a great crowd comes out. You can take the LIRR right there quickly and easily. I'm one of those sophisticated betters that goes by catchiness of name.

LOFT UPDATE! Some HOT loft listings we just aquired for our clients...

2010-06-03T13:16:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't dream of living in a classic NY loft? Beams, columns, brick, and what appears to be endless space...consistently showcased in movies and film as the type of apartment "everyone" in NYC lives in. Sadly for us agents they are truly a rare commodity. Here are three listings that we just acquired in the past 24 hours-STEALS for the current market. As I'm typing this, we are taking a deal on one of them that's been sitting less than 12 hours on the market (813 Broadway).

1. Bowery @ Bond- over 1300 Square feet- just got this one about 30 minutes ago- $4500

Full listing here:
http://markdavidny.com/detail.aspx?id=438381

2. Gold Coast- Fifth Avenue @ 8th St. right near the famed Otto. $9500 for about 2000 sq feet

Full listing here:
http://markdavidny.com/detail.aspx?id=796786

3. And our exclusive 813 Broadway- 4 Bedroom share just south of Union Square $6995.

Full listing here:
http://markdavidny.com/detail.aspx?id=312508

If you want to see any of these lofts drop me an email and someone from my team will get you in right away.

My Dad's Latest Race...and the First Deaf Driver to Win a NASCAR Event! Exciting Saturday Night!

2010-06-02T13:42:00.000-04:00

My dad is an outstanding racecar driver, and has been since he was old enough to reach the pedals. He is going a 40+ year career. Although he had no boys, I was a suitable replacement for anything with an engine. Driving since the tender age of 5, my first car was custom built and shaped with a triangle body to avoid front impacts. Anyone who has been in a car with me knows to hold on tight. My sister and I took a trip out this weekend to see him race in Riverhead and the spirit was rekindled-boy do I miss speed living in this city!

Here are some pics of the night. He did great- no crashes ;-)

As an added bonus we got to witness the first ever deaf driver win a NASCAR event. His dad communicates with him through a series of lights on the dash and it was really exciting to see his years of work pay off. Here is a pic of his win below as well as an article about it.

Article:

http://deaftimes.com/usa-l/deaf-driver-makes-history-at-riverhead-raceway/

Our CEO Mark David Featured in the Wall Street Journal Today for His Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Yiquan Skills...Very Cool Video!

2010-05-25T10:41:00.000-04:00

Link to the Video Here...
http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/documents/info-WORKOUT09.html
In his teens and early 20s, Mark Fromm kept in shape with karate and boxing. But he had to stop practicing his junior year of college after he was in a car crash. Back problems from the accident stayed with him into his 30s.

"I was on a quest to cure the pain," says Mr. Fromm, CEO and co-founder of Mark David & Company, a residential- and commercial-real-estate brokerage in New York City.

After years of trying physical therapy, yoga and working with a chiropractor, Mr. Fromm finally found an exercise mix and his back pain is now nearly gone. He practices the Alexander Technique, which focuses on improved posture, balance, coordination and body awareness. He does it in one-on-one, 30-minute sessions four afternoons a week.

He also practices Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a style of martial arts that focuses on ground fighting, five times a week. And he practices yiquan, a Chinese martial art that emphasizes mind-body connection and is also known as “mind boxing,” every morning

Mr. Fromm starts every morning with 15 minutes of standing meditation and 50 minutes of yiquan. The practice integrates visualization techniques and slow and fast body movements like pushing the hands and sparring with the air.

"In the West, everyone knows of tai chi. Yiquan is a much more difficult practice," he says. "It teaches you to be very present in your body and by doing that you start to see where you are holding unnecessary tension."

The idea is to focus a large amount of physical force in a small area while maintaining a relaxed mind and posture. Mr. Fromm runs through sequences that are based on the five elements -- metal, water, wood, fire and earth -- along with the movements and fighting behavior of animals. The movements might mimic the pouncing of a tiger or an ax chopping wood. The postures, some as simple as standing with his arms straight out at his sides, can be so challenging he is often dripping with sweat by the end of a session, he says.

For the past three and a half years Mr. Fromm has been practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Three nights a week he attends 60-minute sessions at a studio in Manhattan, and two nights a week he spends anywhere from an hour and a half to two and half hours training at a studio in Brooklyn.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is similar to the Japanese martial art and Olympic sport judo. Judo focuses more on speed and power with the goal of beating the opponent as soon as possible, whereas Brazilian jiu-jitsu is more about control, technique and execution. In Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the idea is to wear the opponent down by exhausting him or her on the mat. It requires a tremendous amount of core strength as well as toughness. Mr. Fromm says he wanted to find a physical activity that kept his mind sharp while also testing his physical limits. "Jiu-jitsu is like a physical chess match. It's all about knowing what position you need to be in," he says.

Once an opponent is thrown or wrestled to the ground, various maneuvers are used to force the opponent into submission. A match can last anywhere from five seconds to five minutes. A contenders wins when the opponent taps him, signaling surrender.

