Was just wondering about this park yesterday! Are these photos from Pier 6 at the end of Atlantic Ave.? I thought that was the segment that was next due to be done (by the winter)?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at November 13, 2009 10:57 AM in response to Brooklyn Bridge Park Progress Report

Our 4-unit co-op has always used Frank Modica, he's a broker with an office in Carroll Gardens (374 Court St.)--general insurance broker, so I believe he doesn't work for any one insurance company. Super super nice guy, very helpful in talking through what you need and has always gotten us good policy options. 718-855-1836

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at October 24, 2009 3:17 PM in response to Condo Insurance

Oooh, how exciting. Just what the neighborhood really needs, another nail spa. There's also a sign for one opening in an empty space on Smith--near Pacific or Dean, I think?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at October 19, 2009 3:18 PM in response to Streetlevel: New Nails Spot for The Heights

We had the same situation when we moved into our place a few years ago with a similarly small fireplace--looked far and wide, both online and in stores, for a smaller size screen. Didn't find anything narrower than 36" (or maybe it was 30"?)--there seems to be a standard size--but we didn't want to obscure the face of the fireplace itself with that big a screen. There are definitely places that will make them in custom sizes (Google to find them), but they are very expensive.

In the end we gave up and just use it open--we're always in the room when a fire's burning and there's nothing flammable nearby, so it seems to be OK.

Good luck!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at October 18, 2009 3:46 PM in response to Need Small Fireplace Screen

Agree with Putnamdenizen, do the best that you can now. As someone who is heading into month 6 of a refinance process WITH MY CURRENT MORTGAGE HOLDER, I can tell you that refinancing today is very very laborious and drawn-out. Avoid having to refinance later if you possibly can.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at September 14, 2009 3:24 PM in response to Conforming or Jumbo?

Thanks etson! Glad somebody responded to my aside. :) Exactly the kind of suggestions I was looking for.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at September 4, 2009 11:13 AM in response to Bay Ridge McMansion

I agree with most people here. There's so much hideous new construction around, but I just don't find this one so bad. Not really my taste, and too big, but attractive in its own way, and nicely cared for. I could easily see it in Pacific Heights in San Francisco. For that matter, if you took away the poles and power lines and pavement, I could almost see it in the Tuscan countryside... Maybe in person it looks worse (i.e., cheaper/chintzier).

Anyway, on a kind of related note, was thinking of taking a first-time field trip to Bay Ridge this weekend, just to have a walk around a different neighborhood. Any suggestions for routes? What about places to eat with dog-friendly outdoor seating? And best parks to take the dog to? Thanks!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at September 4, 2009 10:53 AM in response to Bay Ridge McMansion

Hi apartmenter1. We're also a 4-unit co-op, and only do unaudited financials. So far Wells Fargo hasn't required audited ones of us. It's a long time since I submitted the paperwork to them...but I vaguely remember that they may have asked for EITHER audited financials OR unaudited ones + tax returns. But not sure. Sounds like their process is not very consistent... But you might want to ask them about that.

The latest hold-up was getting the info they needed on our building insurance policy from the insurance company. It finally came through and looked like we might have progress, then they red-flagged that the policy didn't separately spell out coverage for the building's common boiler. So they had to go back to ask about that again. Oy. (That reminds me, I should follow up w/ them on that...)

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at September 1, 2009 4:11 PM in response to How Long to Refinance?

Exact same situation with Wells Fargo--they have our current mortgage, and we started the refi process about 5 months ago. Being in a small co-op has been a big part of what's slowed things down for us--apparently it takes longer for them internally to "approve" things with this kind of building. I've at least been getting pretty quick responses when I email/call, but they just seem to belabor every little detail of the process... Sigh. Glad to hear I'm not the only one in this boat, at least.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at September 1, 2009 2:04 PM in response to How Long to Refinance?

There's a mail/shipping place on Smith St., near Dean or Bergen (east side of the street) that has a couple Internet terminals.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at August 24, 2009 4:01 PM in response to Internet cafe

So does that mean this is building is a 2-unit condo? That's kind of an unusual set-up, isn't it? I guess their mechanicals, etc. must all be separate, but negotiating other common items/expenses could get sticky when there's no "tie-breaker"...

Might the "keyed garden" comment might be referring to a community garden that only allows access to residents in a certain vicinity?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at August 4, 2009 2:19 PM in response to Condo of the Day: 584 Pacific Street

You should do a search on apartmenttherapy.com, or even try to submit it to their "Good Question" feature--this is exactly the kind of thing that gets great, creative responses on that site.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at August 3, 2009 10:07 PM in response to Covering Up Exposed Brick

Again, thanks everyone for all these details and your varying perspectives!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at July 31, 2009 8:29 AM in response to Cost of BK Car Insurance?

Thanks all! This has been very helpful. We're debating making the switch to ownership from Zipcar--much as I am a fan of Zipcar, I feel like it's gotten quite expensive. A couple weekend rentals a month (esp. since we usually need their larger vehicles) seems to be getting close to the cost of ownership...

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at July 30, 2009 3:02 PM in response to Cost of BK Car Insurance?

