Off The MRKT Top 5 November Necessities
Off The MRKT’s Top 5 luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreHome Improvement Projects That Will Increase Your House's Value
If your kids have recently moved out of their childhood home, you are planning to sell in the near future, or you are looking for some projects to embark on, perhaps it is time to get started on a home improvement project or two that will increase your house's value. You can choose to work on many of these projects yourself, or you can hire a professional to attend to needs outside of your comfort zone.
Consider a Garage Door Replacement
How old is your garage door? Is it getting rusty, is it not working properly, or is its color outdated or covered in dirt? Perhaps it's time to consider a garage door replacement. With diligence, this project can take only one day to complete. You can purchase a garage door, a garage door kit, and other materials you will need to complete the project at a home improvement store. Be sure to enlist some help with removing the old door and installing the new one so you don't get hurt.
This project can cost up to $2,000 if you do it yourself, and you will likely get most of that back when you go to sell your home down the road. You can also choose a nice color for your new garage door that complements the colors, ambiance, and style of your home.
Finish Your Basement
Another project you can work on yourself is finishing your basement. If you use it as a space for storage, you can still do so once it's finished. For prospective buyers in the future, having a finished basement that allows a family to choose how it's used is a wonderful benefit that is highly sought in the real estate market.
Before you get to work, you may want to invest in a proper professional inspection for mold, moisture issues, and water issues. You don't want your basement to be contaminated or unable to hold in moisture after redoing it. Finishing your basement includes sealing the walls, installing foam board sheets, building the walls, and much more. Alongside research, you can find videos online to help you through this process. Since videos are growing to become one of the most popular ways of consuming content, with YouTube having over 2 billion visitors every month, there are dozens of basement DIY videos to follow. This project will take some time, so be prepared and perhaps enlist some help from a handy family member or friend.
Consider Building a Deck
Do you have extra space in your backyard? Consider building a deck to increase your home's value. Surely you and your family will enjoy time relaxing on it, too.
Building a deck can take anywhere from one week to one month depending on how big you want it, how much time you have each day to work on it, and how much help you can get building it. This job is labor-intensive and will require much attention to detail. The average cost of building a deck is between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on how large it is. However, you will gain much of it back when your home is sold in the future. Get an excellent and reliable concrete contractor in Orange County CA or somewhere near you to get it done beautifully. Many families seek decks for pools and for extra sitting space outside, so this project is well worth it.
Embark On a Minor Kitchen Remodel
14% of homeowners planned to make improvements to their kitchens in 2018. Are you next? A minor kitchen remodel costs a fraction of a full remodel, around $20,000, and will help increase your home's value. You can also expect to recoup about 70% of that cost after you sell your home in the future, making it a worthy investment.
First, consider repainting the walls and cabinets in your kitchen. This low-cost task can brighten the room and completely transform its look. If your kitchen cabinets are old, consider entirely replacing them. A new set will make your kitchen look great. Then, look into purchasing new, energy-efficient appliances for your kitchen. These simple projects will increase your home's value and transform the overall look of your kitchen for the better.
Deep Clean Your Home
A simpler project you can easily embark on is deep cleaning your home. This includes sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and utilizing tools to reach and clean every corner of your house.
Another aspect of this project may include deep cleaning systems and appliances in your home, such as your oven, chimney, fireplace, and heat exchanger. If your oven isn't self-cleaning, it should be cleaned once every three months or so. Manufacturers suggest cleaning chimneys and fireplaces once a year and heat exchangers a minimum of once every five years. These pieces in your home are important to clean for the safety of your family and the overall health of your home.
Consider taking on one or two of these projects if you would like to increase the value of your home. Whether you plan on selling your house in the near or distant future, it's not a bad idea to get a head start on improving and adding onto parts of your home. Not only will future prospective buyers appreciate what these projects have to offer, but you will be able to enjoy them, too.