"I'm going to be 43, but I feel like I have the body of an 18 year old," Mr. Fromm says. "There's a new spring to my joints and ligaments."

Mark and Claudia

Quick Market Update From the Real Estate Trenches....Rents are Climbing, Incentives are Vanishing

2010-05-21T13:27:00.002-04:00

Three of our biggest landlords pulled their OP's (owner paid commissions) and free rent incentives yesterday on all downtown buildings. This means that the "no fee" market downtown just shrunk considerably, and we forecast this spreading to other many other landlords in the coming weeks. Pulling owner paid commissions and free rent, unless you are living in an outlying/new development area like the west 30's or the financial district, is becoming a steady trend. In addition, prices are on the rise 10-20% like every summer. The same 2 bedroom apt on Centre street in SoHo that rented for no fee $2600 last February, is now full fee $3000. We are also seeing the better inventory sitting on the market for less than 24 hours. We had 2 instances yesterday where we had deposit down, lease signings scheduled, and the owners or co-brokering agents took a higher bids several hundred above asking in a few hour span.

Lofts right now are on fire- clients with $5000-$8000 budgets are fighting over spaces, renting units in less than 15 minutes from first showings, and going into bidding wars. We are in one right now for a loft at 95 Greene. A current client we are working with that has a $15,000 budget for a 3 bedroom in Tribeca is coming up disappointed, deciding to move his price point closer to $20,000 due to lack of available inventory. We are seeing this same trend on the upper west side family sized homes.

How do you win in this market?

• Have your funds ready! Most lease signings happen within 24 hours of approval. If your funds aren’t available for the rent and security, they will move on to the next application behind yours.

• Full paperwork wins. Get those tax returns, employment letters, and bank statements ready and carry them with you on the apartment hunt so you can pounce! If you are working with a guarantor- ask your agent to prep them on what’s needed AHEAD of time.

• Look at apartments in your budget, not above right now. Don’t do offers on apts that are less than a few days on the market, especially if it’s the only available unit in the building. Landlords with a fresh listing are passing over offers quickly for full priced applications without even giving a chance to counter. It happens to our clients every day even though we tell them that market is long gone ;-)

• Have a B plan ready. Always have a second favorite apartment lined up that you can easily have your agent switch your application to if the first one is gone, or you will need to start the search all over. If you thinkyou are the only one looking for a 2 bedroom in the east village under $3000…you’re crazy! Usually if we have 10 units to show in the morning- by mid afternoon 50% of those units are gone.

An article was released in the NYTimes touching on this topic- so you don’t have to take my word in it!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/25/realestate/25cov.html

UPDATE- here is an article from the Wall Street Journal since I wrote my article..."Renters to pay fees again"
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704113504575264863146900120.html

2010 Aids Walk/Team Mark David- We Raised Thousands of Dollars for the Cause!

2010-05-17T09:42:00.001-04:00

The 2010 NYC Aids walk was a massive success this year raising over 5.7 million dollars for aids research. I want to thank the agents, management, our amazing administrative, social media, marketing staff, and even Mark David himself who were all up early on Sunday morning to do the walk and support the cause hiking miles through Central Park and the upper west side of Manhattan. To up our company giving, a few days before the walk Mark Daivd matched and donated all marketing dollars spent by the agents over that time period - equating to a generous contribution of thousands of dollars.

This is the first year in the 25 it's been running, that our governor joined the walk. Mr. Patterson's articulate speech really struck a chord with the thousands of people in attendance. This disease, which used to mean a 5 year or less death sentence, has become something people stricken with the virus are able to live full lives with for decades and beyond. That being said, the overall feeling of the attendees was one of hope and enthusiasm. The money raised for research in walks like this are to thank, as this statistic will only get better as teh funding and the science advances. If you haven't already donated you can contribute to our team here http://www.aidswalk.net/newyork/

SoHo's Vesuvio/Birdbath....Kale Salad Followed by Cookies has Never Been So Addictive!

2010-05-06T13:24:00.001-04:00

Since I spend at least 12 hours a day in SoHo, my team and I are always on the prowl for new lunch spots. Now that the busy spring/summer rental season is upon us, the Balthazar/Mercer Kitchen 90 minute lunches of the winter have been packed away- replaced with whatever we can shove into our mouths while typing and talking on the phone. However, this does not mean that I will change my views on tolerating subpar food. You don't move to New York in general to be subpar (moving on)! Well, watch out Olives...a new jam-packed SoHo take out joint has opened up a block away on Prince and West Houston- and it's MAGIC. Birdbath- the 'green" outlay of the famed City Bakery has taken over the historic Vesuvio Spot (old signage still in tact). We pass by here almost every day now to feed our addictions-and there is not 1 thing that hasn't been THE BEST "xyz" I have ever tried. Everything from salads to cookies to flakey mini pizzas. Usually we can't even wait the four blocks to get back to the office before diving into the bags and feeding each other what we all deem the "NO-you have to try this- it's more amazing than what you have!" item of the day. Stop by if you are in our area- you won't regret it.

