View from the back window in Bushwick. I like the "Graffiti Keeps Me Clean".
There are perks to a recession – rents in the city have gone down immensely. I knew I wanted to get in a place while rents were low and there was no telling how long that would last. After the holidays I focused on saving money and mentally preparing for the apartment hunt. For those of you that don’t know, apartment hunting in New York is insane. In addition, you generally have to hire a broker which costs anywhere from 12 -15% of 1 years rent.
The apartment hunt was fast! I emailed my broker and he sent me a long list of available apartments in my desired neighborhoods and price range. 2 days later I was scheduled to check out 5 places. Everyone told me that when I found the apartment I wanted I would know it. As soon as I walked in to the first I fell in love instantly. I looked at a couple other places that did not even compare. It should be noted that I saw Ethan Hawke in Chelsea while looking at one place. I realized quickly I must get that first apartment. I called my broker – he said we have a half hour to get to the office and fill out the paperwork there are 4 other people that want the apartment! So I ran to the ATM – withdrew $500, the required down payment – and hauled ass to the rental office. 4 days later – after providing them with what felt like my life history and multiple financial documents and reference letters, I was signing the lease.
So here are the details you have all been waiting for…. the apartment! It is on Perry St – A gorgeous cobble stone street and about two blocks from the Hudson River. Every spring they plant flowers surrounding the trees; a big contrast from the broken glass that surrounded the trees in Bushwick. I am told that designer Calvin Klein and the Olsen twins live at the end of the block. It is a 5th floor walk-up, great for exercise! It is called a studio but is more like a junior 1 bedroom. It is more than enough room for me (plus visiting out of town guests) and larger than many of the other studios I looked at. My commute is simplified – a quick subway ride and then one train to Long Island.
My good friend’s Matthew and Corrina are moving in together just down the street and the timing couldn’t be better. Corrina needs a place to store a couple of nice pieces of furniture and it works out because I have very little furniture. She is also hooking me up with some key items such as a microwave and silverware. I am very excited to have close friends living nearby.
This truly is how I envisioned my life in New York. I have a fantastic job, awesome friends and now a spectacular apartment. I am very excited for this next chapter of my life in New York.
The pictures below are post move-in, pre organization.
My building is the grey one.
