9 Best Places for Your Weekend Brunch in NYC

We all know that New York is the best city to live, shop and find something new around every corner, but finding your spot for a weekend brunch does not need to be a farfetched exploration. We’ve created the master list of holy-grail Manhattan brunch go-to spots, so you don't have to.  From classic bagels to party brunches, we have you covered.

Jack’s Wife Freda 

A photo posted by jackswifefreda (@jackswifefreda) on Oct 18, 2016 at 5:43am PDT

Food: 4
Vibe: 3.5
Reservations: Only needed for parties of 6 or more, otherwise it is a walk-in basis

Thoughts: Jack’s Wife Freda garners a culinary adventure, with brunch options ranging from duck bacon to rose water pancakes, but certainly not at the cost of some go-to classics—it is the closest you can get to a glorified diner. However, it may not be the best option for Sunday brunch, unless you’re into a loud atmosphere and the occasional elbow in your back if you’re at the communal table. In all, if you’re looking for a slight twist on your typical brunch and have time for an 11am on a Wednesday, this is the place for you. 

224 Lafayette Street- 212.510.8550

Sarabeth’s 

A photo posted by Sarabeth's (@sarabethsnyc) on May 24, 2014 at 7:08am PDT

Food: 4
Vibe: 4
Reservations: Yes, but they go quickly

 Thoughts: Sarabeth’s, does it get more classic New York City? No one has ever fought sitting down to ricotta pancakes topped with strawberries and maple syrup on a Sunday morning, and when we do, we certainly have wanted more! Sarabeth’s can always be trusted to serve a good, not great, but good, brunch with all of the bells and whistles one could hope for. While it can get loud at times, if you snag an outdoor seat during the warmer months you will be set for a very enjoyable brunch. Sarabeth’s is for the the brunchers who love the classics and simplicity of a New York City Sunday brunch. 

40 Central Park South- 212.826.5959

Lavo 

A photo posted by LAVO Restaurant & Nightclub NY (@lavony) on Oct 23, 2016 at 8:05am PDT

Food: 4
Vibe: 5
Reservations: Yes

Thoughts: Lavo may not be known for its brunch, but certainly should not be forgotten. Every Sunday, Lavo serves up brunch options ranging from lobster eggs benedict to an 8oz center cut, all of which taste just as good as one could hope. This brunch is certainly for those who are willing to expend their daily calorie intake on one meal over a bottle of Dom Perignon, and, hopefully, already have a Soul Cycle class booked for much later in the day! 

39 East 58th Street- 212.750.5588

Bagatelle 

A photo posted by Bagatelle New York (@bagatellenyc) on Sep 17, 2016 at 11:11am PDT

Food: 3
Vibe: 5
Reservations: Yes 

Thoughts: Bagatelle embodies the spirit of a Sunday Fun-day brunch in the Meatpacking District. Though some of the dishes are outstanding, like the Nutella French Toast and Truffle Pizza, others, like the gnocchi, are on par with a mediocre Italian restaurant. However, that should not be a deterring factor when considering Bagatelle. The Sunday brunch mix of young professionals and early 40’s, along with a lively DJ who creates a subtler version of the Lavo atmosphere, makes for a brunch where you will want to hang around for hours, but can still have a conversation at your table. 

1 Little West 12th Street- 212.488.2110

Sadelle’s 

A photo posted by Food Is ❤️ (@artsandfood_nyc) on Oct 31, 2016 at 7:48am PDT

Food: 5
Vibe: 5
Reservations: Yes

Thoughts: Sadelle’s perfectly executes the New York City (at home) brunch classic of a bagel with lox and cream cheese, but in a posh SoHo atmosphere. If a bagel created exactly how you want it to be is not enough, Sadelle’s will win you over with their dramatic atmosphere from an entrance next to fresh fish being sliced and a caviar bar, to shouts when a new batch of bagels come out of the oven. If bagels are not for you, certainly try the French Toast—it is arguably one of the best in all of Manhattan. However, make sure to book a reservation and get there early because, no matter what, there is always a wait. 

463 West Broadway- 212.776.4926

Veselka 

A photo posted by LIZZY KIM (@lilhkim) on May 30, 2016 at 8:08pm PDT

Food: 5
Vibe: 3
Reservations: No

Thoughts: Veselka is the home to some of Manhattan’s best Ukrainian food and an unapologetically good brunch. If you’re familiar with Ukrainian food, or would like to venture toward the world of authentic pierogis, Veselka should become a must on your list of Sunday brunch go-to spots, even if it is not your regular location. Veselka is known for its Borscht and Pierogis as well as its all day breakfast and vegetarian options. Additionally, the outdoor seating cannot be beat during the warmer months. However, Veselka does not take reservations, so make an effort to get down to the Ukrainian Village before the local crowd beats you there. 

144 2nd Avenue- 212.228.9682

Santina 

A photo posted by #EatingNYC: NYC Food & Travel (@eatingnyc) on Jan 14, 2015 at 10:06am PST

Food: 4
Vibe: 4
Reservations: Yes

Thoughts: If the frost of Manhattan winters gets to you, or you just want to be transported to a tropical paradise in the middle of the Meatpacking District, Santina is a must try. With youthful, but tasteful décor accompanied by an amazing frittata, Santina brings one of the most delightful brunch experiences to the city. Though the service can be a bit inattentive at times, the rest of the atmosphere creates a laid back vacation feeling that compensates for the service. Although Santina is probably not a go-to Sunday brunch, every once in a while when you feel like you need to get away from the city, you will find the most divine experience at Santina. 

