Moving to New York

[Schadenfrau]

Never say "SoBro," it's so gross.

I assume you'll be taking the subway, Dreamin916, so which neighborhood will you be working in? The Bronx is a large borough with lots of different subway routes.

[daedalus702]

Hello,

I'm moving to the area this summer as I'm taking a job in Wayne, NJ. I am trying to balance the commute to Wayne with closeness to the city. I've looked at Jersey City and Hoboken, but at this point Weehawken holds my interest. I'll only be making about $57K, so I want to keep rent below $1,250/month. I would like to rent a 1-bedroom or large studio that allows dogs. It seems like this would be pretty difficult in Jersey City, Hoboken, and Newport areas, but doable in Weehawken. That's a bit disappointing, as the former places are much more lively, so I hear.

Even aside from affordability however, Weehawken seems to make the most sense. First, I have gotten the impression that travel from Weehawken to midtown Manhattan is fast and convenient using $2/ride minivans that all the time along Boulevard East and through the Lincoln Tunnel. Does anyone have any experience with this?

Also, I imagine parking is feasible in Weehawken while impossible in Hoboken. I would love to be car-less, but of course the commute to Wayne, NJ requires a car.

Also, I wonder whether the NJ Transit light rail service (Hudson-Bergen line) might also make it easier to access shopping and restaurants in Hoboken or Jersey City during rush hour when the Lincoln Tunnel was backed up.

Any ideas? Am I off base on any of this? I would appreciate your input.

Looking on Craigslist and a few other sites, I have also noticed cheap studios of about 600 square feet selling for less than $200K. I could make a 20% down payment on something like that, but I'm not sure it makes sense to buy right away.

[kittygirl]

I have found a condo that I am very excited about renting. It is located between Juliard and Central Park. Everything that I read about the Lincoln Square area sounds good - is there anything that I should be aware of before moving to this neighborhood?

Secondly - I won't be in NYC for a month. The owner of the condo has agreed to hold it for me until I can view it, if I pay him the refundable security deposit (worth 2 months rent) now. I really want him to hold the condo for me, but I am concerned about sending money to someone and never hearing from them again. Can you please give me some suggestions as to how to protect myself in this kind of situation? I have no problem giving him the deposit as long as I could get some sort of guarantee that he will show up next month to rent me the condo.

I appreciate your help - thanks!

[ManhattanKnight]

Can you please give me some suggestions as to how to protect myself in this kind of situation? I have no problem giving him the deposit as long as I could get some sort of guarantee that he will show up next month to rent me the condo.

Run, Kitty. Run. As fast and as far as you can, if you are such a novice as your question suggests and you don't even know if this person actually owns this apartment, not just whether he will "show up next month" to rent it to you, or what the heck a "refundable security deposit" is that's being used to "hold" an apartment pending something or other. NYC is a hot rental market at this moment, and if this supposed apartment were such a prize, the owner/landlord probably wouldn't have to reach out to Bozeman, MT to find a worthy tenant. Caveat rentor.

[Schadenfrau]

I'm confused- Kittygirl, didn't you say that you're unable to take the bus? You do realize that there's no subway that goes from the UWS to the UES (where you'll be working), right?

I'm also really suspicious of the idea that someone will hold an apartment for a month, just so you can have a look at it before deciding whether or not to rent. I've never heard of anything like that in my life. Lots of co-ops and condos have restrictions on subletting, so you'd better make sure this person can even legally rent to you.

Nothing about this situation sounds quite right.

[bronzenine]

Yes. Definitely seems like a sketchy situation.

[kittygirl]

Thank you all for responding. I also thought the situation seemed a little questionable, but I thought maybe this was common practice in NYC. Apparently it is not - so I will not send him any money.

Yes - I do need to be on a subway line. If I could increase my budget to around $1,800-$2,000 a month, would this be more reasonable? I would like to be located as conveniently to Hunter College, via subway, as possible. Keeping this in mind (and my new budget), could you please suggest some neighborhoods?

Thanks

[Schadenfrau]

Why don't you try the Upper East Side instead of the Upper West? The prices are about the same, if not cheaper. The only subway you're going to be able to take for work is the 6- looking at anything on the west side is pointless.

[ManhattanKnight]

The only subway you're going to be able to take for work is the 6- looking at anything on the west side is pointless.

That's correct, if you're limiting yourself to a one-train ride (since Hunter is on the East Side and the 4-5-6 is the only North-South subway on the East Side). If you're willing to transfer to another subway line from it, your possibilities expand considerably, including the West Side (but not the UWS), lower Manhattan and (even) Queens.

[clubBR]

Hunters Point- one stop to Grand Central (5 minutes). Transfer to the 6
Astoria- take the N,W, or R train to Lexington Ave (10 minutes) and transfer to the 6. One stop up and you're at Hunter
Sunnyside/ Woodside- take the 7 train to Grand Central (15 minutes). Transfer to the 6

[kittygirl]

I would love to live in the upper east side if possible. I was only looking at the upper west side because it appeared to be cheaper - but the commute would be impossible, so I'm no longer looking there.

I wouldn't be that opposed to having a transfer. It's more important to me that I can live close to the station that I will need to walk to (say within 5 or so blocks). I would rather ride the subway longer or transfer once in the middle, versus walk a long distance to my nearest station.

Since I do need to get to the 6 train - if I want to keep my commute to one transfer, is Queens the best option? Would there be other neighborhoods in Manhattan or Brooklyn that you could suggest? I have decided to raise my budget to $2,000/month. I hope this is more reasonable.

Also - I am a little confused about the best way to go about viewing properties. I will be in NYC for a week in early June. Is it customary to have one broker show you properties for the entire week or should I plan to meet with several brokers throughout the week? Even if I view apartments with several brokers, I only have to pay fees to the one who listed the apartment I choose, right?

I am one month away from coming to the city to view housing and two months away from actually moving. What should I be doing at this stage?

[Front_Porch]

At this point, you should be getting a letter from your current landlord stating that you pay your rent on time and providing contact information in case your prospective landlord wants to get in touch with them.

You can theoretically use any broker you want, but at your price point the actuality gets a little murky -- I have spent half the day going all Ari Gold on Brooklyn brokers who seem to have forgotten what the rules were. Try hard to get a personal referral to someone who works the areas you are interested in, so that you have some leverage.

ali r..
{downtown broker}

[Schadenfrau]

Kittygirl, for your price points, you should really only be looking at the UES. You're likely to find a place where you could even walk to work. On the west side, you'd be considering places with at least 3 train transfers.

[clubBR]

You can find apartments for less than 2k in the UES. Visit www.craigslist.com (http://www.craigslist.com)

[kittygirl]

I have found listings for several 1-bedroom apartments that appear to be nice in the UES on both craigslist and in the Times for around $2000. I would love to live close enough to Hunter to walk to work. However, as soon as I started contacting brokers, I was told that for my budget I would have to consider Harlem and Brooklyn. In fact, today I was speaking with a broker who specializes in the UES and was told that I could possibly find a 1-bedroom for $2,000 but it would not be near the 6-train. So I figured that the apartment listings I am finding online must not be very nice if brokers are saying that my budget is not reasonable for this neighborhood - but then you guys reassure me that it is. I'm getting such conflicting messages. Are the brokers just trying to lead me to other properties for their benefit? What do you make of this?

[clubBR]

First, brokers want money. Craigslist is their worst enemy.
Second, the subway runs along Lexington Ave and the more affordable apartments will most likely be east of 3rd Ave. So at most, its a 3-4 block walk. That is gravy if you ask me
http://www.nycvisit.com/_uploads/images/MAPuppereast_op.gif

[Front_Porch]

Craigslist is NOT a broker's worst enemy -- we like having free sales ads and Craig himself is very lovely.

At your price point, you will be in a studio, kind of far east, and it may be a walk-up. But you certainly should be able to be in the 80s or 90s if that's what you want, especially if you will pay a fee.

A lot of brokers "troll" for customers by posting fake ads, both in the Times and on craigslist. You will learn, as you search, what brokerages tend to do this. Basically, if you see it in the Times and it has an address on it, it's real, and if it says Prime Upper East Side 1-BR! New Condo! Act Now! it's fake. Same for craigslist -- an exact address is the best hint that an ad is real.

You will be fine. I think we're scaring you too much.

GL!

Ali R.
{downtown broker}

[pearl]

This is the permanent topic for those seeking advice for a planned move to the city. Please post your questions here.


is it better to move to the city then find a job, or should I find a job first?

[Schadenfrau]

It depends on what kind of job you're looking for and how much money you've saved up. Also, can you visit the city for job interviews?

[pearl]

I am a real estate agent in florida, so I will be looking to work for an real estate company as an admin assit. until I get my nyc license. I have about 20K saved...

Is it possible?

[clubBR]

Secure the job then find a place to live close by. That makes things alot clearer. With that $20k make a down payment on a condo/co-op.

[Lance75]

Secure the job then find a place to live close by. That makes things alot clearer. With that $20k make a down payment on a condo/co-op.

Let's consider:

Virtually all co-ops require a minimum of 20% down--often more. In addition to the down payment, you're often required to have fairly substantial liquid assets. A $20K down payment means you're looking at co-ops that cost $100,000 or less.

You might be able to squeeze into a $200,000 condo with the $20K. Unfortunately, since $20k equates to only a 10% down payment, you're either going to have to carry PMI until your equity in the condo reaches 20%, or take out a piggy-back second mortgage at a higher APR--both of which means more money. And, of course, the biggest issue--trying to find a condo that's $200,000 or less that isn't 2 hours from Manhattan.

I'm curious, clubBR--why, and more importantly, how are you proposing a person with $20K purchase real estate in NYC?

[pearl]

Thanks so much for the info, and also, I am curious as to why purchasing..
I was thinking to rent at least for a year and renting my home here, in case I did not like my move.

I will be town Memorial weekend to look at different places to live, areas, apts, ect.
I understand that this may be a good time, since many vacant places will be having OPEN HOUSES>.

Also, I plan on taking my craigslist of homes and job openings. I also plan to get the Times and apt hunt..

Any other suggestions?

[clubBR]

lol maybe $20k is stretching it. I was thinking maybe you had a superb credit score!!

