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“Invest in New York” conferences in France

On January 24 & 26, BARNES New York was pleased to host conferences in France on real estate investment in New York, followed by a cocktail. These conferences “Invest in New York” in Paris and Lyon were a great success.

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, Westchester & Connecticut, and Adrien Gouirand, BARNES New York consultant, lead the discussion in Paris and Lyon in order to present the New York real estate market and its opportunities. The following agenda was discussed :

  •     How is the New York real estate market?
  •     Why is it the right time to buy?
  •     What are the opportunities in new developments (and property tax exemptions)?
  •     What is the buying and financing process in the United States?

The New York real estate market

The New York real estate market is witnessing a decline in supply and demand. Despite the U.S. recession, we do not expect a decline in prices for existing properties. On the other hand, the euro is recovering and new constructions represents very good buying opportunities for both resale and rental.

The most sought-after properties

Although more expensive, new developments have many advantages in terms of finishes, amenities, tax exemptions and rental/resale potential. Pre-war buildings are also in high demand for their charm and lower costs. Finally, multifamily buildings are also highly sought after by families or investors looking to rent several apartments.

The most popular neighborhoods in Manhattan are Tribeca, the Upper East Side, Midtown and Soho. As for Brooklyn, the neighborhoods of Dumbo, Caroll Garens, Gowanus or Cobble Hill are very popular.

Events that made a splash

The conferences were followed by question/answer sessions and cocktails that allowed all participants to interact on the New York real estate market in a laid-back and chic atmosphere.

Video realized by Enzo CANNATI

Photos by Radu CASUNEANU

In the Media – The fall of Wall Street is causing a wait-and-see attitude in New York

What impact did the fall of Wall Street have on the real estate market ?

This question is answered in a recent article by Les Echos. Véronique Le Billon is presenting the challenges faced by the New York real estate market in regard to the financial turbulences which are causing a rise of the interest rates and an undeniable risk of recession. In this particular article, real estate specialists, including the Managing Partner of BARNES New York, Yann Rousseau, give their insights on the current situation and the opportunities to come.

Read the article on LesEchos:

How to buy a brand new apartment in Manhattan?

To buy a brand new apartment in Manhattan can be an exciting but scary experience. As the cost of housing prices rise, finding a new apartment for the best possible price can be time-consuming. Luckily, knowing about an ideal budget, location, and process can make the experience easy and stress-free. 

What is your budget? 

How much are you willing to spend on your apartment? Generally, a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan costs about $900,000 to buy. A 4-bedroom apartment can easily cost over $3,000,000. Generally, co-op apartments are less expensive than condos. However, new developments Manhattan homes will cost more than those already well-established. As an additional tip, to buy a brand-new apartment in Manhattan, it is best to save up roughly 20% to 25% of the cost of the apartment before the purchase, if this is possible. 

Having a reasonable budget at or above the $1,000,000 range will ensure that you will find apartments and condos for sale in Manhattan that will meet your needs. Of course, with more accommodations, the price rises as well. Depending on what you are looking for, set a limit for yourself to find hidden jewels of homes and avoid overspending. It is best to speak with a mortgage banker or broker to request a preapproval letter to set your budget accurately.  

What is the location? 

Another huge factor to buy a brand new apartment in Manhattan is the location. The neighborhood that the apartment is located in can either make or break your experience in Manhattan and determine the price of the condo or co-op. There are several different areas that are all great for people of different personalities and backgrounds.  

For example, the Financial District and Tribeca are great for wealthy and high-class people with larger budgets. These areas are best suited for people that enjoy living in luxury, eating in 5-star restaurants, and buying expensive clothes from classy boutiques. These areas are home to both old money and new money folks alike. They are busy in the daytime and quieter at night and are home to many large places of work. These districts are also filled with office spaces and other large work buildings.  

Areas such as Chelsea, West Village, and NoHo are great for creative spirits with an eye for beautiful art. These areas are highly inclusive of all cultures, and it is much cheaper to buy an apartment here over the Financial District and Tribeca. There is always plenty to explore, including art exhibits, venues, and unique restaurants. Still, you can find lovely homes here as the residents are immersed in exquisite, unique, and vibrant art. These areas are perfect for always being entertained, as well as for those who have a deep appreciation for art and creativity. 

