May 2021: Finding Your Urban Oasis
The spring season is in full swing! As temperatures are heating up this week, so too is the real estate market. And this year, buyers are especially focused on the outdoors — for good reason! Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to maximize your little slice of outdoor heaven, read on.
The Story: The Great Outdoors
The Jump Off
City-dwellers have always known how to make the most of even the tiniest outdoor spaces. But after sheltering at home through the pandemic, many New Yorkers are realizing that balconies, backyards and roof decks are not just incidental benefits but essential features to their home.
The Process
Buyers today have private outdoor spaces at the top of their wish lists, and properties with even the tiniest plots of land attached are seeing the most intense bidding wars. If you’re dreaming of owning your own urban oasis, try to be realistic with your expectations. Are you looking for a quiet spot to listen to the birds and enjoy your morning coffee (or your evening glass of wine)? Then a balcony might be all you need. Have grander visions of outdoor cookouts overlooking the city? A roof deck might be just the thing. And if you find yourself edgy at the thought of little ones running around five stories high above ground, a fenced-in backyard might be more your style.
The Wrap Up
Like everything else in real estate, make sure to think about how you’ll use the space before jumping in. And buyer beware — roof rights don’t necessarily translate into legal roof decks and outdoor spaces can require some work and upkeep. Make sure you get all the facts before you take the plunge!
The Cheat Sheet
Want to know what’s trending this year as far as outdoor living spaces? Topiaries and small tiles of grass are a great way to make a green statement in a small space. Backyard bars are in as well (can you blame us?) and of course the above-ground kiddie pools that were worth their weight in gold last year (and still are). And though firepits are technically only for those living outside city limits, you can still make some pretty sweet s’mores over legal gas barbeques. Let the grilling begin!
The Gabriele Moment: A Wash of Color
I love gardening. My backyard is chockful of flowers and other beautiful growing things — orange-red tomatoes, bright tender strawberries, and pops of almost-purple blueberries. The more color, the better! I give my plants a lot of loving care. I find weeding super relaxing and get so much satisfaction seeing the literal fruits of my labor (high hopes that this is the year our apple tree bears apples again). One of my secrets? A good irrigation system. But in the heat of the summer, I’ll give everything — plants, dog and children alike — a good soaking with the hose. It’s the best kind of family fun!
Share The Joy
Know someone considering a move or an investment? Please forward this newsletter to your family and friends — most of my business comes by word of mouth! I truly appreciate every one of your referrals. Thank you.
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