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Manhattan, NY Real Estate News

By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
As many of you know, my daughter Laura Cerrano has been a Feng Shui Consultant in New Paltz for the last several years.  After studying and going to client's homes, businesses, apartments and offices as well as studying with experts in the field of Feng Shui, she has been doing Feng Shui Consultations in New York City and Long Island. I am thrilled and so is she.  She needed confidence to step out and do it on her own and she's finally gotten it.  But she has other interests and loves as well.  She recently became a Certified Personal Trainer and was seeking some part time work in the evenings while she is home on Long Island for the summer.  Not thinking much of it and off to get some applications at places she likes for personal training, she wore a T Shirt I had ordered from Vista Pr...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
 As a New York Feng Shui Consultant who utilizes the Bagua Method along with Western and ‘Black Sect' methods to have all Feng Shui principles in order, I have seen one area of the Bagua that is often neglected.  To me AND to the clients I advise, this is often the most important area (next to health)-it is called simply "HELPFUL PEOPLE."  I often wonder where we would be in life without them.  They can be strangers who just seem to "show up" in your life when you need them the most or they can be old or new friends that are truly there to help you.  I address this area often and somehow, magically, they always appear.  I was thinking of this the other day as I was struggling with yet another issue on my own home---and the fact that it's been going on so long.  Sheron Cardin - how2homes...
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By Ross Ellis
(Halstead Property, LLC)
As a real estate agent in Manhattan, people often tell me they are sorry that things are so bad in real estate. While I agree with that sentiment for many of my fellow brokers in hard hit areas across the country, the first quarter of 2008 in Manhattan did not show an ailing market at all. To the contrary, Manhattan real estate actually dramatically increased in value during that time. The luxury market played a large role in increasing the value of the real estate market.  The sales from those apartments have continued to aide the market, even as the national business media focuses on the ailing national economy.  Condo sales have slowed and inventory has grown, leaving developers to negotiate but not slash prices. The Upper East Side has seen fewer increases compared to more popular a...
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By Ross Ellis
(Halstead Property, LLC)
As a agent in the Manhattan real estate market I am often asked if one should rent or buy. If one has a good credit score, a maximum debt-to-credit ratio in the mid 40's, can document their income and are liquid equal to 3 months to 36 months of payments then yes, one should consider buying. If one has good credit, makes a salary equal to forty times the monthly rent, but don't have a great deal of income, then they may wish to consider renting. Below is a calculator which can help you to decide what type of home you can afford. http://www.timevalue.com/calculators/rent-vs-buy-calculator.aspx
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By Ross Ellis
(Halstead Property, LLC)
With almost two-thirds of U.S. banks having raised their standards for mortgages to their most creditworthy borrowers, three-fourths of U.S. Banks made it more difficult for people with limited or bad credit to get loans. According to a June 11 report by the Washington-based Mortgage Bankers Association, eighteen percent fewer mortgages will be written this year compared with last. However obtaining a mortgage is not impossible. Mortgage lenders are interested in traditional mortgage buyers who can document their income and assets and don't have sizable debts relative to their income. Potential buyers can no longer put 10 percent down. Most banks are asking for 15 to 20 percent, or even more. 80 is now the new 90! And mortgage lenders are closely looking at factors such as: Credit Score...
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By Ross Ellis
(Halstead Property, LLC)
           Whether you live in New York City, you're in New York City searching for a new home or just visiting, you cannot afford to miss the joys of this amazing metropolis in the summer. From Bryant Park to Lincoln Center, Central Park, Hudson River Park, Uni0on Square Park and many others, there are musical performances and free outdoor films (including the HBO Bryant Park Film Festival and RiverWalk Film Festival) beneath the stars all summer long. Amazing concerts such as: •  Central Park Summerstage Free!Frequent summer concerts at the Central Park Summerstage, located at Rumsey Playfield. Some concerts are benefits, but many are free! • New York Philharmonic in the Parks Free!From June 24- July 15, 2008 the New York Philharmonic will perform in New York City parks. • Metropolita...
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By Ross Ellis
(Halstead Property, LLC)
While new developments in Manhattan are becoming more environmentally conscious, there is a new "green" architectural beauty, which will be home to 251 condominium residences with expected occupancy in 2008. Designed by Pelli, the green building will utilize natural and environmentally safe building materials throughout. From eco friendly paints, pesticide free rooftop gardens to the custom bamboo cabinets and wood flooring that was harvested in accordance with the Forest Stewarship Council. Of course, this is just one new development. No matter where you purchase your new home in Manhattan or anywhere else in the country, you can still live "green." For instance, if you're renovating think about using natural and environmentally safe materials. According to Michelle A. Roberts, founder...