The “By Owner” Section of Craigslist- RENTERS BEWARE- Your Safety and Your Money is at Risk.

2010-04-22T14:56:00.001-04:00

Day in and day out almost 95% of the "by owner" section on craigslist is filled with unethical brokers that are pretending to be someone they are not to avoid the $10 per ad fee levied under the broker section to post real estate ads. I know this as a have a trained eye with almost a decade in the business, and can identify a landlord by a photo of a microwave or a floor tile. I've been in a vibrant discussion over the past few weeks with the beloved Craig Newmark from craigslist after an incident that occurred with someone falsely posting in the "by owner" real estate section. When you post legitimately in the broker section you must disclose who you are and who you work for. The brokers who are posting in the owner section cannot be identified for fear of getting caught, so they are generally using false names and claiming to be owners of properties they are not. You cannot trace who they work for, if they are licensed under the department of state, or even their real name. This gets dangerous when a potential client meets someone on the street or in a vacant apartment. Most of these “brokers” turn out to have no license, can collect funds in the street and vanish, and can be potentially dangerous with no traceability using dummy cover numbers like Google voice.

This massive problem was called to my attention when recent a safety issue arose with one of my agents. She was cornered in an apartment with an unnamed poster claiming to be the owner. She was physically hit several times, pushed into a closet, and had to run and escape from God knows what was about to happen next. The property he was claiming to be the owner of is actually owned by a legitimate landlord I know well. I reached out to that landlord and they were horrified people were claiming to be them and showing clients their properties under false pretenses. This person could not be traced because he was advertising under a false name as the owner of the building on craigslist he did not own. Craig responded immediately and pulled all of his postings down- but it's not enough. Weekly, we have been sending Craig hundreds of false posters doing the very same thing. I do the hiring at Mark David and meet agents from these firms all the time looking to make their career legitimate. They say they are instructed by their managers to post under that section “because it is free” and do just hide thier identity and use dummy, easily changable email addresses and phone numbers. There is a quick and easy solution to this- charge EVERYONE the same $10 to post in the NY RE section of craigslist. Owners profit more than agents when deals are closed- why should they not be levied the same charge? I polled several landlords, who all expressed they would much rather pay the $10 per ad than have undisclosed strangers claiming to have ownership ties to their properties falsely. Please petition Craig as I am, to fix this problem before the spring/summer market. NYC gets an influx of domestic and internation relocations as well as students-prime candidates to be taken advantage of by this easily filled loophole. We don’t want to see anymore clients be put in unsafe or unethical situations and I applaud Craig for the fast response times so far- but to get it to change he can't just hear it from me!

You can reach him here: craig@craigslist.org
Here are some tips that will save you heartache, cash, and time.

• Never trust a street meeting. When booking an appointment ask to meet the broker in their office first to have a consultation and make sure they are working in a legitimate operation. Do a little online research about the firm you are about to meet with. For example- Do they have a website? Testimonials? Positive Press? Most better firms have access to a lot of the same inventory, and share the rest with each other. It will end up being a time saver if you identify one person that you feel comfortable with.

• Check online with the NY department of state to see if whoever you are working with is licensed and/or using their real name- you will be surprised! Only work with a licenced individual.

• Make sure the firm you choose is part of the Real Estate Board of NY (www.rebny.com) . If you have an issue you can take it here if they are members. If they are not members it should be a red flag. There is a list of their members on the website.

• If you want to try your hand with the owner section, the same “no street meet” policy applies. Genuine posters will also have an office. The biggest owners posting on the “by owner section” right now are Glenwood and Stonehenge. They all have on site offices at the buildings that you can visit- and they will invite you to meet there. They usually have snacks too- so it’s a win/win all around!

• Never hand over money to anyone who does not have a license or a legitimate traceable office and manager you can reach out to. You don’t want to end up on the 7Pm news like all of those poor souls that rent the SAME apartment and all try to move in on the same day with the person they forked over their “rent payment” to drinking margaritas on a Cancun beach.
I hope this helps and happy renting!

My review of Paulinos...Hot location, Hot People, Burnt Food!!

2010-04-19T11:56:00.000-04:00

I love...no....not strong enough.... I'm OBSESSED with great food. Ex. If you try to talk to me while I'm eating cafe Habana corn- I won't hear you. I also love love love Keith McNally. I'm at Balthazar and/or Pastis at least 3 times a month for consistently amazing meals. I was very excited to hear he was opening Paulinos right by my office on the Bowery. We know the guy who runs the floor and had the best table in the house on a very packed Saturday waiting for us. I did a two hour pre-feast boxing/cardio workout that morning anticipating the calories. Sadly, as much fun as the scene and company were- the food was not much above mediocre. I went with two girls who NEVER leave a scrap of food on the table, but when we were all looking at leftovers staring back at us...we knew we were in trouble. We kept ordering more and more things hoping to become believers....but nothing. The whole meal fell flat. We even skipped dessert so we could go get nutella crepes elsewhere as we were still hungry. Great service, beautiful space, maybe we were just there on an off day…or maybe he should just stick to French and let the Italians handle the Italian. The Burratta pie at Keste is still by far the best pizza I've ever had in the city.