Interior Design Ideas You Need to Try in Your Apartment This Winter
If you love apartment life but you're not sure how to decorate your space for winter, you're not alone. It's tough to figure out how to decorate for the season when you don't have a ton of storage space or much license to make changes to your living space. If you want to learn how to create a cozy winter wonderland in your apartment this season, here are a few tips to help you out.
Hang Some Decorative Lights
Strings of twinkling lights are the perfect display of winter cheer. And it's relatively easy to place them in your apartment without damaging any of the walls or other fixtures, too. For instance, if you want to line an archway in your apartment with twinkling lights, all you'll need is a step stool and a few good stick-on wall hooks. These hooks don't require any drilling or hammering, so you can rest easy knowing that your security deposit will still be coming your way. And if you're feeling really festive, you could even invest in lights that blink or lights in colors that complement the rest of your decor. Just make sure that if you're one of the 38% of people who own a dog that you hang your lights out of their reach! Regardless of what color you choose, lights are an excellent way to bring some cozy winter vibes into your apartment.
Add Some New Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are an excellent way to add color and texture to your living space. And the best part? You can have as many as you want and your landlord can't tell you otherwise. If you're really short on space, it's possible to switch out your throw pillow covers instead of purchasing additional throw pillows to add to your collection. And since 44% of people use the internet to look for homes and home goods, a simple search online should help you find what you're looking for. If you're not sure what kinds of throw pillows will help you create a cozy feeling in your place, consider things like color and texture. A big, fuzzy throw pillow might look great paired with a smaller patterned pillow or a pillow with some nice texture on it. The key is to group your pillows together in a way that creates a variety of textures and colors that complement each other.
Invest in Some Decorative Candles
If you, like most Americans, move every five to seven years, it's likely that you don't have a lot of accessories to place around your home. But there's nothing wrong with picking up a few things here and there! Decorative candles and candle holders are a timeless piece of decor that can help any space feel cozy and luxurious during the holiday season. And one of the best things about these decorative candles is that they're typically not meant to be burned, which means no fire hazards for you. If you're feeling really creative, you can even purchase some candle-making equipment and create your own decorative candles. This way, you can make sure your candles are perfectly suited to your holiday style.
Decorating for the holidays is an awesome way to express yourself and make your space truly feel like your own. And even with a rented apartment, you can create a cozy winter wonderland.
Fashionable Home Trends are Making a Comeback in 2021
By Kiley Morrow
Attention Stuck-At-Home New Yorkers: Are You Bored with Your Space? - Here are Fashionable Home Trends Making a Comeback
Home trends in 2021 are throwing it way back. Back to when flappers reined and glitz and glamour lined the streets of NYC. Fortunately for bored homeowners and retro lovers, vintage inspired decor is making a major comeback. This time around, nobody cares if your decor perfectly matches the decade; instead, the real concern is if you're able to make these looks suit modern furniture and sensibilities.
Here are the top fashionable home trends to bring NYC’s old school character and glamour into your home in 2021.
What Is Retro? What is Vintage?
We're going to be focusing on these two terms, so it's essential to know the difference between them. Retro is a stylistic choice. This idea could mean the product was made this year, or it could tell it was made twenty years ago. Retro things mostly care about appearance, and it didn't matter when they were made, just that they give off the look of a specific older era.
Vintage, on the other hand, focuses on furniture and items that are from bygone eras. These were constructed when they were still popular and modern styles, and larger or more detailed products rarely last long enough to become vintage.
Both of these are making a massive comeback in 2020, and not in just one way! The main eras that are in focus right now are the 1920s and 1970s!
Retro vintage decoration.
Retro vintage is a combination of the two and is a popular look to combine for the 1970s aesthetic. When combined, most looks for this look purposefully faded with time. Its pale ochres, muted tones in wallpapers, and furniture keep the same styles of the era in fabric. This effect can be harder for the vivid colors of the 70s, but using the familiar shapes and hues that were popular then can pull it through.
Chic vintage decoration.
This look works better for the 1920s, although it can still work for the 1970s as long as you’re willing to put some work into maintaining it. Chic is an elegant and stylish fashion term that’s often applied to clothing before anything else. For the 1920s, that means leaning into the theatrical beautiful sleek lines of the era: tall, slender furniture, slick dark wood or tile flooring, and gold and other metals accents.