Mari Vanna 

A photo posted by Mari Vanna NYC (@marivannany) on Oct 3, 2016 at 11:50am PDT

Food: 4.5
Vibe: 4.5
Reservations: Yes, not that hard to get 

Thoughts: Mari Vanna transports anyone who enters to the most beautiful little restaurant in Russia, but in the convenience of Manhattan’s own Flatiron District. If brunching is a timeless abyss for your crowd, Mari Vanna serves Sunday buffet style with bottomless mimosas welcoming all guests to stay awhile. If you get there for brunch one Sunday, make sure to the Serbian Pelmeni and the Napoleon.

820 Washington Street- 212.254.3000

Le Bilboquet 

A photo posted by Donnelly Marks (@donnellymarks) on Oct 29, 2016 at 10:31am PDT

Food: 5
Vibe: 5
Reservations: They do not accept reservations 

Thoughts: Le Bilboquet is inarguably one of the all-time greatest brunches in New York City. 
Le Bilboquet has, hands down, some of the best Cajun Chicken and Tuna Tartar in Manhattan as well as unmatched service, from a coat check to a perfectly trained wait staff. Though the no-reservation policy can be tough to work around, you can almost always get a table for brunch on Saturday’s. However, the loud, yet intimate, setting is perfect to get you up and moving for an earlier brunch. For all the Upper East Siders, Le Bilboquet should at least make it to the must try list, if not your weekly brunch. 

20 East 60th Street- 212.751.3036

This is a guest blog written by Teddy Bulajic

Halloween In New York City: Haunted Places & What to Do

Get into the Halloween Spirit in NYC

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you aren’t in the spirit yet, perhaps these spooky places around the city will get you in the mood for some Halloween fun. Given the rich history of New York City and the different dynamics of each neighborhood, it is no surprise that haunted buildings can be found from Battery Park City to Washington Heights. 

We’ve rounded up some of the best known haunted buildings in New York City and the surrounding areas….stroll by if you dare! Check out some ideas of how to celebrate and one of our favorite new developments near the famed parade route!

The Dakota:

The storied Upper West Side apartment building might have more guests than the residents. The building was the setting for the 1968 Roman Polanski film, Rosemary’s Baby, and the site where John Lennon was shot to death in 1980. Over the year since, there have been various accounts by workers and residents seeing John Lennon’s ghost and little girl wandering the halls. 

1 West 72nd Street

The House of Death:

via

The name says it all! The building located at 14 W. 10th Street is dubbed the most haunted building in New York. Mark Twain was a resident from 1900-1901 and recounted having supernatural experiences at the building over a century ago. The building was the site of Joel Steinberg’s beating and killing of his adopted daughter in 1987. Stories say a little girl can be seen wandering the halls and around the building. 

14 W. 10th Street

Hotel Chelsea:

The iconic Hotel Chelsea, a favorite among cultural stars over the decades, is said to be home to many ghosts. The hotel was the setting for the gruesome murder of Nancy Spungen. Nancy was the girlfriend of Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious. They had a very tumultuous relationship centered around drug abuse. Sid murdered his girlfriend in room 100 of Hotel Chelsea and later died in the hotel from a heroin overdose. It is said that, perhaps, the couple never left the hotel.

222 W. 23rd Street

The Manhattan Well:

via

The Manhattan Well, today home to clothing store COS, was the site of an 18th century murder that caused one of the greatest scandals of New York society at the time. The story says that in 1800 Gulielma Sands was found at the bottom of the Manhattan Well, said to have been impregnated by Levi Wells he was later accused of her murder. The well was filled in but later rediscovered in 1980. The site was formerly a restaurant and now a clothing store. In fact, the well is visible on the lower level of the COS store, with store mannequins positioned right by it. Visitors say Sands’s spirit still lingers on the property. 

129 Spring Street

Amityville Horror House:

via

Located approximately 2 hours outside of New York is Amityville on the south shore of Long Island. Amityville is the setting for the series of horror movies and books entitled “The Amityville Horror.” The story is based on the Lutz family’s purchase of the home from the DeoFeos. The home sat empty for 13 months after Mr. DeFeo murdered six members of his family in the home. The Lutz said after moving into the home, their children started acting erratically and flies filled the home. Ultimately, the Lutz family only last 28 days in the home. 

112 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York.

What To Do in New York for Halloween 2016

Halloween is very popular in New York City, so finding something to do to celebrate can be daunting is there are so many events from which to choose. Below, we have curated a small list of some of the top events for Halloween 2016 in the city. 

Supercinema’s Inferno at The McKittrick Hotel

A Halloween dance party at the location of the popular Sleep No More. This year’s party is themed “A Monster Dance Party”, drawing inspiration from some of the most classic monster movies of all time. Upon registering for tickets, guests must select from a list of curated monster costumes. Note: you must show up in costume! The party includes live performances, DJs, and an open bar all night. 

530 W. 27th Street

Blood Manor

If you are looking for pure fright, this is the event for you. Blood Manor, currently in its 10th year, has been dubbed NYC’s premier haunted house. It is comprised of over 5,000 square feet of horrors, guts, and creepy clowns...and of course, blood. This year, a new disorienting 3-D room has been added to up the fright! 