[Lance75]

lol maybe $20k is stretching it. I was thinking maybe you had a superb credit score!!

Dude, doesn't matter if your credit score is 850. You can't get much in NYC with only $20K down.

It's kinda odd that you're advising people to buy property, considering you seem very unfamiliar with the requirements/process/complexities of purchasing a co-op/condo...

[clubBR]

ok buddy. i think youre bored
http://www.curbed.com/archives/2007/02/19/whats_selling_in_williamsburg.php

[pearl]

Lance75

When I am ready to actually rent the apt, what are the papaer req. needed by the lanlord/ owner.
I think I have desided to try and not use a realty company, since the fess are soooooo high. I spoke with one company on Friday and I believe she aid the broker fee was 50% of the first years rent. Does this sound normal?
I do have my craigslist and I will have the Times. Any other suggestions?


Also, Since I am in town for Memorial weekend, any suggestions on fun things to do?

Thanks so much

[Lance75]

ok buddy. i think youre bored
http://www.curbed.com/archives/2007/02/19/whats_selling_in_williamsburg.php



Note that I didn't write that you can't get anything for $20K down--I wrote that you can't get much. A Fedders building in Bushwick is pretty much the definition of "not much". Besides the fact that a condo development willing to accept only $10K down is a huge anomaly in NYC (seriously, that might be the only one), it's not really the point.

Just for kicks though, let's look at your condo:

The cheapest unit listed at the development you pointed to (the Maspeth) is $389,000 per their website. $10K is a bit over 2.5% down, we'll call it 3%. That means that even if you somehow manage to obtain a loan for the 97% AND manage to get the best possible rates, your monthly mortgage payment (P&I, PMI, CC) on the *cheapest* unit is approaching $3000. For a Fedders building. In Bushwick.

Not to mention that in order to qualify (and be able to make the payments) for a $379,000 loan, you'd have to be earning upwards of six-figures. Last time I checked, administrative assistants in real estate offices weren't pulling down $100,000 a year.

($3000, by the way, is much more than what my sister pays for her market rate one bedroom apartment in prime Manhattan--and she just resigned her lease this year at the higher rent level.)

So in all seriousness--just how and why are you suggesting Pearl buy a condo in NYC?

My guess is that you mistakenly believe that a development that allows a small down payment means that it's somehow affordable. I imagine that the only reason why you'd advise a person in Pearl's position (only has $20K in savings, isn't likely to be earning a huge salary in her admin asst job) to buy a home in NYC is because you're completely unfamiliar with the costs (monthly and otherwise) associated with purchasing a co-op or condo.

I wasn't so much bored as I was puzzled by your suggestion--and more recently, at your comment about having a "superb credit score". Just FYI, having a high credit score doesn't mean that co-ops, condos, and banks are going to lower their down payment and financial requirements for you. Again, it's that kind of comment that tells me that you don't know really know what you're talking about in regards to real estate.

[Lance75]

Lance75

When I am ready to actually rent the apt, what are the papaer req. needed by the lanlord/ owner.
I think I have desided to try and not use a realty company, since the fess are soooooo high. I spoke with one company on Friday and I believe she aid the broker fee was 50% of the first years rent. Does this sound normal?
I do have my craigslist and I will have the Times. Any other suggestions?


Also, Since I am in town for Memorial weekend, any suggestions on fun things to do?

Thanks so much

Pearl, I'm no real estate expert, but Front Porch is--she's very knowledgeable and friendly, so you might want to address your questions to her.

A broker fee of 50%? You must have misheard them (at least I hope you did!). They probably said 15%, which is the standard fee (and sounds an awful lot like 50%).

[pearl]

Thanks so much!!
Sorry to get u in a tussle with others:)

[British_Gurl]

Hi.

I live in Birmingham, England. I have a little boy who is three years old and I'm expecting a baby girl in 4 months. I want to move to New York with my children; it's been a dream of mine since I was a little girl! But I want to move to a nice area with nice schools and to live in an apartment thats big but affordable! I have a job lined up over there but how much will I need before I can move full time?

Thanks!

[clubBR]

I dont know much about real estate and i never said i did
why do you bicker

[Lance75]

I dont know much about real estate and i never said i did
why do you bicker


If you "don't know much about real estate", then why is EVERY SINGLE ONE of your posts on this thread a suggestion, opinion, or advice about real estate?

I'm not bickering. I'm just perplexed about why you feel the need to speak so authoritatively about a subject you admit you're ignorant about.

[clubBR]

Pearl, I'm no real estate expert.

Ok Lance

[Lance75]

Ok Lance


"Ok Lance"? Is that supposed to mean something?

Well, I guess a nonsensical retort is better than ignorant advice.

Good job.

[kittygirl]

Since I am looking at neighborhoods in both Brooklyn and Queens, in addition to the UES, would you suggest getting one broker to show me around to all of these areas? Or would you suggest meeting with a Brooklyn-based broker for one day and a Queens-based broker for another, etc.?

[ManhattanKnight]

I have had no personal experience with rental apartment brokers but suspect that most probably do not operate city-wide. Let me mention something that's rarely discussed hereabouts but that those contemplating moving here should know about: roughly half of all rental apartments in NYC are rent-regulated, at prices that are often substantially below market rates. Undoubtedly, finding them is a challenge, but they are available for the persistent and lucky. Some of these are rent-controlled and are not available to new tenants. Others (the greater number) are rent-stabilized and are available to new tenants (and rent-controlled units become rent-stabilized when there is a change in tenants). A Google search for "rent-stabilized" and "New York City" will turn up tons of information.

[Front_Porch]

The last data we have is 2005, unfortunately.

But at that time, there were 3.2 million rental units in NYC, of which 43,000 were rent-controlled. This was a 27% drop from just three years earlier.

So basically: you can't get a rent-controlled apartment; you aren't going to get one. If your grandma has one, you can live with her, get on the lease, and possibly inherit it, but you aren't going to get one through a broker or craigslist, so start daydreaming about something more likely, like becoming a movie star.

While half the units in NYC are indeed subject to some form of regulation (rent-stabilized), they don't turn over as often as market-price apartments do, so effectively, they make up less than half the market a potential renter sees. Also, some of them are in situations where readers of this board won't qualify for (for example, HUD-subsidized apartments) and in neighborhoods where readers of this board don't want to live.

Very few rent-stabilized apartments are located in prime Manhattan, especially in prime condition -- so Manhattan Knight is right that you should keep your eyes peeled for one, but again, it's not likely that you're going to find one.


More typically, in 2005 28.8% -- nearly a third -- of New York City households paid more than half their income in rent.

So the market is really tough; be prepared for a long slog.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[ManhattanKnight]

So the market is really tough; be prepared for a long slog.



I didn't intend to suggest otherwise to anyone, only to alert those not familiar with NYC to an important fact about housing here for which their experience elsewhere has probably not prepared them. According to the NYC Rent Guidelines Board (the agency that sets rates for rent-stabilized apartments), "Rent stabilized apartments comprise approximately 57% of rental apartments in the Bronx, 42% of apartments in Brooklyn, 59% of Manhattan apartments, 43% of Queens apartments, and 15% of Staten Island apartments." http://www.housingnyc.com/html/guide/stabilized.html (Those data are, apparently, for 2005.)

That link also connects to a discussion headlined:

RENT-REGULATED & MARKET-RATE HOUSING
What Is It & Where Can You Find It?

There are cross-links to city-wide lists of buildings with rent-stabilized apartments, arranged by ZIP Code and street address. I cite to the RGB out of convenience, not because it is a particularly authoritative or unbiased source of information on this subject.

[Front_Porch]

I cite to the RGB out of convenience, not because it is a particularly authoritative or unbiased source of information on this subject.



I think your posts on rent-reg apartments are fantastic and I'm not attacking them -- I'm just lowering expectations because I find a lot of people who are thinking of moving to NYC have no idea what rents will be.

They look on craigslist, get snared by the bait-and-switch ads, and then show up with outsize requirements. Then I'm the person who gets called a charlatan when I can't magically produce a $1,300 Chelsea studio with a Sub-Zero in it.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[ManhattanKnight]

Thanks (though I didn't consider your comments to be critical). It frustrates me sometimes in reading this and similar threads when newcomers don't yet understand how really large and diverse NYC is, including its housing opportunities, and that there are roughly as many rent-stabilized apartments here as there are people in Denver and Seattle, combined, and more than one or two ways to find the good ones. For those with enough time and endurance, I still favor the old-fashioned technique of walking the streets of a neighborhood one likes and asking lots of questions (of doormen, supers, mail carriers, ordinary people). That's how I found my own place a long time ago, in one of my neighborhood's largest rental buildings, where I still see people regularly walking into the lobby and asking staff or other tenants about apartment availabilities and prices.

[ajhollywood]

hi there im new to this site just found it .......it seems pretty cool though.....

well i would love to move to new york i feel my destiney is calling me there...but in all honestly i dont know the first thing about moving there...

if i buy a property there can i then work there or can i apply to work there, how long can i go and stay in new york as a working holiday???
questions questions.....
i am from belfast but have been living in london for about 9 years now.....i will be working for the next 5 months in cyprus as i am a singer....(yeah i know like so many others.......)
id really appreciate any help advice anyone may have on where i begin with my quest of moving to new york......
many thanks
aj hollywood ( real name ..............;) )

[jimdc]

The wife and I are really excited about the possibility of moving from Washington DC to NYC. The job market is great here, but we are looking for excitment in a big city while we are still young. An introduction...I am an electrical engineer turned software developer one year out of college and she is a nurse two years out of college. Our combined salary is 140k (+ good overtime) and we are looking to live and work in Manhattan.

What is the market for software developers in NYC? Here in DC it is fantastic bc of defense...would I have as many options in Manhattan?

I see a lot of apartments in Manhattan for ~2k a month on craigslist (not to mention many for a lot more). Is living in a nice neighborhood with a lot of close by restuarants and near a subway be to much to expect at this price range? We could easily move our rent up to 3k if we can't get these. Wife is also insistent about the Washer/Dryer in unit...doesn't seem to be a lot of selection for that?

Where do we start for searching for neighborhoods? We've only been there once and have no idea where to start. We'd like to be nearish Central Park, near a subway, safe neighborhood.

