My biggest concern is trying to hide it. What else are they hiding? It's a buyers market, walk, run, jog, trot or whatever to get out of this deal.

Posted by: Iknow at June 12, 2009 7:34 PM in response to More on Mold....

They had it too easy for too long. They are just sales people. Most don't know squat about construction, costs and problems. You would think this economy would be a wake up call. I treat all our customers well and our price range is from $1.00 to $5,000.00. I would take them to dinner if I were making 6% off of a million dollar sale.

Posted by: Iknow at May 15, 2009 12:32 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

Build a bat house and attach it to a flag pole. There are certain height requirements and you can easily find free plans with a google search. I'm sure they are also available commercially. I made one as a friend's house warming gift. Make sure you use cedar or some other weather proof wood (not pressure treated).

Posted by: Iknow at May 5, 2009 8:22 AM in response to How to attract bats

With such outliers, I think you need to show median and not mean (average).

Posted by: Iknow at April 29, 2009 8:52 PM in response to Co-op of the Day: 175 Eastern Parkway, #6N

Unfortunately you are so far away, but we use someone locally for minor repairs. We sell most of our transom sized stained glass for under $400.00, so paying $700.00 to repair it seems awfully high. We just got 8 new pieces in today (2 need repair) and will be bringing some of them down to Brooklyn Flea on May 16th. Photos should be on our website in a few days. Fred & Camille from Silver Fox Salvage

Posted by: Iknow at April 29, 2009 8:50 PM in response to Stain Glass Restoration & info?

The weather was perfect, the crowds were large even until 5pm but there was one thing we didn't count on -- the traffic was horrible getting home. I guess we will have to add another hour to our trip back to Albany. Fred from Silver Fox Salvage.

Posted by: Iknow at April 20, 2009 9:00 AM in response to Flea Opening Day: Mid-Afternoon Check-In

Long pry bars are good; however, the plywood is usually in large sheets. Take a circular saw and break it up, then pry it up in smaller units.

Posted by: Iknow at April 12, 2009 8:27 PM in response to Removing nailed-in floor plywd

I'm laying 2:1 it can't happen on that scale. Put up your jelly beans.

Posted by: Iknow at April 6, 2009 5:13 PM in response to Closing Bell: Woodstock 40th Anniversary at Prospect Park?

I think you can also flush your toilet, water your lawn, feed the birds, kill rats and mice and change even a light bulb.

Posted by: Iknow at April 2, 2009 9:40 AM in response to What can you do without permits?

DIBS, previous comparisons don't necessarily hold true in this economy. Besides the slashing of prices of autos is far steeper than the moderate decreases in housing prices in many areas.

Posted by: Iknow at April 2, 2009 9:37 AM in response to Manhattan Market Frozen

Gee B, you must be dizzy reading all these.

Posted by: Iknow at March 27, 2009 4:35 PM in response to Let's Talk About Commenting

The city needs money, it's probably just that simple. They got the word to go out and raise it. We have that upstate ALL THE TIME at the end of the month when quotas are due. Face it. The government needs money and they trick you into thinking the only tax you pay is income tax. So they lower that and then stick it to you with fines, licensing fees, 911 fees on your phone bill, tolls, etc. It's only going to get worse especially in neighborhoods with affluent people.

Posted by: Iknow at March 27, 2009 10:22 AM in response to Ticketed for Double Parking

Sorry about the link. If you email http://silverfoxenterprises@nycap.rr.com we will send you pics / Thanks. Fred

Posted by: Iknow at March 26, 2009 11:53 AM in response to 1800's Iron Gate and Fencing

It's called critising for sport. One day I would love to walk through one of their homes and point out everything I found ugly. The day they are as critical to their friends and family is the day I will respect them.

Posted by: Iknow at March 25, 2009 1:16 PM in response to Own a piece of DUMBO History

That ugly thing sold to someone in Hudson, NY. We do have some incredible fencing that I will put up next.

Posted by: Iknow at March 25, 2009 1:01 PM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

Is there a price, or are we keeping secrets?

Posted by: Iknow at March 23, 2009 7:09 PM in response to mirrored mantle piece for sale

Oh, I'm sorry I did forget I removed Napoleon's body so that's not included. I hope you're not disappointed.

Posted by: Iknow at March 17, 2009 8:22 AM in response to Today on the Forum

I don't know if there are any specifics, but I thought the state allowed three "garage sales" per year.

Posted by: Iknow at March 16, 2009 3:47 PM in response to sidewalk sale laws?

