by Laura Matiz

Earlier I wrote about the changing NYC skyline, but possibly more monumental changes on the Manhattan island are occurring underground with three major transit construction projects underway that are sure to make a significant impact on nearby businesses and real estate. The three construction projects are the LIRR East Side Access, the Second Avenue Subway, and the 7 Line West Side Extension. Read on for quick summaries of each. 

by Laura Matiz 

News about futuristic designs in New York City bring out our skepticism, but when the Hudson River Park Trust and The Diller – Von Furstenberg Family Foundation officially announced a partnership to build a world-class public park and performance space on the site of the deteriorating Pier 54, the possibility became more bankable. It helps that Barry Diller and his wife Diana Von Furstenberg have pledged $130 million to build the park designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick.

by Laura Matiz 

These days, it isn’t uncommon for buyers to end up embroiled in a “bidding war” for an apartment. For most, this is an unexpected part of the buying process; a step that shows up just as the transaction seems within their reach. Over the years, I have developed tips to help my buyers manage this difficult step better. 

First, I explain to my buyers that a “bidding war” is usually a misnomer. There isn’t any bidding, nor is it a war. When there are multiple buyers with offers at or above the apartment’s asking price, the listing broker will usually request that all interested buyers submit their "highest and best" offer to expedite the transaction. The seller then, using both the buyers' offer and financial qualifications, chooses the buyer to whom to send a contract of sale.