Forum Archive: Posts by: slope2009

Hi,

I’ve searched the forum archives about this, but I haven’t found anything recent or maybe my question is just too broad–so sorry if this is repetitive, and thanks in advance for any advice.

We’re just starting to search for a brownstone, and wondering if people have any advice about the process (especially how it might be different from looking for a coop or condo)? Are there red flags we should look for that may cost money down the road or potentially compromise the mortgage process?
Are there things to look for during the inspection (that wouldn’t be obvious)? Or anything you wish you would have done while looking? Is it better to go around to all the listings with a real estate agent? We’ve just started and have gone to some open houses but wonder if there’s a better way.

I know these are a lot of questions — thanks so much!

Hi,

I’m sure this question has been asked before, but I’m about to embark on our search for a new apartment and have heard different things about whether we need a broker as we look at listings. I feel like we can do it on our own. Am I wrong? In this market in particular, does anyone think a broker can be helpful?

Thanks for your advice!

Hello, My younger sister signed a lease over a year ago with two roommates, and our dad signed on as a guarantor. After the one year was up, they just went month-to-month, so no new lease. My sister now wants to move out in a few months, but I want to make sure she gives proper notice and that our dad is no longer the guarantor once she moves out. Any advice on how to properly do this? Send a certified letter to the landlord with 30-days notice?

Thanks in advance!

Hi,

Has anyone here bought one of the new condos in Park Slope (on 4th ave./between 4th & 5th)? I’ve been very wary of them, but I’m wondering if I should consider them more seriously. One that seems good on paper is the Elan. Does anyone have any advice on this (what would be a total red flag, in your opinion/experience)? Would you avoid it no matter what? Schools are also an issue for us, and I’m concerned they’re going to re-zone all these new condos in the next few years. Thanks very much for any advice!

Hi,

My husband and I are not first-time buyers, but it sure feels like it since we haven’t bought anything in over 5 years. We sold our apartment a couple of years ago and have been renting since. We originally planned to buy this past fall, but then decided to wait a bit longer.

So, this weekend was our first open house weekend in a year, and we aren’t really sure how to read this market. It seems like a disconnect from what I expected — asking prices aren’t that far down, open houses for some of the apartments had a decent turnout, and when I contacted some brokers about listings, offers are already in.

So, my question is, for those with more experience, how different is today’s market (in Park Slope, specifically) from a year ago? How quickly to make an offer and how far below ask can you go? Is there a legitimate urgency to making an offer on a decent apartment or are these brokers just, well, being brokers?

Thanks in advance for any advice!