Terrace and Roof Deck Costs


I have an unfinished terrace and roof deck (only tar paper) combined about 400 square feet. I want to put pavers or wood down and build side privacy dividers. What is the best option and what is a general square foot costs? any recs on installers? Thanks

Categories: Decks
By goat | 02/07/2010 10:16 AM | Comment

Condo Contract Expiring


I went into contract on a new conversion condo unit on July 1st. My contract had a contingency that I could rescind and get my down payment back if the sponsor could not close prior to Jan 1st, 2010. With 30 day notice does that means I need a notice to close by Dec 1st or I can walk? This is only a couple of weeks away and I’m pretty sure that they’re not going to have their paperwork in order in time. Since I’ve been in contract all the units next to mine have had their listing price reduced to the price that I had to negotiate the seller down to and I was considering trying to renegotiate if indeed I don’t get a notice of closing by Dec 1st to get a better deal. I’d like to ask for the sponsor to pay for the transfer taxes and their own attorney’s fees. Is it unheard of to reopen the contract to negotiation at this point? Does this seem reasonable in this climate?

Categories: Real Estate
By goat | 11/16/2009 1:51 PM | Comment

My Copy of Lease Unsigned


My landlord delivered me two copies of a lease renewal with addtional rider items. I signed them both and returned them the next day. I got one back but it’s not signed by the landlord. What is the legal status here? Can I move out and claim I’m only month to month from the previous lease as the landlord didn’t sign my copy? There was no change in rent or other means of determining that new terms have been accepted.

Categories: Legal
By goat | 09/25/2009 3:12 PM | Comment

Breaking Lease to Buy?


I rent a one bedroom in Brooklyn and have 5 months left on my lease. I found a good deal and decided to buy a condo that will close within 2 months – that means I’ll have several months left on my lease. I’m considering giving my landlord notice when I have a firm date of closing and paying that month’s rent and forfeiting my one month’s security if they release me from the remainder of the lease. Is this a fair situation? My landlord added a clause to the lease rider that doesn’t allow sublets. What are my options?

Categories: Etiquette
By goat | 07/31/2009 10:47 AM | Comment