Industrial vintage decoration.
This style works for either era- and shows a side of them we aren't often presented in the media. The great depression was at the tail end of the 20s and forced a lot of design and fashion to move to strict minimalism and industrial styles for many Americans. In the 70s, there was also an economic crisis that changed style and set up the world for bright colors when money became more comfortable in the 80s. These decor styles would be essential, minimal, and may encourage less rather than more.
Eclectic vintage decoration.
Eclectic vintage in modern times leans towards the farmhouse look. In 2020, many people turned to lifestyles like cottagecore that helped them be at peace with the world being out of control. This style meant baking more bread, enjoying more time outside in their yards, and growing foods from home to avoid going to stores as often. In 2021 this style is going to evolve some into the interior design of some houses. Expect a slight farmhouse look to come into play, lots of gingham and cute cluttered rooms of things that make the owners smile.
Shabby vintage decoration.
This style can be fun! It looks its best when you have retro and vintage pieces mixed, and can allow your home to feel a little bit of the industrial vintage style without having to go so far on the minimalism side. Shop around for furniture that matches what you like; you can compare Lovesac to different couch brands and find a style that suits your tastes or stop by one of NYC’s many weekly flea markets. Shabby doesn't mean wrong or ruffed up furniture, just that you have some vintage looks mixed with modern.
Vintage dining room.
A vintage dining room is probably both the easiest and most expensive type of space to achieve. This style is easy to buy, offering you the chance to layout gorgeous placemats, dishes, silverware, glasses, and furniture to catch the eye. These vintage pieces are the easiest to find because they never really go out of style, and families took care of them the longest. Look for details that have design features you enjoy, along with the ability to be used if that's your aim. You can find gorgeous older tables, but if you want to save money, go for one with a little wear and tear and refinish it.
Vintage decoration.
Vintage decoration isn't for year-round use. This idea will help highlight the look of your home in 2021. It would help if you aimed to make the holidays special, using the decor to make your home stand out more and seem festive. Classic Christmas ornaments, Hanukkah decor, and Halloween fun can be found on sites like Etsy and eBay. If you aren't sure you want to invest in these or are scared you'll break them, you can buy inexpensive remakes, so if they get shattered, they're only a couple years old instead of fifty or a hundred.
2021 is going to be a year of trying to bounce back and giving ourselves everything we deserve. It's been a rough year, and the world is hoping that the next one will be easier. If the retro and vintage looks aren't what you want for your home, don't worry! It's never a wrong choice to decorate your house in a way that makes you happy. Find your style, and don't let go! Just make sure to stick to one theme to avoid clutter, and have fun with it.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Off The MRKT Top 5 October Necessities
Off The MRKT’s Top 5 luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreOff The MRKT Top 5 September Necessities
Off The MRKT’s Top 5 luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreA Green Experience for New York City
The Global design firm WATG has an urban planning solution that helps New York City “go green.” This plan emphasizes the unforeseen positives during the pandemic. Even though this hasn’t been announced yet, the concept was recognized by Urban Design Forum as a light at the end of the tunnel for their "City Life After Coronavirus" series. This series focuses on the organizations and communities in the city that have been most impacted by the coronavirus.
Another example on how the city is aiming to improve itself for the future is the "Green Block," It is a project on how leading urban planners, landscape architects, and designers could use their skills, and lessons learned from the pandemic, to help transform urban spaces into an even better living space post-pandemic.
The multidisciplinary global design firm WATG rolled out the Green Block idea inspired by John Goldwyn. He is WATG’s London-based master planner and landscape architect. He was also a part of the “Green Block” project. This concept allows for a green, carless, alfresco-hopping, and streetscape vision for New York City. According to Goldwyn, “Our cities have long been overdue for transformation and, as some people flee for greener landscapes in the wake of COVID-19, Green Block proves that you don’t need to sacrifice one for the other – we actually can, have both the urban and the green lifestyle.”