Note: This haunted house has been deemed too scary for children under 14

163 Varick Street

Boo at the Zoo- The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is the perfect place to go in the month of October if you have little ones. Boo at the Zoo will be running on weekends October 1-30th. The event includes a myriad of fun activities for the family to enjoy from a large display of Jack O’lantern creatures to a costume parade and hay maze. 

2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx NY

Village Halloween Parade

The village Halloween parade is, perhaps, the pinnacle of the holiday in the city. The village parade is the largest Halloween parade in the world, and one of the biggest participatory events. The parade will include hundreds of costumes, bands, and dancers. The event is best known for its “anything goes” attitude, so you never know what you will see strolling up 6th avenue in the parade! The parade starts at 7pm, but plan to get there significantly earlier to scout at a seat along the parade route as it gets completely packed. 

Looking to participate? You must show up in costume and line up at Canal Street and 6th Avenue

Parade Route: 6th Avenue between Spring and 16th Streets

The Shephard-  Life In the Heart of the West Village

Moments from the parade route is one of the hottest new developments in the West Village, The Shephard. Located at 275 W. 10th Street, The Shepard represents a quintessential west village living experience. From its unique carriage house entrance to its vaulted ceilings and arched windows, the residences at The Shephard simply feel like home.

The Shephard recently celebrated the launch of its model residence, and The Victoria Shtainer Team was in attendance to experience the residence first-hand. The model residence, design by Huniford Design Studio is warm and inviting, with natural tones throughout the apartment. The residences at The Shephard feature generous eat-in kitchens and oversized master baths.

Photos: Michael Ostuni & The Victoria Shtainer Team

For updated availability or to schedule your private showing at The Shephard, please contact The Victoria Shtainer Team.

30 Park Place Four Seasons Downtown Penthouse Unveiling

30 Park Place, the first private residences by the Four Seasons in New York, has had an overwhelmingly positive reception since its launch. The building is positioned conveniently in the heart of downtown Manhattan, moments from The Oculus, TriBeCa, and SoHo. 

30 Park Place is a Silverstein Property designed by Robert A.M. Stern architects and is currently the tallest residential tower in lower Manhattan standing at 937 feet. Because this is the Four Seasons Private Residences, residents of 30 Park Place enjoy a suite of amenities and offerings that offer an unparalleled luxury living experience. Residents can enjoy access to hotel amenities such as the indoor lap pool, in-residence dining from Wolfgang Puck's CUT, and car service. 

Atop 30 Park Place is a collection of penthouses which offer a downtown living experience unlike any other currently on the market. The views from the penthouse floors are breathtaking, affording a view of the Manhattan skyline that is truly unique. 30 Park Place hosted an exclusive unveiling of Penthouse 78B to a crowd of top brokers and industry insiders. 

Penthouse 78B is currently on the market for $29.5M. The duplex unit is comprised of 5 beds and 6.5 baths spanning over 5,900 square feet of interior space with a 400+ square foot terrace. The terrace, perched over 800 feet in the air has sweeping southern exposures with direct views of The Oculus and World Trade Center. 30 Park Place has some of the highest private terraces in the city. Penthouse 78B's interiors have been curated by Robert Couturier. 

Guests enjoyed flowing champagne and hors d'oeuvres while mingling throughout the expansive penthouse. Silverstein Properties chairman Larry Silverstein gave a few remarks about the project and the building, speaking to the uniqueness of living in the Four Seasons and the revitalized lower Manhattan as a 24/7 bustling neighborhood since September 11th. Guests also enjoyed music from world-class violinist Gregory Harrington.

There are still a handful of units available in 30 Park Place, ranging from 1 bedrooms to the special penthouses up to 5 bedrooms. The building is selling out quickly because there is nothing else like it in lower Manhattan.

The Victoria Shtainer Team is also pleased to present an exclusive rental opportunity, unit 44E. This is one of the best priced 3 bedroom opportunities to experience living at the Four Seasons, asking $14,995/month with no fee! 

For your exclusive tour of 30 Park Place, contact The Victoria Shtainer Team.

 

Photos: The Victoria Shtainer Team & Joe Woolhead, courtesy of Silverstein Properties

What You Need To Know: The Seaport Revitalization

A Neighborhood Steeped in History

The 11 block Seaport neighborhood is considered one of Manhattan’s oldest, dating back to 1625. The Dutch West India Company established an outpost at the Seaport, establishing it as a mercantile and shipping port almost 4 centuries ago. 

The Seaport has gone through many trials and tribulations as a neighborhood. The port was occupied by the British during the American Revolution, many of the buildings were burned to the ground in a fire in 1835, and by the late 1880s the port had become too shallow for large ships to dock. 

Today, after surviving both September 11th and Hurricane Sandy, the Seaport District is seeing a very large revitalization, and is becoming a focal point of life in downtown Manhattan. A mix of commercial projects headed largely by Howard Hughes and residential projects is transforming the area and the skyline. 

The New Center of Downtown

While the plans have changed multiple times and some remains uncertain, one thing is certain: the Seaport is experiencing a dramatic revitalization spearheaded by the injection of capital from the Howard Hughes Corporation. The revitalization comes at a time when all of downtown Manhattan is experience a “coming to life,” a process that begun after much of the area was ravished by Hurricane Sandy.

