New York City is one of the world’s greatest places to live in. This metropolis is filled with one of a kind buildings and apartments, so homebuyers have plenty of houses to choose from. For example, they can go for the 254 PAS located in Flatiron, at 254 Park Avenue South. This is a building featuring a beautiful neoclassical Beaux Arts architecture and it’s situated between 20th Street and Park Avenue.
This historic French structure is made of limestone and dates from 1913. Throughout the years, the building was completely renovated and restored and now it looks stunning and gorgeous. It features 123 condominium residences, every one of them with its own charm and unique features. The 254 PAS is a blend of architectural contrasts. It has high ceilings and large windows that offer amazing panoramas of the wonderful Manhattan skyline. Given that this is a pre-war building, it is a rarity the fact that its windows are so big. Additionally, the modern interiors have a loft- like look.
The condos
The property has 13 stories and features 2-bedroom and 1-bedroom homes. There are also huge apartments that measure 2,500 square feet. Additionally, some 1-bedroom units have an extra room that can be used as an office. The high ceilings and the pre-war architecture are maximized and enhanced with a lofted area that is incorporated in some units. This special area overlooks the dining and the living space. Lastly, 254 PAS also has studio apartments that are perfect for single persons.
Every single one of the apartments features great and luxurious kitchens. They come with:
- Miele hood
- stone countertops
- integrated dishwasher
- Leibherr refrigerator
- chef’s oven
- an ice maker
- a gas cook top
- additional Bosch appliances
The bathrooms look extraordinary. Their walls and floors are made of stone and the Kohler accessories and bath fixtures have chrome finishes with modern and contemporary accents. The larger apartments have a separate soaking tub, a glass enclosed shower and a rain showerhead.
The amenities
The 254 PAS has a great lobby that features details made of ebony-stained wood. This special place resonates with the whole building. Also, the neutral tones in the lobby offer a classic appearance to this pre-war structure. The complex is completed with elevators that offer access to all the stories and the amenities. The 254 PAS has a private gym, as well as a social space, called Park Lounge, with billiard tables and a bar. Moreover, this complex features the first poker room in New York. Lastly, the building has an on-site resident manager and 24 / 7 concierge.
The luxury condos inside the 254 PAS were developed by Rosen Partners. The lobby and interiors were designed by the famous Charles Allem. In order to buy an apartment in this complex, one has to pay up to $1,500 per square foot. The units can also be rented and the price is $80 per square foot. So, if you want to live in the heart of New York City and get instant access to Chelsea, Madison Square Park and Union Square, you are advised to buy an apartment at 254 PAS.
Manhattan’s luxury condos have long been of interest to buyers from Latin American countries. Even throughout the economic downturn, Latin American buyers have been scooping up high-end Manhattan real estate, although the countries from which these buyers originate is always changing.
Largest Latin American Buyers Continue to Change
Buyers from Argentina have recently charged ahead of Brazilians as the biggest buyers of luxury condos in Manhattan, mirroring a trend that has also been seen in Miami. However, a shift seems to be occurring. Buyers from Venezuela are starting to amp up their purchases on the island, and have recently bought several multi-million dollar penthouses at One Museum Mile.
The reason for this shift could be the upcoming elections in Venezuela in early October. Wealthy Venezuelans are anxious to get their money of the country before there is a possible shift in power. Henrique Capriles is challenging President Hugo Chavez, and the race is known to be a close one.
International Buyers Strong in Manhattan
Not only are Latin American’s buying up luxury properties in Manhattan, but many foreign buyers are active in the market. In 2011, a report issued stated that overseas buyers account for one third of New York City condo purchases. They also represent 15 percent of total purchases in Manhattan.
Although these numbers are strong, it is still down from its peak in 2000. At that time, nearly 30 percent of buyers in Manhattan were foreign. The largest purchasers of luxury properties are from Russia, China, Brazil and Argentina. At the turn of the millennium, the biggest foreign buyers were from European countries, with most coming from Ireland.
The weak American dollar is the reason behind many of these foreign purchases. Condo sales have outweighed co-op sales in the last year, and foreign buyers are a big reason for that. Foreign buyers most often purchase properties with cash, so they are not affected by the recent tightening of the credit market.
