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.

Nicole Fishman Benoliel

Nicole Fishman Benoliel co-founded NestApple in 2017. She's a lawyer admitted to the New York bar - her law degree is from La Escuela Libre de Derecho in Costa Rica, with further study at IE Business School in Madrid and an LLM from Fordham in New York. She does not act in a legal capacity at NestApple; every client is referred to an attorney who handles real estate deals full time.

Co-Purchaser Meaning

The co purchaser meaning is simple: someone who buys the apartment with you and co-owns it. On a New York co-op, both names go on the stock certificate and the proprietary lease, and both are liable for every payment and… Read More

Contract Deposit

A contract deposit is the cash a buyer wires when signing the purchase contract, customarily 10% of the price in NYC and technically negotiable. The down payment is your total cash contribution toward the price. The contract deposit is part… Read More

Most Diverse Cities In The US (2025)

The United States is among the most culturally diverse countries in the world, a quality vividly reflected in its vibrant cities. From New York City to Los Angeles, people can immerse themselves in a variety of cultures and perspectives. Continue… Read More

What Is Dual Agency in Real Estate?

Dual agency occurs when a real estate broker represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. New York allows it, but only with the informed written consent of both parties, because a dual agent can’t negotiate or… Read More

Celebrities That Live in Pittsburgh (2025)

Pittsburgh, renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community, has attracted numerous celebrities who have chosen to make the city their home. Here are a few notable figures with ties to Pittsburgh or those who… Read More

Should You Put Your House in a Trust? (2025)

Deciding whether to place your house in a trust largely depends on your individual circumstances. One of the primary benefits of putting your house in a trust is that it helps you avoid probate upon your death. This not only… Read More

The Warmest Beaches in California (2025)

California boasts miles of stunning, golden coastline. From the palm-fringed beaches of Los Angeles to the rugged cliffside beaches of Northern California, the Pacific coastline offers breathtaking views. However, dipping your toes in the Pacific can be challenging at times… Read More

Managing Agent Responsibilities for NYC Condo & Co-op (2025)

Having a reliable and effective managing agent is essential for the smooth operation of mid-sized and large co-ops and condos in NYC. The responsibilities of building management include maintaining the building, monitoring regulatory compliance, procuring and managing insurance policies and… Read More

Putnam County MLS – NestApple Guide (2025)

The Putnam County MLS in New York is part of the Hudson Gateway MLS, also known as HGMLS. The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors mainly runs this MLS. It is the main MLS for the greater Hudson Valley area. HGMLS has… Read More

What Is a Juliet Balcony?

A Juliet balcony is a railing outside a door or full-height window, a few inches to two feet deep. You can lean on it. You cannot put a chair on it. In New York it counts as private outdoor space… Read More

Tips for NYC Coop Board Package Reference Letter (2025)

A typical NYC co-op board application requires applicants to submit three to six letters of personal and professional reference. It’s essential to request the Board Package Reference Letter as soon as you have a fully executed purchase contract. To be… Read More

What is “Step-Up in Basis” in Real Estate (2025)

The step-up in basis for real estate is an important tax provision that applies to properties and other assets transferred upon death. This provision allows heirs to inherit property at a new basis equal to the fair market value of… Read More

Can You Rent Out a House With a Mortgage? (2025)

If you have closed on a mortgage for a primary residence, you can typically rent it out after living in it for at least one year. Most mortgage agreements in the United States include a clause that requires you to… Read More

The Richest Towns in New York

New York keeps two separate rich lists, and almost nobody notices. Sorted by what houses sell for, the Hamptons win: Sagaponack’s median sale price hit $5,925,000 in 2025. Sorted by what households actually earn, twelve of the state’s top twenty… Read More

What Is an Cooperative Apartment Lien Search? (2025)

A co-op lien search, also known as a cooperative apartment lien search, is typically ordered by the buyer’s attorney after a purchase contract has been signed. The seller must typically resolve any outstanding liens against the seller or the co-op… Read More