Relocation from out of state/country- a weaker man's challenge is our intuitive gift.

2010-04-15T11:26:00.002-04:00

I LIVE for happy clients.....Testimonial Time!

Could you imagine moving to another country or state without someone there who you trust to help? It's stressful.Where many agents look at relocations, especially international ones, as a challenge- I embrace. I love seeing the world, and I am convinced every dollar I spend on travel comes back threefold with the clients I am able to bond with post trip. My team is already scheduled for 2 skype meetings today with one of our clients in Sweden and another in Spain. Many of our relocation clients take apartments sight unseen based off of a combination of our opinion, photos, video tours, and dimensions. Our expertise in this field is unmatched and the word has spread, dumping countless referrals on us that we are so grateful for.

This relocation below was finding an apartment for her daughter. She was a fierce mama from the south- a place I have a true appreciation for (especially the cheese grits). A strong, wonderful, and down to BUSINESS woman who came to make it happen for her child. I had her work with Jenna as she is an expert in larger share apartments in the 20's and 30's. Great work all around!

I just sent the following to the Mark David web site "contact us." I could not be more sincere! Your knowledge of what is out there, what is appropriate and what is safe were hugely helpful. While we know the

city quite well, there are obvious nuances that would have been lost on us. I look forward to seeing you when we are back in NYC for the move the week of the 17th of May. Thanks again for everything!!!! Dede

We recently flew to NYC to look for a flat with our daughter. We were referred to your company and further to Jenna Amicucci. We were prepared for a grueling week with little excitement over what we would

find. Jenna quickly sized us up, wasted NO time, spent a day and a half showing us flats (second day only to go back and reconfirm which one we liked) and found us the perfect place for our daughter. If only everything in our daughters' young life could go so well. The office manager had told me she had just the right person for us and, clearly, she delivered. Your services may not be cheap but they do prove out the theory,"you get what you pay for!" Please thank Jenna and Karla for their knowledge, help and enthusiasm on our behalf. We are very grateful! -Dede

I've included some action shots of my fellow loud Italian and agent extraordinaire Jenna Amicucci. Great work Jenna. You can find her Mark David Profile Here: www.markdavidny.com/jennaa

New Yorkers go to Miami....It's a Fact. Here are some tips if you want to party like (and with) a rockstar.

2010-04-14T18:08:00.007-04:00

A few days ago I went down to Miami with two stunning girlfriends for one of their famous friend's birthday weekends. From the moment we acquisitioned the mustang convertible to the race/obsticle course back to the airport to get home, the days were filled with nonstop fun. We stayed at the Mondrian and it was heaven- as all Morgan’s hotels tend to be. Asia de Cuba food by the pool (MUST find mojito fries in NYC), an amazing free upgrade to a huge suite, a perfectly appointed gym, and great views really made the trip magic. We bopped between the W, the Fountaineblaeu, and Lincoln road for all of our dining and clubbing adventures. Those three are all you really need down there. Don't skip the Ghirardelli shop on the strip for ridiculous ice cream sundaes. Here are some pics- identify the celebs we were with and win a prize! (no no - that's not Stephanie Seymour- It's just me ;-)

Moving with a Large Dog in Manhattan? Some Tips and Testimonials

2010-04-12T12:26:00.002-04:00

From my time working in animal shelters, I know better than anyone adopting a large dog is rewarding. They make wonderful companions...but unless you are spending some serious cash on your apartment- anything over 50Lbs is a tough sell to landlords in Manhattan. Here are a few tips if you are thinking of getting a large dog in the near future.

• If you have more than one...you may as well call it a day and move to Queens!

• "Pets allowed" noted on a listing in NYC usually means 15-25 lbs and below. It's generally the larger doorman buildings that will entertain these types of animals-but they come with higher price tags.

• Work with a professional. Landlords can change their pet policies frequently (usually in the direction of more strict)- it's about the right pitch from your real estate professional coupled with their pre-existing relationships- that can often make it happen.
• Note the “dangerous breed” exclusions. This includes but is not limited to pit bulls, Rottweiler’s, etc. If you see these roaming around the city they are usually living in the public housing projects where they can’t be restricted. There is not one landlord in my ten years that would openly take a pit bull into their building to mingle with the other tenants. It's a lawsuit waiting to happen.

• Be prepared to leave a pet deposit- usually a non refundable fee of several hundred dollars.

