Yip Hip Hooray is right! Southslope - love the facebook pics and thank you! I have also had the honor of meeting the owner who has put as much love into the inside as the out - a "Monty" is definitely deserved! Inspiring - thank you.

Posted by: amybnyc at November 20, 2009 10:58 AM in response to Development Watch: Turnaround at 424 Waverly Avenue

Thank you all! I'll call tomorrow - in meantime if others have suggestions please list just in case.

Posted by: amybnyc at October 22, 2009 7:51 PM in response to Cutting Rethread Chrome

Thanks everyone - especially aodrafting!!!

Posted by: amybnyc at October 22, 2009 11:09 AM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace

Thanks mopar and especially eman1234, very helpful I hadn't thought of that. DUH. The question remains. Does anyone know where I can buy an inexpensive furnace? We have a plumber to do the gas line (as I stated above), an electrician to do the electrical, it is all permited, everyone is licensed and ready to go - we even have two licensed contractors (the "us" above) to install. I just need the furnace and the prices I am getting through contractors and elsewhere are inflated. Thanks anyone who can tell me who sells furnaces locally.

Posted by: amybnyc at October 19, 2009 9:57 PM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace

Everyone will tell you that you can mess it up - and you can. But you don't have too... Consider what type of renovators/people you are... patient, do lots of research ahead of time, calmly move through a task, etc. or do you care mostly about the end/having it done and rush? Jump into things without proper planning etc (I'm both!). I'm not judging, just saying you should know to help you decide whether to hire or do yourself. Also, consider the floor. Is it wide plank (easier) or parquet (very difficult to not mess up for 1st timers), been sanded before or still think and room to fix a mess up if need be? Is there a room that you can "practice" in for your first floor that doesn't matter as much? All these things need to be considered.
If you want to give more details I'll check back and can guide you. Also, important to know what type of sealers, finishes, etc. you need and that buying materials (applicators, sealer, finish,) and renting sanders and edgers, while it may save you a bit of money is not cheap so be sure to get some quotes from the professionals.

Good luck! You can do it if you decide.

Posted by: amybnyc at October 9, 2009 9:49 AM in response to Sanding and Refinishing Floors

Eddie's - corner of Greene and Grand. He has many many - you'll need to strip it. I've found some beauties. good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at October 9, 2009 9:37 AM in response to Mantle Insert - Where to Find?

Hi Edifice rex,
Can you tell me which saw you have?
Thanks so much!

Posted by: amybnyc at October 6, 2009 9:02 PM in response to ISO: Wet Tile Saw

Call Al Terry at New York Decks (http://www.newyorkdecks.com/) and ask him... super nice, knowledgable and trustworthy guy and at least he'll tell you the truth and you'll have a better answer than here. His phone from the website is below - it looks like you can call his cell afterhours?
Al Terry
T: 212.787.9235
C: 917.416.4884
Tell him Amy & Mike say hi!!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 28, 2009 6:05 PM in response to Ipe Deck seal

Just a last word of thanks to everyone! Amazing and helpful responses that we will use - what could be better from this forum! I'll keep checking back to see if more people add, so don't hesitate. :)

Posted by: amybnyc at September 23, 2009 9:24 AM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

One of the most gorgeous magnolia tree's is on the corner of Lafayette and Marcy right here in Bed-Stuy...I think it may even be one of few national landmarked tree's. You could talk to this group more about tree's - http://newarkwww.rutgers.edu/~gelobter/cucrej/html/magtree.html

Posted by: amybnyc at September 22, 2009 4:13 PM in response to Southern Magnolia in Brooklyn?

That seems inexpensive - maybe they are hoping for multiple bids? I wish them all the best, it is lovely. Though the broker page could use some beefing up and it is Fort Greene (not ForT Green).

