Brownstone owners- do you always encounter mice?


We are starting our house search and trying to decide between a high end condo/coop and brownstone. We are up for the general maintenance associated with a brownstone in terms of constant repairs, etc. However, one thing that keeps giving me pause is the rodent issue.

So I wanted to ask those of you who have brownstones to describe what type of mouse encounters should be expected.

If we buy a house that is in great condition, is it still a guarantee that we’ll see mice annually when the weather turns cold? Or is it more just a common occurance? We live in Manhattan now in an old building and have encountered mice but it was just once and they have not turned up again after we caught them.

So I just want to understand whether I can expect this to be an ongoing problem (as in, catch mice frequently throughout the year) or whether this is typically more of an isolated incident that, if properly addressed by exterminators, etc.- can be dealt with.

I’m just trying to understand the nature and severity of the mouse situation in most brownstones. Any comments would be appreciated.

Thank you!

By brooklyn08 | 02/04/2008 12:28 AM | Comment

C of O missing – do I need it for renovations


A property I am considering purchasing does not have a C of O but it does have a
Department of Finance Building Classification as a B1-2 FAMILY DWELLING. (It is being marketed as a 2-family and is configured as such).

I would like to convert it to a 1 family (just open up existing stairs), and add an extension as well as bathroom on one of the floors.

Would these renovations be possible without a C of O, or is one required to make these types of changes? I know that the architectect would need to file with the DOB to get necessary permits, etc. So is this type of work possible without a C of O?

(Current owner has made some changes (moved kitchen, added extension) that are on file with DOB. Does this in and of itself make it clear that such changes are possible without a C of O?)

Categories: C of O
By brooklyn08 | 01/19/2008 2:29 PM | Comment