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April 14, 2009
House of the Day: 146 Halsey Street
This three-family brownstone at 146 Halsey Street has tons of original mahogany goodness that houses in this part of town are known for but we suspect it won't be enough to achieve the asking price of $995,000. Even if the renovated bathrooms and kitchens were not so, um, unimpressive, we also don't think that a million dollars is a realistic price for a nice but not spectacular house in Bed Stuy right now. We are impressed that the owners are currently getting $1,700 a month for both floor-through rentals—that's more than we're getting on our rental in Clinton Hill.
146 Halsey Street [All Points RE] GMAP P*Shark
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Comments
Wow - those floors rule.
Posted by: dirty_hipster at April 14, 2009 1:24 PM
The limestones in Stuyvesant Heights went for just over $1MM in a better market. Also, since the pics show the place vacant, and the wording is ambiguous in the listing, I think they're trying to tell you that you could get $1,700 each but I think that's a stretch. Kitchens are very unimpressive. The one bath pic wasn't too bad.
Since its a 4 storey...maybe $650,000.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 1:26 PM
"and the wording is ambiguous in the listing, I think they're trying to tell you that you could get $1,700 each but I think that's a stretch"
That's exactly what I got from that too, Dave. I don't think they are actually renting them at that price (maybe in 2005) but that they are assuming you *could* rent them at that price.
Considering I'm seeing 2 bedrooms pop up in PS for 1800 a month, I think 1700 is VERY aggressive.
Love the floors, although I hate them shiny like that.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 1:31 PM
I would be the first to say I really think this house is about 150K over priced. You can get the same house full of details on Jefferson two blocks away for around 650K. I really hope that this sells for close to that price to help the comps but there are so many better deals out there. I don't think this Realtor is realistic at all. This is a nice house but it is not a Bedford Stuyvesant wow house. The location is ok your really close to the AC and supermarkets etc... but your on a two way street with buses running up and down all night. 800 should be the highest this goes for... I cannot believe i said that... My rentals are $1600 but I know people in BS that are getting $1900 for two bedrooms.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 1:32 PM
Really Dave...650K? It's in move in condition.
hhhhmmm...maybe I'll keep my eye on this one, see if the price drops.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 1:32 PM
It also doesn't say anything about new electric, plumbing, heating or roof. The facade is painted as well.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 1:36 PM
"I know people in BS that are getting $1900 for two bedrooms."
No offense, but those people are getting majorly ripped off.
Unless the bathrooms are plated in 24K gold.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 1:38 PM
Beautiful woodwork. But hard to focus on it with coffee table and kitchen counter covered in empty soda bottles, and other debris!
Posted by: Nomi at April 14, 2009 1:41 PM
FYI - house is 19' wide.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 1:44 PM
that house is so full of meh.
Posted by: Xander Crews at April 14, 2009 1:44 PM
11217...there are some HUGE, beautiful 2 BRs that get $1,800-2,000. One bedrooms are $1,150 -$1,350 as long as they are not tiny...I'm talking a floor-thru. I could easily rent my two-floor 2 BR for $2,500 or more.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 1:44 PM
"I could easily rent my two-floor 2 BR for $2,500 or more."
Dave, if you goldplate it you can get more.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 1:47 PM
ugh - could the realtor at least remove the empty Sunkist bottle off of the Coffee table
This house has some pluses, but the price ain't one of them
$695K tops
also is Halsey a nice stretch of houses?
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 1:47 PM
11217 this place has all the bells and whistles. I have to say it is really nice and place has a backyard deck and view of midtown W/D dishwasher. It is one of the best brownstone apartments that I have been into anywhere. The same owner has a 3 bedroom duplex on Green near Bushwick area and is getting around $3200 and that place is 10X better than the $1900 place... So it can be done some people like me like living in Bedford Stuyvesant and would not live anywhere else in the city.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 1:49 PM
BRG....that may be appealing to vapid, shallow women from Bay ridge but it comes off as tasteless and ostentatious with solid folk like those in Bed Stuy.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 1:49 PM
much of the world's supply of polyurethane seems to have been mopped onto these floors.
Posted by: z at April 14, 2009 1:49 PM
gemini...that stretch on halsey isn't one of the nicer blocks around. And, as someone pointed out above, its two way and gets bus traffic.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 1:51 PM
Seems like too much when you can rent this for 2450...
http://newyork.craigslist.org/brk/fee/1121922875.html
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 1:53 PM
here are 4 or 5 people who keep skewing the numbers by putting in the highest number possible. this speaks volumes of the desperation of people who have bought in the past 3 years. In trading we call it denial, the next stage is buyers remorse. Get ready to see a surge in inventory. Then the bids disappear and are lowered 10- 20 percent so the buyers have some space for error. Then the forced selling starts as people who have Option ARM's start to explode and either cant refinance or cant afford the extra 2 percent on a jumbo mortgage. They start hitting the bids that are 20 percent lower, and you have the crash in real estate prices.All this while there rent rolls are crashing. Big problems ahead. If you knoww you are gonna hve to sell i suggest you do it now before it gets worse.
