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.

Buy a House for Sale by Owner (FSBO) in New York in 2025

Quick answer: “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) means the homeowner is selling directly, without a listing agent — which can mean real savings, since there’s no listing commission baked into the price. It does not mean you should skip your… Read More

Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City (2025-2026)

The densely populated, culturally diverse, and ultra-busy New York City can make anyone new to the metropolis edgy about personal safety. But media stories don’t always give an accurate picture. NYC’s citywide numbers have actually improved sharply in 2025: 305… Read More

The Top 8 Most Dangerous Cities in the US in 2025

The U.S. has white sandy beaches, charming national parks, and bustling cities. Millions of people flock to the country to sample its scenic spots. It is a land packed with beauty and excitement. However, with its vast size, there are… Read More

What Is Conditional Coop Approval In NYC?

Well, you’ve done it. After you hunted for a fantastic co-op in New York City, put together an application, and got your finances in order, you got approved. Well, kind of. According to the paperwork and the news your excited… Read More

How to find the best public schools in Manhattan?

They say you are always looking for your next job, apartment, or future love in NYC. Since I am happily married, love my current apartment, and have started my own business, I’ve added a new item to worry about. Where should I… Read More

Doorman building in NYC: expense or necessity? (2025)

New York City Buildings are iconic. For some people, apartment buildings in NYC with a doorman are a MUST. They range from ultra-luxurious to rat nests and everything in between. Several key factors should be considered when deciding between buying and renting, as well… Read More

Can A Seller Back Out Of An Accepted Offer On A House?

Quick answer: Yes, easily — if it’s before the contract is signed. In New York, an “accepted offer” is not a binding contract; it’s a handshake agreement to move toward one. Either side can walk away during that window. It… Read More

What is a Non-Warrantable Condo

The real estate market is a complex maze of opportunities, with condominiums forming a distinct part. They provide the benefits of homeownership while relieving owners of the responsibilities of maintaining a single-family home. Yet, the journey toward condo ownership includes… Read More

What Is a Sponsor Unit? What You Need to Know

Did you know that the starting price of renting a condo in New York City is over $3,400 per month? It is no secret that New York City is one of the world’s most expensive real estate markets. Some people… Read More

2025 Guide to Net Effective Rent Before You Sign a Lease

Are you looking to rent a new apartment and have concerns about your monthly rent? If you need a short break from paying rent, you may benefit from a lease period that does not require you to pay every month.… Read More

Most precise home value estimator in 2025

In an era where 65% of Americans are homeowners, understanding the value of your property has never been more essential. It’s more than just a number; it’s a crucial component of your financial well-being. So, where does one begin to figure… Read More

Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your NYC Co-op

You are subject to federal and state capital gains taxes when selling a co-op in NYC. You may be able to exclude up to $500,000 of gains under the Section 121 home sale exclusion, provided that specific ownership and use… Read More

2024 NAR Settlement

The NAR settlement is the 2024 agreement that ended a nationwide antitrust fight over real estate commissions. The National Association of Realtors paid $418 million and changed two practices, effective August 17, 2024: buyer-agent pay can no longer be advertised… Read More

What is a NY Disclosure Form?

In the real estate market, we talk about the real estate NY Disclosure Form, also known as the New York State Disclosure Form for Buyer and Seller. This document is an agency disclosure form that brokers and agents must give… Read More

REBNY Financial Statement Template (2025)

Does the listing agent ask you to submit a REBNY financial statement form in NYC with your offer to buy an apartment? A REBNY form was only provided for the NYC real estate market co-ops. However, this financial disclosure form became a… Read More