The revitalization is centered around the transformation of 3 iconic buildings in South Street Seaport: Pier 17, the Tin Building, and Fulton Market. The project will render the Seaport a shopping, dining, and cultural hub of Manhattan. 

Pier 17- Pier 17 is the centerpiece of the Seaport Revitalization project. A new Pier 17, slated to open next summer, will be home to shops, restaurants, arts, and have rooftop space as well as a newly constructed outdoor plaza. The 4-level structure already has some big names jumping on board. So far we know that Jean Georges will be opening a seafood restaurant, David Chang is bringing is widely popular Momofuku, and Milan-based fashion and lifestyle concept Corso Como will be opening its first New York outpost. 
Tin Building- The historic building will be revamped and reconstructed, serving as the home to a 40,000 square foot food market. The market will also be curated by Jean Georges.

Fulton Market Building- The Fulton Market building is hallmarked by a luxury iPic movie theater that is now open. The theater consists of 8 screens and seating for 505 people. The seats are plush recliners, and viewers can take advantage of food and beverage service. The other announced tenant so far is The Tuck Room, a modern speakeasy with crafted cocktails.

Other Arrivals: In addition to the three large developments above, the Seaport is welcoming a host of new arrivals to the area from shopping to dining. By Chloe will be opening a 2,500 square foot restaurant on Front Street and fashion label Scotch & Soda is opening on Schermerhorn Row, the cobblestone section with 19th century commercial buildings. Additionally, the only Manhattan outpost of Smorgasburg calls Seaport home. 

New Luxury Residential Development in Seaport Area

Along with the commercial development occurring downtown is a wave of residential development as well. Lower Manhattan has become a desirable area for city newcomers as well as long time residents.

via 1Seaport.com

1 Seaport: 1 Seaport embraces life on the water. The 60 story glass tower is a development by Fortis Property Group and consists of 80 units. Because of updated building requirements since Hurricane Sandy, architects have developed thoughtful design to relocate generators, elevator motors, etc, and as a result, 1 Seaport has a unique 2 story entrance with a second floor lobby. 

The residences are completed with luxurious finishes such as gold calcutta marble backsplashes, Gaggenau appliances, and grey limestone in the bathroom. The full suite of building amenities includes a port-cochere, fitness center overlooking the water with Brooklyn Bridge views, and a “Water Club” on the 30th floor with hydrotherapy and a pool.

The building has been tremendously popular with only a few units remaining. As of writing this, availability ranges from a 2 Bed/2 Bath  asking $2.935M to a 4 Bed/4.5 Bath $17M.

via One Manhattan Square-Extell

One Manhattan Square: One Manhattan Square at 252 South Street, while not directly in the Seaport District, is moments away. Slated to be 80 stories tall, the new development by Extell will be changing the skyline along the East River. 

The 1-3 bedroom homes are slated to launch sales this month. Extell calls the project a “vertical village” which will offer 360 degree panoramic views of the city. Interiors have been designed by Meyer Davis who has designed world-class hotels around the world. Amenities include expansive gardens, a squash court, swimming pool, and access to exercise classes. 

Interested in living in the Seaport now? In addition to new development, the area has a selection of listings on the market available now. Below are some of our favorites.

via City Realty

130 Beekman Street: With a classic brick exterior that is characteristic of the Seaport area, 130 Beekman Street is situated on the corner of Beekman and Water Streets.

We particularly love unit 2B, currently on the market with a triple-mint renovation!

via City Realty

272 Water Street: Located on a cobblestone street, 272 Water Street offers a boutique experience in a pre-war condo. 

Unit 3/4F, currently on the market, is the ideal Manhattan loft. The duplex loft features 2 Beds/3Baths and has modern touches such a Carrera marble countertops, and heated floors in the master bath.

via City Realty

170 John Street: 170 John Street is a boutique 15-unit Condo with 3/4E currently on the market. We love this fully modeled duplex loft that blends the old-world charm of Seaport lofts with modern finishes. Details include Wolf and SubZero appliances, solid oak flooring, and a wood-burning fireplace.

Interested in seeing any of the properties mentioned above? Contact Us to schedule your appointment!

8 Candles for Fall Inspired by Downtown New Development

Just as we change out our wardrobes with the season, so, too, do we change out our home decor. Home fragrance is a key component of decor, and scents make the home more inviting. If you have your home staged to sell, take this time to look at the decor the stager has in your home- does it match the season? Details are important when it comes to staging and selling a home, and scent has a big impact on memory. What candles are you burning at open houses on a chilly fall Sunday? Switch out your candles to warm, inviting, rich scents that match the season and make your property memorable! 

Downtown New Development

The Victoria Shtainer Team recently previewed two of the hottest new developments in downtown Manhattan. Downtown (SoHo and TriBeCa) have always been desirable areas, however, the desirability is spreading even lower to areas such as lower TriBeCa and Financial District. Now, all of Downtown is the place to be with the hottest restaurants, shops, and destinations arriving to this locale, and many dubbing it "The New Downtown." We previewed the residences at the new Beekman Hotel and the West Village project, The Shephard. Both projects have beautiful model units open, and both were burning the best in fall home fragrance from Ambre by Diptyque to Ambre Japonais by Byredo. These units inspired us and reminded us how much scent can transform the home!