The Lower East Side and East Village are best suited for those looking for an exciting nightlife with plenty of activities almost 24 hours a day. These areas are filled with bars, lounges, venues, and much more to enjoy every day. Because these areas can be noisy, they are best for night owls that feel the most alive when the sun is down. There is always someone to socialize with in the Lower East Side and East Village, and always an event to go to.  

How does the buying process go? 

As a buyer in Manhattan, it is always a great idea to work with an experienced buyer’s agent, which are free to work with because they earn commissions from the home’s sale. By working with a buyer agent, you can save money by helping you find great deals on apartments and condos. At this point, attend open houses for information on each property and specific details about their offers. That way, you have the most chances to buy your brand new apartment in Manhattan.

Additionally, it is important to prepare your offer documentation and find a real estate attorney. Since Manhattan apartments are in high demand, you will have the highest chance of winning the apartment if you submit an offer as early as possible to be ahead of the competition. Because offers are not final until both parties agree and accept all terms, you can submit offers for many different apartments simultaneously with no repercussions.  

Once the offer is accepted, your attorney will negotiate and look over the housing contract on your behalf, as well as thoroughly review the building documents, including the first two years of financials. Once this has been completed, you can sign the contract, and a 10% deposit can be made to the condo or co-op.  

Once you have a fully executed contract, you can send in the mortgage application and request for an appraisal. The bank will give you a mortgage commitment letter, and you can complete your condo, apartment, or co-op board application. Begin the building application as soon as possible to stay on top of additional letters and information and remain organized with any important information. 

If you are purchasing a co-op, you will be called for a board interview, but if you are buying a condo, the building will process its waiver of the right of first refusal to allow you to close on the apartment. 

How do I close on the apartment? 

If you are approved by the co-op board or condo in Manhattan, you can then close on your apartment. The attorney will schedule this, usually in the attorney’s office or the building’s managing agent’s office. So now, your brand new Manhattan, New York apartment is all yours! 

Usually, this process takes 1 to 2 months for a condo and 2 to 3 months for a co-op. If possible, be as prepared as you can to provide documentation such as identification, income statements, and other important files. Having this readily available will help shorten the process of buying the apartment. 

Get in touch with our team of experts at BARNES New York to benefit from considerable discounts on the purchase price, transaction fees, and carrying costs when buying a brand new apartment in Manhattan.

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What is the real estate market like in Westchester? 

The Westchester County Real Estate Market has been in high demand lately, in large part, due to the global pandemic. As a result, more than ever, people are leaving New York City and traveling north, trying to find property in less crowded and more spacious areas while still remaining a train ride away from all the big city action. 

Homes, condos, townhomes, and even rental units are selling for record prices. As a result, the supply is dwindling. And buyers are jumping on whatever they can get and almost always enter competitive bidding wars that often send the property’s sale price over what was originally asked. 

Just how competitive is the Westchester county real estate market? 

According to a report put out by Bloomberg last year, properties in Westchester have been in such high demand that the supply of the properties, if it continues at its current rate, will be completely drained by the end of the year. In Westchester County’s history, a shortage of that severity has never been recorded before. 

And because of that shortage, the Westchester County Real Estate Market is very tense and properties are now being sold for record rates.

Why is Westchester county so competitive? 

One of the main reasons the Westchester County Real Estate Market is so competitive is because of its close proximity to New York City. It’s no secret that while many people want to move out of the city, they do not want to cut ties with it completely. They want to remain close, and Westchester being the first northern county to border New York City proper, keeps them close. 

But that’s not all—Westchester county is also known for its high quality of life, and its experienced workforce, including more than a few Fortune 500 companies. All these features make the Westchester County Real Estate Market a good place to invest.

Are there any parts of Westchester not as affected by the real estate market? 

Unfortunately, not really. As a whole, Westchester County is in a lower supply of properties than usual. That low supply has driven up the selling price of available properties.  

According to a report by Miller Samuel, the selling price for properties in Westchester County has increased, on average, by approximately 1.5% from the previous year. In comparison, the number of properties being sold fell by nearly 13.4% in that same period. That means more people are trying to buy than sell in the Westchester County Real Estate Market.

