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.

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NYC real estate guides

Start with a complete guide, then go deeper with the articles inside it.

The “Wet Over Dry Rule” in NYC

The wet-over-dry rule in NYC prevents apartment owners from putting wet spaces (bathrooms & kitchens) over dry areas such as living rooms on floors below. The rule prevents water damage and mitigates risks when leaks do occur. The wet over… Read More

Granite Care 101: Adhesives, Polishing, and Maintaining Your Investment

Granite countertops are prized in many homes, renowned for their natural beauty, durability, and timeless elegance. But like any investment, granite requires proper care and maintenance to retain its luster and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just starting… Read More

Looking for a NYC apartment rental this season?

NestApple is here to guide you in searching for your NYC apartment rental. As one of the best apartment rental listing sites in NYC, we recommend Streeteasy and NestApple. We can help with both standard monthly apartment rentals in NYC… Read More

How to Become a Real Estate Developer

Becoming a real estate developer is filled with challenges and rewards. This profession requires a unique blend of skills, including a keen understanding of the real estate market, a solid foundation in finance and business, and the ability to manage… Read More

Normal Wear and Tear: What NY Landlords Can’t Charge For

Normal wear and tear is the ordinary deterioration a property picks up from everyday use: faded paint, worn carpet, loose door handles. New York landlords can’t deduct it from a security deposit. They have 14 days after move-out to itemize… Read More

NYC Co-op Subletting: What Your Board Actually Controls

NYC subletting laws that govern rental tenants, like RPL §226-b, generally don’t apply to co-op shareholders. Your building’s proprietary lease and bylaws set whether you can sublet, typically requiring board approval, written notice, and a fee that commonly runs 10%… Read More

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Denver

Located at the foothills of the world-class Rocky Mountains, Denver offers many attractions, including a strong economy, excellent food, a vibrant nightlife, and numerous safe neighborhoods. However, some areas are best avoided because of elevated crime rates. While Denver is… Read More

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a historic city recognized in the United States for its sports teams and culinary offerings. While it serves as a cultural and economic hub in the region, several neighborhoods in Pittsburgh are best to avoid because of safety… Read More

Is Portland a Safe City?

When people think of Portland, they might picture a refreshing West Coast city with crisp mountain views and fantastic cuisine. However, lately, Portland has been getting bad publicity regarding crime and safety. For those looking to visit or move to… Read More

HDFC Income Limits: More Than Just a Number

HDFC income limits depend on the building’s regulatory agreement, corporate documents, household size and applicable affordability formula. Some HDFC co-ops also evaluate assets or the income they generate, while others focus on household income and financial capacity. Buyers must obtain… Read More

Are HDFC Co-op Income Requirements Flexible? (2025)

The income limits for prospective purchasers of HDFC (Housing Development Fund Corporation) properties are not flexible. While these household income limits can vary from one HDFC to another, each building must consistently apply its designated income limit to all buyers.… Read More

HDFC Co-op NYC: The Discount and Its Strings

An HDFC co-op in NYC is a cooperative organized under a housing development fund company structure to preserve affordable housing. Buyers may find below-market purchase opportunities, but income eligibility, primary-residence rules, resale restrictions, financing, and building condition can narrow the… Read More

What Is a Pied-à-Terre in NYC? (2026 Guide, Including the New Tax)

If you’ve ever wondered why some NYC apartments sit dark half the year while their owners are off living their actual lives in Connecticut or Miami, you’ve met a pied-à-terre — French for “foot on the ground,” and real estate… Read More

2025 guide to Local Law 11 in NYC

New York City is chock-full of high-rise buildings lining the streets as far as the eye can see. If you’re a property owner in NYC or looking to buy property, you might have heard of Local Law 11 or the… Read More

Should I renovate in NYC to Help Sell a home?

Should you renovate your home in New York City before selling it? The answer isn’t clear-cut. What is the cost of renovating an apartment in NYC? On the one hand, renovating your co-op or condo in NYC will sell faster… Read More