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Hey, everyone.

I’m looking to move to Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, or Carroll Gardens this spring as a renter (CH would be most ideal). Since I’m in no hurry to move (I already have a secure place to live — but it’s a share), I figured I would try to do the legwork of finding a place myself instead of relying on a broker and thus avoiding the fee.

Would it be absolutely crass to call building managers, owners, landlords, etc. to inquire about vacancies in their properties? For those of you who are landlords here, do you think this is a good way for possible tenants to reach you?

My basic method for getting info is to gather addresses for buildings that look like they’re split into multiple units. I can then look up the ownership information on the NYC HPD website. From there I figured I’d just use the white pages to get the number for the head officer, managing agent, or owning corporation. Does anyone know which of these people are the best ones to contact?

Thanks in advance for any help!