BlogOnly! Tips (#1): Apartment Brokers

When dealing with apartment brokers in NYC always have a list of what you expect for the apartment.

Try to find some of the cheapest places that offers the most comfort. Apartment brokers in NYC recieves a commission equal to 1 or 1.5 the amount of the rent (if the apartment is $1000 a month the commission is between $1000 and $1500 upfront).

The fees you should expect (in this hypothetical case of $1000 rent)
1. First Month's Rent $1000
2. Security Deposit $1000 (No more than 1 month...people dont need that much security....if you get the gist)
3. Brokerage fee $1500

So what you will pay upfront is $3,500 before you get the keys to the apartment. If you have good negotiation skills $3000. (get the "take it or leave it" phrase in your blood and stick to it even if you like the place)

Before you shell out that sum of cash make sure it's the place that you like in a community that you like.

Is this place over a restaurant, bar, or strip club?
Is the MTA right outside your window?
Are prostitutes sitting at your door step 24/7?
Will you child or dog get hit by a car when they come out of the building?
Is the MTA in walking distance?
When was the last shooting in this neighborhood?
Are fruit vendors all around (if so you will have too many damn flies!) Trust Me!!!

Remember this is NYC and there are no "Safe Areas" in NYC. Dont Be Stupid, Dont Be Pressured, and Dont Overpay!!!