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By Gita Bantwal, REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel
(RE/MAX Centre Realtors)
I know many people who work in New York city and commute from Bucks County. Those who live in Yardley/ Morrisville area drive to Trenton and take the train. There are people who live in Bensalem who also go to Trenton. If you live in Warwick/ Doylestown./New Hope / you can take route 202 to New York Holland Tunnel. There is the Trans- bridge bus that goes from Doylestown and stops in New Hope that goes to Port Authority. Look up all available listings in Bucks County on www.gitabantwal.com To give you an idea here is my listing on the golf course 1851 Augusta Dr, Jamison, pa 18929 It is listed for $599,000. It is located in Estates of Bucks County Coutry Club. Go to my web site and see a virtual tour. www.gitabantwal.com
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By Mitchell J Hall, Lic Associate RE Broker - Manhattan & Brooklyn
80 Riverside Drive New York, NY, 10069 Neighborhood Upper West Side Cross Streets West 63rd Street and West 64th Street Ownership Condominium Building Type High-rise Service Level Full Service Size 41 Floors. 485 Apartments. Age Post-war. Built 2006. Details Residential Street, Block: 1171, Lot: 140, School District: 0. Financing Allowed 90% Access Elevator Amenities LaPalestra Well Center, 50-foot swimming pool, Garden atrium, Landscaped sundeck, Entertaining Suite with catering capabilities, Private theatre, Family game room, Indoor playground designed by Kidville, Billiards Room, Abigail Michaels lifestyle managers, Garage, Health Club Current Available units range from a 951 square foot Two Bedrooom asking $1,400,000 to a 7200 square foot eight Bedroom asking $12,450,00. The Rushmo...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
It is that time of year again here in New York, both on Long Island and in New York City.  The time of year when graduations take place.  This year many new Feng Shui Consultants will be graduating and starting a new career....which sent my memory way, WAY back. Feng Shui is so popular in New York it's not surprising that so many people are taking the classes.  Just like Real Estate Agents, Home Stagers or anyone else involved in one way or another with Real Estate, most new graduates, if not all, are making a HUGE commitment...to their clients and themselves.  I believe that most are not simply jumping on the "Feng Shui bandwagon" but truly wish to inspire and help their clients because it is something they truly believe in; they have seen it work. Feng Shui Long Island & New York City...
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By John Dow
(000)
Moving to Manhattan? Whether it's for school, a new job or just to make it in the big city, the Manhattan Real Estate market is like no other place.  Moving to New York can be the most exciting thing you will ever do(believe me I moved from PA), so get educated on the process before you try to get a crib in the most competitive market in the world. Most people come here and expect way to much for what they want to pay. One of the first things you have to realize is your paying for the location, period. And if you think anything will be the size your you've come accustomed to...well, forgetaboutit. Don't get me wrong, you can find nice sized apartment and all the apartments I rent are beautiful, but you have to change your idea a little bit if your coming from out of town or renting for...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
Feng Shui in Manhattan            I have been doing Feng Shui Consultations for so long now, it's rare for me to get "stuck" on what needs to be done.  I can usually spot what's wrong almost immediately, I have no problems choosing paint colors (along with my client's tastes) and I redesign some spaces that look beautiful when they're done. I had an appointment last week to help choose color choices and Feng Shui for a New York City Apartment.....Nothing unusual about that.  As with all clients, I sat down first to speak to my client to see what she was hoping to achieve from the consultation.  She had been feeling a bit "stuck" recently and had some recent health issues.   Her lovely expansive apartment faces The New York Stock Exchange.  In downtown Manhattan all around Wall Street si...
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By Charles G. Hennebeul
(AMERICAN CASH SOLUTIONS INC)
hmmmm it seems like a while since I have posted a blog here on Active Rain. I have been focusing on gearing up my company for increasing my business and getting large sized commercial loans...ie $1 million or more.  I will always help people with loans down to $75,000.  But reality is that larger loans wil increase my ability to expand my business. A close friend of mine who was a residential mortgage broker calle dme up and said he was closing shop....eh should have gone fHA...if you are a broker and not FHA in NY you are facing a difficult time right now. I am glad to be out of residential and have some people I will refer out to.  These are people that I know will do right by my customers. We are in for some tough challenges.  I am hearing oil could go up to $6.00 and the local taxi ...