Posted by: brickoven at April 14, 2009 1:54 PM
Amzi, DIBS, would you mind if I picked your minds when hubby and I are ready again to look at houses?
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 1:55 PM
Halsey is a nice stretch of houses... Very nice Neo-Grec brownstones on this block. The block just before this one btw Bedford and Nostrand has some of the most amazing homes in Brookyln. This block is not too bad also and is probably one of the most diverse blocks in Bedford Stuyvesant for some reason.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 1:55 PM
So... let's say you put 20% down because you have an extra $200k floating around.
That means your going to still be paying well over $2,000 per month for your own unit, not including any of the required maintenance, taxes and so on. Oh, and that's assuming you can magically get the $3,400 in rental income. Oh, and then you have two tenants living in your house that you have to tend to.
Not the most amazing deal I've heard.
Posted by: tybur6 at April 14, 2009 1:59 PM
Why is there always a poster that posts links to Park Slope houses / apts comparing them to ones listed? And always citing that their link is a better buy / rental.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 1:59 PM
They should have change the doors before they asked for this price. I hate this 1970s door. It is such a turn off to me.
PS
This house was included in the package for the Bedford Historic District. So it she be landmarked soon.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 2:03 PM
Because I think people who rent comparison shop, and are open to other areas.
If you tell me that 2 bedrooms in Bed Stuy are renting for 1900, 2500 a month, etc, I think it's good to point out that you can rent a similar apartment for less in a neighborhood which is more desirable to some people. Dare I say more people...
I could have linked to Carroll Gardens or Ft. Greene too.
I'm not playing this game with you BRG. While Bed Stuy is amazing, there are very few people in this city who, if given the choice of a 2 bedroom for rent in Park Slope and a 2 bedroom for rent in Bed Stuy (with prices exactly the same) would choose the latter.
That's called being honest, as much as that will ruffle some of your feathers.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 2:05 PM
This seems like a solid, well-kept, spacious brownstone (albeit painted barn red). The interiors appeal to me because they look clean and neat. The whole house is neat as a pin. I think this would be a good buy for the right family wishing to set roots in Bed Stuy or to sink them deeper. A new paint job and front door and this would be a beauty. I predict that if the prices keep softening in Bed Stuy there will be a huge influx of white families into the area and the gentrification of the area (with all its pros and cons) will accelerate rather than decelarate.
Posted by: sam at April 14, 2009 2:05 PM
PS: Stoner. .....it's "mahogany"
Posted by: sam at April 14, 2009 2:06 PM
11217....the apartments will not be similar. A 2 BR renting in Bed Stuy for that amount of money will likely be much larger than one in PS...2 floors, 1,600 sf, not ~1,000 like the craigslist one...or, you could separate those two floors and get $1,200 -1,300 each.
Its apples & oranges and has not much to do with the neighborhood except the price psf.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 2:08 PM
11217 - interesting! - I LOVE 6th avenue and 12th street
my fear though is that you call the broker asking to see that nice apt for $2400, and you meet said broker at the bldg and they then tell you that apt has been rented but look at this apt for $3000
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 2:10 PM
What's the point of buying this? Unless you want to get into real estate this makes no sense. You would not put a family there because of the neighborhood and schools. Also if one rents most of the house, one is better off buying a coop. Now, if you are buying to get in to real estate that's dumb as RE won't recover anytime soon.
I agree with brickoven. If you need to sell do it now than later and that's the best advice you can get.
Posted by: MaplewoodGuy at April 14, 2009 2:11 PM
11217, you made is seem like you were so shocked that rents could be 'so high' in Bed Sty. As if you were in such disbelief. As if someone would be making it up.
I guess I am one of the few people that if given the choice to live in Bed Sty/Crown Heights or Park Slope at the same cost I would choose Bed Sty/Crown Heights. My reason, people. I truly abhor the vibe I get from 'most' people in Park Slope.
That's called being honest, as much as that will ruffle some of your feathers.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 2:12 PM
sam...the gentrification of Bed Stuy began with a grass roots effort by the indigenous families that have been there for decades. It started long before any of us whites moved in.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 2:12 PM
Fair enough Dave. I hear that.
Gemini...I found a BUNCH of other listings for 2 bedrooms in actual PS for 2200-2500. They are out there!
Prices are down!
I just helped a friend move to PS not long ago and we probably looked at 20 2 bedrooms, all of which were under 2500.
None were 1600 square feet or duplexes though...