“Green Block” focuses on the intersection of Manhattan’s Flatiron Building, which is an iconic symbol for the city itself. “Green Block” reclaims the city we love for the people and the environment.
“Green Block” was built using a modular program that transforms city streets into green spaces made from 100% recyclable materials. “Green Block” not only adds greenery to existing cafes and shop fronts but it creates untapped revenue opportunities for retail, commerce, and restaurants, it also helps clean the city’s air while beautifying streetscapes.
“Green Block” brings many values to cities. It serves as a breathable solution to air filtration by decreasing car noise, decreasing air pollution, providing homes for the decreasing bee population, and increasing the amount of space for people to exercise and leisure. This solution provides more opportunities for cyclists and walkers, it replaces paved footpaths with lush plants, and it increases outdoor spaces for restaurants and retail stores. Restaurant operators can also use their new outdoor space to grow vegetables, herbs, or fruits to serve on their menus.
Goldwyn says, “People who are all too often disconnected from nature should be allowed respite on their streets. The pandemic tapped into an underrepresented desire in urban dwellers to connect with nature. That desire is a human right, and the city needs to address it. Green Block is in the best interest of New Yorkers and New York City’s standing in the world.”
WATG is currently working with confidential landowners in the United Kingdom to deploy “Green Block” on various streets in London. It was founded in 1945 and they are currently celebrating its 75th anniversary. WATG one of the world’s leading design firms specializing in hospitality, entertainment, gaming, and commercial residential design. Its interior design firm Wimberly Interiors is ranked in the Top 20 by Interior Design Magazine.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Our Favorite New York City Parks
August in the city basically means, well, to put it simply…you shouldn’t be there in the first place. If you’re not lounging around in the Hamptons, vacationing at your Connecticut estate, or traveling abroad, you’re probably still stuck riding the subway in 100-degree heat and being dripped on by AC units in doorways on your walk to work. The struggle is real, and it’s time to put an end to it. Good news is there are plenty of outdoor spots within the city that will quickly transport you to luscious suburbia, if only for the afternoon.
Central Park
A true classic. Head to Sheep Meadow for an afternoon picnic and spread out your towels to soak in the rays. Join countless other sunbathers playing Frisbee and socializing on the pristine green lawn, and don’t forget to bust out your favorite tunes of the summer while you do so.
Bryant Park
Behind the New York Public Library. Ever the source of free entertainment, Bryant Park remains a go-to spot for the arts and cultural activities. It’s extremely popular for its Monday night outdoor movie showings and is always bustling with life.
Washington Square Park
The place to people-watch. An iconic Greenwich Village landmark, this park is teeming with vibrant personalities. People can be spotted reading a novel, writing a philosophy thesis, sketching in notebooks, or hopelessly flipping their skateboards at all corners of the park. Musicians and artists flock here, as the park’s very existence oozes creativity and innovation.
The High Line
Basic, but worth it. While it’s relatively new in comparison, this outdoor walkway of the West Side has skyrocketed in popularity with its picturesque courtyard of plants and sculptures, even housing lounge chairs for relaxation. There’s also a food court to satiate the appetite after your leisurely afternoon stroll in the sun.
Prospect Park
A Brooklyn gem. This park was created by the same masterminds who designed Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It offers plenty of green space and a peaceful escape from the city’s mayhem. There are wetlands, forests, and meadows to be discovered in this 526-acre expanse, among many other attractions.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Where To Workout In The Hamptons
Gyms and indoor fitness centers may not be open and may not be the safest option these days, but the Hamptons are offering outdoor classes that follow CDC guidelines so you can stay on top of your workout routine! From cycling class to group workouts, the Hamptons has everything you need to get a good workout outside.
SoulOutside by SoulCycle
SoulCycle is a company that offers cycle classes to members of the Soulcycle community. With many different classes for you to choose from in Bridgehampton, Water Mill, Montauk, Southampton, and more, you can take a class outside with your favorite instructor. Soulcycle has benches set up for easy shoe fitting and access to restrooms and changing rooms. To reserve a time, go on the SoulCyle website.
