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.

12 Creative Ways to Renovate a NYC Rental

Renting an apartment in NYC has a lot of perks. Renting offers flexibility, cost savings, and a low-maintenance lifestyle compared to buying a home. However, there’s one significant drawback to renting vs. buying. It’s tough to personalize a rental. To… Read More

What is MLS of Manhattan in NYC?

When buying and selling a home, what is Manhattan MLS in real estate markets? What is an MLS listing NY or an MLS number? Where can I search to buy a home in Hudson Yards? How do I list my… Read More

Can a Realtor in NYC Lie About Multiple Offers?

Are you looking for a property to purchase in NYC? Then you probably hope the real estate agent selling the property communicates honestly and fairly. But they can also try to do things to help drive the price up or to… Read More

Can a Co-Signer or Guarantor Help You Get a Mortgage (2021)

Many people dream of buying a co-op or condo in New York City. However, it’s a pipe dream because they know they can’t qualify for a mortgage. They may have a low income, bad credit, or no savings, to name… Read More

What Is A Conventional Mortgage Loan in 2025?

Government programs do not directly insure conventional mortgage loans. Typically, these loans conform to specific requirements set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. These government-sponsored enterprises purchase mortgages from lenders and sell them to investors, freeing up funds for lenders… Read More

Buying Your First Vacation Rental Investment – 2023

Are you interested in expanding your financial portfolio and building your nest egg by getting into real estate? Invest in real estate. Purchasing a vacation rental investment property is an intelligent strategy. Therefore, if you choose a booming market, you… Read More

5 Creative Ways To Add Value To Your Home Before Listing It

Guest Blog Post by Matt Lee. Many home sellers get caught scrambling to make significant upgrades before listing their homes to boost the selling price. While major renovations, like flooring, roofing, and HVAC systems, are essential elements to have squared… Read More

Mortgage Recording Tax in NYC

The mortgage recording tax NYC buyers see has a 2.05% statutory total below a $500,000 mortgage and 2.175% at or above $500,000 for a qualifying one-to-three-family home or individual condo. The lender generally pays 0.25%, leaving common borrower arithmetic of… Read More

What is a Bridge Loan to buy a Home in New York?

New Yorkers often struggle to get the downpayment when buying a property in New York City. Getting a mortgage isn’t easy. Many options help people get to ownership of an NYC home. The two most significant concerns buyers face when getting… Read More

Best New Constructions in NYC for 2020-2021

Many people dream of living in NYC. For some, it becomes a reality. Every year, there’s no shortage of supply. Despite the COVID-19 crisis, modern new constructions keep popping up on New York’s skyline. Therefore, the NestApple team has gathered… Read More

REBNY COVID-19 Health Questionnaire Screening Form

The REBNY COVID-19 Health Questionnaire Screening Form was a move from the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) to help promote the safety of all participants during a showing. The New York City real estate market, remained limited to… Read More

Title Insurance in New York State for Co-ops

Title insurance in New York State isn’t automatically required for every co-op purchase. Co-op buyers acquire shares and a proprietary lease, not a deed. TIRSA lists 2 cooperative forms, one for owners and one for lenders. Lien and UCC searches… Read More

What is a lead based paint disclosure form in NYC?

In NYC, Sellers and landlords of homes built before 1978 must notify tenants and buyers of the risk of lead-based paint. Lead-based paint is hazardous to young children. It may produce permanent neurological damage, which ranges from learning disabilities to behavioral issues.… Read More

Buying a Condo in NYC

Buying a condo in NYC is a dream for millions of people. If you’re considering buying an apartment in NYC, condos are a great place to start. Is it worth buying a condo in NYC? They’re easy to purchase and… Read More

Living close to these Top NYC public elementary schools

If you want to start and raise a family in New York City, the quality of education is probably at the forefront of your mind. So, what is the NYC public school system like? To begin with, New York City’s… Read More