Anyone out there move to NYC thinking it was going to be the best thing in the world and ended up hating it? We moved to DC thinking it would be a place to live forever and ended up hating it in 4 months. Being so young we are excited but scared that we will have a lower standard of living.

[ManhattanKnight]

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2007/05/10/nyregion/10rent-600.jpg
Robert Stolarik for The New York Times
Kate Harvey, left, and Rebecca Kotler Wein, lived in an office with seven roommates.

New York City Renters Cope With Squeeze

By CHRISTINE HAUGHNEY

Like the legions of aspiring poets, tap dancers and musicians who came before her, Nina Rubin, a 29-year-old graduate of Wesleyan University, has struggled to find halfway decent housing in New York. Earlier this year, she ended up in her most unusual home yet: an office.

After taking a job as an instructor at Outward Bound, Ms. Rubin, along with some of her co-workers, settled into the top floor of the organization’s Long Island City headquarters. She camped out in a bunk bed; others converted nearby office cubicles into sleeping spaces, or pitched tents on the building’s roof. To create some privacy, they hung towels and sheets around their bunks.

While Outward Bound officials stress that they view these cubicles and tents as temporary housing solutions, Ms. Rubin, who has since moved to Vermont for a short while, was grateful for a free place.

As the apartment-hunting season begins, fueled by college graduates and other new arrivals, real estate brokers say radical solutions among young, well-educated newcomers to the city are becoming more common, because New York’s rental market is the tightest it has been in seven years. High-paid bankers and corporate lawyers snap up the few available apartments, often leading more modestly paid professionals and students to resort to desperate measures to find homes.

While young people in New York have always sought roommates to make life more affordable, they are now crowding so tightly into doorman buildings in prime neighborhoods like the Upper East Side that they may violate city codes.

They are doing so in part because the vacancy rate for Manhattan rentals is now estimated at 3.7 percent, according to data collected by Property and Portfolio Research, an independent real estate research and advisory firm in Boston. It is expected to shrink to 3.3 percent by the end of this year and to 2.9 percent by 2011.

“It’s only going to get more difficult to rent an apartment in New York City,” said Andy Joynt, a real estate economist with the research firm. “While rents continue to rise, it’s not sending people out of the city. There’s still enough of a cachet,” he said.

While New York City has always had a vacancy rate lower than most other cities, rental prices jumped last year by a record 8.3 percent. Some potential buyers, scared by the national slowdown in housing sales, decided to rent instead of buy. The housing crunch has also been exacerbated by the steady growth of newcomers.

The relocation division of the brokerage company Prudential Douglas Elliman had found homes for 4,000 families moving to the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut area in 2006, a 15 percent jump from the year before, and many of them wanted to live in Manhattan.

Stephen Kotler, executive vice president of the division, said he expected business to increase by 15 percent again this year, based on the requests he has already received from banks, consumer-products companies and media firms. Even though his clients can afford high rents, he said, they do not have many choices.

“There’s going to be limited inventory and a lot of demand,” Mr. Kotler said. “There just hasn’t been enough rental product built,” he said, as, developers have said that the price of land and the costs of construction in the last few years have made it impractical to build rental buildings. They have instead focused on condominiums.

Renters without high salaries have not been shut out of the market. They are squeezing in extra roommates or making alterations as never before much to the frustration of landlords. The rents for one-bedroom apartments in Manhattan average $2,567 a month, and two-bedrooms average $3,854 a month, according to data from Citi Habitats, a large rental brokerage company, but rents tend to be far higher in coveted neighborhoods like the Upper West Side and TriBeCa.

Because landlords typically require renters to earn 40 times their monthly rent in annual income, renters of those average apartments would need to earn at least $102,680, individually or combined, to qualify for a one-bedroom and $154,160 to afford a two-bedroom.

Young people making a fraction of those salaries are doubling up in small spaces and creating housing code violations, said Jamie Heiberger-Jacobsen, a real estate lawyer with her own practice. She is representing landlords in 26 cases that claim overcrowding or illegal alterations in elevator buildings in Murray Hill, the Upper East and Upper West Sides and the Lower East Side. A year ago, she handled a half-dozen such cases.

Ms. Heiberger-Jacobsen said she was seeing the overcrowding not only in tenement-type buildings, but also in doorman buildings. “It really does create fire hazards,” she said. “You can’t just have beds all over the place.”
But more renters are finding that they cannot afford to stay in the city without resorting to less conventional living arrangements. For the last five years, Mindy Abovitz, 27, a drummer and graphic designer, has been living with four roommates in a 1,500-square-foot loft with one bathroom in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, which has become a haven for young people, that rents for $2,600 a month.

Her rent is a bargain, she said, because comparable spaces now cost as much as $4,500 a month. To accommodate everyone, the roommates created five bedrooms out of three by building walls from drywall and lumber. Then they soundproofed the walls with carpet padding to limit the noise.
Dividing the space has been an affordable solution, Ms. Abovitz said, though the loft becomes crowded when she and her roommates get ready for work or prepare meals. “The kitchen and the bathroom are where you find the most traffic,” she said.

Students on tight budgets find it especially tough to find housing. Last fall, Kate Harvey, a part-time nanny and a junior at N.Y.U., and eight friends saved on rent by camping out in vacant offices at Michael Stapleton Associates, a downtown explosive-detection security firm. For nearly three months, they told the guards at 47 West Street that they were interns, even as they trudged in near midnight or pattered through the lobby at 10 a.m. in pajamas and slippers.

Ms. Harvey’s father, George Harvey, who is the chief executive of Michael Stapleton Associates, had lent them the space, which included two kitchens and two baths, after his company moved into a new office before the lease on its old one expired.

They sneaked furniture into the 11th floor on the freight elevator, squeezed three beds into the former chief executive’s office and turned filing cabinets into clothing drawers. One student pitched a tent. They brought their cat, Sula, past the front desk. They knew pets were allowed, they said, because the company had allowed bomb-sniffing dogs.

While most of the students who were interviewed said that they came from families that were fairly comfortable financially, they said that area rents were so high that they could not afford both housing and tuition.

“It was nine girls and a cat,” Ms. Harvey said, sipping on steamed milk in a Greenwich Village coffeehouse. “At least three of the nine would have had a really hard time paying for school and staying there.”

Mr. Harvey said his daughter told him that some friends had spent the summer sleeping on friends’ couches and even in the N.Y.U. library because they could not afford rent.

“They were in some tough financial situations,” Mr. Harvey said. “It occurred to me that all this space was going to waste.”

Now Ms. Harvey and two roommates from the office are looking for a new place to live. Each can spend up to $800 a month. Ms. Harvey has been searching the Craigslist Web site for apartments, but so far she has had no luck.

She says she is hopeful that they will eventually find something in Brooklyn, perhaps in the outer reaches of Park Slope. “We’re definitely going to have to expand our definition of Park Slope,” she said.

Copyright 2007 The New York Times Company

[rosenpan228]

I just finished reading that article...disheartening....although I think it's a bit dishonest considering the background of most of the kids profiled. They're well-off kids who have great support systems and are primarily students. Not your average person working and living in NY.

We currently live in Westchester and both work and go to school in NYC. We're thinking about getting selling our car and all the expenses it comes with and moving to the UWS. At this point, we're in the city all day, all night and commute to sleep. Would it be unreasonable to find an apt for $2800/mo ? That's about how much we can afford to spend. We've lived in the boroughs and do not want to do that again as the commute was worse than from Westchester.


Thank you!

[ManhattanKnight]

I posted that article but have to say that, like much reporting on this subject, it seems exaggerated and even hysterical to me. In my own building, in a neighborhood that's generally more costly than the UWS, your $2800 would get you a decent-sized studio apt (but certainly not a 1-BR). One recently became vacant on my floor. I knew that three unrelated 30ish women had been sharing it. When I looked inside, there were still signs of a wall that they had put up (without the owner's knowledge I'd guess) dividing the place in half. So, there is some truth in the thrust of the Times story. Checking my building's managing agent's web site today, I see listings for a studio in a nice coop a block away for $2,550, 3 1-BRs in an East 45th St. condo for $2,600 apiece and a 1-BR in Murray Hill with terrific East River views for $3,250.

[rosenpan228]

See, I would say that we'd be willing to spend up to $2900-3K/mo. At the absolute highest. And we also would prefer to live on the UWS...although I have no issue with going as far up as 115th or so. I have a friend who lives on the UWS and pays $2400/mo for a small one bedroom. It's not unrealistic to find something for $2900 or so???? I mean, I would like to have laundry in the bldg and maybe an elevator. But we certainly don't require a doorman.

[alonzo-ny]

Both summers i was in NY earning 1200 a month and i always had a place to stay.

[ManhattanKnight]

We know that!

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showpost.php?p=164419&postcount=530

[Ninjahedge]

You may want to rethink the boroughs, but just try to find a place that is within about a 10 minute walk to an express line.

The prices will be naturally higher there, but still, if you can find a direct line from your place to your school, your commute would be under an hour (shorter than from some places IN Manhattan!)

Depending on where you are looking, there is always Hoboken and JC, with Hoboken having rent control on its older buildings (although the landlords will not tell you this) and JC having access through the PATH trains (same as Hoboken).

Just try to do a commute out to wherever you are thinking of going and see how easy/difficult the trip would be.

Hoboken can get a 1BR for under $2900 pretty easily.

[rosenpan228]

Ok...so the consensus is that it is utterly impossible to get a 1 bdrm in MH on the UWS for $2900?

[Front_Porch]

what about 323 West 96th, could you just go direct into there?

It looks like that would be in your price range and fit your requirements.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

disclaimer: I work Chelsea/Village/Tribeca/FiDi.

I do not work the Upper West Side, so I do not know any more than I've told you.

[alonzo-ny]

We know that!

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showpost.php?p=164419&postcount=530

Hey! wait until you see the inside! best crack house on the block!

[conezone]

Ok...so the consensus is that it is utterly impossible to get a 1 bdrm in MH on the UWS for $2900?


No. I live in a small 1 bdrm in the west 90's for under $2000. Paid a broker's fee though.

[brady wolfrom]

Hey everyone. I'll be moving to New York with my grandparents in a week. Our apartment is on west 34th street. I'm curious as to what the area is like.. anybody else live near there or know the area? I'm soo excited.