The Beekman

The private residences at The Beekman are attached to the newly opened Beekman Hotel which is operated by Thompson Hotels. The Beekman is steeped in history, with its famous Temple Court 9-story atrium that dates back to 1890. The hotel is in the original structure along with the restaurant and bar, and the residences are in a brand new, glass tower directly adjacent to the original structure.

Residences at The Beekman offer hotel-style living similar to other new developments such as 30 Park Place. With that being said, living in a building such as this offers a full suite of amenities, including in-room dining. 

The Beekman offers one, two, three bedroom and Penthouse residences starting 170 feet in the sky. The views from the apartments are spectacular. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow residents to take in sweeping views of the rivers, downtown skyline, and midtown on north facing units. Interiors are designed by Thomas Juul-Hansen with finishes including Madreperola Quartzite Stone countertops, Miele appliances, and marble flooring in the bathrooms. 

Living in a hotel certainly has its perks. Residents at The Beekman will enjoy their own private entrance and lobby and have access to the integrated luxury hotel amenities, preferred rates at Thompson Hotels worldwide, in-room dining from hotel restaurant Fowler & Wells run by Tom Colicchio and Keith McNally, as well as access to à la carte housekeeping services. Other amenities include a fitness center with access to personal training, roof terrace, and a media room.  The location, at the heart of downtown is convenient to downtown neighborhoods, and all the new arrivals such as The Oculus.

Current availability starting at $1.5M for a 1 Bed, 1 Bath up to a 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath offered at $4.15M. Contact Us for exact availability and pricing.

The Shephard

Situated in the quaint West Village, the Shepard feels like it has been a long-time neighborhood resident, utilizing the original facade of the building and welcoming guests with its carriage house lobby. The residences have a coziness about them with vaulted ceilings and unique arched windows. 

The residences feature warm and rich finishes that blend both modern and old-world styles including brass hardware and custom Gachot solid wood floors. Kitchens feature brass and satin nickel finishes with a full Miele appliance package. Bathrooms are luxurious with heated floors by Lefroy Brooks and custom Mahogany vanities. 

The Shephard will offer residents a full amenities package which includes a private garden, library curated by Assouline, spa, wood-paneled gym, and recreation room. 

Currently, The Shephard has residences available starting with a 3 Bed, 3.5 Bath Maisionette offered at $6.9675M all the way up to unique penthouses starting at $24.5M. If you are interested in becoming a part of this special West Village project, contact us.

Fill Your Home With The Best Fall Scents:

The season's most popular scents are based in natural elements and materials- think woods, leathers, and spices. Below are 8 candles with fall scents to make your home smell wonderful. You know what we will be burning this season!

1. Byredo Bibliothèque: A cozy library filled with rich leather chairs and old books, an ideal fall setting and this inspiration behind this scent. A leather base with vanilla has notes of peach and plum for a teach of sweetness - $80 Neiman Marcus

2. NEST Cashmere Suede: A truly warm and rich fragrance. Cashmere woods with notes of tobacco leaves, black amber, and suede. Bergamot and fig finish the scent. - $40 NEST

3. Maison Margiela Jazz Club: The Margiela fragrance line is inspired by settings and time periods, each candle with a unique location on the label. Jazz evokes the cozy, warm atmosphere of a private club with notes of tobacco leaf, vanilla bean, pink pepper, and neroli oil.- $60 Nordstrom

4. Diptyque Feu de Bois: A scent that will transform any room into a crackling fire. The perfect accompaniment to chilly fall days. -$62 Diptyque

5. Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille: From his newly launched candle line, the famous tobacco vanille scent from the maison is reminiscent of an old English gentleman's club. A spice-infused blend of tobacco and vanilla. -$250 Bergdorf Goodman

6. Molton Brown Black Peppercorn: An iconic blend of ginger, amber, and bergamot to spice up your home. -$74 Barneys

7. Cire Trudon Ernesto: A candle inspired by the Cuban revolution- leather and cigar smoke set stage. Based in leather, tobacco, and amber with notes of bergamot, grapefruit, and rhum. - $95 Cire Trudon

8. Volupsa Maison Holiday: A great blend for the holidays to come with cinnamon ceylon and copal blended with resin and amber. -$16 Nordstrom

10 Ways to Save for a Down Payment

Photo: ALAMY

Saving for a down payment for a home purchase can be one of the biggest obstacles for many in the home buying process. There are many factors that can determine which way of saving may be appropriate for you. If you have a longer time horizon for saving, perhaps getting into the markets may be a very viable option for example. It is always best discuss your savings and financial portfolio with a certified financial planner, however, there are many, easy way to save that you can implement in your daily routine to get you started on the path to home ownership. We aren't saying these methods will give you a $50,000 down payment overnight, but, if implemented, can certainly chip away at it over time.

Ways to Save for a Down Payment

1. Reduce Your Rent: If you are currently renting, review what you are currently paying and see what options you may have. If you have been a good tenant, use this as leverage to negotiate with your landlord for a better rate or no increase in rate. If it is feasible, have you considered living with parents or friends while you are trying to save?

2. Track Your Spending: In a so-called "cashless economy" it is easy to lose sight of how much you are spending, when most transactions are done on credit cards and Apple Pay. Consider making a spreadsheet to track expenses or using a tool such as Mint to keep track of your spending. You might be surprised at how much you are spending on Taxis or Ubers in a month's time. It is a great way to find areas to cut down on spending.

