Best of Brick

co-op board reference letters NYC
Co-ops
Here are 8 real co-op board reference letters from successful buyers
By Brick Underground |December 31, 2025 - 9:30AM
apartment buildings in NYC
The Search
NYC landlords want tenants who earn 40 times the monthly rent. Here are 7 workarounds

… With median rents continually hitting new records   its harder than ever … expected by landlords here Thats because landlords prefer renters who earn an annual salary of 40 times the monthly … for renters who dont meet NYC landlord income standards However another recent shift favors renters More buildings …

By Jennifer White Karp |December 30, 2025 - 9:30AM
Two women sitting on sofa at home, they are drinking coffee and talking.
The Search
The 21 best questions to ask potential roommates to get the perfect match
By Evelyn Battaglia |December 29, 2025 - 9:30AM
Apartment buildings on Park Avenue in Manhattan.
Co-ops
12 tough co-op board interview questions—and how to answer them

… answer these curveballs The ultimate takeaway Keep answers simple and short Less is more Read on and remain calm … 1 … that many buildings have exhausted their reserves in the past few years and might be facing maintenance increases so … any renovation plans can be a concern to board memberseven simple projects can spiral out of control B oard members …

By Brick Underground |December 26, 2025 - 9:30AM
rent negotiations nyc brick underground
The Market
8 ways to negotiate a smaller rent increase at lease renewal time
By Evelyn Battaglia |December 24, 2025 - 9:30AM
A row of NYC apartment buildings
Sales Market
A condo or co-op with lower carrying costs can make buying more doable. Here's where to find one
By Emily Myers |December 27, 2024 - 2:30PM
New York, New York - Oct 29 2012: A digital display above the entrance of the subway as Hurricane Sandy moves in the New York City area on Monday, Oct. 29, 2012.
The Search
How to check a neighborhood’s climate disaster risk before you move
By Celia Young |December 27, 2024 - 12:30PM
Red brick apartment building in Park Slope in the evening
Roommates + Landlords
My brother’s friend has been squatting at my former apartment and won’t leave now that the lease is up. Am I liable?
By Celia Young |December 27, 2024 - 10:30AM
Colorful historic buildings on 4th Street in the East Village of Manhattan in New York City with empty blue sky background
Roommates + Landlords
How to tell if your NYC apartment building is protected by the new Good Cause eviction law
By Celia Young |December 26, 2024 - 9:30AM
nyc bathroom renovation
Renovation
How to stay on top of your NYC co-op or condo renovation from a distance
By Evelyn Battaglia |December 24, 2024 - 2:30PM