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 2:13 PM
And its most likely not mahogany.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 2:14 PM
BRG anytime.. I really think you should look at this house 324 Jefferson btw Marcy and Tompkins the price is more normal and the house is nice..
http://www.postlets.com/res/2020604
looks like it needs work but it really is a nice solid block. I hear from neighbors that the house is a bit of a mess. Lazy Grandkids inherit house and did nothing but with that said the house I hear has all the deals from the 1880s. this house also will be landmarked.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 2:16 PM
That's great BRG, but the fact that people are pricing this house at 736K on the widget, and Lincoln Place sold for 2.3 million means more people prefer Park Slope. That's not me boosting PS or degrading Bed Stuy...it's just a fact.
You do know how markets work, correct?
There will be people who prefer Bed Stuy over PS or BH or FG sure....but the market speaks for itself.
And keep in mind also that the readers of this blog are more apt to love Bed Stuy because of the architecture. That is not what the typical renter in NYC looks for. I feel like I'm stating the obvious here.
I'm leaving this one alone. I've said too much. You can't handle the truth apparently.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 2:18 PM
BRG: Are you saying that the market rate for Bed Stuy / Crown Heights apartments is higher for for apartments of the same size than it is in Park Slope?
Posted by: basementalist at April 14, 2009 2:20 PM
Pocket doors from this period were usually mahogany veneer but the trim tended to be solid wood, anything from chestnut to poplar stained very dark.
Posted by: sam at April 14, 2009 2:23 PM
I put 650k. Decent location, decent size, but nearly a million for anything in bed stuy that's not a beautifully restored single-family home on a killer block is ridiculous.
Posted by: cwbuecheler at April 14, 2009 2:25 PM
Amzi Hill I see your condo was yanked off the market!!!!!!!! I think Cockriin had enough of your BullS****! Remember when you was talking smack to The What and now you got PWNED! I love the line where "Buy now or the price will be higher" or "We are selling because we want to free up some cash" ROTFLMMFAO!!!!!!!!
The one thing I love is no one is responding to me! I wonder why????
Buh Bye Reatrds....
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at April 14, 2009 2:27 PM
Its hard to tell from the pictures but the dark doors and casings may actually be painted brown and not natural.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 2:27 PM
My latest theory is that 11217 is a double agent hired by the Brooklyn Heights Association to single-handedly erode the prestige of Park Slope by making it seem as if he is the neighborhood's spokesman and chief booster.
Posted by: sam at April 14, 2009 2:28 PM
11217, people have been pricing the houses at about 25% less than the listing price on the widget for most of the houses. So, it’s no surprise here.
Yes, I do know how the real estate market works. And I also know not to compare two very different neighborhoods.
11217, no offense, but you always state the obvious. Please say more, I can handle the truth. Obviously someone is calling you out and you can’t handle it.
Should I dredge up some house listing for Bay Ridge? We can compare BR to Bed Sty.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 2:29 PM
"The one thing I love is no one is responding to me! I wonder why????"
Because you're illiterate and incapable of civility?
Posted by: cwbuecheler at April 14, 2009 2:30 PM
"Because you're illiterate and incapable of civility?"
Why thank you...
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at April 14, 2009 2:31 PM
Basementalist...I don't do comparisions. Ask 11217
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 2:31 PM
Amzi thanks, we're not ready to start looking again. We were looking about a year ago in Crown Heights and a little in Bed Sty. But stopped. We're so apprehensive with the way the economy is. We don’t mind a house that needs work, as both Hubby and I are in the ‘field’. We will need to live in it while we ‘fixer upper’ it.
We’re going to wait and see where these prices are headed.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 2:37 PM
Sometimes I hate the vibe of people who are demographically just like me. There's a name for that . . .
Posted by: Nomi at April 14, 2009 2:38 PM
"Hubby and I are in the ‘field’. We will need to live in it while we ‘fixer upper’ it.
We’re going to wait and see where these prices are headed."
Yeah maybe you can buy a rent controlled apartment house and put everyone in the street!
Suck it well bayridgegirl....
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at April 14, 2009 2:44 PM
"Suck it well bayridgegirl...."
What, WTF, I didn't address you!
Back off!!!
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 2:49 PM
There are some really good deals in Bed Stuy if you're willing to renovate. Here are some.
131 Decatur Street- Bet Marcus Garvey and Throop- $450k
324 Jefferson ave- Bet Marcy and Tomk- $650k
480 Putnam ave- Bet Throop and Tomks- $475k
All 4 floors with most details....
Get in while you fit in.
Posted by: Crooklyn at April 14, 2009 2:51 PM
Well Bayridge girl....
Maybe you should stay out of Bed Stuy if you gonna be sucking off The What. Wouldnt want you to get your feelings hurt. I hear he gets around, ask Dave, Biff, CW and 11217.