I didn't judge you, I asked you a question. Have you ever gone into a friends house and said "that couch is so ugly?" I doubt you have. So you decided to comment on this for what purpose? Do you walk into a store and tell the store owner that you hate the dress in the window? I try to list exceptional things for sale here once in a while. Comments like yours don't add anything to the reason for the post, or the people who may be interested other than letting us know your taste which I'm sure none of us really care about. I also don't think you are bold. Bored perhaps and hope someone out there agrees with you so you can feel a little better. I see so many on here ask for help on something and someone comments that they don't like their kitchen. How shallow is that? The person wanted to know what grout to use or something simple. I viewed you comment with the same uselessness. And one other thing I have learned in this business, the uglier it is, the faster it sells.

Posted by: Iknow at March 16, 2009 12:40 PM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

Those without vision are doomed to hire decorators.

Posted by: Iknow at March 16, 2009 7:45 AM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

Thanks for the advice. I wonder, do you walk into a friend's house and say similar things about their furnishings or are you someone who is only bold under the cover of a blog? I'm not offended, but I am a great fan of hypocrisy.

Posted by: Iknow at March 15, 2009 8:10 PM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

The dimensions are 70" long, 31 1/2 wide by 41 1/2" tall. It can be shortened a few inches if needed.

Posted by: Iknow at March 15, 2009 12:43 PM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

It looks like a pew with cushions.

Posted by: Iknow at March 12, 2009 8:36 PM in response to Antique Quartersawn Oak Sofa

That was incredible. Copycat here I come.

Posted by: Iknow at March 12, 2009 1:38 PM in response to Wednesday Blogwrap

With all the layoffs on Wall Street a recent event, it's doubtful many of them will find jobs even paying 1/2 as much, what do you think is going to happen to those who were over extended? Just read the blog dabagirls.com to see how some are struggling. Besides, it's quite amusing that they are so ruffled over not being able to afford Fendi bags anymore.

Posted by: Iknow at March 12, 2009 1:27 PM in response to U.S. Foreclosure Filings Rise 30 Percent

It's more than rent for the small businesses that are forcing many to close all over the country. Insurance only goes up, property taxes if you pay triple NET, sales are going down for most restaurants and retail, and most other small expenses can increase as well. Brooklyn is not immune.

Posted by: Iknow at March 10, 2009 1:24 PM in response to High Rents Killing Montague Street

The photoluminescent signs don't require hard wiring and may or may not be approved by code, so you should check first. They can last up to 10 years, but contain a small amount of raidoactive material and require proper disposal.

Posted by: Iknow at March 9, 2009 9:17 AM in response to Illuminated Exit signs SRO

Offend the seller! Their job is to get as much as possible, not be fair. Go ahead and offer, but leave some room for negotiation. Start at a million or a little less if the property is truly worth it.

Posted by: Iknow at March 9, 2009 9:08 AM in response to Making an Offer?

Did you keep the phone number of the other person that was interested? Did you have the person sign who left the deposit sign a contract? Do you even have a lease? Those questions need to be answered first. But chances are you won't be able to keep it.

Posted by: Iknow at March 9, 2009 9:04 AM in response to Security Deposit

southslope thanks for the lesson on transoms. Now what is the reason for indoor transoms? Light would be my guess. I thought that was the reason for exterior also.

Posted by: Iknow at March 4, 2009 9:16 PM in response to What to do about front doors?

That depends. Do you want it to look like your neighbors house or do you prefer to keep it close to original? I have one set of brownstone doors left at $350.00 for the pair and we are delivering a back bar to Brooklyn in early April. Send me an email and I can send you pics and measurements if you are interested. silverfoxenterprises@nycap.rr.com .

Posted by: Iknow at March 4, 2009 9:15 PM in response to What to do about front doors?

I don't know all the details, but the few that were sited seem ridiculous. And where do you think the extra cost is going to be shifted to? The consumer. In this financial environment, developers are underfunded and too many mandates will force them to walk. Look how many condos are vacant and small businesses are closing in Brooklyn. Think about it as if it was your money invested. It's easy to want something when you don't have to foot the bill. When I was renovating an 1892 warehouse, every time the building department wanted a change it cost me another $10,000. I'm sure many of you homeowners have had similar problems. Now how much shade do you shade do you really need on that park bench?

Posted by: Iknow at March 4, 2009 9:10 PM in response to Tougher Waterfront Regs Threaten Development

I thought brownstone is a sandstone and that is why you see the deterioration you do. It has and always will be an inferior building material, despite its appearance.

Posted by: Iknow at March 3, 2009 12:59 PM in response to Brownstones, Co-ops Outperformed Condos in Q4

From what I saw there were 1/2 the number of sales. I think it reflects that only the highest priced real estate was selling.

Posted by: Iknow at March 3, 2009 9:37 AM in response to As Manhattan Goes, So Goes...

And upstate was spared for a change.

