shiny's Profile
- 2008
- Brooklyn
- Female
Author's Posts
June 23, 2008
Boerum Hill and North Park Slope
Hi Brownstoners,
We are looking to rent a large 2BR (1000 sq ft+) or a 3 BR in Boerum Hill or North Park slope. A private outdoor space is a must. No ground floor. We would prefer a condo but would consider a brownstone in nice condition with modern appliances.
Question: What would you estimate the rent to be on something fitting this description?
We are working with a broker, and he tells us that $4000-$4500 would be the price range.
What do you think?
Thanks!
June 9, 2008
First Time Buyer - Condo or Co-op?
My husband and I are relocating from Europe for a fixed 2 year work assignment. I am American and would like to benefit from the mortgage tax deductions for owning real estate versus renting. We both work, double income.
We would like to purchase a 2 BR property in Boerum Hill or Park Slope. After the 2 year assignment is up, we intend to return to Europe and either sell or rent out the property.
Questions: Is a condo a better fit than a co-op? Is it difficult to rent out a co-op? Is board approval required for the tenant?
Any tips or insight is much appreciated!
Thank you,
shiny
Author's Comments
Responses to Author's Forum Comments
Ah...CHF...sorry, I assumed Euros were in play. That will be a big change: Switzerland to Brooklyn...even if you're in Zurich or Geneve...if you in Bale or Sion! Fuggedabouddit! Brooklyn'll be a huge shock!
At least the food will be A LOT cheaper!
AND...you can join the Park Slope Food Coop when you get here!: foodcoop.com
See you there!
Posted by: guest at June 10, 2008 5:19 PM in response to First Time Buyer - Condo or Co-op?
Hey Shiny, my wife and I are selling a 2 BR, 2 Bath condo in Boerum Hill. There are NO rules/restrictions re renting out the apartment. If interested, please email me at statestreet464 @ yahoo.com
Posted by: guest at June 10, 2008 10:26 PM in response to First Time Buyer - Condo or Co-op?
I'd sooner become a renter again than buy another co-op.
The board is full of nice folks who are totally ineffective and don't know anything they need to know. Plus a few of the inevitable power-trippers, who are ineffective except in their ability to be stubborn for no good reason. More of a pain in the neck that I could ever describe. Takes FOREVER to get anything done or answered...
Go condo, condo, condo, IMHO.
Posted by: tanner at June 14, 2008 1:48 PM in response to First Time Buyer - Condo or Co-op?

Thank you everyone for the comments, extremely helpful!
As to USD/CHF:
The Swiss Franc has appreciated about 20% against the dollar since June 2006 (similar to the Euro story, but not as extreme). But, I would rather not play the currency exchange too much. I have no idea whether USD will continue to weaken but my gut feeling is that over the long term, it will. This takes away some of the upside on returns, but also means maint fees paid in the US are relatively cheaper.
Anyways, I really appreciate your help and will reconsider the idea to purchase something instead of renting.
Cheers,
shiny
Posted by: shiny at June 10, 2008 5:50 AM in response to First Time Buyer - Condo or Co-op?