• Just because you see large dogs in a building doesn't mean they are necessarily allowed. Large dogs can be grandfathered in from prior pet policies or a former ownership in the building.
• Dog meetings with management are not uncommon in New York. Landlords have wised up to the fact that people lie about dog weight, size and breed to get them into the building. It’s a good idea to have a photo on hand (if you own a dog like me you have 1000 readily available anyway) to send in with the application. Sometimes it can melt the heart of even the most hardened landlord. Maybe one of your pup saving a child or wearing an embarrassing sweater/tiara combo…don’t be afraid to really lay it on thick.

Our team worked with a relocation client just recently who sent Jack and Neil from my team a glowing testimonial about finding a home for them- and more importantly- their 60LB dog. They ended up spending a little over 6K/month for a two bedroom in a beutiful Adellco property. Finding the unit was not easy- we had half the floor calling building after building trying to get them to flex on their pet policies for this gentle giant. 90% of the buildings that worked for them on paper gave a firm no on the dog- it took days of research from my agents and openness to areas from the clients to finally match them with their perfect home. If you are moving into Manhattan with a larger dog, give me a call and I will link you up with one of the large dog experts on my team.

"Finding an apartment in New York City is never easy, especially when you have a dog that is over 50 pounds! Despite this obstacle, Jacqueline Nassirzadeh and Neil Jordaan devoted two days to my wife and I scouring the City for an apartment that we loved and a landlord that loved large dogs. Their efforts and perseverance paid off and by the end of the two days we had to make the difficult choice between a great apartment on the Upper West Side and one on the Upper East Side. Once we made our decision, Jacqueline and Neil worked quickly to facilitate our approval with the landlord and we happily signed our lease the next day. Jacqueline and Neil’s persistence and professionalism paid off and we are happy to recommend them to anyone looking for a positive outcome to their apartment search in New York City."

--Jordan G.

Jackie can be found here

http://markdavidny.com/agentDetail.aspx?id=34434

Neil can be found here

http://markdavidny.com/agentDetail.aspx?id=45812
Here are some cute pics of them that I stole off of thier facebook....;-)

The Penthouse at the Caledonia Just Released....Real Estate Porn on the Highline

2010-03-30T15:05:00.003-04:00

The long awaited penthouse at the amenity packed Caledonia on 17th and the Highline was just released, and it's unadulterated west village real estate lust. Here is the write up below from the owners- no photos yet so I included something similar in the building for about half the price (meaning half the awesomeness) for reference. Advice for future husband(s)....skip the ring and give me this. I promise to be good and come home ALMOST every night!

PENTHOUSE 2BR/2BA. EAST AND SOUTH EXPOS WITH PARTIAL WEST AND RIVER VIEWS. WINGED BEDROOMS. EN SUITE MASTER BATH WITH OVERSIZED VESSEL SINK, STALL SHOWER AND TUB. PRIVATE 133 SF BALCONY OFF LIVING ROOM. OPEN KITCHEN DESIGNED BY CLODAGH. GREAT CLOSET SPACE. GLASS SPIRAL STAIRCASE IN GREAT ROOM LEADING TO PRIVATE ROOFTOP TERRACE. WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACE. WASHER/DRYER.

What does one buy for a super hip 4 (2, 1 , 6 moth) year old on short notice???

2010-03-29T16:20:00.001-04:00

We all know Manhattan kids can't get gifts from toys r us like we did in suburbia...they are far more edgy and cool. Thank goodness for Space Kidettes on Fifth and 21st. Every year it saves my ass with it's amazing selection of toys, clothes, and all around to die for must haves on any budget. They carry designers like L.A.M.B. for the progressively hip baby that hangs with Heidi Klum's kids at the park. The people that work here truly LIVE pre-pubescent fashion and are a pure delight...getting you in, out, and gift wrapped before your pre-party bloody mary brunch wears off. Here is a pic of Uma sneaking out of this kiddie hot spot.

I outfitted Mark David and Claudia's sweet Tyler and Sofia with these duds below. I want those pink ray bans when she's done using them. That S sequined hair clip can be short for "Saladino" just as easily Sofia...so don't put it down!

http://www.spacekiddets.com/

DJ AM's place just went into contract...this was so sad for our downtown community.

2010-03-26T11:03:00.000-04:00

He had such a great energy when we would brush past him in the streets near our office...truly a loss.

A D.J.’s Place, With Sound-Proofing
(from the NY Times)

ADAM GOLDSTEIN, better known as DJ AM, was a disc jockey to the stars. He worked on albums for Madonna and Will Smith. He dated Nicole Richie and Mandy Moore. And as if that weren’t enough fodder for the tabloids, he appeared on a reality TV show as a recovering addict.
He was found dead last summer, in what was ruled an accidental overdose.
His condominium at 210 Lafayette Street, a k a One Kenmare Square, was listed for $1.795 million in early February and just went into contract. The 12-story building, of which André Balazs was a developer, has an undulating glass facade. Mr. Goldstein bought the corner unit for $1.995 million in 2007 and took down a wall between bedrooms to create a large master. The listing describes “oversized windows with triple-glazed glass to provide peaceful serenity from the city sounds.”
The broker, Jared Seligman, a senior vice president of Prudential Douglas Elliman, declined to comment.

