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.

1031 Exchange in NYC: 2023 tax benefits guide

This post will teach you how to execute a 1031 exchange in N.Y. A 1031 exchange, also known as a “Like-Kind” exchange or a “Starker exchange,“ is a formidable tax-deferred strategy that savvy real estate investors use in real estate… Read More

Rent vs Buy NYC: Pros & Cons

Is renting or buying an NYC apartment right for you? This dilemma can be a tricky question to answer, and some experts will be able to argue vigorously and advocate for both sides of the equation. But at the end… Read More

Top 15 Most Dangerous Cities in California (2025-2026)

Emeryville, Commerce, Oakland, San Bernardino, and Stockton remain among California’s higher-crime cities in 2025 — but the picture has shifted meaningfully since 2023, especially in Oakland, which saw its steepest crime decline in decades. Let’s walk through the current, sourced… Read More

What Is a Classic Six Apartment in NYC? (2025)

Finding a three-bedroom apartment in downtown New York City is nearly impossible, as apartments and condos dominate the real estate market. So, the next best choice is a three-bedroom apartment smack dab in the city’s heart. One such option that is quite… Read More

Deadlines in real estate transaction in New York

A buyer (let’s call her Sally Streetwise) works with her broker to find a property she loves in a beautiful coop and begin her real estate transaction. The brokers work with the buyer and the seller to reach an agreement on the purchase price, review the… Read More

What Is a Mother Daughter House? (2025)

My family is close-knit, so it is no surprise that I always want my mother near me. Because of the benefits, I opted for a “mother-daughter home” instead of reserving a room for my mum or having her live on… Read More

Best Projects For Fixing And Flipping Your Home – 2025

If there is one thing that people in the tri-state love are doing, it’s house flipping. Also known as the house “fix and flip,” this real estate investment involves buying a home, fixing it up to look better or have… Read More

Best NYC mortgage banker & broker (2025)

To get a mortgage in NYC, some home purchasers’ first reflex is to check Bank of America’s mortgage rates online. More broadly, you can contact either a (i) mortgage banker or a (ii) mortgage broker. The difference between a mortgage… Read More

Asbestos Popcorn Ceilings Guide in 2025

Popcorn, acoustic, or textured ceilings were famous for ceiling finishes from the 1950s to the 1980s. These ceilings often contained asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral commonly used in building materials because of its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, asbestos is… Read More

How to Choose Roof Colors to Complement Your Home Decor

Selecting the right roof color is essential for enhancing a home’s appearance. By carefully choosing complementary shades, the roof can amplify the style and feel of the entire house. A harmonious roof color can increase curb appeal and unify the… Read More

Arm’s Length Transaction: Real Estate Guide

An arm’s length transaction in real estate is a deal in which the buyer and seller operate independently. They have no relationship. They face no conflicts of interest. This arrangement ensures that both parties act in their best interests, resulting… Read More

General Contractor Duties & Responsibilities in New York

A general contractor (GC) is a professional who oversees and manages construction projects from beginning to end. They serve as the primary point of contact for the type of project and coordinate all aspects of construction, including labor, materials, and… Read More

Buyer Agency Agreements Guide in New York

A real estate buyer agency agreement is a contract between a prospective homebuyer and a real estate agent or broker that outlines the terms and conditions of their working relationship. This agreement formally establishes the agent’s role as the buyer’s… Read More

Septic System Installation Cost Guide (2025)

If you are building a new home, you may need to purchase and install a septic system. Installing a new septic tank typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, as it is a labor-intensive and complex process. The final cost of… Read More

Adverse Possession – The Utimate Guide

Adverse possession is commonly associated with squatters gaining ownership of a property. They live there for an extended period and meet the legal requirements to claim adverse possession. But the legal doctrine is far more nuanced. Even a neighbor who… Read More