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By Paddy (Patricia) Pizappi, Real Estate Associate Broker Hudson Valley NY
(Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty)
When the bright lights and the constant motion of Manhattan get to be too much.   When you want to get away to the country but stay close to home.    Think about the Greater Hudson Valley of New York for your place to unwind.  There are many great houses available right now that would make a great second home for you.  We have condos, townhouses, cabins, estates, and everything in between within an easy one to two hour ride from the city.   When choosing a vacation home there are many things to consider including price, taxes, maintenance, distance from home, and maybe even proximity to mass transit.  A Buyer's Agent can be your ticket to getting exactly what you are looking for.  Working with one local agent can provide you with more community information than if you jump from Listing...
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By Kevin O'Shea, White Plains, NY Real Estate
(Coldwell Banker)
Westchester, the secret to an easy life if you are working in NYC. I was talking to a prominent New York City broker the other night and we were talking about the market and pricing and comparisons.  We talked about how expensive it is in NYC right now and I mentioned that people could live an easier life by moving to Westchester County, especially with todays prices.  If you have children Westchester County is a terrific choice. As a proud native of New York City and a Westchester resident for over 20 years the advantages to both are obvious to me.  The excitement and social life in NYC is amazing.   White Plains is about a half an hour from  Grand Central Station by train.  That isn't much further than the north end of Manhattan to Grand Central by subway.  We now have a terrific nigh...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
 What I Don't Have: The nicest house on the block.   A new, fancy car. Lots of money.                    A really well kept lawn. Trendy, designer clothes. Any fancy new gadgets that most people can't do without. What I DO Have: Two terrific "kids" that manage to be around for me. My precious Mother who always encourages and supports me. Some unbelievable friends that I couldn't live without. A job that I absolutely LOVE. A House. A Car. Enough to eat  Enough to pay my bills. Lots of JOY. It's easy to stay focused on things we are lacking in life....and immensely better to focus on all that we have to be thankful for.  I have been blessed in so many different ways that the other things don't even matter.  I don't have it ALL, but I don't NEED it all...I have ENOUGH.  Enough to make me h...
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By Mitchell J Hall, Lic Associate RE Broker - Manhattan & Brooklyn
The Future is Now!Green technology and space age designs are currently under construction throughout Manhattan. High Line 23 or HL23 (shown) is a new green building from Neil M. Denari Architects that is currently under construction in the West Chelsea art gallery district at West 23rd Street and 10th Avenue.The structure is a 14 floor mixed use of gallery space and condominiums with amazing views of the new High Line elevated park.The condo will include nine floor-through apartments ranging in size from about 1,850 square feet to 2,600 square feet. Prices range from $2,750,000 to $10,500,000 for the 3700 square foot penthouse duplex unit with a terrace.LEED certified homes combine systems that together create a holistically green building that is much more than energy savings. Energy,...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
 A Message to All My Realtor Friends on Activerain  The year I was in school for Feng Shui Studies was 1996.  I don't know if any of us in that first graduating class knew what would come of Feng Shui, if anything.  At that time very, VERY few people had even heard about it.  Often, if they had, it was very misunderstood.  We ourselves didn't know if it would be a passing "fad" or something that people would come to know and believe in. I don't believe ANY of us then EVER realized that Feng Shui would become so popular and sought after as it is now.  That every year the number of people who have an interest, understanding and belief in Feng Shui would be calling for consultations not only for homes, but for businesses, corporations and new construction continue to grow and become more p...
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By Valeria Mola, 305-607-0709 SIB Realty Condos for Sale and Rent
(SIB Realty - Miami, Sunny Isles Beach)
Trump SOHO New York New York • Miami • SIB Realty 305-931-6931Internationally acclaimed architecture firm, The Rockwell Group, will design the fully appointed Trump Soho New York hotel guestrooms and suites. The fully furnished, classically inspired Guest Chambers are reinterpreted for a downtown setting by renowned David Rockwell, and feature leather-cushioned panels, marble-flooring, custom-designed kitchenettes, expansive bathrooms with bronze fixtures, stone-slab countertops, separate two-person tubs and separate glass-enclosed showers. All guestrooms, suites and common spaces will have full entertainment and technology capabilities, including special guestroom enclosures designed to provide acoustic privacy from exterior influences and adjacent occupancies.Building amenities will i...
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     Foreclosures across the country are increasing in numbers, but not in Manhattan. The reason is partly due to closings at 15 Central Park West and The Plaza, and partly because of the increase of foreign buyers.  Additionally there has been activity from domestic buyers with new Manhattan developments. The median sales price of Manhattan condo, co-op and cond-op apartments dropped in January from the month prior to $850,000 from $928,378 - a 9.2 percent change According to Wells Fargo Economics, the April 2008 economic data showed a fair amount of economic stabilization, suggesting the slump hasn't gained much momentum. Economists have responded by scaling back their worst-case scenarios of deep recession, and risk aversion has ebbed in the fixed income and stock markets.  As of Apr...
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