Posted by: Crooklyn at April 14, 2009 2:55 PM
"Maybe you should stay out of Bed Stuy if you gonna be sucking off The What. Wouldnt want you to get your feelings hurt. I hear he gets around, ask Dave, Biff, CW and 11217."
and you forgot your Mother...
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at April 14, 2009 2:57 PM
From my contacts within the corrections department I have it on good information that the What was the one usually doing the sucking.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 2:59 PM
When you're trying to figure if a house is appropriately priced, comparisons are important. Not just 11217's--Brownstoner made a relevant comparison with the rent he gets in Clinton Hill. It's reasonable to ask if the apartments are still going to command what the seller says in the current market.
Posted by: basementalist at April 14, 2009 2:59 PM
I dont get it either...
But I got his attention...
That just made my day...
Posted by: Crooklyn at April 14, 2009 3:00 PM
WTF!!!! At 2:49, I was going to say something really vulgar as a response to the What, but decided I didn't want to degrade the HOTD thread.
Take your shit to the Open Thread, What. I'll trash you there. You can teach me how to 'suck', tell me how you did it in the 'Big House'...now you're doing it to pay your rent.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:02 PM
^^^^ sorry everyone else, let's get back to the House of the Day.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:02 PM
Basementalist!!!!
Don't you get it, the world is gonna end so just Suck off!!!
But seriously speaking.. Rents in Bed Stuy has taken a nose dive just like the houses. Do your research, check Craigslist for rentals. Two Bedrooms in landmark blocks with details are going for $1300-$1400 and you can negotiate.
Posted by: Crooklyn at April 14, 2009 3:04 PM
I would like to see the floor plan on this one. Looks to me like they have ruined the house by sticking kitchens into bedrooms and laying down tile floors, etc.
Trust Dave on the price.
DIBS, if this were gorgeously renovated and on a prime Stuy Heights block, what's the highest it would fetch? (Without being gold plated.)
Posted by: mopar at April 14, 2009 3:06 PM
11217 (and I know am sooo off topic here)
but are you saying that rents are still pretty healthy in PS for duplex sqft about 1000?? going for more than $2500
just curious as my tenants apt is up in june (duplex with w/d/dw/backyard usuage 2 BRs) and am currently getting $2800
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 3:09 PM
Will the good deals in Bed Sty be better deals in a year?
hhhmmmm...I guess that's the million dollar question
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:10 PM
Basementalist:
I agree, but as I'm sure you are aware, there is a little thing called...bring up the words Park Slope and *some* people go ape shit. It goes with the territory and I don't mind it one bit.
Honestly the people who can get so bent out of shape by a couple buzzwords or the mentioning of a neighborhood are not really people I choose to interact with in my "real" life.
Anyone who says "I truly abhor the vibe I get from 'most' people in Park Slope." has got a lot of issues, clearly.
I would NEVER say such a thing about a neighborhood of thousands of people, nor would any other sane person who has social skills.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 3:11 PM
Gemini,
I didn't look at any duplexes so I'm not really familiar with those as much as just standard 2 bedrooms, but just from guessing, 2800 sounds like a good deal to me. It seems to me rents are off about 10-20% in Park Slope from this time last year, but for what you mention, that place sounds pretty great. The garden commands a lot, in my opinion...
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 3:15 PM
“bring up the words Park Slope and.....It goes with the territory and I don't mind it one bit.”
Re-write:
I (11217) always bring up the words Park Slope, in every single thread. It goes with the territory and I don’t mind it one bit, cause let’s face it Park Slope is the greatest neighborhood in the entire world.
The person that said "I truly abhor the vibe I get from 'most' people in Park Slope." is pushing your buttons, you ape shit.
bayridgegirl
- an insane person lacking social skills
- a person that can recognize each neighborhood is different and doesn’t always need to compare Bay Ridge to the Rest of Brooklyn
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:20 PM
I just talk about the things I know more about. I don't like to interject too much about things I'm not terribly familiar, but there are certain aspects of Park Slope that I know a lot about (from reading and experiencing) and I see no reason not to bring it up. You're free to skip my posts, BRG. I won't be offended.
Or go back to the OT and discuss cat puke and the other very important topics you speak ad nauseam about.
p.s. your screen name has the words Bay Ridge in it, so every post of yours has your little neighborhood shout out also.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 3:26 PM
Bayridgegirl:
You got some serious issues to cope with, Medical help usually does the trick.
But I understand you're from Bayridge, probably the worst Brooklyn Neigh.
Just on thinking how far Bayridge is makes me wanna to move to East N.Y or Brownsville.
Posted by: Crooklyn at April 14, 2009 3:28 PM
Also the parlor looks narrow and there is no fireplace.
Posted by: mopar at April 14, 2009 3:31 PM
11217 - you stated that you are obviously gay and white, so granted you don't feel comfortable in a predominately black neighborhood. however, plenty of people do feel comfortable in bed-stuy. so please speak for yourself and the 'rest of the market'.
