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BARNES New York at online showcase “Bien Vivre aux États-Unis”

BARNES New York will be participating in the online fair “Bien Vivre aux États-Unis”, organized by French Morning and presented by USAFrance Financials.

“Bien Vivre aux États-Unis” is the first digital fair dedicated to French expatriates in the United States, or preparing for expatriation, offering an entire week of conferences with experts to receive advices to live better in the United States, whether you are settled there for a long time or are still dreaming of living there.

All the most essential topics of expatriation will be touched upon, including immigration, family, business, heritage, health, immigration… but also the daily life of the expatriate, to give you the keys to live your expatriation as well as possible.

The fair will take place online from September 11th to the 15th, 2023. BARNES New York will be represented by Managing Partner Yann Rousseau, who will be presenting New York’s real estate market along with powerful insights on how to buy a property in the Big Apple, accompanied by expert guests, Betty Benzakein from HSBC and Amélie Deschênes from OFX.

Join BARNES New York on September 12th at 2pm EST/20h FR for a conference dedicated to the New York real estate market.

Why should you buy an apartment in the Upper East Side?

There are a number of reasons why someone may want to buy an apartment in the Upper East Side. This guide will take you through these reasons as well as some considerations to take into account.

If you’re looking to live in a neighborhood with a vibrant culture and authentic New York City vibes, you truly can’t go wrong with moving to the Upper East Side in Manhattan. This iconic neighborhood features historic buildings, elegant dining and shopping experiences, stunning views, and more.

Those who are new to New York City might be wondering what it’s like to live in the Upper East Side. We can confidently say that the Upper East Side is a fantastic neighborhood that has plenty to offer in terms of art, culture, food, and amenities. Whether you decide to buy an apartment in Yorkville or a luxury condo in Lenox Hill, you’ll be making the right choice.

If you’re thinking about buying an apartment in this area, there are a few things you should take into consideration — namely the cost of living, the general atmosphere, the neighborhood you want to live in, and the access to certain amenities. Let’s go over some of the main reasons why you should buy an apartment in the Upper East Side.

How much does it cost to live in the Upper East Side? 

There are plenty of beautiful apartments for sale on the Upper East Side — from small studios to large multi-bedroom units. These properties offer lots of exciting features and amenities, including modern kitchens and bathrooms, and outstanding views of the Manhattan skyline. With endless options to choose from, you should have no problem finding your dream apartment!

However, it’s important to note that the cost of living is higher in the Upper East Side than it is in most places. The average Upper East Side condo might cost around $2.15 million (As of August 2023*), but if you’re looking to buy a co-op, you should be able to get away with paying around $922,000. It’s definitely an investment, but the benefits of homeownership (as well as the benefits of having the bustling city right outside your window) make it well worth it.

*Data from UrbanDigs

Why buy in the Upper East Side? 

There are plenty of great reasons to buy an apartment in the Upper East Side. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re bound to find something that meets your expectations. This particular area is known for its elegant architecture and world-class museums. The Upper East Side offers top-notch restaurants and gorgeous parks.

It’s also home to some of the best shopping in the city, so if you’ve been itching to go on a spree, the Upper East Side is definitely the right place for you. Whether you’re a young professional looking to live in a vibrant neighborhood, a family, or a retired couple seeking a peaceful oasis in the heart of the best city in the world — the Upper East Side truly has something to offer everyone who lives there. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main reasons people buy apartments in the Upper East Side below.

Dining

On the Upper East Side, there’s cuisine to suit every taste. No matter what you’re craving, this district’s plethora of fine dining choices guarantees that you won’t be let down. Are you looking for an eating experience that will truly blow your mind? The Upper East Side is sure to exceed your expectations. Many upscale restaurants with exquisite dishes and white-glove service can be found in this affluent neighborhood, so come on down!

