brbr's Profile

Name:
BRBR
In Brooklyn Since:
On Brownstoner Since:
2005
Location:
Neighborhood:
Abode:
Profession:
Sex:
Age:
35
Website:

Author's Posts

March 4, 2008

Chase Mortgage?

Hi all. Does anyone here have recent experience with Chase's ARM mortgage? I called their 800 number and somehow got connected to the 'wholesale' division. Which seems to have way better rates than the store fronts. And they charge a flat $250 fee and NO other bank/junk fees. This seems legit, but feels too good to be true. Would appreciate your feedback! Thanks.

February 16, 2008

Small co-op duties?

Hi everyone, we're considering a co-op in a 4 unit townhouse. We realize there would be more responsibilities involved in living in a small cooperative, the question is how much more? Are there monthly meetings? Trash duties? Shoveling snow? Your input would be much appreciated.

Author's Comments

OP here. Thanks for all the input, it's great to hear the various perspectives.

Posted by: brbr at February 18, 2008 10:36 AM in response to Small co-op duties?

i think i'd be in love with your closet, too, if it were in my apartment. but for now, i'll maintain a mild crush from afar.

mrs. limestone, it makes me nervous that you're getting so close to the finish line. i pretty much visit brownstoner these days to follow your progress and glean some tips from your beautiful reno!

thanks for taking the time to share with all of us. (is it selfish of me to hope that you'll find a vacation home in need of renovating?) :)

Posted by: brbr at February 20, 2008 9:32 PM in response to Is it wrong to love a closet?

Responses to Author's Forum Comments

Yes, it CAN work out. It can also be hell.

Suffice it to say that every friend or acquaintance I have had who asked me about my 4-unit coop, when considering such a purchase themselves, said, once they heard about the stuff that happens regularly in small coops said, "Thanks. I'm never going to live in a small building."

If you don't hire a management company (and most small buildings don't) it IS a lot of work for someone (mostly the finances, insurance, violations, hiring contractors for repairs) - but that is not really the problem - someone who cares enought to do it does the work, or it doesn't get done, whichever. It is the crazy personalities and people who don't get that a coop board has rules and legal responsibilites that are the big headache.

Posted by: guest at February 19, 2008 6:22 PM in response to Small co-op duties?