Foreign Buyer Sets Record
Foreign buyers are also behind the recent increase in new development, and the most expensive condo ever sold in New York was purchased by a Russian buyer, composer Igor Krutoy. In 2011, Krutoy purchased a 6,000 square foot condo in the Plaza Hotel. The sale price for the 12th floor condo was a staggering $48 million. After making offers on upscale properties all over the city, Krutoy finally decided to make an offer that couldn’t be out-bid. The unit has incredible views of Central Park, although the unit does not comprise the entire 12th floor.
It comes as a surprise to no one that Manhattan offers its residents cramped and expensive living spaces.
This summer is no different as the Manhattan rental market continues its frenzied pace. But renters that are looking for smaller spaces are finding it harder than ever to score a deal. Rents for studios and one bedrooms are increasing at a faster rate than larger spaces, according to a recent market report released in July. These units are renting at their highest prices in the last four years.
Small spaces are always in demand in the city, particularly by students and young professionals or those looking for a second home in New York. 70 percent of the rental market was comprised of studios and one bedrooms in the second quarter of 2012, but the supply still doesn’t meet the demand. According to recent statistics, there are 1 million studio and one bedroom apartments in New York City. Yet there are 1.8 million one and two person households.
Summer always sees the highest demand, and this summer is particularly intense, according to brokers. Many renters may be downsizing to a smaller apartment after learning their lease renewals will carry no breaks that were commonplace during the economic downturn. Others may be forced into the rental market after not qualifying for a mortgage in this tight lending environment.
Median rent for Manhattan homes is up over last year at this time by 7.9 percent. The median price is $3,125. However, the median rent for a studio is up even more – a staggering 15.4 percent, or $2,395 monthly. This is close to the peak median rent for studios reached in 2008. The median rent for one bedrooms is up 8.5 percent at $3,250. This ties the record set in 2007 and 2008.
Last month, Mayor Bloomberg proposed a plan to meet the demand for small apartments by establishing “micro” units.
Newly built apartments must be at least 400 square feet, according to the city’s current zoning laws. The mayor has proposed to waive these regulations, allowing developers to submit plans for units that measure 300 square feet in size.
The demand for small units and the mayor’s response has elicited strong reactions from both renters and real estate industry professionals. While some decry the mayor’s proposal, saying that no one should have to live in a space so small, others believe this initiative could become part of the mayor’s legacy.
Whatever the feelings, renters are signing leases for small spaces at a very high rate. Brokers report that apartments under $2,500 a month are being filled faster than those that are $10,000 and above.
This competitive atmosphere allows Manhattan landlords to be choosy when it comes to tenants. Industry experts agree that the lack of inventory of affordable apartments has been the most challenging part of rental transactions this summer.
With recent graduates entering the market, experts agree that there is no sign that this tight market with high rental prices will be ending anytime in the foreseeable future.
The River Lofts Luxury Condos are reconditioned warehouse buildings that have been the talk of the TriBeCa area as of late. The River Lofts are composed of two towers and both have full service lobbies with amiable staff members. There are 24 hour door attendants in both towers and a secured indoor garage. This 13-story property features 38 elegant condos along the Hudson River and is in walking distance to some of the most noted shopping areas in the Soho region.
The River Lofts Luxury Condos offer the historic element of the previous warehouse building while portraying a more advanced look with the new building.
River Lofts Luxury Condos amenities
- 24hour concierge
- full time superintendent
- full time porter
- indoor parking garage
- fitness center
- lobby level bicycle & stroller storage
- sky-lit gallery
- landscaped viewing garden
- private storage available
- high speed wiring and cable in every room
- key card elevators
River Lofts Luxury Condos features
- brazilian walnut plank wood flooring
- triple glazed and double hung painted wood windows
- hardware in brushed chrome finish
- private safe in each residence
- washer and dryer
River Lofts kitchens at 92 Laight Street
- Varenna custom cabinets in white lacquer
- hined pietra del cardoso stone countertop and backsplash
- sub zero refrigerator
- freezer with ice maker
- Bosch gas cooktop and electric oven
- Miele dishwasher and Miele retractable wall hood
- Kitchenaid microwave
- Elkay stainless steel under-mounted sink with garbage disposal
River Lofts Luxury Condo bathrooms
- limestone mosaic floors
- limestone slab tub surround and wainscot
- lacquered custom vanity with satin stainless trim and marble top
- custom milk glass and nickel frames for toilet and shower enclosures
- polished nickel fittings
- Santa Rosa
- oval shaped lavatory
- Kohler “Tea for Two” bathtub
- Kohler toilet
Nearby Subway Stops
- Canal St
- Franklin St
- Spring St
The River Lofts Luxury Condos are composed of red-brick and has a two-story stone base and arched windows. The River Lofts have been recognized for their diligence in preserving the structural history of the building
The River Lofts has 68 condominium apartments ranging in size from 1,100 to 3,900 square feet and were initially priced at $1,250,000 to $8,550,000.
