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Read MoreLiving in a bustling city like New York often means dealing with noise. For many apartment dwellers, noisy neighbors can be a significant source of stress and frustration. The constant clatter, music, or late-night parties can make it hard to relax and enjoy the comforts of home.
If discussions don't work, you might consider soundproofing your space or seeking mediation. With these solutions, you can find peace in your urban sanctuary. Let's explore ways to tackle the issue of noisy neighbors and ensure a harmonious living environment in NYC.
Living in New York City comes with unique challenges, and dealing with noise is often at the top of the list. Fortunately, the city has established noise regulations to help maintain a livable environment. Understanding these rules is essential for effectively addressing noise issues with your neighbors.
NYC noise laws define specific quiet hours, typically between 10 PM and 7 AM, during which residents are expected to keep noise to a minimum. This means loud music, drilling, or disruptive sounds should be avoided during these times. Unreasonable noise, such as excessive loudness that can be heard from 50 feet away, is prohibited at all hours and can result in fines.
Knowing your rights under these noise regulations can empower you to address noise issues confidently. You can report the problem to the building management or local authorities if a neighbor consistently violates these rules. Documenting incidents with dates and times can strengthen your case if formal complaints are necessary.
Familiarizing yourself with these laws ensures a solid foundation for dealing with noisy neighbors. Taking action based on these regulations demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the peace and quiet everyone deserves in their home.
Open and effective communication is often the most productive first step when dealing with noisy neighbors. Approaching your neighbor calmly and diplomatically can help resolve noise issues before they escalate. Here are some practical tips to guide your conversation.
Try to approach your neighbor neutrally, not when you feel upset or frustrated. A calm moment can lead to a more productive discussion.
Use "I" statements to explain how the noise impacts you. For example, "I find it hard to sleep when the music is loud at night."
Suggest compromises or solutions, such as reducing the volume or agreeing on appropriate times for noisy activities.
Encourage your neighbor to share their perspective. Being open and listening actively can sometimes lead to mutual solutions that work for both parties.
After your discussion, check in with your neighbor to see if the issue has improved. A simple thank you can go a long way if they make adjustments.
Communicating effectively involves patience and understanding. Approaching the situation with a clear mind and willingness to compromise can foster a positive relationship with your neighbor while addressing your noise concerns. This helps achieve immediate peace and can build a stronger community in the long run.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, noise persists. This is where soundproofing techniques can come to your rescue. You can reduce the amount of noise that enters your apartment by implementing affordable and straightforward solutions.
Firstly, consider installing soundproof curtains. These heavy-duty drapes add an extra layer of insulation that blocks out external noise. They're especially effective for windows facing busy streets or noisy neighbors. Thick, plush rugs or carpets can also absorb sound and reduce the echo inside your space. Placing rugs strategically, especially in areas where you hear the most noise, can make a noticeable difference.
Additionally, using wall panels that have soundproofing capabilities can help. These panels can be installed easily and work well to dampen noise coming through walls. If you’re looking for DIY options, focus on sealing gaps in windows and doors with weather stripping or caulking. You might also rearrange furniture to help block and absorb sound, like placing a bookshelf against a wall that abuts a noisy neighbor.
Each of these methods is a step toward creating a quieter environment. By employing soundproofing techniques, you can enjoy more peace and comfort in your home, making it a true retreat from the hustle and bustle outside.
If noisy neighbors continue to disrupt your peace, it might be time to seek further help through mediation or legal means. Mediation involves a neutral third party who can help both sides reach an agreement. This process is less formal than going to court and can often resolve conflicts amicably. Many community centers or housing offices in NYC offer mediation services for noise-related disputes.
Should mediation not solve the issue, you may need to consider legal steps. It’s crucial to document all interactions and noise instances. Keep a log with dates, times, and types of disturbances. If you have tried other approaches without success, consult a legal professional. They can advise you on how to proceed and what potential legal actions can be taken.
Several resources can help you find legal assistance in NYC. Organizations like Legal Aid offer free or low-cost legal services to those in need. It’s important to remember that legal action should be a last resort, as it can be time-consuming and costly.