What are the most in demand cities and towns in Westchester? 

Anything along the coast is always in high demand, and places like New Rochelle and Larchmont up to Rye and Port Chester, which have picturesque waterside views and thriving downtowns, are avidly sought. And then there are places like Yonkers, Tarrytown, and Croton-on-Hudson, all of which are located along the Hudson River and similarly popular. 

Why is the eastern coastline in such high demand? 

The eastern coastline of Westchester County consists of New Rochelle, Larchmont, Rye, Port Chester, and a few other cities and towns. They are home to many young and experienced working professionals and ample nature parks. 

What can I expect in New Rochelle? 

New Rochelle is the southernmost coastal city in Westchester and the seventh-largest city in the state. It is approximately 15 miles to New York City (Manhattan), which translates to just over 20 minutes away by car or thirty minutes by train.  

New Rochelle is chock full of everything water-related. It has sailing schools, yacht clubs, rowing clubs, nature preserves, museums, and beer gardens. Its own downtown offers everything you need, so you don’t need to make the trip to New York City if you don’t want to. 

The average sale price for its homes is often around $415,000, making it far more accessible than the city itself. 

What can I expect in Larchmont? 

Larchmont is immediately north of New Rochelle and its average sale price for homes at the time of this writing was $1.6 million USD. 

Larchmont has a walkable downtown, plenty of spacious homes, and offers all of the same conveniences as New Rochelle, like parks, yacht clubs, and ample beaches. 

What about Rye and Port Chester? 

Rye and Port Chester are the northernmost waterside cities on the eastern coast of Westchester. Rye’s average sale price for homes is $1.6 million, while Port Chester sported a cheaper $598,000 price tag, on average. 

Rye is a food haven—there are ample restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops that dot its enviable downtown, and there is no shortage of explorable parks. Of the coastal cities in the county, it has a more suburban feel to it, and most residents own their homes. 

Port Chester is just north of Rye and offers plenty of museums, movie and performing arts theaters, and an abundance of restaurants downtown. Plus, being so close to Rye, any of Rye’s amenities are just a short drive, or train ride, away. 

What about the cities along the Hudson River? 

The Hudson River cities of Yonkers, Tarrytown, and Croton-on-Hudson carried a smaller price tag for homes than the eastern coastline. The sale price for homes in the river cities is approximately $750,000 on average, with Tarrytown driving that average up. 

What is Tarrytown like? 

Tarrytown is a diverse city with idyllic tree-lined streets and Victorian-style homes. Many of its residents describe Tarrytown as quiet, peaceful, and beautiful. And it’s that beauty and style that have inspired many well-known works of art, including the novel ‘The Legend of the Sleepy Hollow.’ 

Home prices here sell for around $1.4 million on average. 

What is Yonkers like? 

Yonkers is the closest Westchester city to New York City, and originally began as an industrial extension. However, that was its past; Yonkers has since been transformed, while keeping its historical buildings intact, into a residential haven filled with four-star restaurants, luxury properties, and a booming downtown. 

It’s got great culture and diversity to boot too, and, with the prices of homes starting near $342,000, you can do little wrong buying property here. 

What about Croton-on-Hudson? 

Croton-on-Hudson is located at the intersection of the Croton and Hudson Rivers. It is a 5-square-mile town that is packed with plenty of things to do and eat. Of the mentioned Hudson River cities, Croton-on-Hudson has the most suburban feel to it, but it comes with many amenities like highly-sought-after housing, high-end restaurants, and plenty of scenic parks. 

On average, its home prices are typically around $951,000. 

When is the right time to buy in Westchester? 

Real estate is a tricky subject right now. There are more people wanting to buy property than there are people willing to sell their property. Because of that reason, the selling price often goes above and beyond the asking price.  

As a result, buyers should be ready to be bidding against a handful of other interested parties. 

For more information on Westchester and its real estate market, contact BARNES New York! 

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What are the advantages of buying in a new real estate development in New York? 

New York City is always bustling with people who have places to go and goals to achieve. It’s a beautiful city for real estate investment, as it perpetually attracts tenants looking to rent a home for vacation, for a semester of school, or for the long term.  

