Buying

What is the purpose of maintenance fees and when are they applicable?

Q: What is the purpose of maintenance fees and when are they applicable? Co-ops, condos? Are there taxes over and above the maintenance fees? I am particularly looking at 1-bedroom apartments for sale in Manhattan so I am only interested in issues applicable to Manhattan apartment purchases. Thank you. Read More.

What do I need to consider before applying for a new credit card?

Q: I was thinking about applying for a credit card that would give me more points and rewards for all the money I charge. What should I consider before doing this in regard to my credit scores? Read More.

Is Elliman the biggest real estate company?

Q: Is Elliman the biggest real estate company? Read More.

Is the 20% down payment for a co-op negotiable or a solid requirement?

Q: I’m looking for an apartment in Manhattan. I’ve pre-qualified for a mortgage, and have a steady income to afford what I’m looking for, but I’ve only been working for a few years and thus don’t have enough saved for a 20% down payment. When co-ops say that they require 20% down, is that generally a solid requirement or can it be negotiated? Read More.

My partner and I are looking to move to New York City with our 3 dogs. What resources should we review prior to working with a broker?

Q: My partner, along with 3 dogs (2 small and 1 medium sized) and myself are likely to be relocating to NYC. We have visited but never lived in the city and have very cursory knowledge of the various neighborhoods. What resources do you suggest I review prior to working with an agent? I don’t want to waste the agent’s time and money, nor mine. Best Regards. Read More.

I’m from Vancouver, BC and I want to move to New York. How do I go about buying real estate in the U.S.?

Q: I am currently living in Vancouver BC, looking for a home in Manhattan. I am wondering if you have a guide to buying real estate in the U.S, as I am unfamiliar with the buying process there. Read More.

What is the typical buyer agent’s commission on new development properties in Brooklyn?

Q: What is the typical buyer agent’s commission for new construction in Brooklyn? Is this something that is usually negotiable? Read More.

What store is Elliman opening at 774 Broadway?

Q: What store is opening on the corner of Broadway and Wanamaker Place? Read More.

Douglas Elliman manages my building. Can I use a credit card to pay my monthly maintenance?

Q: Can I pay monthly maintenance to Douglas Elliman, my building manager, using my credit card? Read More.

We’re being told that there’s an accepted offer on a short-sale property that we love, but I don’t believe that this is accurate information. How do we proceed?

Q: I found a short sale that we love, but the real estate office keeps telling us that there is an accepted offer on the property. If there was an accepted offer, then why would they drop the price on the property today? Is there any way around this real estate company? They aren’t being honest and I believe that someone in the office wants the property. Read More.