Shopping

Your inner shopaholic is sure to thrive in the Upper East Side. It goes without saying that the Upper East Side offers an abundance of rich, top-notch shopping centers and specialty grocery stores. This neighborhood is an absolute retail hotspot, and it’s especially known for its luxury boutiques and stylish department stores. The Upper East Side is an absolute godsend if you’re looking to find the most up-to-date styles and brands. Whether you’re shopping for shoes, dresses, purses, sports gear, cosmetics, or food, you’re destined to find something you love alongside Fifth Avenue shops.

Museums and Culture 

If you’re an art fanatic, look no further than the Upper East Side to get your art fix. Living in this part of the city means having easy access to world-class, renowned museums — such as the Goethe Institute and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Make a day trip out of traversing the Upper East Side’s many museums, and enjoy the rich culture New York City has to offer.

Enjoy the outdoors 

Just because you live in a big city doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoors once in a while. The Upper East Side’s renowned Central Park is a major draw for people wanting to invest in an apartment there. Hiking trails, bicycle routes, birdwatching, and playgrounds are all widely available in Central Park. The calmer, more serene center and northern parts of the park are typically preferred by the locals over the busier, more tourist-friendly southern areas of the park.

While all Upper East Side residents have easy access to Central Park, there are many other beautiful parks you can visit if you want to enjoy the outdoors and fresh air. The Upper East Side is filled to the brim with parks, sports venues, waterway paths, and gardens that are ideal for unwinding after a long day’s work.

Summary

As you can see, living in the Upper East Side is an absolute dream come true! If you’re ready to start your search for the perfect apartment on the Upper East Side, you should consider working with BARNES New York. Our experienced agents will be more than happy to help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market — from finding the right property to negotiating the best deal. There are plenty of apartments, condos, and co-ops for sale, and we would love to have a consultation with you when you’re ready to find your dream home. Contact us today to learn more!

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“Invest in New York” conferences in Europe

In May, BARNES New York was pleased to host conferences in Europe on real estate investment in New York. These conferences “Invest in New York” in Bordeaux, Brussels and London were a great success.

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, and Myriam Benhamou, Associate Real Estate Broker, presented the New York real estate market, the acquisition and financing process, and the current opportunities for new developments in one of the most attractive cities in the United States. The conferences were followed by a cocktail reception.

Conference in Bordeaux on May 25th, 2023 (Hôtel de Sèze, 23 Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux)
Conference in Brussels on May 30th, 2023 (“The Merode”, Place Poelaert 6, 1000 Brussels)
Conference in London on May 31st, 2023 (BARNES International London, 113-115 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3LE)

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.

BARNES New York at the NYC Real Estate Expo

BARNES New York had the opportunity to be present at the NYC Real Estate Expo 2023 at the Citi Field Stadium in Queens, New York on May 10th, 2023. The Expo brought together more than 7,000 real estate professionals, developers, investors, brokers, owners, architects, exhibitors, sponsors and individuals for a day of exchanges and meetings on the current and future environment of the real estate market.

Speakers like Thibault De Saint Vincent, President of BARNES International Realty, and Scott Durkin, President & CEO of Douglas Elliman, shared their views on the post-COVID era and the latest industry trends and news.

The BARNES New York team had the pleasure of attending to present the “Art de Vivre” luxury brand and services to the most curious. Representatives from the BARNES New York team and agents gathered for the event, reinforcing the strong position BARNES International holds on the real estate scene.

Watch Thibault De Saint Vincent, President of BARNES International Realty, for NTD News :

BARNES New York at the NYC Real Deal Showcase + Forum 2023

BARNES New York had the opportunity to be present at the Real Deal Showcase + Forum 2023 at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York on May 4, 2023. The showcase brought together more than 3,000 real estate professionals, developers, investors, brokers, owners , architects, exhibitors and sponsors for a day of exchanges and meetings on the current and future environment of the real estate market.

Speakers like Jody Durst, President of the Durst Organization, Marty Burger, President and CEO of Silverstein Properties, Inc., and Nathan Berman, Founding Director of Metro Loft, shared their views on the post-COVID era and the latest industry trends and news.

The BARNES New York team had the pleasure of attending to present the “Art de Vivre” luxury brand and services to the most curious. Representatives from the various BARNES offices in Miami, Montreal and Portland gathered in NYC for the event, reinforcing the deep ties between the offices which perfectly illustrated BARNES’ international position on the real estate scene.