I second the vote for the Atlantic Mall--but try to go before it opens if you can, as the line forms early. Moves reasonably quickly and I found it pretty efficient for a DMV. (But still bring something to read for the wait. :)

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at July 30, 2009 1:11 PM in response to Drivers License Question

Or maybe it's because just about everyone on this site emphatically professes the belief that all realtors are evil and that there's no such thing as a good or useful one...?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at July 28, 2009 10:38 AM in response to RE Agents Hate Brownstoner

We are a similar building and were just in a similar situation. We had a very good exeperience with a company called Danielle Louise, who specialize in sprinklers. I've pasted their details below. We had gotten some exorbitant quotes and very unclear info from a couple plumbers, and this company was the first one who seemed to really know the code requirements and exactly what we needed to do. Got things sorted out for us for a reasonable price.

Frank Smith
Owner
Danielle Louise Inc.
A Full Service Fire Sprinkler Company
2606 Gerritsen Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11229
P: 718-332-1858
C: 646-773-9434
F: 718-332-6201
FSmi505@aol.com
http://www.daniellelouiseinc.vpweb.com

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at July 22, 2009 11:17 AM in response to Fire Suppression Test for Coop?

Don't suppose it means they'll start allowing dogs there? As far as I know, the state-run Empire Fulton portion of Brooklyn Bridge Park doesn't permit dogs (sniff), but the city-run part does...

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at June 11, 2009 10:20 AM in response to BBPDC To Assume Control of Fulton Ferry State Park

Making a duvet cover is literally the easiest sewing project in the world. Just take it to your local dry cleaner who does alterations and ask them to do it--you just need to tell them the exact measurements you want, and if you want the opening just open or with snaps or something.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at June 10, 2009 9:23 AM in response to Tailor to make a duvet cover

Wow, that Red Hook house posted by dirtyhipster is beautiful... I'm totally into hijacking this thread to talk about it. What do you think it would really sell for? It's a great location *for Red Hook*--but then I've only been over there on beautiful sunny weekends to walk along the waterfront. Wonder how much sketchier it feels on a cold dark winter day... Also, having a car would make living out there much more palatable--I assume street parking's still pretty easy in that hood?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at May 27, 2009 2:04 PM in response to Co-op of the Day: 806 Carroll Street, #2 (Revisited)

I don't blame you at all. I think it's hideous too. :)

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at May 19, 2009 9:58 AM in response to seeking someone to remove mantel

You should also check out Urbanhound.com--great site, tons of useful info for new dog owners (which I am too, as of two months ago!). Good luck!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at May 18, 2009 11:56 AM in response to Dog Walkers?

Thanks everyone, for your input, we really appreciate it. It's a frustrating situation, becuase letting it lapse wasn't a matter of laziness or negligence--it was because someone in the building (who has since left) mis-read a notice we received a couple years ago when the inspection changed from being overseen by the dept. of housing preservation to the fire dept., and thought we didn't have to do the inspections at all anymore. Anyway, we will definitely call around to some other plumbers to see if we can get an approved inspection at a more reasonable price tag...

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at May 14, 2009 11:37 AM in response to Sprinkler system won't pass test

Don't know what your neighborhood is...but I highly recommend Perfect Paws in Brooklyn Heights. (perfectpawsinc.net) The owner, Tom, is just wonderful.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at May 13, 2009 4:50 PM in response to Dog Groomer

I also suggest you stop in at Monster Mutt--we adopted our dog from there just a couple months ago! They are usually fostering a couple of dogs for other rescue organizations, and even if they don't currently have a suitable dog for you I bet they could offer some advice. They are super nice and helpful there.

Try also checking out www.strayfromtheheart.org--when we were looking, they seemed to have a varied selection of pooches, and responded pretty quickly to our inquiries. Several other local rescue organizations are listed here: http://ny.urbanhound.com/houndFinder/stray.asp (and this website has lots of other useful info).

Finally, I also second zgori's comment above that apartment size shouldn't necessarily dictate dog size. Our dog is also a shepherd mix, 45ish pounds, and super mellow in the apartment. In any case, be open and just keep looking--your perfect dog will find you!!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 29, 2009 2:36 PM in response to A little off topic, but... Dogs.

Brownstones Half Off, I think they officially start the movie when it starts getting dark. So probably 9ish in July/August.

Does anyone know how crowded this gets, how early you need to show up? Years ago I used to go to the Bryant Park movies, but then it got to the point where you'd have to start camping out at lunchtime to get a spot on the lawn. Hoping this one might be a little more laid-back...

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 29, 2009 1:21 PM in response to Brooklyn Bridge Park Movie Schedule Announced

Oh my god, that photo just made my day! Awwwwwwww.....

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 29, 2009 9:39 AM in response to "More Problems w/ Pits" Rebuttal

The produce looked like nice-for-a-supermarket produce, and at least it's not all bulk packaged like most of Trader Joe's produce. Didn't pay attention to the prices, but I suspect also on the expensive side. Again, for me it's about convenience. The green grocer on Atlantic between Clinton and Court is cheap and decent quality, but not very convenient for those of us at this end of the hood who just need to pop out somewhere for an onion or a bunch of parsley. In my opinion, the only produce worth shlepping a bit out of the way for (and paying a little more for) is from the farmers market (at Borough Hall).