Maplewood guy - "You would not put a family there because of the neighborhood and schools." so what does that say for all of the families in bed-stuy with children, who think the neighborhood is great and send their kids to school in the neighborhood. have you ever even been there? i assume you live in Prospect Lefferts - ok it's so much greater over there with exceptional schools and flatbush avenue and all. just shut it up!
i can't take all of these ignorant comments.
ok - that said the house looks good. i do believe the price is high. halsey is a busy street - especially for kids. i saw 750k.
Posted by: bkny at April 14, 2009 3:36 PM
Bay Ridge is beautiful.
Posted by: Nomi at April 14, 2009 3:37 PM
sorry about the typos but i am trying to work while getting a comment in or two.
Posted by: bkny at April 14, 2009 3:39 PM
By the sounds of it 11217 only knows about Park Slope and only Park Slope.
And if anyone thinks my poster name is a shout out to my neighborhood "are not really people I choose to interact with in my "real" life."
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:43 PM
I'm not sure how black and white are now being brought into the conversation, I was simply surprised (yes, surprised!) that 2 bedrooms in Bed Stuy rent for 2500 a month.
That's really all. Never said it wasn't a great place (in fact, I believe I said it WAS a great neighborhood) and never claimed PS was the best area in the world (I live there, and I know more about it than other hoods is all). Perhaps I should be more like BRG and make comments about other areas in which I don't know anything about and make sweeping generalizations about them...maybe *then* I'd sound smarter.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 3:46 PM
"Perhaps I should be more like BRG and make comments about other areas in which I don't know anything about"
You should be more like BRG and EXPLORE other areas and then maybe you'd know something about them. I'm in a different neighborhood in NYC every weekend exploring.
Get out there 11217. There is a train that leave Park Slope.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 3:50 PM
One any given weekend day, I'm in 5-7 different neighborhood in Brooklyn.
Last weekend, was in Ditmas Park for dinner/drinks/walk Friday night....went to Coney Island after for a spin on the Cyclone and on Sunday was out visiting a friend by Avenue P.
Your comments really show what kind of person you are, BRG.
Luckily though...I don't say I hate Bay Ridge because of it.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 3:54 PM
I love the street in Bayridge where all the mafia dons live.
Immaculate houses. They like their houses ship shape. One also gets the feeling of being on a very very safe street.
Posted by: sam at April 14, 2009 3:56 PM
11217, let's be friends.
Do you want to go exploring together? Let's go to Bed Stuy; not just for dinner and drinks but to walk around. I usually carry my AIA Guide and a camera. If I see a little old lady sweeping her stoop, I stop and talk to her. If I see someone in front of an architecturally interesting house, I'll ask them questions about the house.
I'll pick you up in the car; I know where Park Slope is.
FYI - I don't hate Park Slope, there is some beautiful architecture there.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:02 PM
Oh and 11217...while we're out exploring together, you can talk to people in the neighborhood about Park Slope, since that's all you know.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:05 PM
we can all meet up at Peaches some night
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 4:15 PM
I love you BRG! Can I join Amzi and DIBS in showing you around? I lived in Park Slope for about 14 years and left because of the changing vibe. I hear ya. I must be insane too.
Posted by: rh at April 14, 2009 4:15 PM
What's the "Vibe" yo PS haters keep talking about?
Please elaborate
Ilive in PS and really like it - Am sure there are some annoying peeps that are totally over the top, but aren't they also in Ft Greene,CH,Cgrdns,and Bed Stuy?
Just curious what is the vibe you keep talking about?
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 4:21 PM
There are no annoying peeps in Bed Stuy.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 4:22 PM
BRG and 11217 I will give both of a grand tour of Bedford Stuyvesant. I can even get you into some of the sweet old ladies houses full of detail and plastic cover couches. I have to tell you BRG I would love to have you and your husband set up roots in the neighborhood. You sound like people that don't mind helping us build our community up to a even better place. We need good couples like you that are open minded and dose not mind living in a edgy, beautiful neighborhood full of sweet old ladies and homeboys...
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 4:24 PM
Sorry all for my 'off topic' ranting. Sometimes I just get sick of everything being compared to Park Slope. Why can't a neighborhood stand alone, have it's own identity. Why does someone have to come along and say 'well, there's 'better' in this nabe.
rh...yes, of course you can show me around. Hubby and I have been to Bed Stuy numerous times, just walking the streets (I'm a big ogler of architecture). I will admit I'm more familar with Crown Heights than Bed Stuy, and almost prefer it for buying a house. But maybe you can convince me otherwise. It's really going to come down to where our dollars are going to get us the best value.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:27 PM
Dibs - you always make me sound like I'm the resident 11 year old!
haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 4:31 PM
"There are no annoying peeps in Bed Stuy."
but there's one annoying gay guy!