An Ode to Ed Fabila...Real Estate Agent Extraordinaire

2010-03-24T18:10:00.000-04:00

This testimonial today again solidified the way I feel about Ed being part of our powerful Manhattan real estate team. I have never met an agent so organized, tapped into his clients, and garnering such a high consistent ratio of positive feedback and social media. He handles tycoons to celebs with ease and grace. I consistently select him to handle my personal referrals because I know I will always get professionalism....check out this relocation client feedback today...nice work!

"Having dealt with three other brokers prior to meeting Edward, it was such a relief to finally find a broker that did not simply want us to sign on the first property we just liked halfway. Edward really listened to what our priorities were and went out of his way to locate the properties closely matching what we were looking for. Edward also managed to find available properties that none of the other brokers could apparently find or deemed worthwhile for us to see.

Furthermore, coming from Europe, Edward took special care to make us understand the peculiarities of NYC real-estate and worked diligently in our best interest to secure our apartment.

All in all, we can warmly recommend Edward to anyone looking to re-locate to Manhattan.

Sincerely,

Peter K"

Check out Ed with some other members of the team in the special helmets we give them when they go out to drink ;-)

Here we are at my birthday at the Eldgridge last year....

You can also check out his blog here...Ed's a true foodie so watch out!

http://fablivingnyc.tumblr.com/

His Mark David Profile and listings are here...

http://markdavidny.com/edwardf

Morimoto...the Iron Chef has stolen my heart.

2010-03-24T15:13:00.000-04:00

I've been to Morimoto for drinks- but never to eat as I'm not a raging Budakan fan... I was truly missing out. Mark David, who won't touch raw fish on a normal day, was inhaling the stuff. The space is pure art as is the food…the table voted and you CANNOT skip the rock shrimp. I have never met one person (and I know some really bitchy people) who has had a single gripe with this place. Pristine service and it's a great place for larger parties- we fit 14 people around a table and it still felt intimate. It was a beautiful birthday for Flavia and Revin and a total surprise. I can’t think of a better way to spend a chilly Tuesday.
http://www.morimotorestaurant.com/

The Momofuko Compost Cookie....MY GOODNESS

2010-03-23T12:59:00.000-04:00

When you title a place 'milk bar'....lactose intolerant folks such as myself tend to cringe at the thought of entering such a hellish place. MISTAKE. I was starving and announcing it -as I usually do in my office until someone shows up with some goodies- and yesterday Jonah had a bag filled with stuff from Momofuko milk bar. The compost cookie, which includes but it not limited to coffee grinds, butterscotch, pretzels and potato chips, tasted like you were balancing on that beautiful tightrope between heavenly well behaved bliss and devilish lust. Rumor is they are STOCKED with goodies like this so go check them out in the east village on Second Ave and 13th street.

http://www.momofuku.com/

Raw Honey...we are quickly becoming addicts and you will too.

2010-03-19T16:24:00.000-04:00

The beautiful and talented Cara Rosenbloom of Mark David fame skipped into my office last week with some pure raw whipped honey from the Union Square farmers market made by this guy right here in NYC. Did you know there was a honey bee ban in NYC up until just recently that prevented this man from creating his art? The stuff is like liquid crack- on apples, toast, just about anything. It is nothing like the traditional refined junk you get in the supermarket. It's in a crystallized form that spreads like butter. This week Andrew was not at the market so we went with the same version from Tremblay Apiaries upstate- might even be better. His little booth was MOBBED with New Yorkers getting their fix. The guy who works the booth is a self proclaimed hillbilly and all about the bee education. At about 6 bucks a jar this is an addiction you can keep up with. In addition- eating local honey helps build your body up against the allergens that come with the springtime.

Find it here http://tremblayapiaries.com/ so you can order online if you can't make it over to Union Square.

The Real Estate Bait and Switch...

2010-03-18T18:19:00.000-04:00

I was on the phone with an agent from a firm I generally won't hire from- because the bulk of their website is bait and switch and my team runs real time (much more labor intensive). Bologna you say? Here's the proof. I was checking out his profile and what was the first listing to come up? The penthouse of my VERY OWN building- which hasn't been available for several months- maybe even a full year at this point. I know the guy who lives in it and he has no plans to leave. My advice- work with a firm who runs real time. You see an apartment- you get that apartment. Here is the listing...looks nice right? Too bad you can't live there because someone else does!! If you want to see the full listing (still showing active on their website) so you can avoid them like the plague....email me for the link.

