The Nest

NestApple's Real Estate Blog

Featuring real estate articles and information to help real estate buyers and sellers. The Nest features writings from Georges Benoliel and other real estate professionals. Georges is the Co-Founder of NestApple and has been working as an active real estate investor for over a decade.

How Much Can Your Landlord Raise Your Rent in NYC? (2026)

How much your landlord can increase your rent in NYC depends on your apartment type. First, determine whether you rent an unregulated (free-market) apartment or a regulated one, such as a rent-stabilized or rent-controlled apartment. In unregulated units, there’s no limit… Read More

What Is a Protected Buyer List in NYC Real Estate? (2026)

In NYC real estate, a protected buyer list includes names of buyers on whom your listing agent can still earn a commission after the original listing agreement expires. This list is also known as a protection clause, safety clause, or… Read More

What Are Anti-Competitive Practices in NYC Real Estate? (2026)

Anti-competitive practices in NYC real estate include actions by agents that artificially inflate commission rates by discouraging competition among agents and brokerages. They also involve failing to fully disclose information to consumers. This can prevent them from securing the best… Read More

Acceptable Forms of Earnest Money (2026)

Home sellers typically accept earnest money in the form of personal checks, certified checks, ACH bank transfers, or wire transfers. Cash is generally not accepted because it’s difficult to track and record. Buyers have little incentive to use cash since… Read More

Can a Landlord Legally Reject an Emotional Support Animal? (2026)

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a pet that offers comfort and companionship to individuals facing mental health challenges. Even if a landlord generally prohibits pets, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) requires them to permit ESAs, provided the owner has… Read More

Mortgage Co-signer Guide (2026)

A mortgage co-signer is someone who agrees to share responsibility for a mortgage loan with the primary borrower. This option can assist the main borrower in obtaining a mortgage or better loan conditions. Below is a detailed overview of what… Read More