[jen16]

I've read through a lot of the posts on here, so much help already. So my question is a little different, and I'm sure there's not one right answer, but basically I'm trying to figure out how much I'm going to need to make in order to afford the city.

I'm moving officially in the beginning of June, but have already been paying rent for a little over a month...it's $1850 total, 2 bedrooms, so I have to pay $925 a month, not including utilities, cable/internet, other bills like credit cards, etc. I don't have a job yet, but I do have a few interviews set up for when I get down there after I graduate this month (from college, not high school). Obviously I won't be able to pick how much I get to make, I am trying to apply for positions that list the salary.

Anyone have a general idea of what I would need to be able to afford my apartment and everything else??

[clubBR]

Hey everyone. I'll be moving to New York with my grandparents in a week. Our apartment is on west 34th street. I'm curious as to what the area is like.. anybody else live near there or know the area? I'm soo excited.
You're in Midtown South: the Empire State Building, Koreatown, the Diamond District, Bryant Park. Enjoy it

[ta3formforged]

When should I come out to NYC to look for an apartment w/ a move-in date of 9/1? How many days do tenants usually have to alert their landlord that they are vacating the apartment?

Thanks!!

[róisín]

hey all.. i'm almost definitely moving to New York in august- i've been accepted onto the new journalism masters course at CUNY. whilst i have my financial situation fairly well sorted- for the first semester at least- i'm planning on going to CCNY towers for a while. ANyone give me any idea of how good vaule for money this is?

i know nothing really about new york apart from what i've seen in woody allen movies.. and whilst i've tried to read a lot of the threads on here, i was wondering if someone could send me a little tailor made message about what new york is like.. the reputation of cuny? what has been said about the jschool? I'm 22 years old and have already completed my undergraduate degree in English and History of Art.. What would it be like for someone moving from Ireland? Any other ex-pats out there?

I'm sure a lot of this is mentioned elsewhere, and sorry to make you guys repeat the answers.. but guranteed, I do appreciate it!

Also, I'll be on a F-1 visa- so i guess this means I probably won't be able to work in my friend's family's irish pub in times square?

It seems everyone is a Lawyer or Journalist in NY.. its a good thing I'm so charasmatic.. :D :rolleyes:

What would the average print journalist get paid in NY? i have yet to organise an internship for summer 2008.. but i guess its never too soon to think ahead.

yikes. sorry for such a ramble! look forward to reading your replies! xx

[SaraB]

hey everyone! so i'm brand new to this site and i was reading a bunch of the posts but theres so many and I'm sure what I'm going to ask has been asked before but I'm going to give it a shot anyways.

I'm 19, I live in Canada and want to move to NYC even if I only do it for a year because its a dream I've always had and I know I'd regret it if I don't at least try it. I've seen apts on craigs listfor 1000/month that yeah ok they're nothing special but a studio and I'm just wondering how reaonsable that is because there are a lot of ppl in my life against this and saying that there's no way there are apts for 1000/mth in Manhattan.

Another question I'm not sure how many ppl can answer is about Visa's. I need a working Visa because I'm coming to Canada and when I went to the embassy they said I need to find a job first. What are my chances of that? Do agency's hire from other countries? Just overall I don't know where to start etc. I know for a fact that living in New York City is not cheap, but what is real? Any advice would be fantastic or just random info/opinions.

Thanks in advance everyone!

[718Bound]

I've read through a lot of the posts on here, so much help already. So my question is a little different, and I'm sure there's not one right answer, but basically I'm trying to figure out how much I'm going to need to make in order to afford the city.

I'm moving officially in the beginning of June, but have already been paying rent for a little over a month...it's $1850 total, 2 bedrooms, so I have to pay $925 a month, not including utilities, cable/internet, other bills like credit cards, etc. I don't have a job yet, but I do have a few interviews set up for when I get down there after I graduate this month (from college, not high school). Obviously I won't be able to pick how much I get to make, I am trying to apply for positions that list the salary.

Anyone have a general idea of what I would need to be able to afford my apartment and everything else??

Why have you been paying rent a month before you have moved? Has a freind of yours you want to move in with made the move early? I cannot think of any other reason why you want to be paying rent before you have moved. Unless you are loaded that $925 a month you are shelling out would be some nice back up cash while you are interviewing.


hey everyone! so i'm brand new to this site and i was reading a bunch of the posts but theres so many and I'm sure what I'm going to ask has been asked before but I'm going to give it a shot anyways.

I'm 19, I live in Canada and want to move to NYC even if I only do it for a year because its a dream I've always had and I know I'd regret it if I don't at least try it. I've seen apts on craigs listfor 1000/month that yeah ok they're nothing special but a studio and I'm just wondering how reaonsable that is because there are a lot of ppl in my life against this and saying that there's no way there are apts for 1000/mth in Manhattan.

Another question I'm not sure how many ppl can answer is about Visa's. I need a working Visa because I'm coming to Canada and when I went to the embassy they said I need to find a job first. What are my chances of that? Do agency's hire from other countries? Just overall I don't know where to start etc. I know for a fact that living in New York City is not cheap, but what is real? Any advice would be fantastic or just random info/opinions.

Thanks in advance everyone!

Sara, there are ALOT of topics here on Visa's and immigration if you do a search.

[jen16]

Why have you been paying rent a month before you have moved? Has a freind of yours you want to move in with made the move early? I cannot think of any other reason why you want to be paying rent before you have moved. Unless you are loaded that $925 a month you are shelling out would be some nice back up cash while you are interviewing.


Yep, unfortunately my roommate was finished with school before me, so she needed to be out of her school housing by then, so the lease needed to start earlier than I could be there. So that has definitely not been very fun for me paying rent there and at my current apartment at the same time lol

[clubBR]

Yep, unfortunately my roommate was finished with school before me, so she needed to be out of her school housing by then, so the lease needed to start earlier than I could be there. So that has definitely not been very fun for me paying rent there and at my current apartment at the same time lol
That is such a waste of money. But, atleast once you get to NY, you dont need to worry about a residence

[718Bound]

Yea it sux you have to pay the money and are not living there... I guess living with a freind is worth the money. When do you graduate? This month right? If you are lucky enough you can fly out(I don't know where you live but jetblue is pretty cheap and if you can afford an appartment you are not living in) and schedule interviews (like a bunch) whenever you have a few days in a row free. I mean you already have a place to stay :D Explian to them that you are graduating soon (or have already) and make sure you stress you ARE MOVING INTO AN APARTMENT YOU HAVE BEEN PAYING FOR! Alot of employers may not want to hire you because you don't live in the area... So if you do come and interview before you actually move make sure they are aware of that. Best of luck! & let us know how it goes.

[fishermb]

and make sure you stress you ARE MOVING INTO AN APARTMENT YOU HAVE BEEN PAYING FOR! Alot of employers may not want to hire you because you don't live in the area... So if you do come and interview before you actually move make sure they are aware of that.

Definite include your local address on your resume

[kittygirl]

I have found information regarding the pet laws of New York state requiring all dogs to be licensed, but I haven't found anything regarding cats. Does anyone know if there are any necessary steps that I need to take regarding the state pet laws with my two cats once I get to NY?

Thanks.

[Schadenfrau]

Cats don't need a license.

[lalaland]

Hi everyone,

My fiance and I are moving to Manhattan from LA in a few months. We're just finishing grad school and so want to pay reasonable rent. With a max of around $2300, can we get a basic 1br on the Upper West Side? We don't need a doorman, elevator, etc...just a place that's not super tiny and that has a decent kitchen that we can actually cook in. Needs to be close to 72nd or 96th st for easy access to Penn station for commuting reasons. From talking to people and looking online, it seems like we can get a decent no-frills place for around this price (we plan to use a broker). For those of you who live around there, what do you think? Thanks!!

[clubBR]

Looking for a 1bdrm for $1200/month. Below 96th in the UES. Possible along 1st Ave and East End Ave?

[Schadenfrau]

I don't think you're going to find that. Look north, BR.

[restlessdesign]

How much do you guys spend on food (groceries + dining) on average each month? My friend tells me that a jar of spaghetti sauce can cost $7...is she making stuff (she doesn't actually live there) or do I really need to budget more than $700/mo on food?

[Sunnygirl]

How much do you guys spend on food (groceries + dining) on average each month? My friend tells me that a jar of spaghetti sauce can cost $7...is she making stuff (she doesn't actually live there) or do I really need to budget more than $700/mo on food?

Have you ever heard the phrase "If you have to ask you can't afford"... kind of the same thing with your spaghetti sauce, if you have to ask if it really costs $7... you probably can't afford.

But with that being said, yes, things are incredibly expensive in major cities like NYC, LA, etc... However, you have to remember, that a resident, you will also learn the places to go to find good deals... sometimes searching out the bargain is half the fun; and really what better place to do it than NYC.

[lofter1]

You can get ANY kind of spaghetti sauce in NYC -- from $2 / jar > $20 + / jar ...

Just gotta learn what works for your budget.

[clubBR]

Wheres the safest, most affordable neighborhood close to the 2,4,5, or 6 train?

[krulltime]

^ Hmmm... well there are not really 'most affordable' neighborhoods that will be 'the safest' close to those lines along Manhattan. If you are looking for cheap, even Harlem is kind of expensive, then you will have to look in the Bronx or somewhere in Brooklyn.

[clubBR]

Lol screw it. Thanks though krulltime- I was thinking Morris Park (in between Morningside Heights and Marcus Garvey Park). I found a few listings but I dont know if I'm just pursuing a bad neighborhood.

[Schadenfrau]

ClubBR, you live here: hop on the subway and check it out for yourself.

[clubBR]

ClubBR, you live here: hop on the subway and check it out for yourself.
LOL you dont know how lazy I am!!

[TNGIRL]

Hi Everybody!

I just got a University Housing assignment at West 122nd Street. What is this neighborhood like? Any good restaurants? How about places to do grocery shopping?
Thanks!

[Schadenfrau]

You're near a great grocery store- maybe the largest in the city:
http://www.fairwaymarket.com/

You're also very close to many of my favorite cheap restaurants.