24 Prince....and amazing spot for a private outdoor party in SoHo

2010-03-18T14:37:00.000-04:00

24 Prince was in the running last year to host my birthday- but the Eldridge won because of sheer size and exclusivity of venue. I do want to give in an honorable mention to 24 Prince now that spring is back and they have this adorable outdoor space in SoHo. Top Chef contestant Nikki Cascone runs it and makes the best brussel sprout salad of all time. My agents are here all the time because the staff makes them feel like family. It’s also steps to the modern art mecca New Museum on the Bowery- so this coupled with a trip to that would make a great half day downtown.

Liquiteria- the Best Juice Spot in all the Land.

2010-02-22T12:38:00.000-05:00

11th Street and Second Ave- I took a short Vespa ride from SoHo today to get a little wind in my hair, vitamin D, and avoid the delivery charge out of their range. I have been living off of pressed juices lately...and the greens with ginger lemon and apple are supreme. The killer xxx with cayenne (they have a warm version that's outstanding) and the royal flush with aloe...perfection. You can stock up as they last 3 days. By far the best in the city- they make kale taste like sugar.

http://www.liquiteria.com/
Bonus- if you like to stalk Natalie Portman she is there all the time....

Floor seats at the Garden for the Knicks- an NYC MUST!

2010-02-18T18:53:00.000-05:00

I am so blessed that for some reason 80% of the time I'm at the Knicks games I'm on the floor- and the other 20% i'm in the club- never having paid for a ticket. I don't watch, follow, or particularly like basketball -but my clients and friends usually pick me to tag along for some reason. Last night one of the charities I'm involved with donated amazing seats to me for some work I did. The Bulls/ Knicks pairing was an epic game coming down to the last seconds and I was three rows from the players. I always appreciate rubbing elbows with Nicole Richie, Julia Styles, Will Smith, and multiple players from the Saints- while in jeans and a t-shirt. Every Knicks game- no matter how bad the match up- you will see celebs and moguls- the networking is always outstanding. If you are going to do one thing that is truly New York- floor seats or at least club seats are a box to check. Here are some crappy blackberry picks. I was a little unhealthily obsessed with Miller ;-)

Curbed NY: Vornado Moves Ahead With Plans for Hotel Penn Replacement

2010-02-16T14:36:00.000-05:00

Curbed NY: Vornado Moves Ahead With Plans for Hotel Penn Replacement

The Hotel Penn needs to go- it's the first thing you see as you elevate out of Penn station and this tower would make the area incredible. There is so much going on in the West 30's right now from new development residential to substantial commercial undertakings. The Hudson Yards, the Ohm, Tower 31, the Epic, and the Emerald Green are my favs for ultra modern amenity packed digs. If you want high end luxury, free months of rent, and DON'T want to live in the financial district...call us up. I'll have one of my team that specializes in the west 30's new development take you out. All buildings are no fee with us and you get a well informed guide. You won't believe what you get for the money in this up and coming and VERY central area.

Curbed NY: Moynihan Station Rises From Grave, Gets $83.3 Million Handout

2010-02-16T14:20:00.000-05:00

Curbed NY: Moynihan Station Rises From Grave, Gets $83.3 Million Handout

This looks like an amazing project! I'm hoping for some Grand Central style of restoration because the bones are here to do it in this historic building. If any of you have had the displeasure of taking Amtrak out of Penn Station...pretty much anything would be an upgrade. When people think to take an adventure to New York City- it would be nice if they weren't dropped off at the trashcans that are the Port Authority or Amtrak Penn.

Dubai on the brain....

2010-02-15T14:25:00.000-05:00

I visited Dubai not too long ago and if you are into over the top architecture, well, over the top everything....you could take a 13 hour flight from NYC to check it out. Working in Manhattan real estate I was excited to see the new development and the high end hotels. I love bringing new international ideas to my developers and landlords. I crave cutting edge luxury development, but Dubai almost ruins it because they have so many empty buildings- and they are all half done. It's like a graveyard of glass, steel, and cranes. There is no history in this land and when you hit a certain age you are booted out- so there never will be. People compare it to Vegas- but in Vegas you don't get the feeling that the originators are going against their core value system. In the Middle East Dubai is the exception to drinking, skin baring, open prostitution, and all around promotion of debauchery. You feel an undertone of uneasiness because you know the people working there innately don't support these ideals. They have the largest mall in the world, the tallest building in the world, the most luxurious hotel in the world, but the smallest mosque you ever will see…if that gives you an idea on where their priorities lie.

The good part- if you are Western or European you get pushed to the front of the line at every nightclub, bar and restaurant, as that's who this little country was built for. Dubai has essentially duplicated every high end establishment from the west including Buddha Bar, etc. The food is of amazing caliber as is the service. The cars and malls just try and top each other year over year. You do get some culture- as multiple wives and traditional dress are still both openly on display. I'm so glad I was able to have this experience. Note 4 or 5 days is all you need- if I had more time I would use Dubai as a platform to fly somewhere else in the world near it. Emirates is a stellar airline.

Attached are some blackberry photos of the Al Arab where we had high tea, the views of the man made islands from my hotel balcony, the very popular ski Dubai in the mall....it's was about 125 degrees when I went so it's not that they were blurry- it's that the air was evaporating the ocean. Have fun!