3. Make It Automatic: Take advantage of automatic savings that may be offered by your bank. Look into options such an auto transfer of X amount of dollar each month to savings or programs that round up each purchase to the nearest dollar and transfer that to your savings. Additionally, utilize your employer's direct deposit option and add your savings account as one of the accounts to receive the pay. You can specify the dollar amount to be deposited to your savings from each paycheck. This aligns perfectly with the old saying, "Out of Sight Out of Mind"

4. Tap Your IRA: If you have been saving for years in an IRA account, you may consider taking a withdrawal as part of your down payment. The IRS has an exception which allows first-time homebuyers to withdrawal up to $10,000 without facing the normal early withdrawal penalty for people under age 59 1/2. Your withdrawal from a Traditional IRA will be subject to income tax while a withdrawal from a Roth IRA will come out tax free (assuming the account has been established for 5 years). If you are considering an IRA withdrawal, speak to a qualified tax professional for your unique situation. 

5. Use Work Bonuses: If you receive an annual bonus at work, consider putting that into your down payment savings account each year. While it is important to have fun and celebrate your success, the wealth that owning a home generates will pay off more than that night out at the club.

6. Reduce Happy Hours: Everyone loves a good happy hour to help get through a tough week. If you are making it a habit 2 times a week it is costing you. Consider the average happy hour drink costing $7 with tax and tip. At twice a week, thats $728 a year on happy hour....assuming you only get one drink at each of those happy hours!

7. Check Monthly Bills: What monthly bills are you paying that might have areas to reduce the cost? Cable and cell phone bills are great places to dig deeper at the features you are paying for. Do you really need HBO at $12 a month PLUS Netflix for another $10 month in addition to the hundreds of cable channels you are getting? 

8. Don't Forget Family & Friends: Discussing money with anyone is always a sour subject, especially with family and friends. However, they can be an excellent source for help with your down payment. Consider asking parents for help as an early inheritance or as your wedding gift now in exchange for not receiving a a gift at the time of marriage. Instead of dinners from friends for your birthday or gift cards, let them know you are working towards purchasing a home and cash would be the best thing you could receive right now! True friends will understand. 

9. Gym Membership: Your gym membership is a great opportunity to cut down on monthly expenses. With so many fitness apps such as ClassPass, YouTube Videos, and equipment, exercising at home has never been easier. If you are an avid gym user, this option is probably not for you, but if you use your gym occasionally, it is something worth considering. Your $250/month Equinox membership is costing you $3,000 a year...that is a lot of money! If you cannot give up your memberships, look into options such as corporate discounts or special incentives that your gym or workout venue of choice offers. 

10. Get Your Caffeine Dose at Home: Sometimes a morning cup of coffee (or 3) feels like it is the only thing that will get you moving...trust us we know! However, your daily trip to Starbucks during the week for a grande nonfat latte at $4.78 is costing you $1,243. Save that money and drink your coffee at home and imagine how good coffee will taste in your new home!

When you make the decision to start saving for a home, speak to a real estate agent about what you are considering purchasing. They will be able to connect you with a mortgage broker so you have a full understanding of what you can afford, and, thus, how much you have to save.

Lifestyle Showcase Held at Lincoln Center

The Best in Fashion, Jewelry, Nutrition, and Real Estate Come Together

To welcome the fall season and learn about the newest trends in a variety of lifestyle categories, The Victoria Shtainer Team hosted a lifestyle showcase for an exclusive audience. The event was held at a $6.9 million apartment overlooking Lincoln Center to the West and Central Park and the 57th Street skyline to the East.  The apartment, 20 W. 64th Street Apt. 28DE, is currently on the market and being offered by The Victoria Shtainer Team. 

Guests mingled throughout the apartment, enjoying a selection of hors d'oeuvres and Wolffer Estates Rosé. Ramy Brook New York, Jennifer Goodman of Groovy Goods, and Tanya Zuckerbrot of The F-Factor Diet were in attendance to showcase their products and get attendees ready for the fall season!

Ramy Brook New York

New York based fashion design Ramy Brook hosted a trunk show with curated pieces from the Fall 2016 collection. Ramy's clothing has becoming widely popular, loved for its modern silhouettes and versatility. The trunk show gave guests the opportunity to have access to fall collection, which is selling out rapidly. The "fitting room" was ideal- a corner bedroom with western and southern exposures, affording it with abundant natural light.

Victoria Shtainer & Tanya Zuckerbrot

F-Factor

Tanya Zuckerbrot, MS, RD, founder and creator of the F-Factor™ Diet was on-hand to discuss her revolutionary diet, F-Factor. She gave insightful information during a Q&A session about her unique approach to nutrition that allows you to live normally- go out to eat, enjoy a glass of wine, and eat normal foods. Sounds like an ideal diet to us! 

Tanya held her Q&A in the media room of apartment 28DE. The natural light and views of Central Park made it a great setting to be inspired by the F-Factor methodology and spark a willingness to think about nutrition habits. Guests received a copy of The F-Factor Diet: Discover the Secret to Permanent Weight Loss, Tanya's latest book.

Groovy Goods Jewelry

Jennifer Goodman of Groovy Goods was the perfect compliment to the fall fashion pieces from Ramy Brook. Jennifer had an array of her gorgeously designed jewelry on display from elegant earrings to unique diamond and leather chokers. Jennifer was able to demonstrate how she is able to differentiate herself from other jewelry designers because of her ability to work closely with clients and customize any piece to their desire and specifications. The jewelry certainly brought a sparkle to the event! 

