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.

Is Portland a Safe City?

When people think of Portland, they might picture a refreshing West Coast city with crisp mountain views and fantastic cuisine. However, lately, Portland has been getting bad publicity regarding crime and safety. For those looking to visit or move to… Read More

Capital Gains Tax When Selling Your NYC Co-op

You are subject to federal and state capital gains taxes when selling a co-op in NYC. You may be able to exclude up to $500,000 of gains under the Section 121 home sale exclusion, provided that specific ownership and use… Read More

New York Mansion Tax Guide (2026)

If you plan on buying a home in New York, there’s a good chance you’ll be paying a mansion tax, as this tax applies to all homes selling for over $1 million in the state. In 2019, authorities introduced a… Read More

Own a rental property under my name or under an LLC?

Do you need a limited liability company (LLC) for a rental property in New York City? This blog will analyze the benefits of establishing an LLC in NYC real estate. We will go over the common issues about this ownership… Read More

2025 Guide to NYC Cooperative and Condominium Tax Abatement

As a resident or property owner in NYC, you’ve likely noticed that everything is much more expensive than in other parts of the country, especially all the different taxes. So, it’s essential to know about any potential tax benefits you… Read More

2025 NYC Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption (“SCHE”) Guide

Everyone knows how expensive living in New York City and New York State is. It’s one of the most expensive cities in America and the world. So, anyone living there must take advantage of every tax break or exemption. One… Read More

NYC Transfer Taxes in 2026: What Buyers and Sellers Actually Pay

Many NYC sellers focus on the sale price and only later realize how much transfer taxes affect what they actually take home. Transfer taxes alone can run into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the… Read More

6 Tips for Refinishing Wood Furniture on a Budget

Are your old wooden treasures begging for a makeover without breaking the bank? The good news is that refinishing wood furniture can be a fun and budget-friendly project! Many people shy away from DIY furniture projects, thinking it requires special… Read More

Selecting the Optimal Control Valve: Comparative Analysis (2024)

The humble CCV valve (Constant Current Valve) often plays an unsung yet pivotal role in fluid control systems. These valves are essential for maintaining precise and consistent control over liquid flow, ensuring optimal system performance and efficiency. But not all… Read More

The Richest Neighborhoods in Chicago

Let’s discuss the Richest Neighborhoods in Chicago. With a population of over 2.6 million, Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and home to many affluent communities. If you’re considering moving to the Windy City, here’s a list… Read More

The Richest Areas in London

In addition to its iconic landmarks, world-class cultural attractions, and high-end shopping, London has many expensive neighborhoods. This guide to the eleven wealthiest neighborhoods in London will help you explore the most affluent areas within the city. Let’s discuss the… Read More

What is an Appraisal Waiver in NYC (2024)

When you buy a home with a mortgage, the lender typically requires an appraisal to verify the property’s value. However, in some instances, the lender may offer the homeowner an appraisal waiver, allowing them to skip the in-person appraisal process.… Read More

Advantages & Disadvantages of an LLC for investment Property

There is a growing trend among investors who manage rental properties to form LLCs. While LLCs offer limited liability protection, they also have disadvantages, including financial complexity, higher financing costs, intricate tax implications, transferability challenges, potential issues with tenant relationships,… Read More

How to Utilize Local SEO in the Real Estate Industry

96% of home buyers search for homes online. Positioning your real estate website to appear on the first page of search results can help you generate reliable ongoing business and close more sales. With the National Association of Realtors predicting… Read More

How a Hot Tub Can Elevate Your Home’s Market Price

Have you ever considered how a hot tub could boost your home’s market value? We’re here to tell you it’s not just a pipe dream. With the right approach, a hot tub can be a game-changer when it comes to… Read More