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:31 PM
G10, I lived there for fifteen years or so and now live in the South Slope. It's kinda getting a bit like the UES, but with a lefty slant. Mix up trust fundies, the Park Slope Food Coop, organic diapers, stroller moms, PETA, and nannies that work seven days a week, and you'll get the vibe. But maybe you haven't live there long enuf to see the changes. Not saying it's all bad, just sayin...
Posted by: denton at April 14, 2009 4:32 PM
gemini10 i have to tell you I lived in North Park Slope for 7 years and I did not notice any "strange" vibe. Now that live in BS and when I go back to visit friends I notice how stuck up many of the people are... No one makes eye contact and when you say hello it is like you have just called someone out of there name or something. This vibe mostly comes from new people there or young couples. Sometime I do run into friendly people in PS but they are usually the older residents that have been there for many years. I do think PS is a beautiful neighborhood full of some of the best architecture in NYC. But the people have really turned me off to that area.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 4:36 PM
Gemini, a "Manhattan" vibe. As in, people don't look you in the eye and say good morning (can't get away with that shit in Bed Stuy). As in, a sense of self entitlement. Definitely not as bad in those other neighborhoods you mentioned.
Posted by: rh at April 14, 2009 4:37 PM
Amzi, that's so sweet....and my post right after yours basically said I'd prefer Crown Heights. I take it back; Bed Stuy it is :-)
Once Hubby and I were walking around Crown Heights. We stopped in front of a house and were checking out the details. An SUV pulls up to the curb, guy lowers his window and he shouts out "Are you two looking to buy a house in the neighborhood". "Yes, we're thinking about it"
He gets out of the car and we have a lengthy conversation with him about the area. He tells us his cousin has a couple of houses in the nabe for sale. He gives us his cousins phone number and told us to call, but we can only call him during certain hours....and it was something bizarre like after 10pm.
Needless to say we never called the cousin...it all sounded so iffy.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:39 PM
Eff this noise...I'm moving to Bed Stuy.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 4:40 PM
rh/amzi - ok I get it!
eeks -I think I can admit to being like one of those people sometimes - but then again, why do I have to say hello to every person walking by me on a crowded 7th avenue morning?
(am being Rob now...)
but I get your point - I often say hello to my block neighbors.
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 4:41 PM
ouch!! BRG pulls no punches!
Posted by: dirty_hipster at April 14, 2009 4:43 PM
rh your so right... living in BS is like living in old school Brooklyn people still speak to each other.
BRG I have given so many people the "Amzi Hill" Bedford and Stuyvesant Heights tour telling now new friends about the architecture and history of the two neighborhoods that have become one. And now posting some of the facts on my own blog. Let me know when you want to take the tour...
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 4:46 PM
Yes, I'm amazed how everyone says hello to everyone in BS. Absolutely love it. And, its very quiet where I live in bed Stuy.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at April 14, 2009 4:49 PM
Actually, if you want to see what's happened to PS, see the 'mommy flip-out' link on the wrap.
Posted by: denton at April 14, 2009 4:50 PM
Amzi...would love the tour, only if Hubby and I can treat you to lunch.
Maybe you should organize something, I'm sure others on here would like to join the tour.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 4:52 PM
That's what I miss about living in Crown Heights (it sounds like BS is similar in this respect) - It was a real neighborhood. People said good morning to each other, and hello during the day. The bodega owner got to know your preference in beer/blunt flavors. I dunno - Park Slope is a great neighborhood, but lets not get ahead of ourselves in saying its authentic Brooklyn. On a nice day it feels much more like the upper west side. This isn't a bad thing, just different strokes for different folks.
Posted by: dirty_hipster at April 14, 2009 4:55 PM
I would love to join your Bed Stuy tour. Love the neighborhood and I'm still upset I didn't end up living there :(
Posted by: dirty_hipster at April 14, 2009 4:56 PM
BRG Crown Heights is beautiful. Did you get to there house tour? I liked it better than the BS house tour. To tell you the truth I like it better than all house tours. The Prospect Pl house was just beautiful. Dean, St. Marks and Prospect PL are some of my favorite streets in NYC. Crown Heights is lovely I am just a Bedford Stuyvesant person. I have roots here going back 75+ years.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 4:56 PM
Denton - bwahhhh! - hahahahaha
wow - yeah, that's not me or many peOPLE I know in PS - but I know they exist and are presently making people on this blog hate on PS - oh well - usually just takes 1 apple, but from the likes of the PSP website debacle - it looks like it takes a whole crop to spoil it all for everyone
Posted by: gemini10 at April 14, 2009 4:57 PM
Amzi, yes we went to last years Crown Heights House Tour...actually the only one we went to last year. This year I want to get to more of them...heck I'll even go to the Park Slope House tour ;-)
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 5:07 PM
"wow - yeah, that's not me or many peOPLE I know in PS - but I know they exist and are presently making people on this blog hate on PS - oh well - usually just takes 1 apple, but from the likes of the PSP website debacle - it looks like it takes a whole crop to spoil it all for everyone"
I don't even pay any attention to all of the PSP crap that goes on. So stupid and boring.