One Ocean Yoga - Bridgehampton, NY
Located on the Channing Daughter’s Winery, One Ocean Yoga offers yoga classes overlooking the beautiful views of the winery. During the Covid-19 pandemic the classes are limited to 20 people, reservations are required, and you need to provide your own mat and equipment. These yoga classes are perfect for a relaxing workout with breathtaking views of the Hamptons.
Fhitting Room - East Hampton, NY
Fhitting Room HIIT classes are taking over The Clubhouse Hamptons outdoor space and offering HIIT (high intensity interval training) classes on Saturdays in East Hampton. The classes are by reservation only and no equipment is required.
Barry’s Bootcamp - Southampton, NY
Floor workouts outside? Barry’s Bootcamp has you covered! Each class is 50 minutes long providing weights and bands that are safely cleaned for you to use during your workout. Masks must be worn throughout the class and headphones will also be provided for use of the ‘silent disco’ sound system.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Where To Cycle Around New York City
Going out for a bike ride, is risky but rewarding. Now that the weather is warming up, here are a few great paths to take. Especially as the weather warms up over the next few weeks.
Hudson River Greenway
This 11 mile stretch across the Hudson from Inwood to South Ferry is not only the most heavily used bikeway in the city, but it is part of the 300 mile East Coast Greenway, spanning from Maine to Florida. Aside from stunning views of the riverside, various landmarks like the George Washington Bridge and the Hudson Yards also surround riders. With a lane this long, it can be used for either a slow but casual ride, or a rather intense workout routine.
Coney Island Boardwalk
One doesn’t usually think of this thoroughfare as particularly cyclist friendly, especially when it gets crowded during the busy summer season. But even with the occasional cyclist during the day, biking is primarily allowed between 5 and 10 am. For those willing to commit to making the trip to the beach this early, they’ll get an intimate ride that’s augmented by the calming ocean breeze. At least until the oceanside restaurants and amusement rides open for the day.
Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway
But for those who don’t feel like waking up early to go cycling in Brooklyn, this 2.2 mile path is a perfect alternative. Running alongside New York Bay, this trail goes from Red Hook to Brooklyn Bridge Park, though cyclists will have to park their bikes upon arrival, since bikes are prohibited in the park and the surrounding promenades. Though if that ride still isn’t enough, there’s always the option of extending the ride to include crossing the legendary Brooklyn Bridge.
Bronx River Greenway
This path is currently a work in progress. Of the 23 miles planned, 10 miles are currently available in three separate segments: one mile near Oak Street on Mount Vernon, a 4.6 mile stretch that connects Bronxville and Scarsdale Avenue, and a 5 mile route from Hartsdale to Valhalla. Even though the complete opening is still quite a few years away, what is available right now is just as scenic as any existing bike path in the city.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Off The MRKT Top 5 August Necessities
Off The MRKT’s Top 5 luxury living featuring the hottest products, exclusive events, and more.
Read MoreThe Hampton's Boutique Shops You Don't Want To Miss
Shop until you drop! Shopping is a great way to get outside, have some fun, and of course add to your closet. The Hamptons is home to many boutique stores where you can find some of the most recent trends and fashion brands. Here are some boutique stores to check out.
Mint - Westhampton Beach, NY
Mint Clothing Boutique is located on Main Street in Westhampton Beach. Mint sells everything from beach wear, dresses, bath & body products, and now face masks! Mint has designers like Veronica M and Vintage Havana along with many other well known brands. In addition to the Westhampton location, Mint has boutiques all over the east end for you to check out!
TENET - East Hampton, NY
TENET is home to designer fashion for men & women in East Hampton. Located on Newtown Road, TENET offers the latest fashion from designer brands like Alex Mill and Golden Goose, along with skin, hair, and body care products.