“Invest in New York” conferences in Brazil

BARNES New York and Ricardo Lowndes Dale hold two conferences on real estate investment on March 20th in Rio de Janeiro and March 22nd in São Paulo. The events were followed by a happy-hour cocktail and met  with a lot of success.

Yann Rousseau (Managing Partner of BARNES New York, Westchester & Connecticut) and Adrien Gouirand (Consultant at BARNES New York) spoke in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo to present the New York real estate market and its opportunities, new developments projects as well as an introduction to the buying process in the US and how to invest abroad.

The main topics discussed during the conferences were:

  • The right time to buy
  • The state of the real estate market in New York
  • The buying and financing process in the United States
  • The opportunities in new developments

What is the current state of the real estate market in New York?

Despite the US recession, we do not expect prices for existing properties in New York to decrease. However, the real estate market might experience a slight drop in supply and demand. Currently, the euro is recovering against the dollar and new constructions increasingly stand as very good buying opportunities for both resale and rental.

What are the most popular types of property?

New York consists of various neighborhoods that are very different from each other, whether in Manhattan or Brooklyn, but among them, neighborhoods such as TriBeCa, the Upper East Side, Midtown and Soho are very attractive. As for Brooklyn, the districts of Dumbo, Caroll Garens, Gowanus or Cobble Hill are very popular.

In addition, new developments are becoming the new trend, because they offer many advantages in terms of finishes, equipment, tax exemption and rental/resale potential. This type of modern, new property is becoming the new target of many buyers. Many clients also seek a family-friendly aspect in a home with more space, which is why multifamily buildings are also highly sought after by families or investors alike. Finally, do not neglect the pre-war buildings, which are also in great demand for their charm and their reduced costs.

A friendly event that caused a sensation

Following the conferences, a short questions and answers session took place, followed by a happy hour cocktail between all the guests to network and learn more about the New York real estate market in a relaxed and chic atmosphere.

“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

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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What are the regulations for buying a property in New York? 

With its shining lights, skyscrapers, and mix of cultures, New York surely is the place to live. There are plenty of NYC apartments for sale currently, so choosing which to buy is up to you! Buying a new property in New York can seem daunting, as it is a long process with many obstacles throughout. However, this process can be made easy by being aware of all rules, regulations, and steps to take when buying a property in New York.  

Being aware of the regulations that come alongside buying and selling a new house can make the proceeding go much smoother. Knowing what is expected for you and the seller will get you closer to reaching your new New York home with less trouble. Also, following all regulations can help you to avoid extra fees and costs that you would not have paid otherwise.  

What are the important steps when buying a new property? 

As a buyer, it is always a good idea to work with a buyer’s agent who has plenty of experience, especially if you are a novice when it comes to buying homes. Therefore, the first thing you should do when you decide to buy a home is to find a buyer’s agent.  

Prepare all of the documents you will need for an offer and find an attorney specializing in real estate. You can ask your buyer’s agent for local recommendations. Having all of your documents in order will allow you to find any required information quickly and check that all regulations have been followed properly, especially when you’re buying a property in New York.

If you submit an offer for a property and it is approved, your attorney will look over the housing contract on your behalf. They will also scrutinize construction documents, including the first two years of financing the property. Once this operation is completed, you must then make at least a 10% down payment. This is one of the most detailed steps of the process, so it is important to review the listed rules and cautions to be aware of when making the down payment.  

Once you’ve signed the full contract, if financing, you will apply for a mortgage and request an appraisal. The bank will provide you with a mortgage commitment, and you can complete an application to buy the new property.  

The process and regulations for buying a cooperative property in New York are quite different from the regulations of other properties. For example, if you buy a cooperative, the board will first call you in for an interview. If you buy a condo apartment or a house, this process is skipped, and the building will consider the waiver of the right of first refusal, thus allowing you to begin the closing process on the property.  