Dealing with noisy neighbors is a common challenge for many New Yorkers. However, with the right strategies, it can be effectively managed. Whether through understanding noise regulations, communicating openly, employing soundproofing tactics, or seeking mediation, there are multiple approaches to finding peace.
Remember, the goal is to foster a comfortable and quiet living space where you can fully relax. Keep an open mind, be respectful in your interactions, and know when to seek additional help. Cultivating a harmonious neighborhood environment benefits everyone and enhances the quality of life for all its residents.
Visit Off The MRKT for more insights on living in NYC, from lifestyle tips to finding your next dream apartment. Our New York City real estate blog can help you navigate city living effortlessly, providing you with the best information to make informed decisions. Stay tuned, and let us help make your New York experience truly exceptional.
Explore this spectacular three-floor co-op at 830 Park Avenue, boasting over 6,000 square feet of luxury living space, marble terraces, and breathtaking Central Park views.
Read MoreUrban Capital Group and Prosper Property Group unveil a boutique luxury condominium at 32-34 Walker Street in Tribeca, blending historic preservation with contemporary design.
Read MoreDouglas Elliman strengthens its Florida team by welcoming luxury market experts Tracey Strube, Barbara Estela, and Miami nightlife icon Tommy Puccio.
Read MoreInvesting in real estate has long been a trusted method for growing wealth and diversifying an investment portfolio. For investors new to this space—or those seeking to expand their current knowledge—understanding the different types of real estate investments is key to unlocking informed and profitable decisions. This guide provides a concise overview of the most common types of real estate investments and how they will work for you.
Residential properties are the foundation of real estate investment for many investors. These include single-family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings that are rented out to tenants. Investors often prefer these properties because of consistent demand, especially in growing urban populations.
Successful investors in residential real estate focus on location. A house in a neighborhood with access to good schools, transportation, and amenities typically attracts reliable tenants and higher rental income.
Commercial properties cater to business needs and often involve office spaces, retail stores, and industrial buildings. What sets this type of investment apart is the longer lease agreements, which provide more stability compared to residential investments.
However, commercial real estate requires a deeper understanding of market trends. For instance, the demand for flexible office spaces has increased significantly in recent years, driven by hybrid work environments. Smart investors analyze these shifting dynamics and look for opportunities in underserved segments of the market.
Investing in land offers a unique approach that doesn’t involve tenants or buildings. Raw land appreciates over time, particularly in areas with future development potential. For example, buying plots near expanding suburbs or areas earmarked for major infrastructure projects can lead to significant returns.
That said, land investment comes with risks. Zoning laws, soil quality, and access to utilities are critical factors to evaluate. To mitigate risks, investors often conduct thorough due diligence before acquiring a plot of land.
Popularized by TV shows and glossy Instagram feeds, house flipping involves purchasing undervalued properties, renovating them, and selling for a profit. The appeal of this investment type lies in its short turnaround time, often yielding quick profit margins.
However, entering the fix-and-flip market requires both skills and research. Investors who succeed in this space usually partner with reliable contractors, understand renovation costs, and study local markets to make sure the flipped property will appeal to buyers.
Regardless of your plans, some real estate investment best practices remain universal. First, understanding the market dynamics of your chosen region is essential. Real estate markets are highly localized, and knowing neighborhood trends will give you a competitive edge.
Second, assessing the financial risks and rewards is crucial. Calculate expected cash flow, potential returns, and investment expenses to make sure you’re making informed decisions. Finally, maintaining a long-term perspective often leads to better decisions, whether you’re flipping houses or purchasing commercial units.
Real estate offers a variety of investment opportunities, each tailored to different goals and levels of involvement. Whether you’re drawn to steady income from residential rentals or intrigued by the potential of land, understanding these categories will align your strategy with your financial targets.
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By Louise Phillips Forbes, Brown Harris Stevens
In today’s real estate market, the perfect property isn’t always move-in ready.
Buyers who are able to recognize short-term opportunities and long-term potential will understand that the true value of a property often lies beneath its current condition. The key is to look beyond immediate challenges and focus on the long-term rewards.