In addition, NYC is an amazing place to purchase a secondary home, as there are countless sources of entertainment and shopping, most of which are very easily accessible on foot or by public transportation. So whether you are looking for a new home for your family or an investment rental property, BARNES New York has the resources you need to navigate your way through your purchase. 

While NYC offers plenty of historical real estate, there are excellent advantages to exploring new real estate developments within the city, which often include elements of historic architecture in conjunction with the conveniences of modern, upgraded materials and amenities. BARNES New Developments has preferred access to developers. Our team consists of agents with top-notch negotiation skills as well as a thorough knowledge of different parts of the city to help you find your new home.  

How can I save money buying new real estate in New York? 

Some buyers shy away from newer developments because of the price tag; however, luxury purchases are excellent investments. Updated properties offer increased value and are often built better due to the advancement of construction and materials. They know that these details are extremely important when purchasing in the luxury market.  

For example, 35 Hudson Yards was built with hand-picked limestone all the way from Germany, giving it warm, welcoming features. 108 Leonard incorporates majestic, historical architecture and combines it with more modern features to create beautiful units and common areas. Finally, buyers will want to check out 130 William Street, as it features luxurious Italian Pietra stone kitchen countertops. The upgraded materials and intentional features add value to all of these luxury properties and will likely reduce the need for renovations in the near future. These characteristics are one of the advantages of buying in a new real estate development in New York.

Furthermore, other unique details of these new developments certainly add to their value as well. For example, 277 Fifth Avenue offers floor-to-ceiling windows and columns that were intentionally placed along the perimeter of the building to avoid blocking the view. In addition, One Wall Street features tiled mosaics and a landscaped rooftop terrace for residents to enjoy views of the NYC skyline. New York City is known for its beautiful views, and these properties deliver what buyers want to see.  

These features increase the value of luxury residences and therefore tend to increase the return on investment for those looking to rent or sell their property. BARNES New Developments provides our clients with services for buying, selling, and managing these types of properties, and our agents have the knowledge and experience to be able to identify unique features that help elevate luxury buildings in NYC. 

Will I save money on utilities by investing in a new real estate development?  

Newer developments tend to implement more affordable and eco-friendly utilities, saving the buyer money on energy costs. For example, 565 Broome SoHo incorporates a sophisticated curtain-wall system that helps to retain heat in the winter and generate solar energy in the summer. This reduces the cost of energy as well as the negative impact of consumption on the environment.  

15 Hudson Yards boasts an on-site emergency generator, in case of loss of power, that contains efficient boilers to help reduce electric costs. Electricity tends to be one of the most expensive utilities for renters and homeowners, so these eco-friendly implementations can truly make a difference in overall costs and count as one of the major advantages of buying in a new real estate development in New York.

At BARNES New York, we are always on the lookout for properties that offer efficient, low-maintenance utilities to save our clients money and reduce negative impacts on the environment. Additionally, newer developments are able to incorporate updated technologies, such as more efficient energy systems and water-efficient plumbing, to reduce these costs. 

What kinds of unique amenities are included in new developments in NYC? 

Rooftop patio in New York City with a table and chairs standing on a paved area surrounded by green turf overlooking a view of the downtown skyline and skyscrapers

BARNES International Realty recognizes that another advantage to investing in new real estate is the availability of updated, state-of-the-art amenities, which add value to the property. Some of the more popular amenities include services and spaces dedicated to the health and wellness of residents.  

For example, 53 West 53 features a gorgeous dining area that overlooks Central Park as well as a 65-foot lap pool and a golf simulator. It is conveniently located above the Museum of Modern Art and boasts amazing panoramic views. 130 William includes an infinity-edge spa pool, a yoga studio, and a fitness center with a terrace to elevate your health and fitness experience. 200 Amsterdam, located in the Upper West Side, has ‘his and hers’ steam rooms, a yoga and pilates room, and an infrared sauna. All of these amenities add up in value, especially if they are saving you money on luxuries many people typically spend money on, such as gym memberships or billiards clubs. All these savings are true advantages of buying in a new real estate development in New York.

Additionally, many new luxury real estate developments offer other lifestyle services, such as doormen, concierge, and memberships to museums or other venues of interest. The Kent, located in the trendy Upper East Side, offers doorman these services 24 hours per day. Additionally, this development boasts a complimentary one-year membership to the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts. 

