The One Burning Detail That Adds the Most Value to a Brooklyn Brownstone Restoration

Sponsored By Nest Seekers | The Serhant Team

Green Builders, located in Brooklyn for more than 20 years, specializes in crafting unique, customized homes and townhouses.

Created By Brownstoner

The devil is indeed in the details — but so is tremendous upside. Just ask the Serhant Team, who have been marketing and selling Bed Stuy brownstones renovated by Green Builders for three years.

The “green” in Green Builders comes from the Brooklyn-based company’s commitment to sustainability — using recyclable finishes and materials, for example, and improving air quality by minimizing use of VOC paints or other chemicals.

But what puts Green Builders’ stamp on their work is their eye for updating and reimagining classic brownstones. “We pour our soul into these properties, and review every detail,” said Green Builders’ Joey Yaakovzadeh.

Sara Golan, who, along with husband Josh Golan and Ryan Serhant manage Nest Seekers | The Serhant Team, said that buyers are seeking out these original details — original wood millwork, carved mantels, intricate castings, pocket doors, etc. “I sold a renovated brownstone with beautifully restored woodwork for $100,000 over ask at 302 Herkimer.”

But the key to added value is a working, wood-burning fireplace. According to Golan, “Green Builders restorations are among the few that come with a working wood-burning fireplace.” The company will also customize based on the client’s wishes for certain details and finishes.

For Nest Seekers, there are advantages to working with Green Builders. “We’ve partnered up to provide unique off-market brownstones,” said Josh Golan, who with his wife has 25 years of real estate experience in Brooklyn. “To create a custom homes program, where we’re able to match buyers to homes before they hit the market. It creates value for both sides, saving them time and money.”

And likewise for Green Builders and their relationship with Nest Seekers. “They give these properties great exposure,” said Yaakovzadeh. “They know the neighborhoods very well, so they add value with their knowledge.”

Nest Seekers also make design recommendations to Green Builders based on buyer’s preferences. “A recommendation I had for one project was keeping the interior stairs leading to the cellar,” said Golan, “because a lot of buyers don’t like having to go outside to get to the basement.”

Yaakovzadeh said there’s still plenty of inventory to work with in Bed Stuy. Said Golan: “Two years ago we were getting a lot of international buyers. This year it’s been buyers from the city or buyers from Park Slope, Prospect Heights or Williamsburg.” She added: “There’s still tremendous value in Bed Stuy — in the $1.8 to $2.8 million range.”

For more information about restored brownstones in Brooklyn, contact Nest Seekers | The Serhant Team.