When taking on a renovation, it is important to differentiate between and then prioritize the must-dos and the would-be-nice-to-dos. Deciding this early on—and sticking with the plan—helps ensure that work is done efficiently and within budget, while still keeping an eye on the bigger picture.
I experienced this firsthand in 1993 when I toured an apartment with a client. The property needed, well, everything, and the project was much more than my clients would consider taking on. But I saw a diamond in the rough. At the time, I was relatively new to New York City, single, and eager to establish roots in the city that I had quickly fallen in love with.
Purchasing the apartment was the greatest gift I could have ever given myself—it was a testament to my independence and tangible recognition of my own self-worth. I staged the renovation over the course of several years, with each item checked off the list reinforcing the rewards of patience, perseverance, and sweat equity. The apartment not only became my home, but it also became the foundation for my future. Years later, I met my husband, and as our family grew, we were fortunate enough to purchase the apartment upstairs, allowing us to expand and reimagine our space.
Whether you’re planning to complete the work all at once or tackle it in stages, it’s important to carefully select the right professionals—an architect, a general contractor, or a real estate agent—who share your vision and can help make sense of the moving pieces.
It is also important to consider the cause and effect of factors like the cost of labor and materials that can change over time and how shifting construction codes, building policies, and governmental actions can impact the overall scope. For example, in 2019, I helped a client renovate a 2,700 square foot investment property for a cost of $430,000. Fast forward to this fall, the client completed the same exact renovation for $815,000.
Renovating a home can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing market. With the right mindset and the right team of professionals, a property that may appear to be a fixer-upper today can evolve into the home of your dreams tomorrow.
Louise Phillips Forbes is a top producing agent at Brown Harris Stevens and a 34-year industry leader with nearly $6 billion in sales and a list of awards to her credit.
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Keyed In: Inside the Timeless Enclave of Gramercy Park
Gramercy Park, with its exclusive keyed entry and idyllic green space, has long been a haven for New York City's elite - and a bit of a mystery to outsiders. From Teddy Roosevelt to Thomas Edison, John Steinbeck and Karl Lagerfield, the neighborhood has been foundational in the history of New York and perpetually attracted pioneers, visionaries and glamorous figures with discerning taste. So what is it really like to live here? We sat down with The Agency’s top-performing NYC real estate agent and Gramercy resident Mike Fabbri to get an insider's perspective on why the likes of Lauren Santo Domingo, Cara Delevingne, Julia Roberts, Jimmy Fallon, and Uma Thurman continue to call Gramercy Park home.
What are the major selling points of Gramercy Park?
Gramercy Park's defining feature is, of course, its exclusive, two-acre gated park, accessible only to residents and property owners. The beautifully maintained space fosters a sense of tranquility and community akin to a private club. Crucially, the neighborhood is centrally located with multiple subway lines and easy access uptown and downtown. Arguably some of the best dining options in Manhattan are located here. For real estate enthusiasts, the unique blend of historic buildings and modern condominiums, many designed to fit the context of the neighborhood’s eclectic blend of architectural styles, is an Instagrammable sight to see.
What does it really mean to have a KEY to the park?
A key to Gramercy Park signifies more than just access; it's an invitation to partake in the park's rich history. Since the gates were first locked in 1844, access has been exclusive to residents of the approximately 39 surrounding buildings. Each residence is entitled to a maximum of two keys, each costing around $350 and requiring a hefty replacement fee if lost. To maintain security, the Gramercy Park Trust changes the locks annually. With access comes responsibility: strict rules prohibit activities like drinking, smoking, feeding animals, playing sports, and dog walking, and photography is forbidden. For many, exclusivity and strict regulations contribute to the allure.
What are some of the best tried and true restaurants?
Gramercy has a dynamic dining scene that’s always evolving but the institutions remain. For a taste of history the sometimes-touristy Pete's Tavern is beloved by locals too. It has stood the test of time and my parents actually had their first date there in the 70s! Friend of a Farmer offers a farm-to-table experience, while Casa Mono specializes in excellent Spanish cuisine. Union Square Cafe and Gramercy Tavern are classics. L'Express is a traditional French bistro, perfect for late-night dining. There is no shortage of incredible restaurants.