The famous Dinosaur BBQ:
http://www.dinosaurbarbque.com/nycIndex.php

Pisticci for fantastic Italian:
http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/35716504

Max Soha for less-reliable Italian:
http://maxsoha.com/

Kitchenette for comfort food:
http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/kitchenette-uptown/

And you're somewhat close to the best Ethiopian in the city:
http://www.awashnyc.com/

[Lolita88]

Hey guys, with my move coming around sooner than later, I was wondering what in your opinion (other than just roaming around) are must do things when your fresh to the city?

:pThanks in advanced

[everybodylovesrocky]

Hey all,

I'm a college student from Atlanta, graduating in December. I'm hoping to move to NYC with my longtime boyfriend around that time. I have a couple of questions:

1. In terms of finding a job, I have most experience with music/radio public relations and promotions, but I'm flexible within PR and journalism. I have a few connections in NYC, but I don't know how early I should be pursuing those. I've kept in decent touch with my contacts, but in terms of actually asking about/applying to jobs, should I be waiting until September/October to send out resumes, or start ASAP? I feel like companies won't even know what openings they'll have in early January 2008 if I start applying too early. What are your thoughts?

2. My guy is planning on grad school when we move. Does anyone know of good theology (non-ministry, more professorial) Master's programs in New York? If that's too specific, I guess I'm more asking what kinds of good grad programs are in the area.

3. Also, in the same vein, my boyfriend will want to find some work while he's doing grad school, and he has a B.A. in History from a pretty good school. Any advice on what he should be looking for? Meaning, does he have a chance at a desk job or should he be applying to any McDonald's he can find? He's terrified of the New York job market (I have to say, so am I).

Thanks for any advice, guys! Sorry if these have been answered in the past- I tried to read all 90 pages of this thread, but so far I've only gotten through the first 15. Haha!

Alexis

[fishermb]

Hey all,
1. In terms of finding a job, I have most experience with music/radio public relations and promotions, but I'm flexible within PR and journalism. I have a few connections in NYC, but I don't know how early I should be pursuing those. I've kept in decent touch with my contacts, but in terms of actually asking about/applying to jobs, should I be waiting until September/October to send out resumes, or start ASAP? I feel like companies won't even know what openings they'll have in early January 2008 if I start applying too early. What are your thoughts?

Alexis

I'd suggest over the next month or 2 sending out some emails just saying hello and telling them you'll be moving to NY around the end of the year. Ask them if they know of any jobs that might be opening up later, or maybe if they know someone at other companies they could refer you too. As far as applying for actual posted jobs, I probably wouldn't apply for anything listed before September, and make sure to note your 'upcoming anticipated graduation' on your cover letter/resume. E

[clubBR]

Hey guys, with my move coming around sooner than later, I was wondering what in your opinion (other than just roaming around) are must do things when your fresh to the city?

:pThanks in advanced
4 days ago-
1. call out people, i like to mix 3 girls and 3 guys- or just my girlfriend
2. on 32nd St. Maru bar is a trendy music bar that has a vip karaoke room and the upstairs is a tube.
3. take taxi to st.marks, eat at any japanese or indian restaurant. visit the comic book stores and all that crazy stuff. then walk towards tompkins square park, light a doobie. listen to some guy playing the guitar
4. take subway home

if thats not new york i dont know what is

[Punzie]

Hey guys, with my move coming around sooner than later, I was wondering what in your opinion (other than just roaming around) are must do things when your fresh to the city?

One thing you must do is come to the very first Wired New York meet that's held.:p:D

[Lolita88]

One thing you must do is come to the very first Wired New York meet that's held.:p:D


will do and I like the sugestions below you lol well most of them :p

[astro21]

Hello everyone,

I'm moving to NYC this August to start work at a Midtown-located law firm. I'm married but my wife will not work so I'd like to spend up to $2,700 per month for a 2-bedroom appartment. I'm not too familiar with NYC and have therefore little knowledge about which area I'd like to live, although I've noted the following three: Astoria, Upper West Side, and the Financial District. I've been using Craiglist to gauge the price of apartments, and was surprised to see that that a lot of apartments in the Financial District listed on Craiglist are no-fee and look like confortable lofts, for prices similar to my budget. Why is that? I would have imagined that the Financial District would be a very expensive place to live. Does anyone have any take on that?

I've heard good things about Astoria, but what areas of Astoria are actually the most attractive ones?

Is it really difficult to find an apartment without going through a broker? The 15% fee seems so incredibly expensive to me, I'd obviously like to do away with that...

Finally, regarding paperwork, credit and so on, I'm fresh out of law school but do not have any debt. The only thing I can show is a letter from my employer indicating my yearly salary. Is that usually enough or do I need to show that I have funds in my bank account?

Thank you so much in advance for any advice you can give me.

A. (a Brit in the US...)

[econ_tim]

pending an application, it looks like i'll end up on the upper east side starting in august. i can't wait to move!

[econ_tim]

Hello everyone,

I'm moving to NYC this August to start work at a Midtown-located law firm. I'm married but my wife will not work so I'd like to spend up to $2,700 per month for a 2-bedroom appartment. I'm not too familiar with NYC and have therefore little knowledge about which area I'd like to live, although I've noted the following three: Astoria, Upper West Side, and the Financial District. I've been using Craiglist to gauge the price of apartments, and was surprised to see that that a lot of apartments in the Financial District listed on Craiglist are no-fee and look like confortable lofts, for prices similar to my budget. Why is that? I would have imagined that the Financial District would be a very expensive place to live. Does anyone have any take on that?

I've heard good things about Astoria, but what areas of Astoria are actually the most attractive ones?

Is it really difficult to find an apartment without going through a broker? The 15% fee seems so incredibly expensive to me, I'd obviously like to do away with that...

Finally, regarding paperwork, credit and so on, I'm fresh out of law school but do not have any debt. The only thing I can show is a letter from my employer indicating my yearly salary. Is that usually enough or do I need to show that I have funds in my bank account?

Thank you so much in advance for any advice you can give me.

A. (a Brit in the US...)

Financial District is cheaper than some other neighborhoods because it is fairly deserted at night, although that is slowly changing. Still, I don't think there will be many true 2 bedrooms at your price. Astoria is the best bet of the neighborhoods you listed, but I don't have any idea of which places to look. If you are moving in August, though, you better get your search in high gear as landlords are starting to know which apartments will be vacant then. You can find a suitable place without a broker (I did), but you'll need to be able to visit the city and spend some time searching.

[Front_Porch]

Hello everyone,

I'm moving to NYC this August to start work at a Midtown-located law firm. I'm married but my wife will not work so I'd like to spend up to $2,700 per month for a 2-bedroom appartment. I'm not too familiar with NYC and have therefore little knowledge about which area I'd like to live, although I've noted the following three: Astoria, Upper West Side, and the Financial District. I've been using Craiglist to gauge the price of apartments, and was surprised to see that that a lot of apartments in the Financial District listed on Craiglist are no-fee and look like confortable lofts, for prices similar to my budget. Why is that? I would have imagined that the Financial District would be a very expensive place to live. Does anyone have any take on that?



I'd say those $2700 Financial District craigslist listings are fake, thought I'd like to be wrong. A.J. Lawrence was showing loft-like apartments on Water for $3K, but I don't remember a way to construct two bedrooms with windows in them, and that's the closest thing I can think of.

Market for a true 2-bedroom in that neighborhood and adjacent is likely to be closer to $4K, so I doubt 2-bedrooms at your price exist.

As you visit apartments you will get a better nose for what is a fake listing, and what firms to stay away from, but one good rule is this: if a rental broker truly has the listing, they should be able to give you the address of the apartment, not just the neighborhood. The phrase "walk to Tribeca" and a photo of a gym -- that's not necessarily a real listing. A specific address like "20 West Street" -- much more like to be real.

It is certainly possible to skip a broker's fee, but it requires spending days pounding the pavement in your neighborhood of choice. On your budget I was go straight to the outer boros.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

PS: Why isn't your "midtown law firm" picking up your broker's fee?

[astro21]

My firm pays for the relocation fees but only for the cost of moving in (i.e., movers). I did not know that it was common for firms to pay brokers' fees (sorry, I don't know much about US practices). If you think it is quite normal, then I'll definitely enquire about it, I've got nothing to lose.

So those cheap Financial District apartments are probably just a trap for fools like me. It does seem strange that they never give you the address of the place, and I'll definitely take your advice about being careful of ads which never mention an exact address.

I could actually put more than my budget, but I'd rather save money than spend it in rent. Although $2,700 might seem fairly standard for NYC, for me it's a small fortune.

I've also been looking at Brooklyn, in particular Prospect Heights, which seems to be a nice area and about a 30-minute commute to Midtown. Does anyone actually know the area, and could give any recommendation or warnings?

Thanks so much for all your help.

A.

[Front_Porch]

Prospect Heights is a fine Brooklyn neighborhood. When I lived in Park Slope in the '90s, Flatbush was a bit of a dividing line, but both neighborhoods are far better now than they were then, and that stigma seems to have blurred a great deal over time. Can't tell you about the schools.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[belle]

Hey there, I was hoping someone could give me a little advice... I am moving to New York from San Francisco in August for graduate school. I am moving with someone from the Bay Area (she is also going to grad school in New York), so at least I already have the whole room-mate situation worked out.

The two questions I have are:
How is Crown Heights as far as neighborhoods go in Brooklyn? (primarily in terms of safety and proximity to NYU)

Secondly, we are considering renting an apartment essentially sight unseen. We were hoping to go through a broker that came highly recommended, and base our decision on pictures? Just how bad of an idea is this? Its fairly common practice in California, but from everything I have read and heard the rental market in New York is an entirely different beast than the one I am used to wrestling with.

I would appreciate any advice. Thanks so much!

[ta3formforged]

When should I come out to NYC to look for an apartment w/ a move-in date of 9/1? How many days do tenants usually have to alert their landlord that they are vacating the apartment?

Thanks!!
http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/images/misc/progress.gif

[ta3formforged]

Has anyone had any experience with Rent Direct New York?

http://www.rent-direct.com/

Thanks!

[Front_Porch]

Belle--

Crown Heights is a little bit far from NYU, but it has some lovely townhouses to balance that out. I had a friend who got the deal you dream of in terms of high ceilings, gorgeous carved moldings, etc.