Posted by: Iknow at March 2, 2009 11:15 AM in response to Open Thread

Hey WHAT, he said WE. It's obvious that you don't like Mr. B, but having no compassion for his whole family being ill tells a lot about you. Though you had some insight into the market, you are a one issue person without much else going for you.

One day the WHAT is going to end.

If I were Mr. B, you would be long gone from the blog.

As for Mr. B and the family, get well and stay well.

Posted by: Iknow at February 28, 2009 7:44 PM in response to A Little Help

Jebby, I don't know who the listing agents were, but if they didn't build in a 10% discount for a cash buyer, they were quite foolish. 6 months from now they may be calling you back. Anyone selling a house needs some wiggle room in this economy.

Posted by: Iknow at February 27, 2009 5:15 PM in response to Open House Picks: Six Months Later

How close is that to Brooklyn Flea? Now the customers can run over on Saturday and take out more money. At $0.60 a share, won't they become a penny stock if that holds for 60 days? I have $1.20 left after this recession, I'll take two shares please.

Posted by: Iknow at February 27, 2009 5:05 PM in response to Streetlevel: Chase Revealed on Myrtle

Just think about all the lost hours of work and extra pollution. But wait, there will be extra patronage jobs as toll takers. The idea of doing it without toll booths doesn't make sense. How are people visiting from out of state going to pay? Of course it may cut down on the drug trade and people will have to buy local.

Posted by: Iknow at February 27, 2009 11:28 AM in response to Friday Links

The idea of a media block is irrational. Would you buy at asking price without asking someone where they think prices are going? Buy for only ONE reason now. You want to live there for nearly the rest of your life AND you can AFFORD it. Depending on rising values is GONE and probably will not return in the next 30 years, when another generation of fools will emerge and those of us in nuring homes will say, See history repeats itself. Madoff will be long dead and the next scam will emerge.

Posted by: Iknow at February 26, 2009 12:33 PM in response to Home Sales Falling, Condo & Foreclosure Auctions Rising

Heywood Wakefield has lost much of its value over the past decade. Unless it really matters, it won't effect the value and you will be paying more than it's worth.

Posted by: Iknow at February 25, 2009 4:09 PM in response to hardware for midcentury table

The reasons unemployed people would go to an open house include:

1) To dream
2) To spend some time without spending money
3) For the free snacks
4) To wonder if they will ever be able to sell their house
5) Just to look at a nice house

I used to live across from Sotheby's and went in often to look at the art, but not to buy. Kinda like a free museum.

Posted by: Iknow at February 25, 2009 12:45 PM in response to U.S. Housing Prices Down 18.5%, NYC Almost 10%

Yeah, but is that kind of paint job really necessary. Most old buildings are plaster and the walls aren't perfect. Unless you are doing faux painting, the only one that will notice is another painter. But it's Manhattan and the owners want bragging rights about how much they spent. Not any more. I bet those types of painting jobs are much fewer and these perfectionists will be hurting for work.

Posted by: Iknow at February 24, 2009 12:41 PM in response to Clinton Avenue 'Haunted House' in Contract

One difference is people need a higher down payment and previously that was used for the renovation. Can you increase the amount borrowed to include the purchase price and renovation price?

Posted by: Iknow at February 24, 2009 12:32 PM in response to Buyers Developing Aversion to Renovating

We'll be back. Our new line of home decor made from architectural salvage is phenomenal and we are selling it as fast as it's made. Last summer our top seller at the flea was our own line, followed by antique furniture, we will have to hire another person to make it. See you then. I'm glad you changed to Sat., that way I don't have to take Monday off. Fred from Silver Fox Salvage

Posted by: Iknow at February 24, 2009 12:26 PM in response to Brooklyn Flea Re-Opens in Fort Greene on April 18

Sounds like nothing is covered and all he can sell is outdoor salvage. Is that correct? DIBS how do you know he is cheaper? NYC salvage prices have never been cheap. That's why I often sell big ticket items to NYC out of Albany. Customers save hundreds and recently, probably saved a couple of thousand on a backbar going to Brooklyn.

Posted by: Iknow at February 24, 2009 12:21 PM in response to Architectural Salvage at Lowe's (Parking Lot)

2 out of 3 ain't bad. It's a hall tree. Pier mirrors have small marble bases at best and don't have coat hooks.

Posted by: Iknow at February 22, 2009 9:20 PM in response to The name of this furniture is...

Dave, do you have any experience as a small business owner? I would guess that the majority of the true "small" business owners either borrow against their home or retirement plan.

Posted by: Iknow at February 22, 2009 11:50 AM in response to Open House Picks: Six Months Later

There once was a sign in a store going out of business "our lost is your gain."

Posted by: Iknow at February 20, 2009 8:20 PM in response to Commercial Klutch: February Edition

I think this may be part of a sales strategy. List it, drop it quickly and make it look like a real bargain.