Is it a pet-friendly neighborhood?
Very. You’ll start recognizing dogs before you recognize their owners. The neighborhood is full of pet-friendly buildings, and while your dog won’t be getting into Gramercy Park itself (rules are rules), there are plenty of other places to roam. Madison Square Park and Stuyvesant Square Park are nearby, and there are cafés like Hutch & Waldo, where your pup can sip on a puppuccino while you contemplate how you got to a point in life where you’re buying your dog beverages.
What are some of the best-hidden gems of Gramercy that only locals would know?
Probably the best ‘hidden gem’ in Gramercy Park is The National Arts Club formerly the Tilden Mansion, originally commissioned by Samuel Tilden, the 25th Governor of New York. It was designed by Calvert Vaux, a prolific architect and world-famous designer of Central Park. Located at 15 Gramercy Park South, this non-profit has been a haven for artists and creatives since the late 1800s! If those walls could talk... It's a beautiful and inspiring space that many visitors (and even some residents) might not know about.
How is the real estate market in Gramercy?
Gramercy Park's real estate market is always strong because it is considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the world by both international buyers and New Yorkers. Like a Van Gogh, properties here are collectible, particularly you can only access the storied ‘Gramercy Park’ as a resident. The market here will only continue to appreciate, especially with the anticipated completion of renovations at the former Gramercy Park Hotel. But fair warning: properties don’t come to market often, and when they do, they don’t last long.
What made you move to Gramercy and what do you love most about your home there?
Our apartment drew us in. It was such a rare find in a gorgeous pre-war building that once served as a school. The craftsmanship and architectural details, particularly the woodwork, are simply one-of-a-kind. The home is in its glory during the holidays with a 12-foot tree. The interiors (designed by my partner Scott Francis) evoke the classic elegance of the Ralph Lauren flagship on 72nd and Madison, combining cozy comfort with perfectly proportioned rooms. Despite how much we love the space, the ultimate highlight of living here is undoubtedly stepping outside into our own private park.
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Living in New York City means embracing a lifestyle that combines convenience with luxury. Apartment gyms are an essential part of this equation, offering residents cutting-edge facilities right at their doorstep. As more people prioritize health and wellness, having access to fantastic gym amenities has become a crucial factor in choosing where to live.
From advanced fitness equipment to specialized classes, NYC apartments are raising the bar on what it means to work out at home. These amenities not only make health routines more achievable but also enhance the overall quality of life. Imagine finishing a long day of work and finding not just a gym but a wellness retreat within your own building.
As we delve into the best gym amenities around, let's see how they transform the way New Yorkers approach fitness and relaxation.
New York City apartments are stepping up their game with state-of-the-art gym equipment, ensuring residents have access to the best tools for their fitness routines. Modern gyms within these complexes often include smart training machines that adjust resistance automatically, interactive treadmills with virtual courses, and multi-functional weight stations for complete workouts. This cutting-edge technology offers precise and personalized fitness experiences that suit all levels of exercise enthusiasts.
One of the biggest benefits of having advanced fitness equipment at home is the sheer convenience. Forget traveling to the gym or waiting in line for machines; residents can simply walk down a few floors to get their daily dose of exercise. This access saves time and helps maintain consistency in workout routines. Plus, having these facilities readily available encourages more frequent exercise, supporting healthier lifestyles.
Popular brands like Peloton, Life Fitness, and Technogym feature prominently in these apartment gyms. They offer a range of machinery, including bikes, ellipticals, and rowing machines, each equipped with the latest in fitness technology. These brands are known for their durability and innovative designs, which provide users with a seamless workout experience, motivating them to stay on track with their fitness goals.
Apartment gyms in NYC typically offer a variety of specialized fitness classes that cater to diverse interests and skill levels. Residents can choose from yoga sessions that promote flexibility and mindfulness, intense HIIT workouts designed to boost metabolism, or soothing Pilates classes that focus on core strength and posture. These classes are led by experienced trainers who provide personalized attention to help residents achieve the best results.