Alice + Olivia - Southampton, NY
Alice + Olivia clothing can be seen on many celebrities including Kourtney Kardashian, Kristen Bell, and Milly Bobby Brown. Alice + Olivia is located in Southampton and sells everything from casual clothing like loungewear to formal evening gowns. This boutique is the perfect place to find your next outfit for a night on the town!
Satori - Sag Harbor, NY
Satori is located in Sag Harbor and sells luxury women's clothing. Satori also sells jewelry and “feel good” products like serums and candles. Satori is the perfect place to find something unique to add to your closet.
The Hidden Spots in Central Park
Central Park is one of the most well-known places in New York City. Tons of people visit this iconic park to walk, relax, catch up with friends, play with their dogs, do some work on their laptops, etc. But beyond the giant field of grass where people would typically have a picnic or read their favorite book are some secret spots that are hidden within the park. Here are just a few of the many secret spots that you can visit the next time you wander through Central Park!
The Shakespeare Garden
Parks Department Entomologist Dr. Edmond Bronk Southwick decided to combine his passions for both nature and Shakespeare to build The Shakespeare Garden in 1913. This breathtaking garden was originally preserved by Dr. Edmond Bronk Southwick and the Shakespeare Society. Nowadays the Central Park Conservatory and volunteers preserve the natural beauty of this garden. This is just no ordinary garden, it has various plants that Shakespeare admired such as primrose and wormwood. And as you walk around the garden, you can read popular Shakespeare quotes. Some of these quotes are quoted from himself and some are quoted from his many plays and sonnets. You can visit The Shakespeare Garden today between 79th and 80th Streets on the West Side.
The Belvedere Castle
This castle dates all the way back to 1869 and it has the most incredible view in Central Park. It was built by Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. They came up with the name “Belvedere” because it means “beautiful view” in Italian. You can see this belvedere from the castle’s two balconies. Since 1919, the Central Park weather station has been located here. New Yorkers can listen to Central Park weather updates from the castle on TV or radio with their signature slogan, “Right now, the temperature in Central Park is…” Anybody can visit this castle anytime for sightseeing or even weddings. What is a more romantic New York City wedding spot than a Gothic and Romanesque castle? You can visit Belvedere Castle today in the middle of Central Park at 79th Street.
The Ladies Pavilion
This spot was originally a train stop for passengers back in the 1800s. Then the Pavilion was moved to a private section of Central Park’s Lake. Once it was moved, it was a women’s only ice skating rink and hangout spot. This spot became more popular in the 1920s where women would invite men, and they would go ice skating together and show PDA. More women began to do that and then it ultimately got shut down since the Central Park Management team was not happy about what the Pavilion was being used for. Only the gray roof and the blue iron bottom remain as shown in the photo above. Anybody, not just women can visit this historical site whether it is to just sit down and relax or admire the design of the pavilion itself. You can visit Ladies Pavilion today between 75th and 76th Streets on the West Side.
The Ramble Cave
The 36 acre Ramble Cave was one of Central Park’s first-ever projects. This place is known for its curvy walking paths, babbling brook, and over 230 bird species that can be seen here every year. Early in the 20th century, Ramble Cave was a well-known hangout spot for criminals. Because of what this place was known for, Central Park Management closed Ramble Cave off to the rest of cave, butthe public for the time being. To this day, the public still cannot access the entire cave but they can however see the stone steps as shown in the photo above. You can visit Ramble Cave today from 73rd to 79th Streets in the middle of Central Park.
The Memorial Christmas Tree for Lost Pets
Did you know that there is a Christmas Tree in Central Park that is dedicated to Lost Pets? Well if you didn’t before, now you do! This tree is surrounded by photos of pets, toys that these pets have owned, ornaments, and other accessories of these pets. Whether you lost your dog, cat, hamster, or fish, you can honor the love that you had for your pet with this tree. This tree is a Christmas tradition in Central Park as people gather around to sing songs, recite poems, talk about the happy times that they have shared with their lost pet, or just to admire the tree itself. Then at the end of the Christmas season, this tree is taken down until the next Christmas season is upon us. Volunteers put away and take out the gifts around the tree each year. You can visit The Memorial Christmas Tree for Lost Pets today deep inside the Ramble Cave.