Today, 3-bedrooms range from from $3,465,000 to $6,500,000, 2-bedrooms at $3,450,000 and 1 bedrooms from $1,350,000
The River Lofts Luxury Condos are home to many celebrities which is a testament of how magnificent these condos are.
Address: 92 Laight Street, New York, NY 10013
Neighborhood: TriBeCa, Manhattan
Developer(s): Leviev Boymelgreen
Architect(s): Ismael Leyva Architects P.C./TsAO & McKOWN Architects
Year Built: 2004
Converted: 2004
Structure: 13 floors, 68 apartment units
Layouts: 1-Bedroom; 2-Bedroom; 3-Bedroom; 4-Bedroom; Penthouse;
For more information on River Loft condos in TriBeCa, please CLICK HERE to speak with Doug Heddings
The Caroline Building is one of the most sought after upscale buildings located in Chelsea, New York City. The Caroline Building is a offers many modern amenities and contemporary designs. This luxurious building has one of the best locations in the city and has been recognized for having one of the most grand health club in the entire city.
The Caroline Building remains exclusive by only renting via some of the most prestige brokers that have been hand picked by Caroline Building executives. So if you’re interesting in living in some of the most chic apartments in Chelsea, you have to get in contact with appointed brokers. This building is located in the heart of many transit options like the W, F, R, and V subway routes.
Building Amenities and Services:
- Gym/fitness center (NY Health & Racquet Club at the Caroline: a 44,000 s/f facility)
- Swimming pool (50 ft; sky-lit)
- Parking garage
- Laundry
- The Caroline Courtyard, the 4th floor courtyard with a formal European garden.
- A private multi-use recreation area;
- Valet services available: maid service, linen service, room service, laundry/dry cleaning, pet concierge
- Bicycle Storage
Apartment Features and Amenities:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Large walk-in closets
- Terrace / balcony
- Dual computer and telephone jacks in every room
- Central climate control system
- Baths feature Spanish Cedar beige marble floors, countertops and shower surrounds, Kohler fixtures.
The Caroline Building provides an great opportunity to live in a thriving, cultured neighborhood in the heart of New York City. Residents of the Caroline Building enjoy surrounding entertainment from premier dining, fun bars, quiet lounges, art galleries, theaters and so much more. The Caroline Building is well known for the beautiful rooftop terrace which highlights the beauty of city. The floor to ceiling windows, pet privileges, and other lush amenities make the Caroline Building ideal for families or individuals. The Caroline Building shares retail space with popular corporations such as Best Buy, Outback Restaurant, and is in close proximity to Madison Square Park.
Address: 60 West 23rd Street,New York, NY 10010
Neighborhood: Flatiron District, Manhattan
Developer(s): Pan Am Equities, LLC
Architect(s): Cook+Fox Architects
Phone: 212-837-4800
Web: www.thecarolineny.com
Year Built: 2000
Structure: 20 floors, 443 apartment units
Layouts: Studio; 1-Bedroom Suites; 2-Bedroom Suites; Penthouse;
Located on the west side of Manhattan, Atelier is a 46 story residential edifice with 475 apartments. Condos have 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms and they’re flawlessly designed to match the pretentious needs of their future residents. From the windows, the people will be able to admire the most dramatic views of Manhattan skyline and Hudson River.
The dynamic neighborhood is an excellent place to reside. Additional beautiful constructions that rise above the cityscape, the pulse of the city, and its numerous attractions make it an ideal to invest in a condo. Everything you could ever wish for is right at your fingertips. Galleries, stores, restaurants, and cafes are just minutes away from your luxurious studio or 2-bedroom apartment.
General Amenities of the Building
Excellent for singles and youngsters looking to buy a condo in the heart of Manhattan, Atelier features a sky-lit pool located indoors, a rooftop terrace, and a 12,000 sq. ft health club. In addition, future residents will be able to stay entertained all day long due to Atelier’s additional entertainment facilities such as:
- BBQ grills
- Tennis court
- Movie theatre
- Golf driving range
- Free daily breakfast
- Free bicycle usage
Costas Kondylis & Partners designed Atelier and they’ve done a superb job. The exterior design of the edifice and its interior furnishings are absolutely divine. The lobby features a striking collection of contemporary art. Every unit was carefully constructed and designed in order to fit perfectly the needs of its future dwellers. Apartments include oversized windows for the most perfect view over the city, dryers and washers, fast internet connectivity, white oak floors, telephone, pre-wired cable, and more.