7 West 57 offers a virtual concierge so that residents can conveniently schedule services, such as restaurant reservations, by phone or computer. 300 West, located in West Harlem, includes two reception areas and a lobby that is attended 24-hours a day. These types of amenities increase the value of the real estate, as they provide modern luxuries that tenants highly desire.  

Luxury New York City real estate can be overwhelming to navigate, but the opportunity to invest in these new real estate developments makes them worth the thorough consideration. Thankfully, BARNES offers agents who have extensive experience working with luxury properties.  

Our agents are informed of the materials and architectural subtleties that help add value to new properties, ensuring buyers get the best value possible. In addition, we are always on the lookout for unique amenities that will save our clients money and add convenience to their daily lives. If you are considering investing in a new property in NYC, please contact our fantastic team at BARNES New Developments

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In the Media – How to buy a property in New York by BARNES

New York is an iconic city. A city in which all cultures, all religions and all generations always meet and interact at the sustained pace of economic and cultural activity. With its dynamism, the city remains one of the most popular international destinations for wealthy families and investors. Discover BARNES’s article about how to buy a property in New York for the French American Chamber of Commerce.

What are the most beautiful real estate new developments in New York?  

Real estate new developments in New York City are amazing and are privileged place to live. Whether you are looking for your dream home or investing in a rental property, BARNES New York can provide you with the specialized assistance needed to walk you through the entire process. We offer a variety of services, such as negotiation of pricing, direct access to developers, and specialized knowledge of NYC neighborhoods.

While there are plenty of wonderful older residences in the city, some buyers are looking to invest in a newer development. BARNES has its own department for new developments with access to construction programs worldwide, which has done the research to find you the most beautiful residences in locations that are in high demand and with features that are irresistible to buyers and renters.

Why invest in new developments in NYC? 

Most would agree that NYC is a unique and fascinating city. It offers something for everyone, with art museums, Broadway productions, world-renowned restaurants, and endless shopping. In addition to location, there are several benefits to investing in newer developments in the city.

Newer developments, in general, tend to have fewer needs in terms of maintenance and renovations. This saves the buyer money, especially if the property is used for rental investment. Additionally, newer buildings tend to have more desirable features that align with current expectations, such as washer and dryer connections (which can be very challenging to find in-unit) and more luxurious amenities, such as high-end gyms and spas.

A less obvious benefit of investing in real estate new developments in New York, is the opportunity to lock in a price at the early stages of development. Making a commitment to a property early on can save significant amounts of money, as the buyer may be able to get an excellent price without having to worry about inflation. BARNES can provide assistance with the negotiation and acquisition of these types of properties.

Aerial panorama of New York City skyscrapers at dusk as seen from above the 29th street, close to Hudson Yards and Chelsea neighborhood

What are some of the popular neighborhoods for new developments in NYC? 

NYC is diverse in what it has to offer, and this is especially true for the Manhattan borough. Some of the key neighborhoods we suggest exploring are SoHo and the Upper West Side, Hudson Yards, and the Financial District.

SoHo is an excellent neighborhood for walkable luxury shopping. Near Midtown and the East Village, this neighborhood is accessible to desired restaurants, galleries, and upscale bars. Rooted deeply in the arts, this area is a unique place to live and visit. Buyers interested in SoHo should look at 77 Charlton Street, which offers a private courtyard and condos ranging from studios to 3-bedrooms.

In nearby Morningside Heights, Vanderwater stands as a 33-story luxury condominium, and it offers views of Central Park, Riverside Church, and Columbia University. The Upper West Side also features 200 Amsterdam, which is located near the Museum of Natural History and the Lincoln Center. This complex also boasts unique amenities, such as a “Zoom room” for meetings and a “little composer’s room” for children to explore their musical talents.

Foodies will want to explore Hudson Yards, located in Manhattan’s West Side. Developments in this area are also near the art galleries of Chelsea as well as the Hudson River Park. 35 Hudson Yards, the 4th tallest building in the US, features floor-to-ceiling windows and easy access to The Shops at Hudson Yards.