The convenience of accessing specialized trainers right within the complex is a significant advantage. Residents don't need to worry about commuting to different gyms for their favorite classes. This setup means less time spent traveling and more time for actual workout sessions. Additionally, having access to skilled trainers ensures that residents perform exercises correctly, minimizing the risk of injuries and enhancing overall effectiveness.
These fitness classes are particularly important for busy urban lifestyles. They offer structured programs that fit seamlessly into a hectic schedule, providing both physical and mental benefits. Participants can socialize with neighbors, building a sense of community while working towards their health goals. The diverse range of classes also adds variety to workouts, keeping them interesting and engaging, which is crucial for maintaining motivation over time.
Wellness and recovery features are becoming essential components of apartment gyms in NYC, offering residents a holistic approach to fitness and health. Many luxury apartment complexes now include amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and massage chairs. These facilities provide a soothing environment for relaxation after an intense workout and help speed up body recovery by reducing muscle tension and boosting circulation.
Including these amenities transforms a typical fitness routine into a comprehensive wellness experience. Saunas and steam rooms are particularly effective in relaxing muscles and detoxifying the skin, while massage chairs offer targeted relief and relaxation. These features promote overall well-being and are a significant draw for residents seeking a balance between their workout and recovery processes.
Holistic health approaches are gaining traction in apartment gyms, integrating mental and physical wellness into the fabric of everyday life. By incorporating recovery areas, these spaces encourage residents to focus on more than just physical fitness, offering a complete wellness package that supports a healthier lifestyle. This integration naturally enhances the attraction of residential spaces for potential renters looking for more than just a place to live.
Social spaces within apartment gyms play a vital role in fostering a sense of community among residents. These areas offer more than just a place to exercise; they become venues where people can connect, share experiences, and build friendships. Amenities like juice bars and comfortable lounges create welcoming environments for residents to gather and relax post-workout, further strengthening community bonds.
One of the significant perks of having these communal spaces is the potential for hosting community-oriented fitness events. These events could include group workout challenges, wellness seminars, or even social mixers that encourage residents to engage with one another. Such activities can enhance the sense of belonging in a large apartment complex, making it feel more like a supportive and interactive neighborhood.
Having available social spaces and planned events can significantly impact residents' experience by promoting a healthy, active, and socially enriching lifestyle. This community-focused approach supports not just individual well-being but also creates a more connected living environment where residents feel valued and involved in shared experiences.
Apartment gyms in NYC are redefining fitness and wellness within residential communities. They offer cutting-edge equipment, access to specialized classes, wellness facilities for recovery, and vibrant social spaces. These amenities transform everyday fitness routines into holistic experiences that enrich residents' lives. Apartments equipped with such exceptional gym amenities are highly sought after, providing convenience, fostering community, and enhancing overall quality of life for all who call NYC home.
Interested in finding a place that meets your fitness and wellness goals? Let Off The MRKT guide you to the best smart apartment gyms in NYC. Explore our listings to discover homes that not only offer luxury living but also elevate your lifestyle with top-tier amenities and a strong sense of community!
New York's poker scene is growing quickly, thanks in part to evolving legislation that's set to transform the landscape of online gaming in the state. With regulatory shifts underway, poker players in the Empire State can look forward to an array of opportunities, from massive online tournaments to high-profile in-person events.
One of the key figures driving this change is Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr, who has been a staunch advocate for the legalization of online poker. His recent push for NY iGaming legislation could see the state reaping an estimated $1 billion annually from online poker and other gaming activities. Neighboring states like New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania have already tapped into this lucrative market, and New York is on the brink of following suit.
New York is also in the process of accepting applications for three downstate casinos, with 11 proposals under consideration. These new casinos will potentially be located in NY hotspots like Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn and will undoubtedly change the city's gaming landscape. Although these venues may take some time to materialize, there are already numerous high-stakes poker events that New York players can take part in. Here's a look at some of the biggest poker events on the horizon:
For those who prefer to stay at home and play from the comfort of their couch, the ACR Online Super Series (OSS) is one of the largest and most anticipated online US poker events for amateurs and pros alike. The flagship OSS, which includes two Main Events and three Mystery Bounty Multiflight events, boasts a guaranteed $25 million prize pool and attracts some of the top players from around the world.