Posted by: amybnyc at September 22, 2009 1:21 PM in response to House of the Day: 297 Vanderbilt Avenue

OMG, I go away for a few hours and come back to wonderful ideas and links! Thank you each of you! Glad to hear the vote of confidence about no tub in "adult" bath and love the little kitchen/bath ideas I didn't think of that will be huge helps (cabinet with power strip, electrical on island, more lights & drawers than I could ever think I need, drawer for pots and pans, sponge drawer on cab front, no cab over toilet ETC!) There was not one thing that hasn't been helpful. Keep 'em coming...nice to hear other's are in the same boat and getting something out of this too.
:)

Posted by: amybnyc at September 22, 2009 12:45 PM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

Bkrules: I love the pantry idea...I wonder if we have room, I too love stepping into my dad's pantry, that would be great. Thanks!
Dave, in looking at all the clean smooth refrigerator fronts I had forgotten about the importance of the ice machine (and filtered water!), thank you for the reminder. I'll look into the Bosch, I've NEVER had a dishwasher as silly as this may sound it is the thing I am most excited about Re: bath.. radiant flooring would be so toasty...the floors are open everywhere so I'm sure we could do it. Any thoughts on not having a tub and just having a shower in the "adult" bath? I can always go to the kid bath for a soak?
Thanks everyone so far, it may seem simple but this is really helpful!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 22, 2009 8:49 AM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

Just emailed you... keeping fingers crossed :)

Posted by: amybnyc at September 22, 2009 8:42 AM in response to Vestibule Door and Frame Avail.

Ahh denton you are so so right. Consider it included. :)

Posted by: amybnyc at September 21, 2009 9:52 PM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

I have some vintage stoves I'm trying to find a new home for too and talked to a lady today at Belgrove Appliance Inc... You should send her this link and I bet they'd come get it tomorrow. From the research I did today this stove is worth a lot (500-1500 or more depending on condition).
Good luck! Her name is Carlita and the address is info @ stovelady dot com.

Posted by: amybnyc at September 21, 2009 8:53 PM in response to FREE! ANTIQUE! ENAMEL! STOVE!

Thanks Aishling for the info! I was wondering that and on the website it just said "like-kind" so I wasn't sure. Our sale was not a personal residence...
I'll keep in mind the exclusion for future sales... do you know the rule about how long you have to live there? Is it 2 out of 5 years?

Posted by: amybnyc at September 21, 2009 11:08 AM in response to Moving Equity to a New Apt

I hope this helps... when we sold and bought we did a "1031 Exchange" which defers all capital gains taxes on your sale leaving you more money now to invest in new property. You will need to pay taxes down the road when you sell next one unless you do 1031 again (and note capital gains taxes are pretty low now). There are time limits on a 1031 so that may be tricky for you given your timing question, but it is worth looking into. I think 1031's are an underused and under-known opportunity.

Quick google came up with this link to info on 1031: http://www.1031.org/about1031/faq.htm
We used a company called IPEX here in new york who were our "qualified intemediary" and they were great! They handled everything and taught me what I needed to know. Make sure your closing attorney is in the loop from the beginning and you stay on top of timing etc. if you do it.
good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 21, 2009 10:15 AM in response to Moving Equity to a New Apt

Thanks EVERYONE - this is all so helpful. Keep the info coming!
fyi: what the banks are saying is in line with what CMU said (would have to refi to get his name on which I don't think is an option)...The house is in Portland Oregon (not nyc). And making things more difficult is that the mortgages were with WAMU which is now Chase but loans are not completely transfered over yet so blah blah blah...
:)

Posted by: amybnyc at September 17, 2009 4:20 PM in response to Gifting House to Bro?

Thanks Dave! I'll look into that... do you know how that would effect mortgages?

Posted by: amybnyc at September 17, 2009 2:37 PM in response to Gifting House to Bro?