Between shopping and learning, guests strolled through the expansive 5 bedroom apartment. Enjoying the beautiful setting and the light, views, and space it offers. 20 W. 64th Street, Apt. 28DE is a truly unique opportunity to live in the center of it all nearby Columbus Circle, Lincoln Center, and Central Park!

Related Group Unveils 15 Hudson Yards

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The Related Group unveiled 15 Hudson Yards, one of the residential towers that is apart of their Hudson Yards project which is transforming the far west side of Manhattan. Industry leaders and celebrities alike attended the exclusive debut at 10 Hudson Yards to see this beautiful new construction and to hear remarks from Related chair Stephen M. Ross.

Related Hosted Industry Insiders & Experts to a Debut Party for Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards Transforming Manhattan's West Side

The Hudson Yards project is a 28 acre destination that is transforming the skyline and dynamic of the west side of Manhattan, from office space to luxury residential condominiums. The development of this area brings with it the arrival of art, architecture, culture, fashion, dining, and parks all with Hudson River views and sunsets. 

Many are referring to all the new development at Hudson Yards as: 

“The New Heart of New York”

Hudson Yards is becoming the new go-to area of town for art, architecture, dining, and shopping. Hudson Yards is located within proximity to the myriad of West Chelsea galleries, but will also be home to interesting installations itself such as The Shed and The Vessel. The Vessel is a $150 million installation  by Heatherwick Studio that many believe will be the next significant landmark in the city.

Hudson Yards Highlights:

• 14 acres of new parks
• The Restaurant Collection curated by Thomas Keller of Per Se and French Laundry with 16 dining options arriving including ventures from famed chefs José Andrés of Think Food Group and Costas Spiliadis of Milos
• 7 levels of world-class shopping with the first Neiman Marcus in the city (think shops at Columbus Circle)
• Resident benefits such as priority access to reservations and exclusive events
• Equinox branded Hotel & Spa

15 Hudson Yards Residential Tower Debuted

15 Hudson Yards, one of the luxury residential towers in the project, was debuted to an exclusive audience. The sales gallery is officially opened, giving a unique look at the new development. Guests enjoyed browsing the sales gallery and celebrating the project with food and drinks from restaurants arriving to the Restaurant Collection by Thomas Keller.

15 Hudson Yards, an innovative design by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with the Rockwell Group, will stand 88 stories tall with 285 condominiums. The building will bring a new level of luxury-living to the far west side of Manhattan. 

Spectacular Hudson River Views from 15 Hudson Yards Residences

Residents will have access to all the amazing benefits of the Hudson Yards project. The building will feature a unique 2-level lobby with soaring ceilings and offer spectacular views of the Hudson, Manhattan skyline, and center piece by Heatherwick Studio. Residents will also be steps away from the new 14 acres of parks that are being constructed. 

About 15 Hudson Yards: 

• Residences ranging in size from 1-4 bedrooms with duplex penthouses
• Pricing from approximately $2 million to $32 million
• Floor-to-ceiling windows offering unparalleled views
• 5 distinct residence types with two interior design palette options
• 2 full floors of amenity space with a Skytop indoor/outdoor event space. Amenities include 12,00 sq feet of spa, salon, and fitness facilities with a 75-foot pool

If you are interested in learning all the details of this exciting new development and project, please contact vshtainer@compass.com to schedule an appointment.

The Victoria Shtainer Team Celebrates Hudson Yards

4 Reasons Why You Should Stage Your Home

We often get asked the importance of home staging and, more specifically, if it is something a seller should do. As a team of real estate brokers, we have not only seen the importance of staging, but also the value it brings to a property as well. We like to think of it as “Staged and Sold”

Staging a home is certainly an investment, but it is an investment that has driven results for sellers all across the country. Many home sellers are hesitant to stage their home because they think it is too costly, too much effort, and won’t yield results.

Get all these reasons out of your head because staging your home is an extremely effective tool that can reduce your home’s time on the market and increase its value, both of which are money in your pocket. Additionally, in a highly competitive real estate market, staging can be a tool that gives your home a competitive edge.

So, you are probably wondering, why should I stage my home?

1. A Powerful Marketing Tool:

A sound marketing strategy is necessary for any listing, from social media campaigns to open houses, and yes, staging, marketing is a key component of selling a home. Staging is, in fact, a form of marketing and an effective one at that as it allows the buyer to mentally move in to your home and visualize the space.

• Make photographs more appealing for use on web, social, and digital campaigns
• Staging makes your home memorable and can serve as a differentiator
• Position your home as appropriate for the target audience through the lifestyle you portray with the staging

Imagine a buyer that has tirelessly been looking at properties, perhaps empty apartment after empty apartment. In the mind of the buyer, they all start looking the same and nothing notable can quickly be recalled from memory. In this instance, staging would make your home “stand out from the crowd” and be more memorable to prospective buyers.

2. Increase the Value of Your Home:

A staged home looks appealing and inviting, and also allows the buyer to more easily see his or herself in the space. All of these aspects help to evoke a sense of desire in prospective buyers. As a result, a buyer is more willing to pay a premium for something he or she deems as desirable and valuable to him or her.