Hosted by prominent US poker provider ACR, the Super Series takes place at least once a year. New York players can compete in the series without having to leave the state, with satellite events often available for a chance to enter the main tournament at a reduced cost. "Playing in the Online Super Series is always a great experience, and this time, it's back with $25 million in guarantees across a diverse range of tournaments and buy-ins, ensuring there's something for every player to enjoy," said ACR Pro Chris Moneymaker in a press release.
New York City hotels have a reputation for hosting unique events to attract guests and create memorable experiences. For example, to draw in craft cocktail lovers, The Knickerbocker Hotel in Manhattan hosted 'The Year of the Martini' event last year. This celebrated the NYC hotel and its role in perfecting the dry martini. This year, the nearby St. Regis Hotel will host a similarly prestigious event aimed at attracting a different crowd: poker players.
Held in one of the city's most iconic and luxurious venues, the Math for America 2025 Poker Night Tournament combines high-stakes competition with a great cause. The event will benefit Math for America (MfA), an organization dedicated to improving math education in NYC schools by supporting and developing math teachers. The MfA event will be a No Limit Hold 'Em tournament, with an initial $5,000 donation entitling players to one distribution of chips. Notably, poker pros Clonie Gown and Scotty Nguyen will be in attendance.
For those seeking an authentic poker experience, the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Circuit Event is an exciting tournament not to be missed. For the past three years, this famed WSOP event has taken place at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY. At stake is a minimum total payout of more than $2.5 million, a $1 million increase from last year’s minimum guarantee. Also up for grabs are 18 coveted WSOP Gold Rings (up from 16 last year), the WSOP Circuit trophy, and one seat in the $1 million WSOP Tournament of Champions, which will be held in Las Vegas this summer.
With the ongoing push for iGaming legalization and the exciting array of live tournaments already available, New Yorkers have more opportunities than ever to compete and win big. From ACR's Super Series to the renowned WSOP Circuit Event, the Empire State offers something for every type of poker enthusiast.
To stay updated on upcoming New York events, real estate news, and more, visit the Off the MRKT website.
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GITANO NYC debuts its first permanent location at Pier 17, blending modern Mexican cuisine, lush tropical design, and a dazzling nightlife experience in the heart of Manhattan.
Read MoreEileen Foy
Compass, Inc. (NYSE: COMP) ("Compass" or "the Company"), a leading tech-enabled real estate services company that includes the largest residential real estate brokerage in the United States by sales volume, announces that Eileen Foy, formerly from Douglas Elliman, joined Compass with her team of three. Throughout Eileen’s 30 years of sales experience where she amassed an estimated $1B in lifetime sales volume, she has been the recipient of numerous awards such as the Pinnacle Award at Douglas Elliman from 2014-2023, the Legend Award at Douglas Elliman, and recognized as amongst Wall Street Journal’s Top 250 Agents in America.
“I am grateful for the experience I’ve had at Douglas Elliman and the support I received during my time there,” said Foy. “However, after recognizing how intuitive and innovative Compass’ technology is, I felt that in order to serve our clients best, it was time to make the switch. This decision is all about ensuring we continue to provide the best possible service for both our clients and myself.”
The Eileen Foy Team, made up of two additional members alongside Eileen, will continue to serve a diverse range of clients, focusing on the Upper East Side, Midtown, Chelsea, the West Village, and the Upper West Side. The team prides itself on its versatility, comfortably assisting everyone from first-time buyers to those seeking pied-á-terres or purchasing a prized townhouse or penthouse.
“Eileen's dedication to her clients is unparalleled, and she understands how emotional the home-buying process can be,” said Tristate Vice President Gordon Golub. “With Compass' technology and specifically with Compass One, we're excited that she’ll be able to spend even more time focusing on what matters most to her clients."
Before Foy became the award-winning Manhattan broker she is, achieving accolades such as one of Real Trends’ Best Real Estate Agents in America from 2014-2023, she established her real estate career in Southampton. Notably, Foy repped the purchaser for the sale of the Zaha Hadid penthouse at 520 West 28th Street for $20.2M and a record breaking sale at 50 Charles Street 14A at $15M.