If still available I'm interested... info145halsey at yahoo dot com
thanks!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 14, 2009 9:59 PM in response to Old & New Tiles, knob for sale

thanks!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 4, 2009 7:31 PM in response to Closing Bell: Fair Weather Flea

Hear hear! I've tried to work with them a couple of times because they are in my neighborhood (support local etc.) and each time I've had such horrible phone experiences that I've had to hang up and shake it off. YUCK! I so wish they'd get their act together as I would love to support a local metal shop!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 4, 2009 5:03 PM in response to Worst Customer service ever

We've used Danny Isla of Isla Engineering (google it) on a couple of projects (one of similiar scope) and have always had success with him. If you do call him tell him Amy & Mike say hello :). Good luck.

Posted by: amybnyc at September 4, 2009 5:00 PM in response to Structual Engineer

Can anyone tell me when the last flea in ft. greene is of the season?
thanks!

Posted by: amybnyc at September 4, 2009 4:19 PM in response to Closing Bell: Fair Weather Flea

Thanks to both of you! After much research today and your comments I'm leaning towards cellulose... wondering if you have any thoughts on air-krete? Not for the party walls, but if possible to spray between joists in attic and if it can adhere to the underside of the roof (rather than a spray foam) to add it there? Wondering if a spray foam on the underside and a cellulose blow in combo would work?

Thanks!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 24, 2009 5:07 PM in response to Choosing Attic Insulation

Thanks Dave! I'll give them a call now.

Also, in case anyone is searching in the future we found what appears to be a very good solution for flat roof ventilation when soffits (air intake) don't exist on the roof. This system is designed specifically for flat roofs.

See link: http://www.roofvents.com/flat-rooftop-vent.html

It appears to be better than a turbine fan for many reasons (nothing can get in, no moveable parts (noise, breaks etc)) and it allows for passive ventilation in all weather. Just ordered it so fingers crossed. They were very helpful also in figuring out airflow calculation and what size to get etc.

If anyone has used this system I'd love to hear...
thanks!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 24, 2009 4:52 PM in response to Attic Insulation & Venting

That is absurd, I'm so sorry. And I have seen it happening more in Bed-Stuy, I think it is a take on red-lining (but of course nothing could be confirmed!). Definitely try a broker sooner rather than later - no need to close with them if other comes through but you may be pleased what they find for you. And give them your comps up front to work with. Good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 20, 2009 4:42 PM in response to Contesting an Appraisal?

I'd love more details too if you wouldn't mind? Please send to info145halsey at yahoo dot com. Thanks!!
amy

Posted by: amybnyc at August 19, 2009 8:26 PM in response to Landmark Window Rec

I'd love more details too if you wouldn't mind? Please send to info145halsey at yahoo dot com. Thanks!!
amy

Posted by: amybnyc at August 19, 2009 8:26 PM in response to Landmark Window Rec

Hey again,
I just noticed this came from Ibointeriors... if this is the woman whose name I won't write here who had Ibo Landing and helped us with paint colors, tile, interior design etc. on our condo conversion than please let me know and I'd be happy to share any more details with you etc. I can give you a call if you don't still have my number. And if it is you I feel way better about you doing a conversion - you'll make it lovely. :)

Posted by: amybnyc at August 18, 2009 11:33 AM in response to Converting B'stone Into Condo

Hey there,
We did the same thing in Bed-Stuy and were glad we did, but it is a long, expensive, and maddening process. I agree first thing to do is get a lawyer. We used Marcus Attorneys on Ft. Greene and I would recommend them. Guillermo (Bill) Santiago was our guy (you can tell him Amy and Mike say hi) and he was helpful, though I did stay on top of things (which you should do with anyone) to keep it moving as everyone is busy and has lots of projects going on. A good architect is a must and preferably one that has experience with conversions. Bill recommended ours and he was by far the cheapest but not the best (we knew that going in), I can't say I recommend him, but we just had a really good experience with the architect Aaron McDonald (www.buildme.net) - I'd recommend calling him. All in all it probably cost us 50-60K to convert (including lawyer, architect, fees etc.) If you have to do any construction on top of that it could go way up from there. Hope that helps?