HL23- I'm gasping for air this building is SO SEXY!

2010-02-13T12:34:00.000-05:00

Buildings like this refresh my memory of why I work in Manhattan real estate. Curving over the highline park in Chelsea...this is one of the most beautiful pieces of modern residential architecture I've laid eyes on- and the location is ideal above the highline park. All of the management staff at Mark David chose Chelsea as their home- from 10th ave to 6th ave....we are big fans. The first one to make into this building....wins! There is an 18 million dollar triplex penthouse that will be the showpiece of downtown- I’m excited to see who snags it.

Check out Curbed coverage and the developers site here....If you want one you better hit me up! I love helping my clients with their downtown sales.

Curbed Coverage of HL23
http://www.hl23.com/

Bonobo Restaurant Review in the Flat Iron- Raw, vegan, perfect- just like the animal!

2010-02-13T11:51:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like the energy you get from raw living foods. I have been a vegetarian for over 2 decades and I always operate best on raw foods. Bonobo's genetically are as close to humans as any other creature on this earth- and guess what- they are raw vegetarians ;-). If you would like to learn a little about them you can check out this documentary made by a very brilliant and cause dedicated Aussie friend I made in Sydney who went to study them in the Congo. It's a must see with some amazing footage- I'm a sucker for nature docs- but learning about the social patterns of this animal hits you very close to home- especially in aspects of conflict resolution and community. Take a peek!

http://bonobo.org.au/index.htm

Now back to the important part-is this place in the 20's any good or not?
Bonobo is all raw and vegan- and one of the strictest in food preparation I've seen- so if you are an avid carnivore it may throw you.. There is no food here impersonating other food (ex soy chicken wings) like you will find in other veg spots- just raw fruits, veggies, and nuts/grains prepped in a way to make them even more palatable. I recommend the cold coconut soup, the nori, the kale salad, and the truffles. You will have so much left over its good for 2-3 meals. In addition, the best item in here is the coconut chai- you are NOT permitted to leave this place without one in your possession- it's a meal in itself so just save it. Overall it's a must go. The staff is great- a bunch of granola hippies that let you try everything before you commit- a welcome warm break from the typical nyc madness. Here is a link to the site- they DO NOT deliver like it says on here but it's worth stopping in anyway as the space will relax you- or you can grab and sit in the park across the street. On 23rd at the south end of Madison Square Park.

http://www.bonobosrestaurant.com/

Best kept secret....March 1 is the NYC OPTIMAL move in date. Negotiating Tips and more!

2010-02-11T17:25:00.000-05:00

If you can snag a landlord that didn't catch on to this...make sure your leases end at the end of February. March 1 is the optimal move in date as February is the slowest month for people relocating to NYC. You will save about 20% over the spring/summer market prices.

Note these tips on negotiation:

Landlords are already beat down on pricing this month- offering too low will just make them flat out reject you and keep your processing fee. Find out from your agent what similar units in the building went for in the summer- take 10-20% off that-and that's what you should pay. Also see how long the unit has been on the market- if it's one day don't expect too much- if it's the only unit in the building expect even less negotiation. When you let your ego get involved with negotiation you will lose- as landlords have even bigger ones. Someone who knows the market will come in and happily snatch your deal away.

Check out this loft in Union Square that was going for $4500 in the summer- February price....$3595. It has 3 floors, a private SAUNA, outdoor space, and it's in one of the best areas- nestled between Chelsea, the Village, and Union Square! It's the only unit in the building-came on 1 day ago- and the landlord made it very clear to me that it's reduced almost $1000 and they are NOT negotiating- but the percentages work out for a perfect winter deal!

UPDATE- this rented in less than 24 hours for full asking price...as predicted ;-)!

The NY1 interview I did on the Financial District housing trends...

2010-02-11T13:09:00.000-05:00

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE ny1 INTERVIEW

It's an interesting market shift down there from commercial to residential. You get killer ammenities, non traditional layouts, in a blossoming area. I did this interview on about an hours worth of sleep-it shows when I mention "party" as that's nothing I would normally do on camera....so glad they kept that in there ;-)

Snow Day NYC! Some really beautiful shots courtesy of Viktoria!

2010-02-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

What a crazy day in NYC- so much snow...a little gloomy- why not take a 2 hour lunch to the super fab Balthazar with the most dynamic girls in real estate and indulge in some of the best French fare manhattan has to offer- with none of the ususal lunchtime wait. Use this weather to your advantage right?! Claudia, Diana, Viktoria and I shared everything from future vision to upcoming trips to Fiji, to what types of men globally we just rule out. The verdict- I can have all of the Australians/ Brits...Claudia will take Cuba- Diana prefers them born and bred American and Viktoria is happy just the way it she is. Ultimately- we agreed that career must fund your dreams or you don't attack it with the same zest. So what's your dream? What are you working towards? Much love....K