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 22, 2009 1:03 PM in response to Brooklyn Fare Launching Today

I'm the one who sent in the photo and quote above. I thought the prices were a little high--more like Manhattan supermarkets--but not outrageous. I live very nearby but doubt I'll be doing my regular big shopping trips there (Trader Joe's is a much better value), but it certainly is super convenient and worth it for a quick trip to fill in items here and there. Overall I think it's a great addition to the neighborhood, and I hope they do well. With that location by the subway, I'm sure they will.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 22, 2009 11:34 AM in response to Brooklyn Fare Launching Today

Since you're closer to Smith than Hoyt, I think you'll be fine. As you say, just plan to use that route--which is probably what will make sense for you anyway 99% of the time, since the F train, shops, etc. are all on Smith. Plus, I don't think walking by the projects is much of an issue during the daytime--I live a few blocks away, and I occasionally walk by and don't feel uncomfortable (I'm a woman, and I'm not the most thick-skinned). It's only after dark that I'd really avoid it.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 16, 2009 9:34 AM in response to Crime around Hoyt St Projects?

Agree, 75 sq. ft. is not tiny at all for NY! Our kitchen is about 56 sq. ft. (partly open to the LR), and feels totally sufficient for our two-bedroom apartment.

Not sure that I agree with geekspice's opinion on keeping it separate though...I think today a lot of people (myself included) prefer a more informal, open flow between kitchen and living space. But the expense of opening it up may not be worth it for you (since it would cost more than just renovating within your current footprint).

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 13, 2009 4:32 PM in response to Teeny Tiny Kitchen

Having just done a full gut reno of a 5'x7' bathroom for about $15K, $5-6K sounds pretty low. At that price, I wouldn't be surprised if the contractor did not carry insurance--which could be a dealbreaker if you're in a co-op.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 13, 2009 4:27 PM in response to Contractor advice for bathroom

I think the Carroll Gardens house is absolutely adorable, and beautifully renovated and maintained. I love the facade in the back. No idea about the price though.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 10, 2009 2:11 PM in response to Open House Picks

Call Bernie Belkin at CBS Construction, 917-825-4527. His crew recently did our small bathroom, as well our upstairs neighbor's--very good quality work and a good price. Plus, Bernie is just the nicest guy in the world. (I believe he's located in Windsor Terrace, although they work all over Brooklyn.)

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at April 9, 2009 9:27 AM in response to Contractor recommendation

Whoops, sorry--that was his fax number I gave above.
Phone is 718-855-1836

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 25, 2009 3:24 PM in response to Contact for Co-op insurance

I'd highly recommend talking to Frank Modica, he's an insurance broker with an office on Court St. 718-855-1994. Super nice guy, really helpful and patient, and got our 4-unit co-op a good policy.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 25, 2009 3:21 PM in response to Contact for Co-op insurance

Wow, yeah. Totally spot-on observation by The What...

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 19, 2009 9:16 AM in response to Split Decision on House of Detention

Now if they would just bring back the floating pool permanently! Sigh.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 18, 2009 10:49 AM in response to Wednesday Links

Yay, a waterfront dog run will be awesome!

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 17, 2009 10:18 AM in response to Parts of Brooklyn Bridge Park To Be Completed This Year

(P.S. "I'm waiting" was of course meant to be "I've been waiting"...)

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 6, 2009 5:24 PM in response to Brooklyn Fare coming soon!

Another vote for Park Slope plumbing. Good selection (more than you'd think looking at the size of the store from outside), nice helpful staff, and prices seemed reasonable to me (although we did get a bit of a discount through our contractor).

They don't do tiles, but you could check out A&K Tiles not far away (9th St.)--tell them what price range you're thinking and they can show you lots of options.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 6, 2009 5:23 PM in response to Bathroom Design Help

I'm so excited! I'm waiting for months for it to open, it'll be the closest supermarket to my house. Can't wait to see it.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 6, 2009 5:17 PM in response to Brooklyn Fare coming soon!

I too hope this doesn't mean a change to the restaurant itself! It's such a nice place. Consistently good food and really charming staff.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 5, 2009 5:21 PM in response to Streetlevel: Caserta Vecchia Up For Sale

I wouldn't recommend buying the puck lights themselves from Ikea, though. We did (they look exactly like the ones in the photo above, in fact), and they fizzled and died within a few months. So if you buy shelves and lights separately, I'd suggest buying better quality lights than Ikea's.

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at March 5, 2009 11:28 AM in response to Kitchen shelving

Thanks for the info. But I don't think those widths will work for our space. Also, I didn't realize you were selling *only* the wooden shelves, not the metal hanging system as well... Ah well. They look fantastic, by the way. Are you generally happy with them? Do you think they were worth the price?

Posted by: Brownstonerlogin at February 19, 2009 11:16 AM in response to Atlas East shelves and cabinets