And because I can't help it (and please don't take this personally, it is years of seeing crappy work in Bed-Stuy), if you are going to sell these as condo's then please, please, please, consider who will be buying and build to their taste (read: people priced out of Park Slope, Ft. Greene etc looking for a lovely home). The last thing bed-stuy needs is another crappy remodel posing as nice. Instead, MAKE it nice, and if your taste isn't what you are seeing in brownstone condos in PS and FG then find someone to help you who does have that taste (and listen to them). Lastly, please don't try to cram too much into a small space. If the space wants to be a one bedroom one bath then make it a one bedroom one bath - don't think adding another bedroom or bath will help you get a higher price, it won't. It will just mean you have a hard time selling and you'll end up losing money in the end... I guess what I'm saying is that if you create the space with integrity and consideration it will pay you back many times over. Sorry if all that sounded preachy, but I think that is what allowed us to sell all four of our condos on the first day we showed them, and I'd love for you to have the same experience. Good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 18, 2009 11:29 AM in response to Converting B'stone Into Condo

This may seem obvious, but can you install a french drain in a basement you plan to finish and use as living space? The only ones I've seen are open on the top (like a little ditch). We are thinking about digging our basement down a foot or two (engineer said it was possible), but if we do it I want to be sure to install whatever is needed to keep the area VERY dry - it is damp now. We just finished covering the old stone and brick walls in a cement finish but that is all we have done... any advice welcome!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 17, 2009 12:38 PM in response to Waterproofing Cellar?

They been around for years but they were groups of 3-4 the last few years and now are more organized. They drive me crazy, but my annoyance of motorcycles seems to be growing with my age equal to my sons love of them. o well. They do go down Marcy (near us) at ridiculous speeds and I keep trying to stop myself from thinking that it won't stop until someone gets hurt...

Posted by: amybnyc at August 16, 2009 4:47 PM in response to Motorcycle Gangs on Fulton St?

I would absolutely say the Halsey one... good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 16, 2009 1:13 PM in response to Torn Between 3 Houses

hmmm.. Oddly my picture came through but not the text. Basically just said I'm looking for a lockable toolbox like this so my tools don't mysteriously disappear. If you have one you are done with that would be great! I can be reached at info145halsey at yahoo dot com - thanks!!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 16, 2009 12:50 PM in response to ISO "Job Box"- lockable toolbox

Sorry, to get ahold of me please email info145halsey at yahoo dot com.
thanks!!

Posted by: amybnyc at August 16, 2009 12:44 PM in response to ISO Ax, flat shovel other tools

We just went through a similar process on an unihabitable 7 family. We ending up having to go for a "bridge loan" (read loan shark) so that we could get it inhabitable and as soon as we can we plan to refinance. I'm not sure if that will work for you with 20% down (we had a higher %) and it is a higher initial interest rate, but may be worth looking into? If you'd like the contact for the one we used (who I did a lot of research on and we've had a good experience with) post here how I can get ahold of you and I'll be in touch. Good luck either way and don't listen to the naysayers! :)

Posted by: amybnyc at July 20, 2009 11:33 PM in response to Financing "Unhabitable" Property

I too live near here (between Nostrand and Marcy not far from Hancock) and echo all the positive statements above - particularly comment by Heather above about it being the "next big thing." Anyone getting a house on this block will be glad, and soon. What I like is that it is near the A express (4 stops to Broadway/Nassau) and about equal time to get from the shops/restaurants of Stuy Hts and those of CH/FG. When I'm over in Stuy Hts it is SO FAR out that it just seems like too big a hassle to get over to the CH/FG area, to Prospect Park etc. (Nothing against Stuy Hts, it is so lovely that when I'm there I don't mind staying (!), just like being closer in.)

