If one believes that history repeats itself and this cycle is not unique, then historically real estate corrections are most accute in the first two years of a drop (i.e. 1989-1991) and then level off. As such, it would be logical that the end of 2008 represents a full two year down turn with bottom in 2009.

http://mysite.verizon.net/vodkajim/housingbubble/new_york.html

Posted by: Handle at September 12, 2008 12:41 PM in response to Housing Crisis Will End on June 30, 2009

While originating with DOB and upon further review of section 3, "Before beginning work, you must also obtain a permit from the Department of Transportation. A DOT permit allows you to alter the existing curb and sidewalk". It becomes a Police issue after becoming legal and you would like to get someone towed.

Posted by: Handle at September 2, 2008 2:00 PM in response to The Luxury of the Garage

One time, not sure about the recurring property tax inplications if any exist. But consider that one curb today generally takes more than one vehicle off the street, especially with the new condo developments. Larger developments are required to supply off street parking, otherwise there would be less space than there is today if that is possible.

Posted by: Handle at September 2, 2008 1:13 PM in response to The Luxury of the Garage

Fees? They are called: Hire an architect and obtain a DOT permit assuming they apporve it. Nothing is free. Once issued, it's legal regardless if they use the garage for "an attic" or not. Those that are illegal do not need to be respected. Of course, the patrolman on the beat doesn't have this insight when the owner complains and will probably issue a vehicle blocking it a summons anyway and then you have to fight it by pointing out the illegality. Having a tax photo doesn't necessairly define it's current status is legal either, just that is has been there for a long time. Don't assume the previous owners ever filed for a permit. Legal curb cuts are registerd with DOT.

Posted by: Handle at September 2, 2008 12:44 PM in response to The Luxury of the Garage

A garage is Gold. The ability to come and go, never having another thought about parking worries is priceless.

Posted by: Handle at September 2, 2008 10:42 AM in response to The Luxury of the Garage

No, hiring all the underprivileged as nannies, mannies, and any other dirty jobs we don't wish to do for minimum wage, not paying into SS, and not providing them bennies is the answer. It at least absolves us of that guilt we feel for not doing more.

Posted by: Handle at August 28, 2008 2:01 PM in response to More Big Box Shops for Red Hook

GWH: Maybe you could ask the people in the Red Hook projects who can and will probably fill these jobs (which I assume come with benefits) how they feel about these new big box stores coming in or were they not "The People" you are referring to with respect to being entreprenuial about owning something vs. working for a conglomorate? Corner Bodegas aside, you weren't really speaking for the underprivileged people in Red HooK. It's not like they are going to open some wine and cheese bar for you to patronize and make a killing on creating atmosphere for you. Maybe it's just me, but if I was in there shoes and I had an opportunity to work for a large corporation with even a remote chace to move up one or two levels to supervisory positions vs. wiping farts of stools for some "Entreprenuer" paying me minimum wage with no bennies, guess what, I'll take the Ikea job.

Posted by: Handle at August 28, 2008 1:46 PM in response to More Big Box Shops for Red Hook

Even a broken clock is right twice a day. To say we are in a sliding down market is equivalent to opening your window and stating the sun is out today. That has been the case for the past year and half. Depression? Not likley. How about some prognostication on turnaround or is it all bad news all the time?

Posted by: Handle at August 26, 2008 9:02 AM in response to House of the Day: 6 3rd Street

I find it difficult to say it's ugly or not. It's unique and has lot's of windows for sure, but that euro interior doesn't work for me. It is cold and sterile. Reminds me of a doctor's office. It replaced the "Ortiz Jewelry Store". I only mention that for those who wish to reminisce but would also be curious if you actually shopped there before you complain about another lost vintage mom and pop shop?

Posted by: Handle at August 13, 2008 4:34 PM in response to Going Modern on Fifth Avenue

So, How about that Bar & Grill.

Posted by: Handle at July 31, 2008 4:09 PM in response to Sunset Park's Rainbow Cafe Building Officially For Sale

I am sure it comes with lounge lizards and plenty of other guests you may care not to meet.

Posted by: Handle at July 31, 2008 10:56 AM in response to Sunset Park's Rainbow Cafe Building Officially For Sale

It's a pretty cheesy catering hall with a 50's style bar that comes with barflies. Great space if it had a new look inside.

Posted by: Handle at July 31, 2008 10:45 AM in response to Sunset Park's Rainbow Cafe Building Officially For Sale

12:54 Maybe you should think about some assimilation into your new neighborhood. I am sure your building, I mean condo, is lovely, but telling someone to move becuase their house appears to falling apart just means you didn't get any love from your momma who had you tended to by some illegal nanny from the carribean becuase your momma didn't have the time or patience to teach you some manners.

Posted by: Handle at October 3, 2007 3:29 PM in response to Condo of the Day: The Heritage at Park Slope

The Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas is example of what can be done. Once a similar industrial canal, now a prime spot. Too many hotels, but it is a convention spot. Still a good example though. Maybe something lower in scale and more for local residents than NYC tourists, but it can be done.
http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/

Posted by: Handle at October 3, 2007 12:38 PM in response to The Gowanus Canal: From PCBs to STDs

CG
Nix that. It works, albeit somewhat clugy to navigate through.
Just for you.

Posted by: Handle at September 17, 2007 6:12 PM in response to 4th Ave. Buildings Have a Date With the Wrecking Ball