 We’re thrilled to announce that Alice Tang has joined The Big City Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fillmore Real Estate! Licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania, Alice brings a unique blend of experience, cultural insight, and multilingual skills to the NYC real estate market. Born and raised in the agriculturally rich Lancaster County, PA, Alice studied Forensic Science and Spanish at Alvernia University. She also has a strong background in the healthcare industry, working in both long-term care and pharmaceuticals. Alice’s passion for real estate was sparked during a visit to Brooklyn, inspiring her to launch her career in Pennsylvania before expanding to NYC. With her tenacity, drive, and compassionate approach, Alice is committed to delivering exceptional service to every client she serves. Alice speaks multiple languages, including English and Cantonese, with working proficiency in Spanish and Mandarin, making her a valuable resource for clients from diverse backgrounds. 📞 Contact Alice at 717-271-4451 for all your NYC real estate needs! 📱 Follow her journey on Instagram: @alicetang_realtor
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 Rendering of The Orchard in Long Island City: Photo by Binyan Long Island City is making headlines with The Orchard, Queens’ tallest building to date. Officially topping out this week at an impressive 823 feet, this 70-story rental tower developed by BLDG Management Company and designed by Perkins Eastman is redefining the skyline and luxury living in the borough. Located at Orchard Street and Jackson Avenue in the Court Square neighborhood, The Orchard will feature 824 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, with 248 designated as affordable housing. The development strikes a balance between luxury and accessibility, adding to the neighborhood’s transformation into a dynamic urban hub.  Rendering of The Orchard in Long Island City: Photo by Binyan The building boasts over 100,000 square feet of amenities, offering an unparalleled living experience. Outdoor features include a massive backyard with a swimming pool, three pickleball courts, an outdoor movie theater, a running track, an orchard grove, and green spaces for yoga, children’s play, and dogs. Residents will also enjoy private cabanas with grills and fire pits. Indoor amenities are equally impressive, with a sky lounge on the 70th floor providing panoramic Manhattan views, a bar, chef’s kitchen, and private dining space. Wellness options include an indoor pool, basketball court, state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, steam room, and fitness studios. Entertainment spaces include game rooms, private theaters, and multimedia rooms.  Rendering of The Orchard in Long Island City: Photo by Binyan Designed with modern professionals in mind, The Orchard features conference rooms, work pods, a business center, and even a podcast studio. These spaces make it easier for residents to work from home while enjoying a dynamic and community-oriented environment. Joining Long Island City’s growing skyline, The Orchard rises above neighboring towers like Skyline Tower (778 feet), Sven (755 feet), and Lumin LIC (731 feet). The tower is expected to welcome its first residents in January 2026, with marketing and leasing managed by Corcoran New Development.  Rendering of The Orchard in Long Island City: Photo by Binyan  450 Union Street - Renderings by SO-IL Exciting new renderings have emerged for 450 Union Street, a 19-story residential building poised to rise in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn. Designed by SO-IL in collaboration with Magnusson Architecture & Planning, with development led by Tankhouse and McArthur Holdings, this 203,000-square-foot project will bring a mix of market-rate and affordable rental units to the area, complemented by ground-floor retail spaces. Located at the prominent intersection of Union and Bond Streets, the development aims to enhance the local landscape with a thoughtfully designed, visually compelling structure. The aerial renderings present a stunning view of 450 Union Street from across the Gowanus Canal, revealing a landscaped public waterfront plaza that will serve as a welcoming communal space. At the heart of the building’s eastern façade, a two-story glass volume highlights the main entrance, adding an inviting, modern aesthetic. A street-level view from Union Street showcases a unique architectural element: a cutout separating floors three through seven, with balconies bridging the space across the void. Additional renderings reveal the building's cascading design, with angled volumes climbing from the base to the top. This dynamic structure combines tiered setbacks and terraces that create a striking play of light and shadow, lending both depth and vertical emphasis to the overall design. The lower levels align with the adjacent two-tower residential complex at 313-315 Bond Street, while setbacks push the upper stories toward the center of the site, offering a blend of privacy and visual intrigue. The building’s façade features gray brick accented by a grid of floor-to-ceiling windows framed by slender white mullions. Close-up renderings spotlight the ground-floor retail frontage, the striking cutout between the second and third floors (complete with terraces and hanging vegetation), tree-lined sidewalks, and a garden-inspired streetscape. This unique brickwork pattern and attention to detail make 450 Union Street a distinct addition to Gowanus. Drawing from SO-IL’s previous Brooklyn projects like 9 Chapel Street, 144 Vanderbilt Avenue, and 450 Warren Street, the design reflects a familiar architectural language while introducing fresh elements to the neighborhood. Residents will have access to a wide range of amenities, including private parking, a fitness center, a children’s playroom and art studio, lounge areas with a commercial kitchen, and flexible workspace designed for remote professionals. Conveniently located just blocks from the Union Street R train station, 450 Union Street will provide residents with quick access to public transportation and the surrounding community. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026, promising a vibrant new chapter for the Gowanus landscape.  Photo by Tom Ritson on Unsplash New York City is a dynamic landscape, where real estate markets are constantly evolving and new neighborhoods rise to prominence. If you're looking to invest in property, rent, or simply explore a fresh part of the city, here are seven up-and-coming neighborhoods you need to keep an eye on. 1. Bushwick, Brooklyn Bushwick has transformed from an industrial zone into one of Brooklyn’s trendiest enclaves. Known for its vibrant street art, burgeoning culinary scene, and a strong community of creatives, Bushwick offers a unique blend of grit and charm. The neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular with first-time homebuyers and renters due to its relatively affordable prices compared to neighboring Williamsburg. Trendy coffee shops, art galleries, and boutique stores are constantly popping up, making this a prime spot for future growth. 2. Mott Haven, The Bronx Located just across the Harlem River from Manhattan, Mott Haven is experiencing a rapid revitalization. With its proximity to the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines and direct access to the expressways, it’s perfect for commuters. The neighborhood is now seeing the development of luxury waterfront condos, trendy bars, and art spaces. As The Bronx begins to shed its old reputation, Mott Haven is emerging as one of the most exciting investment opportunities in the city. 3. Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy), Brooklyn Bed-Stuy has a rich history, known for its beautiful brownstone-lined streets and cultural significance in the African American community. Over the past few years, the neighborhood has seen a surge in development, with new condos, co-ops, and rental buildings offering a variety of living options. The arrival of new restaurants, coffee shops, and vintage boutiques has attracted a younger, more diverse crowd. While prices are rising, Bed-Stuy remains a more affordable alternative to nearby neighborhoods like Clinton Hill and Fort Greene. 4. Ridgewood, Queens Ridgewood is a neighborhood that has flown under the radar for years but is now drawing attention. Located on the border between Brooklyn and Queens, this residential area combines the quiet charm of Queens with the cultural buzz of nearby Bushwick. Ridgewood offers more space for your money, with a mix of old-world charm in its pre-war apartment buildings and modern developments. The neighborhood has seen an influx of young families and professionals, drawn to its community atmosphere and local businesses. 5. East Harlem (El Barrio), Manhattan East Harlem, or "El Barrio," has been a cultural hub for NYC’s Puerto Rican and Latinx communities for decades. Now, with ongoing rezoning efforts and increased real estate interest, the area is poised for significant development. New condos and mixed-use buildings are changing the landscape, while local cultural institutions and long-standing eateries continue to preserve the neighborhood’s unique identity. East Harlem is becoming more appealing to those seeking affordable living options in Manhattan, with new dining and retail spots appearing regularly. 6. Greenpoint, Brooklyn Once an industrial hub, Greenpoint has grown into one of Brooklyn’s most desirable waterfront neighborhoods. Known for its Polish roots and creative community, Greenpoint offers stunning views of Manhattan, a thriving nightlife scene, and a growing selection of luxury condos. New developments along the waterfront are transforming the neighborhood into a residential hotspot, attracting professionals and families alike. While prices are increasing, Greenpoint still offers more space and a quieter atmosphere compared to Williamsburg. 7. Woodside, Queens Woodside is one of Queens' hidden gems. With a strong Irish, Filipino, and South Asian community, this neighborhood boasts a rich cultural heritage and a diverse range of dining options. Its location along multiple subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road makes it an appealing option for commuters. The real estate market in Woodside is growing, with new residential projects offering affordable living spaces. As more people discover Woodside’s charm, the area is poised to become a top choice for NYC homebuyers and renters. Conclusion: These seven neighborhoods offer unique opportunities for those looking to live, invest, or explore New York City’s real estate market. Whether you’re drawn to Brooklyn’s artistic scene, the Bronx’s evolving waterfront, or Queens’ diverse communities, NYC has something for everyone. If you're in the market for a new home or an investment property, contact The Big City Team at 646-300-2012 to connect with one of our real estate advisors. Follow us on social media at @thebigcityteam. We're here to help you find your perfect NYC home!  Exciting news for Williamsburg! Domino Square has officially opened on the Williamsburg waterfront. This stunning one-acre public plaza is the latest addition to the iconic Domino Sugar Factory site, bringing even more park space to the area.  Designed by landscape architecture firm Field Operations, the space is focused on community, offering year-round events such as salsa nights, farmers markets, and Williamsburg’s first-ever ice skating rink, which is set to open this November.  Part of the larger Domino Park, which opened in 2018, this final section spans 33,000 square feet—about the size of a city block. It sits between One Domino Square and The Refinery at Domino, a historic 19th-century factory transformed into a net-zero carbon office space. The plaza features tiered seating, lush plantings, and a new overlook with views of the park and the Williamsburg Bridge.  Additionally, the retail arcade, designed by Studio Casdena, showcases concrete piers that frame the space and create entry points into the park. Domino Square marks the completion of the Domino master plan, which has brought new homes, office spaces, and parks to this formerly industrial waterfront.  