In fact, the National Association of Realtors conducted research that reported that for 32% of buyers the value the buyer was willing to offer for a staged home was 1-5% higher than an unstaged home, and even went as high as a 10% premium!

3. Your Home Will Sell Faster:

The Real Estate Staging Association reports that homes staged prior to listing spend on average 76% less time on the market. Their research concluded that staging did, in fact, work to reduce time spent on market.

Less time on the market means savings for you. Many sellers forget that the longer their home sits on the market, the longer they are responsible for mortgage payments, maintenance costs, etc. which all add up and can sometimes be more than the cost of staging!

4.  First Impressions Are Everything:

The old saying you have been hearing since childhood comes into play with staging and selling your home as well. Today, the majority of buyers start their home search online, and the power of images has never been more important.

• Staging will make your home stand out in online searches, increasing the chances of attracting prospective buyers right out of the gate.
• Staging often involves decluttering and depersonalizing the space, two important factors for appealing to a wide audience
• If you do not stage your home properly from the beginning you risk making a bad first impression and face the costs of lost time.

 

An Example:

20 West 64th Street, Unit 28DE represented by The Victoria Shtainer Team exemplifies effective staging. The apartment, an expansive 3,045 square foot home by Lincoln Center, offers ample space and stunning views. Living in this home offers a true lifestyle, being located right in the heart of Lincoln Center with some of the best the city has to offer at your finger tips.

Without staging, the apartment feels very expansive and it is hard for prospective buyers to actually visualize waking up in the master with Central Park views or imagine their family watching TV in the media room. The staging brings the apartment to life and the buyer can mentally move in, understanding what makes the apartment truly special. The photographs speak for themselves.

We successfully transformed our listing at 166 Perry Street (which has sold) with the power of staging. The apartment had a personal touch, as the layout was to the owner's specification. The staging decluttered and depersonalized the spaces into functional rooms that appeal to any audience. Below is an example of just one room in the expansive 5 bedroom apartment showing the before and after:

What to do for Labor Day in New York & The Hamptons

If you are like us, you are probably in disbelief that summer is almost over and it is time to think about what to do for Labor Day to send summer out with a bang. It seems like only moments ago we were planning to kick off summer with Memorial Day celebrations. 

Check out top picks of what to do in New York City and The Hamptons for Labor Day. From art shows to opera screening, The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a selection that is sure to keep you busy before you fire up your barbecue for the last time and say farewell to Summer 2016. 

U.S. Open: 

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The U.S. Open is one of the most, if not the most, popular sporting events in New York. The event draws a celebrity crowd so do not be surprised if you spot one. Enjoy food trucks and live music on the grounds, as well as shops including Ralph Lauren who offers their special U.S. Open collection. There is a Heineken Café and Moet & Chandon Bar onsite for enjoyment. 

The tournament will run through September 11th with Ticketmaster being the best bet to snatch up tickets. Prices starting around $68.

Riis Park Beach Bazaar:

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The Riis Park Beach Bazaar has been going on all summer long, and has brought food, drinks, shopping, and entertainment to one of New York's best beaches. Catch the final series of of the Get Summered DJ Series on September 5th.  Food and drinks are available at concession stand Bay 9 East as well as pop-up food trucks like Coney Shack, Lizzmonade, and Trop Pops. What better way to wave goodbye to summer than a day on the beach?

16702 Rockaway Beach Boulevard, Queens

Met Opera Summer HD Series:

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The summer series at the Met Opera will be returning for its eighth season this year. Spectators can enjoy performances presented from the acclaimed "Live in HD" series outdoor on Lincoln Center Plaza. Showings begin at 8pm, but plan on getting there much earlier if you want to grab a seat for the screening. Screenings will run in the evening through September 5th. 

Looking for a bite pre-screening? Try Bar Boulud directly across from the plaza for a relaxing glass of wine and charcuterie. 

Lincoln Center Plaza. Admission: Free

Hampton Classic Horse Show:

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The Hampton Classic is one of the "it" events on the Hamptons circuit. The show, well into its third decade, is well respected from locals and equestrian-lovers alike. Because of its stature, the Hampton Classic has recevied the status of "Heritage Competition" by the United States Equestrian Federation, making it only the second horse show ever to receive this designation. The event will be running through September 4th.

240 Snake Hollow Road, Bridgehampton. General Admission: $10/person. Under 6, free.

Westhampton Beach Festival of The Arts:

The Great Lawn of Westhampton Beach will once again be transformed into an outdoor arts and crafts gallery. The event, in its 8th year, will have an array of handmade pieces including paintings, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and mixed-media on display. Pieces will be available for purchase, so you might just find that perfect piece you have been looking for to fill a blank space on your wall! The festival will be held September 3-4th. 

After browsing through the art, try Dockers located right along the water for a relaxing meal.

Great Lawn- 35 Main Street, Westhampton Beach. Free admission and parking.

Holiday House Hamptons by Hamptons Cottages & Gardens:

The Hamptons is known for its beautiful homes and estates, and this year's holiday house is a must-see. More than 20 designers transformed the 13,000 square-foot home into a showcase of the latest interior design trends and lifestyle concepts. It serves as a great source of inspiration! If you visit on a sunny day, revel in the rays by the stunning outdoor pool that features water views. Ticket sales benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The home will be open Thursday-Sunday until September 4th.

100 Crescent Avenue, Watermill. Admission: $35.