But considering that 25% (or so) of PS are people with kids, I have to assume that a fraction of those are the whacked out crazy moms, in which case we are really talking about a pretty small minority of people here ruining what should be a beautiful thing (having kids).
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 5:14 PM
Hey dirty hipster and BRG if you guys are around Sunday or the following Sunday I can give you the tour. Just let me know... my e-mail is in my profile.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 5:17 PM
Amzi Hill said:
"Sometime I do run into friendly people in PS but they are usually the older residents that have been there for many years. I do think PS is a beautiful neighborhood full of some of the best architecture in NYC. But the people have really turned me off to that area."
and
"Now that live in BS and when I go back to visit friends I notice how stuck up many of the people are.."
BRG said:
I truly abhor the vibe I get from 'most' people in Park Slope.
***
I'd like to note that I don't believe I said one negative thing about Bed Stuy in this thread, yet here are others speaking about PS and it goes unnoticed. Just for the record. Everyone has their opinion of different neighborhoods...impressions if you will, but I don't appreciate being made out to be the guy talking shit about someone's neighborhood when 1. it's not true and 2. actually it's THOSE people saying it that are speaking negatively about OTHER people's hoods.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 5:24 PM
"Hey dirty hipster and BRG if you guys are around Sunday or the following Sunday I can give you the tour. Just let me know... my e-mail is in my profile."
Let me see.. A new retard is going to show more retards Bed Stuy????? Man you can't me this stuff up!
I hope you tards get robbed..
The What
Someday this war is gonna end..
Posted by: Return of The What at April 14, 2009 5:25 PM
Can I go too? Can we have brunch at Peaches?
Posted by: mopar at April 14, 2009 5:39 PM
11217 your Park Slope negativity started when you said:
"That's great BRG, but the fact that people are pricing this house at 736K on the widget, and Lincoln Place sold for 2.3 million means more people prefer Park Slope. That's not me boosting PS or degrading Bed Stuy...it's just a fact."
That was you boosting PS and degrading BS..You knew what you were doing.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 5:46 PM
Amzi, I'll email you. I just want to check with Hubby and see if he has any plans for either Sunday.
What time are you thinking?
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 5:49 PM
Mopar my friend sure you can come the more the better... I can show you some Amzi Hill, Montrose Morris,Parfitt Brothers and R. L. Daus buildings that are all over the neighborhood.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 5:53 PM
Not degrading actually...pointing out an obvious fact about markets that higher priced areas are more desirable than those which are lower priced.
That's why gold costs more than silver.
(I personally prefer silver, but I'm well aware that gold costs more).
Doesn't mean one is better or worse, it means one is more desirable by a larger number of people, thus increasing the price of such thing.
Posted by: 11217 at April 14, 2009 5:55 PM
anytime after 2pm. Mopar please feel free to come also and anyone else.... We could all meet at Bread-Stuy on Lewis..
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 6:02 PM
11217 So your telling me that a brownstone on the UES that cost 16 million is more desirable than a brownstone in your neighborhood that is 8 million. I could never live on the UES even if I had the money... I really just think it is all about being able to name drop a address and you pay for it... I was talking to a older friend of mine who pretty much revived Park Slope says even he can't take the people who have now moved in with there money. He says he really miss the days of a good solid middle class neighborhood with down to earth people.
Posted by: Amzi Hill at April 14, 2009 6:23 PM
Hey guys, working all day, so just catching up, but I'll be there with you. I'll also lead a Crown Heights walking tour whenever a bunch of you agree to do it. I've been told I should do it for money, so get in on my free practice sessions. Both communities are wonderful, and I'm proud to have been a resident of both.
Amzi and BRG, thanks for the complements on our house tour. We worked like crazy to get it done, and are working on tour number three now.
Posted by: Montrose Morris at April 14, 2009 6:38 PM
These tour 'tag alongers' are coming out of the woodwork :-)
MM, I'll take you up on your tour of Crown Heights, you can practice on Hubby and me. But be warned, I ask lots of questions.
Anybody else want to offer tours of their neighborhood? I'd actually like one of Flatbush. Hubby and I have been there several times, but I don't think we've really begun to discover it.
Hello anyone, tour of Flatbush......
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 6:58 PM
I live a couple of blocks from this place. It's closer to the subway than where we are, but it is a busy two-way street because of the buses. It's a great part of Bed-Stuy, for sure.
But the house is probably overpriced. Six months ago the rents would have been achievable, maybe not now, for obvious reasons. But what goes down will come up again.