The Kitchen
Every luxury condo should have an exceptional kitchen area. Atelier features spectacular cooking spaces. Every kitchen include stainless steel gas cook, a Sub Zero refrigerator, a microwave, white quart counters, a convention oven, and an under-mount sink with a disposal system. There can be nothing more pleasant than waking up in the morning and having breakfast in your spacious kitchen area from where you can admire the perfect skyline of New York.
Extra Facilities Include:
- Concierge
- Fitness center/ gym
- Doorman
- Lounge, swimming pool
- Terrace/roof deck
Atelier is an award-winning construction and an amazing condo to inhabit. The 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments offered have glass facades and a state-of-the-art steel body. The strategic location of the complex will allow dwellers easy access to some of Manhattan’s finest entertainment opportunity. The best shopping centers, restaurants, clubs and museums, are positioned minutes away from Atelier. Some condos are equipped with a beautiful terrace where you can spend every summer morning having coffee with your loved ones. Consequently, the stainless steel appliances, kitchen island and gloss lacquer cabinetry will make you want to cook every single day.
The polished chrome fixtures in the bathrooms and the soaking marble tub are also a dream come true for residents who like to take long baths and enjoy their time in the shower. Overall, Atelier is certainly an exquisite condo complex to reside and enjoy to the fullest New York’s most dynamic lifestyle.
For more information on Antlier luxury condos or other Manhattan luxury properties, CLICK HERE to speak with Doug Heddings.
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Selling New York and The Heddings Property Group cordially invite you to join usfor cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, with
live entertainment by pianist Ion Ionescu,
as we shoot an episode of
“Selling New York”.
WHEN:
Thursday September 27th
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE:
The Armory
The Armory (529 West 42nd Street, Apt. 7V)
Space is limited. Please RSVP to Marisol Vargas,
[email protected] or 646-726-4860.
INNOVATE. ADVOCATE. REAL ESTATE. |
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The million dollar question, or perhaps billion dollar question if you ask the new owners of condos at One57, is “how’s the market?’ First I would say it depends on who you’re asking and second it totally depends on the person asking the question and their specific wants, needs, and priorities. Let’s first take a look at real time listing updates courtesy of UrbanDigs.com.
Year to date Market Snapshot as of 9/25/2012

It may seem like a significant bump in inventory with 1506 properties coming to market over the past 30 days, but with 778 properties going into contract and another 403 taken off the market, it actually reveals a less significant increase of only 325 properties in September and confirms what has been the case for quite some time now: INVENTORY REMAINS SCARCE and SELLERS ARE HAPPY!

Now if we take a look at the chart above from UrbanDigs.com of monthly contract signings since 2008 and note that we are on pace to exceed 700 signed contracts for the month of September (fewer than any month this past summer), it becomes even more clear that our market is in desperate need of inventory. Historically low interest rates paired with an influx of fright capital from less robust economies around the world are fueling the demand. Are you listening owners? It is elementary my dear Watson: DEMAND exceeds SUPPLY!
If you are considering the sale of your home in the near future, now may be an excellent time for you to recoup those paper losses that have stung so badly over the past few years.
Going forward, it appears that rates will remain low for the foreseeable future and with the perceived health of our economy in relation to others in the world, continued price stability and appreciation is likely in store. It won’t last forever though. At some point interest rates will have to climb and those economies of other nations (Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, China, etc)that are scaring investors are going to become attractive opportunities.

Sea Collection: Intrepid & Growler Submarine — Arts – Museum Exhibits Arts – Science
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is home to two historic American naval vessels that visitors can enjoy. The USS Growler submarine is the only whole diesel-powered submarine worldwide that has discharged nuclear missiles and is open to the public to display
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
Complete Air Collection — Arts – Museum Exhibits Arts – Science
The Intrepid Museum is home to one of the most prestigious exhibits of Cold War aircrafts in the United States. This amazing collection includes a couple of the most private and fastest spy planes in the nation as well as some of the original helicopters and luxury aircrafts.
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
Space Collection: Capsule Recovery — Arts – Museum Exhibits Arts – Science
Come experience the collection of American Mercury space capsules from the 1960s that were retrieved by the Intrepid. These unique space capsules were developed to land in the ocean instead of on solid ground.