The next time you visit Central Park will not be like the previous time that you have visited. Now that you know about some of the many hidden spots in your favorite New York City park, it is time to go exploring!
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
The Best Luxurious Hamptons Homes for August
One of the most popular summer spots is in the Hamptons. But just because we are in the middle of a pandemic does not mean that you can’t have a great summer. As long as you are being cautious and safe by wearing a mask in public and social distancing then you can still have fun in the sun. If you want the Hamptons summer experience but you don’t know where to start, this article can most certainly help you out! Below are just some of the many gorgeous homes in the Hamptons for the month of August.
1. “Bright sunny newly renovated Baypoint home 5-minute walk to the beach”
With just a five-minute walk to Foster Memorial Beach and a four-minute car ride to town, this Hamptons summer home is the perfect family home to rent! Located in a private waterfront community, there is so much to do for the whole family including boating, kayaking, and a ferry to Shelter Island. Featuring three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, an upper and lower wrap-around deck, and a lovely view of the water from the upper level, this home is a private Hamptons paradise.
2. “3 bedroom Hamptons home near beach, vineyards, shopping, golf”
Surrounded by the beauty of all that nature has to offer, this house is located in a quiet neighborhood with downtown, restaurants, and beaches right around the corner. With a large backyard, an outdoor shower, an outdoor grill, restaurants by the water, yoga classes, paddleboarding, jet skiing, golfing, surfing, swimming, movie theaters, museums, water parks, aquariums, museums, ice cream shops, and an under five-mile walking distance to both the bay and the beach, the possibilities are endless for the whole family whether you are inside or outside of the house. Just because the beach club nearby is not allowing guests this summer due to the coronavirus doesn’t mean that you can’t have a good time.
3. “Stylish Renovated One Bedroom in the heart of Montauk”
This recently renovated home is just within walking distance of Gosman’s Dock, beaches, shopping, restaurants, and boating, you cannot sail away from this incredible opportunity. Despite the fact that it only comes with one bedroom and one bathroom, you can simply enjoy all that the Hamptons has to offer and this magnificent view above is just one of the many things that this house has to offer. There is also access to a private pool for you or for you and your guest to enjoy!
4. “Renovated Beach House walk/bike to Montauk village”
Walking or biking can take you just about anywhere from this house including to the center of town, the Montauk town beach, the Fort Pond Bay, or the Navy Beach. As the previous home, this home was also just renovated. It comes with a brand new kitchen with a dishwasher, an upgraded full bathroom, a mahogany deck with chaise lounges, an outdoor shower, a patio set, two bedrooms, plus a pull-out sofa in the furnished basement, a washer/dryer, high-speed Wifi, and a barbecue grill. If you already rely on walking and biking to take you places then this vacation spot is just the spot for you!
5. “Private access Ocean beach steps away...Perfect home for family vacations!”
Take a deep breath in and out, this house is the essence of a calm vacation. With two full bathrooms on the first floor, one full bathroom on the second floor, a kitchen, a living room, a family room, a master bedroom with a private deck, a master bathroom with twin sinks and a shower built for two, and a giant lawn space, paradise in the Hamptons is waiting for you! The entire house is also cooled with central air and there is high-speed Wifi throughout the house as well. The distance from the house to the beach is just a five-minute walk, but if you prefer to drive there is a beach parking pass available. The owners live in the lower level of the house with a separate entrance, the rest of the house is yours and the owners are there if you need them.
If you got the coronavirus blues, there is no need to worry. These Hamptons summer homes to rent will get rid of those blues in an instant. August is just around the corner and summer will be over before you know it. So start planning your Hamptons summer dream vacation before the cool breeze of September rolls around.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
For Better Or Worse, The Definition Of The New York City Commute
The rage of the global pandemic is pressing on. Although government officials, as well as the Average Joe and Jane’s of America, had been choosing to hold onto their optimism, recent news is proving that the coronavirus won’t be bowing out on anybody’s timetable but its own. But of course, in order to do so, Americans have to continue honoring social distancing efforts, and wearing masks or facial coverings. During an end of June press conference, our own Governor Andrew Cuomo called on President Trump to sign an executive order requiring Americans to wear masks. But in a place like New York City, the epicenter of COVID-19 madness, we may find ourselves doing more to safeguard our health. That “more” could translate into cutting down on our usage of the MTA Transit System, if not avoiding it altogether.