I'd love to join you guys. I'd love to go to Peaches--we (my 13-yr-old daughter and I) always forget and go to the Smoke Joint instead.
Posted by: rf at April 14, 2009 7:10 PM
If the new nephew doesn't need my love and attention, I would love to join you all for the tour.
Can we all confirm on the Open Thread on Friday?
Montrose, I LOVE your new reporting on B'stoner.
Posted by: Miss Chiff at April 14, 2009 7:11 PM
BRG, there's a Victorian Flatbush tour on June 14th...which leads me to my next proposal....Amzi and/or MM, I volunteered to host the June Blogade and I'm looking for a co-host. I'm considering June 14 and tying it into the Garden tour and Flatbush tour. Anyone game? MM, you blog for Brownstoner now, so yes, you're a blogger too.
I won't be around this Sunday. :( You can tour my work in progress house if you promise to put in some painting/stripping/plastering time.
Posted by: rh at April 14, 2009 7:22 PM
Thanks, Miss Chiff. My pleasure.
Posted by: Montrose Morris at April 14, 2009 7:23 PM
Woohooo...hold on, all. This sunday and next sunday may be too short notice for me also. Hubby just got back from a trip and I haven't spoken to him yet so don't know if he's made plans for the weekend for us. Plus we need to go to Boston within the next couple of weekends.
And don't you all take Amzi's tour with out me! I started this :-)
Thanks rh, will get info about the tour of Flatbush.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 7:39 PM
Found this link, but they only have last year’s house tour info :-(
http://www.fdconline.org/
I'll call tomorrow.
I actually wish it was a historical / architectural tour of the area. I like walking around and learning the history. Maybe I should pick up a book about the area. The AIA guide doesn’t cover it as comprehensively as other areas.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at April 14, 2009 7:51 PM
>"11217 So your telling me that a brownstone on the UES that cost 16 million is more desirable than a brownstone in your neighborhood that is 8 million."
Yes. I'm not 11217, but yes. Not understanding the argument against this. Doesn't mean that every single person finds the Upper East Side more desirable than Park Slope. Of course not. But it certainly means the majority does. Why doesn't matter, whether it's what you'd consider superficial reasons or not; it's just a fact. The fact is reflected in what people are willing to pay.
Posted by: Nomi at April 14, 2009 7:55 PM
Please let me know if you guys are getting together in Bed Stuy/Crown Heights. Sundays I can do, and I love the area. I was just thinking the other day on my walk to Children's Museum how it is kinda nicer than Clinton Hill.
Also, I know if we ever DO get ourselves together to buy a house, that's where it would probably be.
Posted by: Heather at April 14, 2009 8:34 PM
I would love to do a walk around BedStuy and CH with someone knowledgeable. Sounds like this is snowballing and will be oversubscribed.
Hmm...Amzi and Montrose, you guys should charge! Recession busting idea right there!
PS: I also could not do Sunday mornings / early afternoons.
Posted by: etson at April 14, 2009 8:59 PM
rh, amzi is a blogger, too. you sent me the link to his new site. Hmmm, sounds interesting, we'll talk.
Posted by: Montrose Morris at April 15, 2009 12:21 AM
I know! I included Amzi! Why are we talking here?
Posted by: rh at April 15, 2009 6:30 AM
I have to say i think Bed Stuy--especially the area near the a/c trains is way more desirable than Clinton Hill to both buyers and renters. We looked all through Clinton Hill but the G line sucks for transport and there is more stuff going on in Bed Stuy. Further--and for the record-we prefer Bed Stuy to Park Slope. We actually fled because it was over commercialized and way too Upper West Side --- its a nice place to visit but we didn't want to live there. Now Fort Greene is a whole other story--best of all worlds, in my humble opinion.
I think a house in this area can easily fetch 850 if it is marketed correctly. That said, this agent's listing leaves much to be desired and I really do not get a sense of the details from the pics.
Posted by: HomeSweetstuy at April 15, 2009 8:57 AM
Latest Restaurant Additions
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Le Barricou
added November 20, 2009 12:00 PM in Williamsburg -
Der Schwarze Kölner
added November 19, 2009 12:00 PM in Fort Greene -
Oak Wine Bar & Café
added November 18, 2009 12:00 PM in Williamsburg -
Mr. Wonton
added November 17, 2009 12:00 PM in Park Slope -
Casa Rosa
added November 16, 2009 12:00 PM in Carroll Gardens -
Cousin John's Café & Bakery
added November 13, 2009 12:00 PM in Park Slope -
Elote
added November 12, 2009 12:00 PM in Williamsburg -
Miracle Grill
added November 11, 2009 12:00 PM in Park Slope -
Phoebe's Cafe
added November 10, 2009 12:00 PM in Williamsburg -
Ruthie's
added November 9, 2009 12:00 PM in Clinton Hill, Downtown Brooklyn
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