The New York City Council has approved a major rezoning initiative for the East Bronx, bringing thousands of new homes and $500 million in investments. The Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan targets 46 blocks around four upcoming Metro-North stations: Co-op City, Hunts Point, Morris Park, and Parkchester/Van Nest. This first rezoning under Mayor Eric Adams includes over a million square feet of commercial and retail space and aims to create 10,000 permanent jobs. The new stations, expected by 2027, will reduce travel time to Manhattan by up to 50 minutes, connecting Penn Station to Metro-North’s New Haven Line and easing reliance on slower transportation options. The plan will add 7,000 new homes, with about 1,700 being permanently income-restricted through Mandatory Inclusionary Housing. Additionally, nearly $500 million in capital investments will support:
The project also includes a parking mandate and density restrictions near Morris Park, resulting in a slight reduction of planned apartments. Developers like Pinnacle Group are already moving forward with new residential projects in Parkchester. Speaker Adrienne Adams praised the plan, noting its potential to address housing needs and improve infrastructure. Although the Metro-North expansion faced delays, it is now set for completion in late 2027. This transformative initiative marks a significant step forward for the East Bronx, promising enhanced connectivity and a revitalized community.  Photo by Denys Nevozhai on Unsplash Buying a home in New York City is a fast-paced and competitive process. If a property is priced well, it sells quickly. To ensure you’re ready to make a strong offer when you find the right condo or co-op, you need to be prepared from the start. Here’s a guide on how to make an offer in NYC and the essential documents you’ll need. Be Prepared from the Start Many buyers start their home search casually, only to fall in love with a property and then scramble to gather the necessary documents to make an offer. To avoid this, it's important to have everything ready from the beginning. Understanding the asking price and market value will help you make a fair and competitive offer. Key Documents and Steps for Making an Offer in NYC 1. REBNY Financial Statement The REBNY Financial Statement is crucial for any offer in NYC. This document outlines your assets, liabilities, income, and overall financial picture. Preparing this statement can take some time, so it's best to start early. Home sellers often review this statement as part of their decision-making process. 2. Mortgage Pre-Approval, Pre-Qualification Letter, or Proof of Funds Having a mortgage pre-approval or pre-qualification letter is essential before you start your property search. It shows sellers that you are a serious and capable buyer. If you're planning to pay in cash, a proof of funds document will suffice. This ensures that you won’t be delayed waiting for bank approval while other buyers are making offers. 3. Real Estate Attorney An experienced real estate attorney can make the home buying process much smoother. Most attorneys charge a flat fee, payable only if the deal is completed, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you don’t have an attorney, your real estate agent can recommend one. 4. Estimated Closing Costs NYC closing costs can be substantial and often catch buyers off guard. Discuss these costs with your attorney or agent to get an accurate estimate. The NYC mortgage recording tax is a significant portion of these costs, especially for condo purchases. 5. Contract Deposit & Down Payment In NYC, you typically need to put down at least 20% of the purchase price, with an initial contract deposit of 10% when signing the contract. Some buildings and mortgage companies may accept less, but higher down payments are generally seen as stronger offers. 6. Post-Close Liquidity (Co-Ops Only) Co-op boards often require buyers to have at least two years’ worth of maintenance and mortgage payments in post-close liquidity. It’s also wise to estimate your debt-to-income ratio. For co-ops, a ratio under 30% is preferred, with some more stringent boards requiring 25% or lower. Consult Professionals Real Estate Agent A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you determine the value of a home, navigate negotiations, and understand the market dynamics. Their expertise is invaluable in making a competitive offer. Mortgage Lender Working with a mortgage lender early in the process ensures you understand the down payment requirements and have your financing in order. This distinction is crucial to differentiate the down payment from the contract deposit. Conclusion The New York City real estate market is highly competitive. By being well-prepared and educated about the process, you increase your chances of successfully purchasing your dream home. Start gathering your documents and consulting with professionals early to make a strong and compelling offer when the right property comes along. If you have any questions about the NYC home buying process, please contact our team leader Colin O'Leary at 646-300-2012. New York City's real estate market offers two main housing options: condos and co-ops. 🏢 Each comes with unique advantages and challenges, so understanding their differences is essential when making a decision. Condos: Owning a condo means you acquire your unit outright while sharing common areas with other residents. This option offers several benefits:
Co-ops: In a co-op, you buy shares in a corporation that owns the building, rather than purchasing real estate directly. Key features include:
Key Differences to Consider:
Which is right for you? It depends on your lifestyle, finances, and long-term goals. Whether you're looking for flexibility, investment potential, or affordability, understanding these factors will help you make the best choice for your needs. For personalized advice and to explore your options, contact us at 646-300-2012 for a free consultation. |
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