Posted by: Iknow at February 19, 2009 8:42 PM in response to Price Cut at 298 Dekalb Avenue

Is this island for sale? Do you have any other views/pictures of it. Thank you. Peace.

Posted by: margaretberg at May 11, 2009 6:54 PM in response to Incredible Kitchen Island

Regarding this, I have a post about looking for a broker. I agree, most brokers are a bit lazy, and actually know very little b/c they all started mid boom to get easy money.

Wife and I looking to buy a brownstone in prime areas. Have the cash and credit to do so. But we're still bearish and want to be aggressive.

Looking for a broker who can help in buying who really knows their shit, has been in bklyn for 8-10 yrs min as a broker and adds a lot of value w/ COMPS spreadsheets, historical pricing and points out details to be aware of while looking. Someone who knows townhouses specifically.

Anyone knows any, there are 2 very motivated, but savvy clients looking for someone exceptional to help us make this purchase. No time for BS sales crap.

Posted by: MoneyForNothing at May 15, 2009 12:41 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

Good Luck MFN. I am resigned to looking at many properties and doing the brokers jobs for them. Extra frustrating is uncovering negatives that the brokers should have been upfront about. Obviously, anybody paying 1M to 2M is going to be diligent. Who do they think they are fooling.

Posted by: leftmanhattanneverlookedback at May 15, 2009 12:51 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

It's amazing to me that brokers tend to be pretty piss-poor as far as being professionals of their industry. But I guess that's par for humanity in general.

We looked in Hoboken for a while and had the best broker ever. Man this guy was a pro. pulled 10 years of comp sales for me to track prices of 1 and 2 family sales so I could decide what the home we bid on (was pulled off the market) was worth.

But this guy's been selling for 25 years only in Hoboken. Shows what a difference it makes.

Posted by: MoneyForNothing at May 15, 2009 1:37 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

dumb lazy brokers are great for buyers - helps buyer get lower prices. For sellers, you're screwed

Posted by: more4less at May 15, 2009 1:45 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

not so great for buyers if you're nervouse (and many are). Prices insane, and most seem not to know how to build a historical picture based on financial data, or dig behind the scenes to get you info that's useful.

Then there's being good at negotiating a million+ purchase.

oy vey!

Posted by: MoneyForNothing at May 15, 2009 2:07 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

Read "all about asset allocation" by richard ferri and do it yourself better.

Advisors cannot beat the market. Buy the indexes and create an intelligent asset allocation plan.

Posted by: MoneyForNothing at May 15, 2009 2:44 PM in response to Money managers are a complete scam!

"Obviously, anybody paying 1M to 2M is going to be diligent. Who do they think they are fooling." Are you kidding? They made away like bandits the last 10 years. The government should put some clawback rules for real estate brokers too. Real Estate brokers make Bernie Madoff look like an amature.

Posted by: hannible at May 15, 2009 7:54 PM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

Just because a broker has been around Brooklyn for 10+ years doesn't mean they know anything.

I had a broker who has been in business in Brooklyn Heights for the better part of 2 decades try to tell me I could get 80% financing on a 10 unit building. He stared at me blankly when I explained the concept of a commercial loan (5+ units are financed as roughly 9xs the rent roll minus expenses).

He claimed he had never heard that...

Posted by: christopher at May 16, 2009 12:37 AM in response to RE Brokers are lazy morons

Everyone else has already said my peace, which is worry about what the sheetrock is hiding, and worry about the moisture. Mold is a symptom here.

If you want my $.02 about all this testing and professional removal and whatnot... I think that mostly this is a scam that's about frightening people out of their money.

It's true that mold can make people sick. It's a good idea to wear a respirator when you're working with mold. But it's also true that mold spores are literally everywhere, and usually don't make you sick, and that the overwhelming majority of instances where people get sick from mold, they recover very quickly.

For a little perspective, my own basement sounds a lot like yours, lots of mold. I took down the drywall myself while wearing a respirator and lived to tell the tale. (I also had the plumbing problem that was causing the mold fixed) And for a time I assisted a painting conservator, and often worked on cleaning moldy paintings and sculptures. You wear gloves and a respirator and a lab coat, and it's not that big a deal. You don't get hazard pay or anything.

Everything that's moldy will need to get thrown away, and for ethical reasons I would not let one of those cheap demo crews that only brings paper masks take care of it. You want someone who owns a respirator that fits their face, and who knows to wash their clothes and body thoroughly when they are done.

But try not to let anyone frighten you into spending tons of money. It's not nuclear waste, or ebola virus. It's just too much of an everyday material that is already in your lungs right now.

Posted by: vanburenproud at June 13, 2009 10:56 AM in response to More on Mold....