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
Life Collection: Experiences Onboard — Arts – Museum Exhibits Arts – Science
Discover what it really takes to operate this massive ship and what some brave crew members did to keep the ship working properly in times of turmoil.
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
National Aviation Day — Community – Activities
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
Learn about the men and women who made lasting contributions to aviation throughout history as well as the machinery that took them soaring to new heights. Educational activities are planned throughout the day.
Hometown Heroes Day — Community – Activities
Residents of NJ, NY and CT areas are given the chance to vote for a hero in their towns. These heroes can be community service leaders, positive mentors, servicepersons, or a youth community leader. One leader is chosen for every category are recognized for all they do for their communities.
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum’s 30th Anniversary Exhibits — Arts – Museum Exhibits Arts – History
Cost:
- $24 – Adult
- $20 – Seniors (62+)
- $17 – Veterans
- $20 – College Students (w/valid ID)
- $19 – Youth (7-17)
- $12 – Child (3-6)
- Free for children under 2, members, retired and active military members
“Thirty Years of Collecting: Treasures from Intrepid’s Collections” will showcase objects from the Intrepid Museum’s collections related to the historic aircraft carrier Intrepid, Growler submarine, Concorde and the space shuttle Enterprise. The exhibit will include nearly 30 objects – many of which will be displayed publicly for the first time
Telephone: (212) 245-0072
Address: Pier 86 12th Ave. & 46th Street
New York NY 10036
Web Site: www.intrepidmuseum.org
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday: 10AM-5PM,
Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 10AM-6PM
(Last ticket sold one hour prior to closing)

Chelsea Green is the perfect place to live for those looking for an exquisite apartment in New York City. The neighborhood offers a great variety of services and opportunities such as amazing design & architecture and an advanced security system that’s additionally energy efficient. Chelsea is a great neighborhood for people hunting for high class nightlife and world-class shopping. The neighborhood is located on Manhattan’ west side, at the intersection of 29th Street south and 14 Street east-west.
The most important building amenities are:
- concierge service
- coffee bar
- 24 hour attended lobby
- doorman
- contemporary design and architecture
The best part of Chelsea Green is that organizers consider the “wellness” of their residents a priority and they offer high-quality services such as: treatment room and shower, sauna and spa. People, who love nature, will see the terrace as a piece of heaven that offers a great landscape of the whole city.
The Kitchen
Kitchens are designed by the famous Eric Ripert. Even if it has a beautiful design, the cooking area was created to be energy efficient. Baths have also great features such as: marble floors, Neptune deep soaking tubs, and frameless glass showers. The floor-to-ceiling windows transform the apartment into an oasis of silence and peace. The apartments have also incorporated a Daikin system that provides fresh air year round. For those interested in the additional utilities present in a Chelsea Green kitchen, you should consider the following:
- eco-friendly Liebherr refrigerators
- cooktop on the island
- energy efficient Bosh dishwasher
- Caesarstone countertop
- water-conserving faucets by Grohe
The Bathroom
Chelsea Green bathrooms have some interesting features too. Attentively designed and decorated to match your demands, these spaces will certainly make resident relax and enjoy the luxurious finishes. The finest furnishings include:
- TOTO toilets
- Colonial silver marble
- deep soaking tub by Neptune
- Radiant heated flooring
- Vanity cabinets by Poggenpohl
- porcelain tile walls
Chelsea Green has obtained the LEED Gold Certification due to the respect paid for the luxury green living. All apartments have incorporated advanced technology that encourages resource conservation and it also improves air quality. Chelsea Green proves that even a luxurious neighborhood can abide by the environment. This is the reason why more and more people are tempted to buy an apartment here.
The Penthouses
The penthouses available for purchase at the Chelsea Green have some unique features too. Some of the most well-know are:
- private terraces
- spacious layouts
- minimalist design
The exclusive furnishing and modern appliances were made particularly to give a sense of sophistication and elegance to every suite. All bathrooms have marble countertops, deep soaking tubs, and radiant heat floors. On the other hand, kitchens have eco-friendly dishwashers and refrigerators, and also a cooktop kitchen island.
Chelsea Green the ideal neighborhood for people who want to enjoy the ultimate luxurious lifestyle. Also, it is the perfect place for people searching for relaxation and silence. All in all, due to its soothing spa, modern fitness center, and wellness center, Chelsea Green is one of the most appreciated condo complexes in the city.