Can New Yorkers break up with the New York City Transit? Anything’s possible. But it won’t be easy. NYC & Company (which according to their website is the “official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs of NYC”), tells its readers that subways are the easiest way to get around the city and to hop on a public bus for the scenery. However, some New Yorkers are doing their best to avoid subways and buses. Queens based real estate agent Leah Niyazov is one of them, “I basically avoid the MTA and will either take an Uber, or my dad will drive me around.” With numerous clients and deals in motion across Manhattan, as well as Brooklyn, she’s operating her business from a safety first perspective. For Laura Szarvas, an Operations Coordinator at an international retailer who recently moved from Bushwick to Hoboken, the coronavirus has completely changed her commuting habits. Habits which are now pretty nonexistent. Having worked from home since the quarantine, she no longer heads into her Manhattan based office. “This is unbelievable for me. I used to take public transportation on a daily basis.”
The actual numbers are astonishing. According to data posted on the MTA’s website, which is updated continuously, overall ridership has fallen dramatically in comparison to last year’s numbers. On Monday (July 7th, 2020), the MTA saw an over 80% drop in subway usage, a 52% drop in bus usage, and just over a 19% drop in ridership across the bridges and tunnels. It’s obvious that these numbers are a greater reflection of the many New Yorkers who are either working from home, or out of work altogether. However, as NYC continues its phase of reopenings and the threat of COVID-19 exposure continues to be a reality, we can’t help but consider the possibility that New Yorkers who are making a conscious effort to avoid the MTA are also figuring into the equation. The human congestion transit bus fleets and subway platforms commonly afforded to city dwellers may no longer be a price they’re willing to pay. “I do not commute via public transport, unless I have no other options.” Leah stated.
And then there’s Citi Bike. New York’s bike share system and the largest in the nation, according to their website; their blue bodied products and docking stations seemingly around every corner you turn. Although their presence has extended to the outer boroughs, there’s an obvious gap in presence for those that do not live on the isle of Manhattan. It’s clear that for many New Yorkers, there is no other option. People across the city will have to continue relying on the subway and bus systems in order to get around, especially those travelling between boroughs. And the MTA knows this. When reached for comment, they referenced transcripts available on their website and provided several links to various press releases. Overall, the corporation seems focused on sanitizing efforts and building out an infrastructure to support that, as well as social distancing. They’re deploying new vending machines that will dispense things like hand sanitizer and reusable face masks, 9,000 new digital screens serving to alert riders at street level when stations become crowded, due to service changes or delays so they have the choice ahead of time not to enter a station and enlisting the help of Dr. David Brenner from Columbia University for their new disinfecting ultraviolet light technology.
Although the MTA’s upped safety measures, confidence amongst their ridership is going to be very hard to maintain. When asked about how she felt taking the MTA , Laura said “I am totally uncomfortable and afraid of taking public transportation.” The fear isn’t really about touching dirty subway poles, it’s about the other people. Those select transit riders that operate as if there’s no pandemic abound. Both ladies expressed their concerns over commuters they’ve witnessed who were without face masks and within incredibly close proximity to one another. “Although there are social distancing rules in place, it doesn’t feel like everyone is following them.” said Leah.
Regardless of how commuters may feel about their “other half” in the straphanging sense, this relationship won’t be coming to an end. It may never fully rebound, as those New Yorkers who can work from home or are affluent enough to afford a car service might continue doing so; but, for the most part, the MTA can count on the loyalty of New Yorkers. Laura’s statement affirms this, “Basically, people will be on the train but scared or uncomfortable and we have to deal with it.”
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.