The area certainly became known for ethnic unrest in the city years ago, but my young single female friend never had any trouble from anyone of any sort -- it was the commute she complained about.

If you have a broker you trust, I think it's okay to rent off pictures. I took my first apartment in NYC (back in the Ice Age) without even that -- completely sight unseen.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[belle]

Ali R~
Thanks so much for your response. That makes me feel a lot better. I think I'll do some more research on actual commute times from Crown Heights to Manhattan now that I have some feed back on the neighborhood. Hopefully things work out sight unseen:) Thanks again

[leeleeandsamv]

Hey, my boyfriend and I have wanted to move to nyc for years and we are finally trying to make the plans. We figure we will have enough money saved up in about 7 to 12 months. We want to find a pretty cheap studio or one bedroom apartment in a nice neighborhood. We can afford about 1100 dollars a month rent wise but are so lost on how to find a good apartment, a good neighborhood and a job. Also about how much should we save to be comfortable moving in for about a month. We are also planning to go to school part time while we are there. If there are any hints, tips, or ins and outs that you could let me know. Thanks so much.

[Lolita88]

Hey, my boyfriend and I have wanted to move to nyc for years and we are finally trying to make the plans. We figure we will have enough money saved up in about 7 to 12 months. We want to find a pretty cheap studio or one bedroom apartment in a nice neighborhood. We can afford about 1100 dollars a month rent wise but are so lost on how to find a good apartment, a good neighborhood and a job. Also about how much should we save to be comfortable moving in for about a month. We are also planning to go to school part time while we are there. If there are any hints, tips, or ins and outs that you could let me know. Thanks so much.


Now this is based on the advise I have gotten on and off this forum, but it may help as im also making the move...If you are planning on living in manhattan for that price you'd be lucky to find a decent studio ( I know Im bummed about that too) but it may get you more in one of the other borough's. As far as jobs go, try posting your resume on one of those sites like career builder or hot jobs or monster since to rent anyways most lanlords (unless you have a gaurantor) are going to want proof from your job of how much you make. Also for how much to save up the answer is simple...As much as possible...and the way that I have done research on certain areas is by both asking qustions about them and then just typing the name into google and reading as much as possible (yes its tedious work but its worth it:D) I hope this helps at least a little bit...(have I been paying close enough attention guys?)


P.S.
Definetly try to plan a trip before the move just to check out the places that interest you most, so you're not just going on other people's opinions but can form your own. :p

[Lolita88]

Oh yeah and beware of housing and job scams:p

[Bukowski]

Ok. so I'm mid twenty's whiteguy that lives in Texas. I am going to be moving to NYC in the next few months. Right now, the plan is to stay with a friend somewhere in Brooklyn, and then we will probably get our own place. She just moved to NYC about a year ago, and still doesn't know the city that well.

What part of town should I move too? thoughts?

[kliq6]

Ok. so I'm mid twenty's whiteguy that lives in Texas. I am going to be moving to NYC in the next few months. Right now, the plan is to stay with a friend somewhere in Brooklyn, and then we will probably get our own place. She just moved to NYC about a year ago, and still doesn't know the city that well.

What part of town should I move too? thoughts?

Alot of people im seeing onhere coming to NYC from Texas. What do you do for a living and what do you earn? That will go a long way into where you will live

[ta3formforged]

Is there a reason why my questions get ignored?

[Front_Porch]

I ignored you because I thought you were trolling for rent-direct. Don't know what anyone else's reasons were.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[leeleeandsamv]

Ya, we are really looking at moving to brooklyn, some places we have looked at were, crown heights, flatbush, east new york, williamsburg - and inwood manhattan -- so are any of these red flags?

Leah

[clubBR]

Ya, we are really looking at moving to brooklyn, some places we have looked at were, crown heights, flatbush, east new york, williamsburg - and inwood manhattan -- so are any of these red flags?

Leah

No, they are fine neighborhoods. But I would stay away from E. New York though

[ta3formforged]

I ignored you because I thought you were trolling for rent-direct. Don't know what anyone else's reasons were.

ali r.
{downtown broker}


"Trolling?" Not familiar w/ that term, but I just want to know if Rent Direct is a legit service or if I should stay away from it and try Craigslist or bite the bullet and go w/ a broker. Just curious if anyone had any luck w/ that service....I'm not trolling.

Also, my other question was if I want to get an 8/15 or 9/1 move-in date, when should I visit NY to find an apartment? I'm thinking the end of July, but I would like some feedback.

[ailhan]

Hi,

There is a chance that I can move to NYC for three years in this september and if that happens I will be working at United Nations Plaza.

Although I may end up somewhere in Europe I just wanted to do my homework and do a research about NYC just in case that happens.

My salary would be most probably 6000 $/month or a little more. I have a wife and a son. My wife may also work but I do not depend on that for now.

So here are my questions?

1. Excluding rent, how much money will be enough for a family of 3 to live in NYC?
2. will a 2500 - 2700 $ budget for rent be enough to have 2 bedrooms apartment in manhattan? (considering that I will work at United Nations Plaza). If not what would be the best options?
3. I am used to live in less secure parts of big cities. But when the family comes in I cannot be that relaxed. So where would be the most secure place considering my budget for rent? and would it help if I increase my rent budget to 3000 $.

thanks in advance.

ailhan

[Front_Porch]

ta3formforged --

Sorry if I snapped at you, I really thought you were a spammer. I cannot speak about services that end-run brokers because, hey, I'm a broker, I've never used one . . .anybody else?

End of July should be fine for the move-in dates you propose. Give yourself a day just to visit neighborhoods, and remember if you want to see something advertised in the Times, you'll need 24 hours notice to get an appointment.

also, on the off chance that you're going to want to take an apartment the minute you see it, bring your checkbook, a letter from your current employer with your salary on it ("Clark Kent is currently employed as a reporter at the Daily Planet, making a salary of $XX") and a letter from your current landlord stating that you are a responsible tenant who pays your rent on time.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[Front_Porch]

Hi,


2. will a 2500 - 2700 $ budget for rent be enough to have 2 bedrooms apartment in manhattan? (considering that I will work at United Nations Plaza). If not what would be the best options?

thanks in advance.

ailhan

Given where you'll work, your budget, and your desire for safety, you should check out Roosevelt Island -- it's technically part of Manhattan, but cheaper because the commute is a pain during non-rush hours. However, $3K should get you a lovely two-bedroom.

If you want to pay a lower percentage of your salary towards rent -- and you might -- you should consider looking in Queens.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[clubBR]

Front Porch, you dominate this thread

[ailhan]

*
thanx. right to the point reply

[Front_Porch]

Front Porch, you dominate this thread

I don't mean to. It's just that if I'm out-of-town for a couple of days, this is the first thread I hop onto because I feel like I can be of the most help here.
(Plus, frankly, the Orion scrum has slowed down A LOT.)

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[ryan]

You shouldn't feel sorry - you give people patient, informed replies. Nothing wrong with that.

[ta3formforged]

My fiance and I are planning to move to either the UWS or UES on 9/1--will we be able to get a moving truck to our place? A few places have said we may need to get a shuttle which would add at least $500 to our move. Should we just get a smaller U Haul type truck and do it ourselves? What is the best time of the day and the best day of the week to actually move in?

Thanks!

[Front_Porch]

You need to check with your building. Many buildings don't want to tie up their elevators, so they restrict move-in hours and do not allow move-ins on weekends.

Also, NYC is way, way safer than it used to be, but you might want to bring a third person along to watch the truck while you guys are moving your stuff inside.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[didgeridoo]

hey everyone,

just a quick question; if i were to move to NYC with a friend and we were to rent a one/two bdrm apartment in manhattan (i was thinking chelsea), what would you think the rent would be? utilities? what would you say would be a good yearly salary, in order to live comfortably (i don't mean splurging on shopping trips, but being able to go the dinner ocassionally, see a movie, explore the city)?

i know you guys have probably been asked this question tens of thousands of times, so i apologize for that.

thank you so much, any info is appreciated.

btw, could a new yorker/ possible chelsea resident give me an idea of what it's like living in chelsea? the feel, the people, the surroundings, etc. i heard it's a lot slower than other parts of manhattan, which i like to hear.

again, thank you, thank you, thank you.

[bronzenine]

chelsea is a very pretty, mostly residential neighborhood. it also has a very high gay population. this is not a reliable estimate, but i'm guessing a 1 bdrm would be upwards of $1800/month?

[Lance75]

An $1800 one bedroom? Man, at that price I'd rent ten myself and sublet every one of them for a big fat profit.

A friend just moved into a 480 sf studio in Chelsea. Monthly rent? $3150 a month. And it's not even prime Chelsea.

Granted, it's new and lux, but I imagine true one bedrooms are going to run about $3k a month.

[Dmain_Event]

Hey guys, I already posted this question in this forum a bit earlier, but I was told to post it here. I haven't been able to get to the computer for about a week now and I am kind of out of the loop posting wise, when it comes to this forum.
Anyway, by august 25, all my obligations in my current location will have been met (the only remaining one would be student loans... which are relatively cheap right now).
Currently, my job search in New York City is not producing any leads. I am wondering if that is because I don't live in the city? If that is the case, should I just move to the city get a job as a waiter or something and a couple of roomys while I search for my ideal job? Or should I just stay where I am at (in a city that is cool, but is a bitch to get around in:mad:) get a crappy job while I search for my ideal New York City Job.
I think that I could pull it off. If I can find some roomates in time. What do you guys think?
Thanks.

[Front_Porch]

hey everyone,

what would you say would be a good yearly salary, in order to live comfortably (i don't mean splurging on shopping trips, but being able to go the dinner ocassionally, see a movie, explore the city)?



Isn't "comfortable" always 10% more money than you have?

Seriously, once you decide where you're going to live and know what your monthly housing costs will be, a salary of 50x that should enable you to live comfortably.

So if you get a one-bedroom in Chelsea that costs you $3,500 a month (which is about right for big and nice), you will feel comfortable making $175K. If you rent in Jackson Heights, Queens for $1,200 a month, you should feel comfortable making $60K. Although you'll obviously go out to cheaper places, you should still have money to go out.

Good luck!