Many details within the buying process must not be looked over, as this can result in penalties, extra fees, and can add to the time you must wait before owning your new property. 

What is a seller’s disclosure? 

When a homeowner puts their house on the market, they must collect a packet of documents with information about the property. Seller’s disclosures can vary from state to state and county to county depending on their requirements, otherwise known as disclosure obligations. For example, in New York, the seller’s disclosure obligations are divided into 5 different categories: General Information, surrounding environment, mechanical systems, structural elements, and defects. 

The general information that sellers must include in the disclosure would be details such as the age of the house, the property title, and the utility surcharge. In addition, the environment around the property can significantly impact the maintenance, and it must be stated in the disclosure. For example, if the property is located in a floodplain, a wetland district, near a landfill, contains asbestos, or if other toxic substances have been spilled, the seller must report them.  

It must include information about the mechanical systems, such as the utilities, water sources and quality, and the presence of sewers. All defects in the house must be reported as well. Any issues with the plumbing, air conditioning or heating, security, the foundation of the walls, chimney, and patio terrace must be described in detail on paper to the buyer.  

It is your right to receive a full and detailed seller’s disclosure as a buyer. Sellers who cannot provide adequate disclosure can owe money in fees, but the buyer may pay extra money for repairs later down the line.  

Are there regulations for down payments? 

Regulations and rules about down payments may be one of the most important that you come across as a buyer. Many co-ops or condos in New York will require a 20% down payment, although you might be permitted to put only 10% of the purchase price in a few instances. Of course, the more money you initially put down, the less you have to pay by the month.

Any down payment less than 20% of the price will require the buyer to pay for extra private mortgage insurance. Private mortgage insurance is a type of insurance that any buyer will be required to have to take out a conventional mortgage loan. Unlike most types of insurance, private mortgage insurance will protect the lender’s investment in the home rather than the borrower of the loan. On the other hand, private mortgage insurance makes it possible for some buyers to own their new homes sooner. This is because those who put down less than 20% as a down payment on their home will be allowed by the private mortgage insurance to obtain financing. 

PMI is not on the cheap end, though, and it can come with additional monthly costs outside of loan payments. Until the buyers have enough equity in the home and are no longer considered high-risk, they must continue to make large payments to the private mortgage insurance. These can be between 0.5% and 2% of the total cost of the house in a given year. The lower the down payment, the higher the percent of the total cost the buyer will pay to the private mortgage insurance.  

How can I abide down payment regulations?  

The best way to ensure that you will meet the 20% requirement for a down payment on a new property in New York is by having a set budget and plenty of savings before entering the market.  

It is important to decide how much you are willing to spend on your apartment, as well as which accommodations are most important to you. In New York, a one-bedroom apartment costs about $1,110,000 to buy on average in November 2022. A new 4-bedroom home for the family can cost over $3.8 million, making this a high initial down payment.*

Although putting a bigger down payment is generally advised, be sure to save at least 5% more than the down payment you wish to put down to help with repairs that you may need. Always set a limit with yourself and secure your expectations regarding financing. Additionally, it’s best to plan out your financial plan with an experienced mortgage broker to figure out your budget. 

*Data from UrbanDigs

How can I avoid mistakes?  

As stated above, working with real estate professionals can help you build confidence and guide you throughout the process and the regulations of buying a new property in New York. Unfortunately, many buyers and sellers may think that they are saving money on a real estate transaction by not hiring a real estate agent, and this could not be further from the truth.  

An experienced real estate agent knows the New York market, has excellent negotiation skills, and offers great advice about choosing a home that will help you save money in the long run. Having a real estate agent by your side can help you find new properties that you may not have found otherwise, caution you of regulations you may be missing or unaware of, and assist you throughout the process to help you understand each step of the way.

Having a brokerage firm that you can trust is crucial when buying a home in New York. BARNES New York is available to help you in all of your real estate endeavors, whether you are buying a home, investing abroad, looking for private aviation and yacht services, and much more.  

BARNES New York will assist you in all of your needs, especially when it comes to luxury living and new developments in New York. Contact us today for more information!

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