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 to make durable indoor signs yourself (2026)

Creating functional signage on your own is possible if you focus on clarity, durability, and proper installation rather than decoration. Indoor signs for rooms, offices, or facilities must remain readable for years, withstand cleaning, and stay securely attached. A successful… Read More

The Secret of Successful Entrepreneurs: The Role of Education (2026)

Every year, some version of the same story gets shared thousands of times online. A college student quits school, builds a company in a garage, and eventually becomes a billionaire. Bill Gates. Mark Zuckerberg. Steve Jobs. The names are familiar,… Read More

The Hidden Strategy Smart NYC Buyers Use: Turn Your First Home Into a Rental Sooner Than You Think

There’s a move that savvy New York City buyers have been making for years, quietly, without much fanfare. They buy their first home, live in it for a bit, and then, when the moment is right, they turn it into… Read More

Moving to Lenexa, KS in 2026? What You Need to Know About Population and Growth

If you’re considering moving to Lenexa, KS in 2026, you’re not alone. This southwest suburb of Kansas City has been rapidly growing in recent years, and all signs point to continued expansion.  With a population hovering around 58,000 and spanning… Read More

The Best Time to Move to Phoenix, AZ in 2026

If you’re planning a relocation to the Valley of the Sun, timing your move can make a major difference in both comfort and cost. Understanding Phoenix, AZ moving weather conditions and seasonal trends can help ensure a smoother, more budget-friendly… Read More

What is the Longest Lasting Roof Material? A Guide to Durable Roofing Options (2026)

When it comes to roofing, the longest-lasting materials are a top consideration for homeowners seeking durability and long-term value. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an existing roof, understanding which materials provide the best lifespan can help you… Read More

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

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back (2026)

Ending a lease can be stressful, especially when trying to get your security deposit returned. A security deposit is money the tenant pays at the start of the lease. It protects the landlord from damage. Here are some tips to… Read More

How to Write a Lease Termination Letter (2026)

In real estate, a lease termination letter, also called a notice to vacate, is an important document. It tells your landlord you plan to end the lease and leave the property. This is usually necessary for rentals without a fixed… Read More

What to do with a balcony if you don’t need a relaxation area: drying room, storage room, workshop (2026)

You don’t have to put a sofa or hammock on every balcony. In innumerable apartments, these spaces languish empty and useless, wasted square footage. Balcony Conversion to a Usable Space Could Save You Time, Money, and Frustration. You can even transform it into a… Read More