The Nest

NestApple's Real Estate Blog

Featuring real estate articles and information to help real estate buyers and sellers. The Nest features writings from Georges Benoliel and other real estate professionals. Georges is the Co-Founder of NestApple and has been working as an active real estate investor for over a decade.

Georges Benoliel

Georges has been working in Wall Street for the last 16 years trading derivatives with hedge funds. He has been an active real estate investor for over a decade. Georges graduated from HEC Business School in Paris and holds a master in Finance from ESADE Barcelona.

Are HDFC Co-op Income Requirements Flexible? (2025)

The income limits for prospective purchasers of HDFC (Housing Development Fund Corporation) properties are not flexible. While these household income limits can vary from one HDFC to another, each building must consistently apply its designated income limit to all buyers.… Read More

What Is a Pied-à-Terre in NYC? (2026 Guide, Including the New Tax)

If you’ve ever wondered why some NYC apartments sit dark half the year while their owners are off living their actual lives in Connecticut or Miami, you’ve met a pied-à-terre — French for “foot on the ground,” and real estate… Read More

2025 guide to Local Law 11 in NYC

New York City is chock-full of high-rise buildings lining the streets as far as the eye can see. If you’re a property owner in NYC or looking to buy property, you might have heard of Local Law 11 or the… Read More

Should I renovate in NYC to Help Sell a home?

Should you renovate your home in New York City before selling it? The answer isn’t clear-cut. What is the cost of renovating an apartment in NYC? On the one hand, renovating your co-op or condo in NYC will sell faster… Read More

NYC Buyer Closing Costs: Condo vs. Co-op Guide (2026)

Buying a home in New York City involves more than just the contract price. Buyer closing costs can add tens of thousands of dollars to the total cash required, especially for condo and townhouse purchases made with financing. Understanding these… Read More

How to Sell Land in New York

How to Sell Land in New York starts with preparation, moves to pricing, and ends with choosing the proper selling method – either through a real estate agent, direct to a land buyer, or by owner. This comprehensive guide walks… Read More

Rework Your Apartment to Make It Unique and Special

Think about your typical well-decorated Apartment. You likely imagine some family photos hanging on shelves, a few houseplants, maybe even a lovely piece of art on the wall. It creates the perfect balance of homey and stylish. But at the… Read More

Who Pays For Bed Bug Removal: Renter Or Landlord?

If you have ever experienced the problems of bed bugs, you already know that getting these pests is terrible. Bed bugs are one of the most problematic types of pests to exterminate. To make matters worse, they bite and cause… Read More

Home Price Reduction Strategy in New York in 2025

When trying to sell a home in New York City, it’s normal to feel like your property will fly off the real estate market. That’s usually what happens. However, there are moments when you won’t have that kind of luck.… Read More

Buy a House for Sale by Owner (FSBO) in New York in 2025

Quick answer: “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) means the homeowner is selling directly, without a listing agent — which can mean real savings, since there’s no listing commission baked into the price. It does not mean you should skip your… Read More

Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City (2025-2026)

The densely populated, culturally diverse, and ultra-busy New York City can make anyone new to the metropolis edgy about personal safety. But media stories don’t always give an accurate picture. NYC’s citywide numbers have actually improved sharply in 2025: 305… Read More

The Top 8 Most Dangerous Cities in the US in 2025

The U.S. has white sandy beaches, charming national parks, and bustling cities. Millions of people flock to the country to sample its scenic spots. It is a land packed with beauty and excitement. However, with its vast size, there are… Read More

What Is Conditional Coop Approval In NYC?

Well, you’ve done it. After you hunted for a fantastic co-op in New York City, put together an application, and got your finances in order, you got approved. Well, kind of. According to the paperwork and the news your excited… Read More

How to find the best public schools in Manhattan?

They say you are always looking for your next job, apartment, or future love in NYC. Since I am happily married, love my current apartment, and have started my own business, I’ve added a new item to worry about. Where should I… Read More

Doorman building in NYC: expense or necessity? (2025)

New York City Buildings are iconic. For some people, apartment buildings in NYC with a doorman are a MUST. They range from ultra-luxurious to rat nests and everything in between. Several key factors should be considered when deciding between buying and renting, as well… Read More