Having a toddler as we do it has also been a nice middle ground. I get to know families in both neighborhoods and participate in kid classes etc in both as well. In terms of schools: Stuy Hts Parents Association, local parents, and teachers etc have created a great charter school in The Brownstone School (Lewis and McDonough). I've also heard that Leadership Prep and Excellence Charter are also very solid choices, as is Stuy Hts Montessori. So, even if only a few years old there are starting to be some really positive school choices and the parents are HIGHLY involved. Lastly, as most know the new (and great) Bed Stuy YMCA is near here as well as banks, grocery stores, rehabbed library etc.

OK, so this turned into a bit of a love letter about the soon to be "Bedford Historic District" (yes, it is in the works) - sorry for that, but sometimes the negative just needs to be countered. Come see for yourself.:)

Posted by: amybnyc at July 20, 2009 11:22 PM in response to House of the Day: 141 Hancock Street

I don't want to be too crazy about answering every query for an electrician, but after having such a good experience with WCK Electric (Owner Paul and his crew) I can't help it. His work is great, he has come in ahead of schedule and the quote only changes if I change the scope. I highly recommend them.
Wck Electric Corp
61 Utica Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11213-1335
(718) 778-0070
Tell him Amy & Mike from Halsey said hi!

Posted by: amybnyc at June 22, 2009 4:18 PM in response to Pro electrician for- major job

I've recommended them here before, but I will keep recommending them as long as they keep doing the incredible work they do. I've never needed them to do "clean" work on the exterior of walls but I'm sure they could. I do know that the interior work is meticulous beyond anything I've seen an electrician do before (line everything up exactly, specific locations etc.) Anyway, WCK Electric. Tell them Amy & Mike from Halsey recommended them and be clear about what you need and expect, "an ounce of prevention"... He'll let you know if he can deliver. Good luck! (I dont' have number in front of me but you can google or search here under other posts)

Posted by: amybnyc at June 15, 2009 11:11 PM in response to Electrician Recommendation?

I think I've recommended him here before, but it bears repeating... I recommend Ralph Friumfreddo at The Brownstone Agency. They specialize in insuring brownstones etc. and after much research for two houses we have they came in with best rates for both. Tell him Amy from Halsey says Hi! His number is 212-962-5620.

Posted by: amybnyc at May 26, 2009 10:08 PM in response to Insurance for my Brownstone.

If you do a search here you'll see I've highly recommended WCK in the past and I just wanted to chime in and say I wholeheartedly do again. He is in the process of doing a new job for us (rewiring a 7 family) and as before he and his team are a dream to work with, are prompt, curtious, clean up after themselves, run straight lines, and in general make me very happy. They are wonderful. Tell him Amy says hi :).

Posted by: amybnyc at May 13, 2009 1:34 PM in response to Recommending Great Electrician

At the risk of being totally out of touch and getting slammed here - why not just take the high road and LET IT GO? If you get in a screaming match with someone crazy enough to take your spot isn't it an indicator to stay away if you see them again?? What on earth possessed you to re-engage, take her spot and think nothing would happen?? Didn't you think that might set her off? Just a thought.

Posted by: amybnyc at May 5, 2009 9:51 AM in response to Keyed Car Incident

Welcome Paulie and congrats!!!

Posted by: amybnyc at May 3, 2009 2:06 PM in response to Hello Brooklyn!

I recommend The Brownstone Agency - and in particular Ralph Friumfreddo. He has been great for us and came in with the lowest insurance costs on two different properties. Plus he is nice to work with - responsive, dependable, even follows up when I space something. Tell him Amy from Halsey recommended him. His number is 212-962-5620. I'm pretty sure they do other insurance as well. Good luck!

Posted by: amybnyc at April 21, 2009 12:30 PM in response to Brownstone insurance?

Does anyone know what commercial properties are going into the street level spaces here?