Currently, Foy has 20 active listings available through Compass, spanning from the Upper East Side to the Upper West side.
Foy joins on the heels of Compass recently announcing Compass One, the only platform designed to connect the client and agent through every phase of their real estate journey and experience, 24/7 transparency before, during, and after the transaction
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Floating 76 stories above Manhattan, this sky-high penthouse at 111 West 57th Street is a real estate fantasy come to life—with Central Park views, a six-room primary suite, and a kitchen so glamorous it might actually make a New Yorker cook.
Read MoreBy Eli Moyal, COO & Founder, Chapter
In today’s economic climate, the American dream of homeownership is evolving. High mortgage rates, inflation, and shifting consumer priorities have led homeowners to rethink their housing choices. Instead of entering an uncertain and expensive real estate market, many are opting to invest in renovations, transforming their current homes into dream spaces.
As the founder of Chapter, a full-service design-build firm, I continue to witness firsthand how these market dynamics are reshaping home improvement trends. Most significantly, our team has noticed a major shift in business over the past three years. We now handle hundreds of projects annually, and most of our work has shifted from customers who purchased new homes to those renovating existing ones.
The real estate market is experiencing a slowdown as potential buyers hesitate in the face of rising mortgage rates. With 30-year fixed mortgage rates expected to average 6.8% in 2025 according to a report from Fannie Mae, homeowners are reluctant to trade their existing lower rates for significantly higher borrowing costs. This “lock-in effect” is one of the most significant reasons why homeowners are staying put and choosing to renovate rather than buy.
Additionally, recent economic data from The Bureau of Economic Analysis highlights a rise in personal income, with a $221.9 billion (0.9%) increase in January 2025. Disposable personal income also grew by $194.3 billion (0.9%), while personal saving reached $1.01 trillion, reflecting a 4.6% saving rate. This increase in disposable income and savings provides homeowners with greater financial flexibility to invest in renovations rather than buying a new home.
Beyond financial factors, changing lifestyle needs are also fueling the renovation boom. For example, the rise of remote work has made home offices a necessity, while multi-generational living is driving demand for home expansions. Homeowners are prioritizing functionality and aesthetics, ensuring their living spaces align with their evolving lifestyles.
Furthermore, homeowners no longer see renovations as just cosmetic upgrades, but as strategic enhancements tailored to their long-term needs. From our experience, some of the most popular renovation projects include kitchen renovations, bathroom upgrades, home expansions, outdoor living improvements, and energy efficient renovations. These trends underscore the shift in consumer preferences for modernized functionality of what might otherwise be outdated living spaces.
While inflation and material costs remain key considerations, home improvement spending is projected to grow steadily. The total home improvement products market growth is expected to reach 3.9% in 2025 according to The Home Improvement Research Institute, while the Harvard University Joint Center for Housing Studies’ latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity shared that annual expenditures on home renovation and maintenance are forecasted to increase by 1.2% through 2025. This represents a significant rebound from the slight decline projected for 2024, indicating a more optimistic outlook for the home improvement industry this year.
With the Federal Reserve expected to lower interest rates in the coming years, additional tailwinds may further bolster the renovation market. However, homeowners must continue weighing their financial circumstances and long-term goals when deciding whether to renovate or move.
As housing market challenges persist, the decision to renovate rather than relocate has become the preferred choice for many. High mortgage rates, rising home equity, and shifting lifestyle needs are all contributing to this transformation. At Chapter, we’re committed to redefining the home renovation experience by combining superior craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, ensuring our clients achieve their dream homes without the need for a costly move.
By embracing renovation, homeowners can unlock the full potential of their current spaces—creating functional, stylish, and future-proofed homes that align with their evolving needs. As this trend continues to gain momentum, one thing is clear: if you’re considering home improvements, now’s a great time to make it happen.
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Anya Gillinson launched her memoir Dreaming in Russian with a star-studded evening in New York, joined by Andrew Solomon, Candace Bushnell, and Sir Clive Gillinson.
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