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[frogoutofwater]

I will be moving to New York later this summer and will be working at 7 World Trade Center. Ideally, I'd like to live somewhere south of the mid-30s and would love to be able to walk to or from work (30 minutes would be a near daily walk; 45 minutes away would be an occasional walk). I'm not claustrophobic, but I get uncomfortable in enclosed spaces when it's really crowded. So, a long trip standing up on a crowded subway, especially with one or more transfers would be a daily misery. However, I also realise that I might need to expand the boundaries of where I'm willing to live in order to get something decent in my price range (up to $5500 for a 2 BR).

I know from having lived in other large cities (Toronto, London, Paris) that a stop or two can make a huge difference in how comfortable your commute is. (For example, I used to live near a subway stop in Toronto where, in the morning, half the subway cars turned at my stop and headed back downtown, which meant that every other subway car during rush hour was empty when I got on it. Likewise, in London, I used to get on a subway line 1 stop before many people got off, which generally meant that I could sit down and get away from the crowds).

Based on where I'll be working, can anyone suggest particular neighbourhoods that are particularly good or particularly bad in terms of an easy commute down to 7 WTC, especially in any neighbourhood north of the 30s, or in Brooklyn or Queens? Thanks

[media35]

Finally someone with a realistic budget for Manhattan! For $5500 a month go to this website http://www.glenwoodnyc.com/flash.htm . Their apartments are top-notch, the building management great, and they have locations all over the city. You can avoid a broker fee dealing with them direct. As for recommending locations to live in, with the difficulty of finding an apt. in the city maybe you should find the apt first then decide if the location is OK. (if it's close enough to walk, food stores nearby, etc). A crowded subway is not a pleasant experience, esp. in the summer heat.

[Front_Porch]

Try Battery Park City -- again, you can get direct (non-brokered) rentals, though we in the industry think you pay more per month to get them. You'll be able to walk when the weather's nice, though it's kind of windy in the winter.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[frogoutofwater]

Finally someone with a realistic budget for Manhattan!

Luckily, it's easier to have a realistic budget when you move to New York mid-career (and work in financial services). But we're still facing price shock. Currently, we rent a 1600 sq foot, 3 BR apartment with a giant storage "cave" in Paris (with fireplace, 12 foot ceilings, French windows etc) a 15 minute walk from my office in an upscale neighbourhood, for a little less than $4000 a month. And back home in Toronto, we own an 1800 sq foot brand new townhouse, 30 minutes commuting time from work, that has a monthly cost of about $2800. I've lived in New York before (in a shoebox alcove studio in the east 60s) before, but Mr frogoutofwater is expecting space, charm, style and a large kitchen in Manhattan.

We will try out Battery Park City for a month (temporary accommodation), as well as a commuter town (Riverdale - housesitting for friends).

But, so that I can expand our apartment-hunting range, can anyone suggest a neighbourhood that is further away from the financial district (and possibly delivers more space for our $) but still has a tolerable commute (e.g. due to being close to an express bus, or an express stop on the metro) and is liveable (in terms of available shops and services, and in terms of safety)? Would the commute from the new buildings going up in Long Island City be a pain with the connection at Grand Central? Which would be the most accessible parts of Brooklyn? I've also seen some rental buildings advertised on the West side of the city above the 40s (eg Archstone West End)? I would like to avoid the Hell's Kitchen / Times Square areas (too crowded), but would the "lower" Upper West Side, or even the "upper" Upper West Side have any pockets that would make for a tolerable commute?

Finally, one last question. I've seen quite a few apartments being advertised in the Rose Rentals building at Leonard Street. Some of the layouts look interesting (because they are 2 BR plus a den in our price range). But the apartments don't seem to be being rented very quickly. Is there something unappealing about the building?

Thanks.

[lofter1]

Is that the new building at 88 Leonard (http://wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5403&highlight=leonard)? If so I believe that constrction is on-going there, which (along with the fact that it is a large building) could be one reason that there are still lots of units available.

[frogoutofwater]

Is that the new building at 88 Leonard (http://wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5403&highlight=leonard)? If so I believe that constrction is on-going there, which (along with the fact that it is a large building) could be one reason that there are still lots of units available.

Yes, that's the one to which I was referring. Depending on when they finish construction, the timing could be good for us. We don't expect to move into semi-permanent digs until early-mid September.

[media35]

Luckily, it's easier to have a realistic budget when you move to New York mid-career (and work in financial services). But we're still facing price shock. Currently, we rent a 1600 sq foot, 3 BR apartment with a giant storage "cave" in Paris (with fireplace, 12 foot ceilings, French windows etc) a 15 minute walk from my office in an upscale neighbourhood, for a little less than $4000 a month. And back home in Toronto, we own an 1800 sq foot brand new townhouse, 30 minutes commuting time from work, that has a monthly cost of about $2800. I've lived in New York before (in a shoebox alcove studio in the east 60s) before, but Mr frogoutofwater is expecting space, charm, style and a large kitchen in Manhattan.

We will try out Battery Park City for a month (temporary accommodation), as well as a commuter town (Riverdale - housesitting for friends).

But, so that I can expand our apartment-hunting range, can anyone suggest a neighbourhood that is further away from the financial district (and possibly delivers more space for our $) but still has a tolerable commute (e.g. due to being close to an express bus, or an express stop on the metro) and is liveable (in terms of available shops and services, and in terms of safety)? Would the commute from the new buildings going up in Long Island City be a pain with the connection at Grand Central? Which would be the most accessible parts of Brooklyn? I've also seen some rental buildings advertised on the West side of the city above the 40s (eg Archstone West End)? I would like to avoid the Hell's Kitchen / Times Square areas (too crowded), but would the "lower" Upper West Side, or even the "upper" Upper West Side have any pockets that would make for a tolerable commute?

Finally, one last question. I've seen quite a few apartments being advertised in the Rose Rentals building at Leonard Street. Some of the layouts look interesting (because they are 2 BR plus a den in our price range). But the apartments don't seem to be being rented very quickly. Is there something unappealing about the building?

Thanks.

Since you are all over the map, and will have experience living in two spaces before you have to make a more permanent move I suggest you use a broker. You won't waste your time chasing empty leads, and since you are with a financial institution they should be used to picking up the broker fee for a relocation. Two months will give you plenty of time to see how crowded the subway lines are and if you can tolerate it.

[frogoutofwater]

... since you are with a financial institution they should be used to picking up the broker fee for a relocation.

No, they're not. They're paying a relatively modest signing bonus (well, actually, it seemed reasonably large until I figured out how much would be deducted for taxes, etc.) So, any money we save by not paying a broker we can use for other purposes (e.g. the customs and duties associated with shipping wine and champagne from France). I would not rule out using a broker because I know (from reading this forum as well as from other sources) that some brokers deliver real value - and some apartments are available only through brokers.

[Lance75]

I'm surprised no one's suggested Brooklyn Heights for Frogoutofwater yet.

Very easy commute to 7 World Trade Center (two or three stops on the subway), incredible neighborhood (charming and quiet), and the occasional walk to/from work over the Brooklyn Bridge is probably one of the most pleasant and scenic in NYC.

[cjb1979]

Hello,

So I have read the threads here and found them to be full of information. I have noticed quite a bit of helpfull tips and advice. So I hope that someone can give me some now. I am single professional living in Colorado. I have wanted to move to New York for some time now and it seems that now is the time (next few months). The question is: Is it worth it? Is it possiable for me? I am single 28, working in healthcare (EMS). I dont make globs of money. What I am looking for is just a small place in Manhattan to go to work and live life in New York City. Nothing more nothing less. Any suggestions?

[econ_tim]

Is it worth it?

No one on these forums can answer that for you. We can help with more mundane questions, though.

[ThisIsntMyRealName]

I wouldn't recommend moving here unless you are making at least 85k as a single person. Also, I guess it depends on whether you like roommates. Manhattan is difficult to get with a low salary. One other possibilty is if you are independently wealthy. I wouldn't move to NYC unless I could afford to live in Manhattan.

Hello,

So I have read the threads here and found them to be full of information. I have noticed quite a bit of helpfull tips and advice. So I hope that someone can give me some now. I am single professional living in Colorado. I have wanted to move to New York for some time now and it seems that now is the time (next few months). The question is: Is it worth it? Is it possiable for me? I am single 28, working in healthcare (EMS). I dont make globs of money. What I am looking for is just a small place in Manhattan to go to work and live life in New York City. Nothing more nothing less. Any suggestions?

[Front_Porch]

We're still facing price shock. Currently, we rent a 1600 sq foot, 3 BR apartment with a giant storage "cave" in Paris (with fireplace, 12 foot ceilings, French windows etc) a 15 minute walk from my office in an upscale neighbourhood, for a little less than $4000 a month.



Price shock is right. I can get you that for $13K, give or take.

Another problem with 88 Leonard might be Church Street -- some people think it's cool, some people look at the vendors and shudder.

Or maybe it's the 12- by 15-foot living room.

In general, you will get more space for your money if you stay out of the cachement area for PS 234 (roughly Tribeca), which, even though it is overstuffed, is one of the top elem schools in the city.

If you want a 2-BR on the bigger end of the scale, I'd take a look at Dumbo if I were you.

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[vdb7855]

I'm planning to move to ny to teach school, just transferring my certificate, and I know the cost of living there is HIGH but is it possible to find a pretty decent and reasonably priced place in Manhattan and work in manhattan? :confused:

[cjb1979]

Thanks for the quick replies. Everyone on the board is very considerate. Someone said that if you cant live in Manhattan then is probably not worth coming. Are the other bouroughs that bad? Also I used to live in San Francisco, are the prices simmilar? And I have no qualms with roommates? Is it possiable to live outside Manhattan when someone first moves there and then look at moving later on? Thanks!!

[fishermb]

I'm surprised no one's suggested Brooklyn Heights for Frogoutofwater yet.

Very easy commute to 7 World Trade Center (two or three stops on the subway), incredible neighborhood (charming and quiet), and the occasional walk to/from work over the Brooklyn Bridge is probably one of the most pleasant and scenic in NYC.