Posted by: amybnyc at April 20, 2009 11:15 AM in response to 111 Monroe Street: Let's Do the Time Warp Again

To answer the original posts question... I'm finding that people are hesitant to talk about it, but not because of the reason you would assume (things bad etc.). Rather, I've talked to many people in the last few weeks who have had GOOD experiences (found great deal on house, got tenants for more than last year, refinanced into better rate, can finally afford to buy etc.) and it seems they are worried they might rub it in someone's nose who isn't having a positive experience if they talk about it. Whenever I ask or mention a good experience of mine it is like I let air out of a balloon- the relief is palpable that they are "allowed" to tell their good story.

Posted by: amybnyc at April 20, 2009 9:26 AM in response to Real Estate: The New Obscenity?

I've heard some people swear by steam cleaning (ala stanley steamer)...has anyone tried that? Then sealing of course.

Posted by: amybnyc at April 14, 2009 3:09 PM in response to renew bathroom floor tile?

Hi there,
I may be interested in the whole lot would you mind emailing me? info145halsey at yahoo dot com. thanks!!

Posted by: amybnyc at April 13, 2009 11:35 PM in response to Stair rail, newel and spindles

OMG, this has been great. Thank you so much for all the tips.

Orrsuz, Greenwoodgeneral, would love to see what you have although it does sound like in any event a replacement won't be too expensive. How can I contact both of you?

Going4broke, not sure we want to keep it. Looks pretty crappy and bent (you can't tell from the photo), and is incidentally the only one like this. Rest are more ornate inserts, and clearly years ago someone broke or otherwise yanked it out of this fireplace.

In our bedroom and just getting a new insert to put in would be a great finishing touch.

Posted by: sunspot19 at October 11, 2009 7:23 AM in response to Mantle Insert - Where to Find?

I recommend Verrazano Flooring. They did a fantastic job on my floor a couple of years ago, and they were professional and efficient. I thought the price was very fair - easier than doing it yourself and they will do a professional job.

Posted by: sef125 at October 12, 2009 11:59 AM in response to Sanding and Refinishing Floors

Orrsuz and Greenwoodgeneral -- we are also looking for a fireplace insert for our house, and would be interested to see what you have. Please email me any photos/details at tzaluv@yahoo.com. Thanks!

Posted by: westminster at October 12, 2009 12:42 PM in response to Mantle Insert - Where to Find?

You will hear about many 'must haves' in people's kitchens. Of course, this is a personal decision, and you must do what works for you. A qualified kitchen designer will take the time to talk to you, discover your lifestyle, and talk about possibilities. Most kitchen designers do not charge for this service. I am not a big fan of 'gadgets' unless they're usable.

I have done many kitchens in the slope, and can talk about what's possible in your space.

Check out my website: www.StephenWangel.com

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:36 PM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

Well, Vaccaro didn't have an insert that worked, and Eddie's was not open yesterday (too bad).

I'll hopefully make it out to Eddie's some point this week.

Posted by: sunspot19 at October 13, 2009 7:05 AM in response to Mantle Insert - Where to Find?

Is it still available? we are INTERESTED!

Posted by: dahlanddane at October 14, 2009 4:58 PM in response to FREE! ANTIQUE! ENAMEL! STOVE!

I am sure there is bunch of them on craigs list and ebay. But if you buy something used and cheap and will have to replace it soonish, you probably will pay more for labor and replacement.

Posted by: bobjohn at October 19, 2009 10:17 PM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace

try pronto gas heating supply on chrystie street in nyc..they are the most knowledgeable guys that i know

Posted by: eman1234 at October 19, 2009 10:58 PM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace

tired of back peddling eman1234? Always with the fear, what gives? and please quit posting links on a topic that you found from Google!

Posted by: pig three at October 19, 2009 11:23 PM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace

You can try mfgrs reps for the big boiler cos, Wallace Ennis for example, maybe they know of some used ones. Seems to me tho if you are paying all these plumbers and electricians why go so cheap on the boiler? Get a new one with a warranty.

Posted by: denton at October 20, 2009 6:12 PM in response to ISO: Inexpensive gas furnace