Fire Safety and Fire Separation Requirements for ADUs in NYC
Zoning gets all the attention, but fire safety is what actually determines whether an ADU is possible. Under City of Yes, ADUs must still comply…
Category: Buying
Early Signs of Foundation Settlement in Staten Island and Brooklyn Homes
Foundation settlement is one of the most misunderstood structural issues in older homes. It’s also one of the most expensive problems to ignore. Staten Island…
What Clear to Close Really Means in a NYC Real Estate Deal
Buyers hear the phrase “Clear to Close” and assume they are finished. In reality, this stage means the lender has approved the loan and all…
How a Property Survey Impacts Your Closing in NYC
A property survey is one of the most underrated but influential documents in a real-estate closing. In Staten Island and Brooklyn, where lot lines are…
How Certificates of Occupancy for One-Family vs Two-Family Homes Work in NYC
In New York City, your home’s Certificate of Occupancy (CO) isn’t just paperwork. It defines legal use, unit count and occupancy. For buyers in Staten…
Buying With A Partner: Avoiding Financial & Emotional Pitfalls
In recent years, high housing prices have made it difficult for single home buyers to enter the real estate market. More and more people are…
ADU Utility Requirements Under NYC’s City of Yes
Utility requirements determine whether an ADU is safe, legal and compliant. Under the City of Yes proposal, Accessory Dwelling Units must meet specific plumbing, electrical,…
How to Tell If Your HVAC System Is Undersized in Staten Island and Brooklyn
An HVAC system that’s too small for the home will cost you comfort and money. In Staten Island and South Brooklyn, where homes often have…
How to Identify a Failing Subfloor in Staten Island and Brooklyn Homes
A failing subfloor is one of the most expensive “hidden problems” inside older Staten Island and South Brooklyn homes. The subfloor sits between your finished…
How to Tell If Your Home Has Attic Ventilation Problems in Staten Island & Brooklyn
When you’re buying or owning a home in Staten Island or South Brooklyn (103xx / 11209 / 11214 / 11228), the attic is often out…