This development also offers a 2-year membership to Equinox club and spa for no extra charge. Another strong contender in this area is 15 Hudson Yards in West Chelsea, which offers panoramic views of Manhattan and easy access to Hudson River Park.

These are just a few of the popular neighborhoods in Manhattan. BARNES is prepared to help you find the neighborhood that best fits your style and needs, and will walk you through the process of acquiring your dream home.

What types of amenities are available?  

Amenities are particularly important when shopping for high-end real estate developments, and New York City luxury developments have quite a few to offer. It can be helpful to be aware of the amenities that are most crucial to you while shopping for your new home.

Many luxury condominiums offer lobby service for added protection and convenience. 300 West, located in Upper Manhattan in the West Harlem Area, offers 24-hour lobby service with doorman and concierge services.

Another popular amenity is easy access to an in-house pool or spa. 111 West 57th Street, located in Midtown, offers residents a lap pool, a sauna, and a steam room. Buyers looking for a place in the Upper East Side should consider for its beautiful indoor pool and sauna. This facility also offers a unique camping-themed children’s play area and even a sound lounge for musicians.

In addition to pool access, many buyers are also interested in other fitness-related amenities. For example, 130 William, located Downtown, offers a wide variety of options for those interested in fitness and sports, including a swimming pool, a yoga studio, a basketball court, and an exit close to the park.

Where are some of the most beautiful views?  

It can be challenging to choose the complexes with the most beautiful views in NYC, as there are so many iconic images of the city. Whether you are looking for something overlooking a waterfront, a high rise that offers views of the skyline, or windows with viewpoints of Central Park, there are luxury developments that accommodate these requests.  

One Manhattan Square is located on the edge of New York Harbor, at 800 feet above the water. This development offers glass paneling for optimal views of the waterfront. 77 Greenwich also offers beautiful waterfront views and is close to Battery Park. These types of developments can make you feel like you’re in an oasis within the big city with their serene viewpoints. 

For those looking to see the beautiful skyline, 196 Orchard, located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, boasts an amazing view of the NYC skyline, with its 4,300 square foot rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Buyers may also want to consider places that offer iconic views of Central Park, such as 111 West 57th Street

We recommend all buyers looking to invest in luxury properties check out the real estate new developments emerging in New York City. BARNES New Development is prepared to assist clients with finding, buying, and selling these properties. We are equipped with specialized knowledge and resources to help you get the best deal for your money and to make the most out of your investment over time.  

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In the Media – New York and its high-end real estate: market outlook by Yann Rousseau

New York is an iconic city. A city in which all cultures, all religions and all generations always meet and interact at the sustained pace of economic and cultural activity. With its dynamism, the city remains one of the most popular international destinations for wealthy families and investors. Yann Rousseau, director of BARNES New York, gave an interview in French about the high-end real estate market and the current state of the market for French podcast online media LES ONDES DE L’IMMO.

BARNES Magazine n°32 is hot off the press

The BARNES Fall-Winter 2022 magazine is hot off the press, featuring Terry de Gunzberg, founder of By Terry, who invites us to discover her colorful universe. Entrepreneurship, cosmectics and art…she shares with us her passions and also her vision that has revolutionized the world of beauty.

Learn about the world of wine with Angelus, an exceptional signature combined with contemporary daring, but also the Orient Express, an express route to luxury. We also open our pages to Baccarat, a sparkling party, to the decorators Friedmann & Versace but also to Guy Savoy who shares his idea of luxury.

For this 32nd edition of the magazine, take a real estate world tour by browsing our selection of the most exceptional properties in international cities, in France, as well as country, seaside and mountain destinations. Click on the link to access the online version of the magazine.

In the Media – International high-end real estate resists crises

BARNES New York and its international network were featured in a French media article on luxury real estate. The COVID-19 pandemic and political situation in Ukraine had global repercussions in many countries and industries, including real estate. But high-end real estate showed resilient capabilities and stays strong, especially in New York.

New York is one of the most popular and coveted destination for international real estate investments and expats. Manhattan still steals the spotlight, but nearby suburbs, called the tri-state area, which includes Westchester county, across the Hudson river in New Jersey, or Connecticut, are also good options for those who want more space and a greener scenery.

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