I'm actually just catching up with last few days of this thread and was going to suggest BK Heights as I recently moved to the area a few months ago and absolutely love it. Right now me and my roomate share a 3 bed, 2 bath with nice size living room, dining room and seperate kitchen. We pay $3150 a month, have a doorman and live 3 streets from the 2/3/4/5/R, plus a short walk to A/C/F.

Definitely check the area out, some good restaurants, short walk to Cobble Hill (even better restaurants), the Promenade is great, area has history and it's quiet and has a neighborhood-y feel.

[bronzenine]

Thanks for the quick replies. Everyone on the board is very considerate. Someone said that if you cant live in Manhattan then is probably not worth coming. Are the other bouroughs that bad? Also I used to live in San Francisco, are the prices simmilar? And I have no qualms with roommates? Is it possiable to live outside Manhattan when someone first moves there and then look at moving later on? Thanks!!

that bit about the boroughs definitely isn't true. brooklyn has gotten a LOT nicer and is very affluent in some parts. even queens has begun to be, and is in some places, gentrified. the only boroughs i wouldn't want to live in are staten island (the long commute) and the bronx (i wouldn't feel all that safe even though it isn't terribly dangerous). i am not familiar with the SF market, but i'm guessing new york's is more expensive. i think new york's market is pretty similar to LA. it is very possible to live in another borough, or even in new jersey, while you look for an apartment. but i wouldn't get an apartment with a broker's fee if you only plan to stay for month or too.

[macreator]

Thanks for the quick replies. Everyone on the board is very considerate. Someone said that if you cant live in Manhattan then is probably not worth coming. Are the other bouroughs that bad? Also I used to live in San Francisco, are the prices simmilar? And I have no qualms with roommates? Is it possiable to live outside Manhattan when someone first moves there and then look at moving later on? Thanks!!

The other boroughs are not that bad at all. There are a lot of great neighborhoods outside of Manhattan. They include quite a few in Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Staten Island too if you're willing to do the commute. A friend of mine lives in Forest Hills and loves it --- I visit him quite often and it is a great area. Brooklyn has Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Bay Ridge. You just have to look around.

[kittygirl]

Hi,

I have found a place that I'm interested in that is near the intersection of Myrtle Ave and Bedford Ave in Brooklyn. My broker tells me that this area is Clinton Hill, but my maps are placing it in Bed Stuy. I've heard that brokers will lie about neighborhood placement - is this true? Do you think I'm being flat-out lied to or are the neighborhood lies just blurry? I'm concerned because I've heard bad things about Bed Stuy - but also that it has an undeserved bad reputation... so as a newbie to the area (coming from the Midwest) I'm not sure what to think...

Can anybody give me any advice, thoughts, warnings, etc. about this area? I know that the commute to Manhattan will not be very convenient, but the apartment is nice enough that I would be willing to deal with it (my husband will be working from our home, so we need the extra space). So now I am wondering what life is like in this particular area - any safety issues or concerns? It appears to be undergoing a lot of construction, which is making the neighborhood seem noisy and not very residential. But my broker says this will all calm down soon and that the area will be really nice after all of the renovations. Is this true? Do any of you think that this would be a nice place to live?

I appreciate your thoughts!

[clubBR]

Hi,

I have found a place that I'm interested in that is near the intersection of Myrtle Ave and Bedford Ave in Brooklyn. My broker tells me that this area is Clinton Hill, but my maps are placing it in Bed Stuy. I've heard that brokers will lie about neighborhood placement - is this true? Do you think I'm being flat-out lied to or are the neighborhood lies just blurry? I'm concerned because I've heard bad things about Bed Stuy - but also that it has an undeserved bad reputation... so as a newbie to the area (coming from the Midwest) I'm not sure what to think...

Can anybody give me any advice, thoughts, warnings, etc. about this area? I know that the commute to Manhattan will not be very convenient, but the apartment is nice enough that I would be willing to deal with it (my husband will be working from our home, so we need the extra space). So now I am wondering what life is like in this particular area - any safety issues or concerns? It appears to be undergoing a lot of construction, which is making the neighborhood seem noisy and not very residential. But my broker says this will all calm down soon and that the area will be really nice after all of the renovations. Is this true? Do any of you think that this would be a nice place to live?

I appreciate your thoughts!

You should scope out the neighborhood. Visit when its day and more importantly at night. if the hood is too risky dont invest. if it seems OK, then most likely it wont change.

[Schadenfrau]

It doesn't make much sense to place a lot of value on whether or not the neighborhood is considered Clinton Hill or Bedford-Stuyvesant. Consider the specific block and nearby amenities, because it's not like neighborhoods have borders separated with armed guards.

[Punzie]

I second that ^^^.

Also, when a neighborhood becomes gentrified, it's sometimes renamed.

[Front_Porch]

Kitty-girl

In broker-speak, Bedford Ave. is indeed the border between Bedford-Stuvyesant and Clinton Hill.

Bed-Stuy is not, in itself, a neighborhood to stay away from.

The dicey part of the equation, I would say, is Myrtle -- which had a bad rap for years (as "Murder Avenue") and has been coming back over the past five years, block-by-block.

I could see living there, but you should understand there will be a mixture of shuttered retail and shiny new retail (and lots of brokerage signs). Can you use Google Street to take a look at it, or get your broker to send you street shots?

ali r.
{downtown broker}

[NY_Fran]

Hi
I'm probably moving to NY later this year with my husband who is being relocated. Having lived in NY before on secondment with my company, we know we want to live on the UWS or in Hell's Kitchen.

My question is about needing a guarantor. When I came over, my company arranged everything and put me in corporate housing for the length of my stay. Everything was very easy and so I didn't have to worry about finding an apartment. Unfortunately, my husband's company doesn't often do international relocations so we aren't going to get the same set up as I did. Which is fine, as this is going to hopefully be a longer term relocation so we are happy to find somewhere we want to live.

However, we do need to know what we should be asking the company in terms of assistance. From reading through the majority of posts, it seems we should make sure we ask them to pay realtors fees, but I'm concerned about guarantors. Neither of us have a credit history in the US, and I won't be able to get a job until I get my EAD which can take 3 months, and my husband's salary alone is unlikely to be enough to match the 50x rent that seems to be quoted for overseas relocaters. We have savings so can pay some upfront, (which is how we plan to finance me not working for 3 months - I can't wait!) but I was wondering who we could get as a guarantor. We own a flat in London that we don't plan on selling, and have good credit history here in the UK, but I imagine that's not going to help much.

Any advice from anyone who has relocated from overseas or any realtors who deal with this sort of thing would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

[ChicagoTommy]

Longtime reader, first time poster. My wife and I are seriously considering a move to New York in the next year. We currently live in Chicago but we both think it might be time to give New York a shot. That being said, we have some questions that I thought many of you might be able to help us with:

1. Is it reasonable to try and find a one-bedroom apartment for between $1000-$1200? If so, where? And if so, is it the size of a box?

2. We currently live in Chicago which is expensive, but not as expensive as New York. Other than the cost to own or rent a place, is New York much more expensive in other areas like groceries, gas, food, etc?

3. We have a decent amount of money saved up and ideally we would like to buy a place rather than rent. If we wanted to spend less than $300,000 on a place to buy, what areas should I be looking in?

Any advice or suggestions to any of the above would be greatly appreciated. I am sure some of these questions have been answered in other parts of this thread, but I have not been able to get through the entire 95 pages.

Cheers!
Tommy

[kliq6]

I wouldn't recommend moving here unless you are making at least 85k as a single person. Also, I guess it depends on whether you like roommates. Manhattan is difficult to get with a low salary. One other possibilty is if you are independently wealthy. I wouldn't move to NYC unless I could afford to live in Manhattan.

Agreed Single to really enjoy yourself here you must make 80,000, couple 120,000

[kliq6]

Longtime reader, first time poster. My wife and I are seriously considering a move to New York in the next year. We currently live in Chicago but we both think it might be time to give New York a shot. That being said, we have some questions that I thought many of you might be able to help us with:

1. Is it reasonable to try and find a one-bedroom apartment for between $1000-$1200? If so, where? And if so, is it the size of a box?

2. We currently live in Chicago which is expensive, but not as expensive as New York. Other than the cost to own or rent a place, is New York much more expensive in other areas like groceries, gas, food, etc?

3. We have a decent amount of money saved up and ideally we would like to buy a place rather than rent. If we wanted to spend less than $300,000 on a place to buy, what areas should I be looking in?

Any advice or suggestions to any of the above would be greatly appreciated. I am sure some of these questions have been answered in other parts of this thread, but I have not been able to get through the entire 95 pages.

Cheers!
Tommy

Question One, answer is no, unless you want to live in Inwood.
Question 2- Oustide of train fare which is similar, add 25 percent to everything ( utilities, food etc)

[ASchwarz]

Bay Ridge is nice and safe and has one bedrooms for $1,200.

There are many nice options at that price range in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.

[ChicagoTommy]

Bay Ridge is nice and safe and has one bedrooms for $1,200.

There are many nice options at that price range in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.
Thanks a lot!! I have found some neighborhoods within the range to rent or buy a place but I am NOT sure about them. Could anyone give me a thumbs up or down on the following neighborhoods:

Elmhurst
Rego Park
Kew Garden Hills
Flushing
Howard Beach
Bayside
Briarwood
Forest Hills

Thanks again!

[Schadenfrau]

Where will you be working and how long of a commute do you want? Some of those neighborhoods are quite far out.

[ASchwarz]

Thanks a lot!! I have found some neighborhoods within the range to rent or buy a place but I am NOT sure about them. Could anyone give me a thumbs up or down on the following neighborhoods:

Elmhurst
Rego Park
Kew Garden Hills
Flushing
Howard Beach
Bayside
Briarwood
Forest Hills

Thanks again!

Those are all pretty good neighborhoods in Queens.

I am surprised you could find something in Forest Hills at that price range. Forest Hills is probably the nicest of the bunch (Manhattan-like amenities, super-safe, 20 minutes by express subway to Midtown). Forest Hills is traditionally Jewish but is now diverse and has many ex-Manhattanites.

Rego Park is next to Forest Hills and similar, but slightly cheaper with more Russian immigrants and and overall Russian feel. Good subway access to Manhattan and less upscale retail than Forest Hills.

Kew Gardens Hills is very Jewish with many Israelis. It isn't directly on the subway