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.

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NYC real estate guides

Start with a complete guide, then go deeper with the articles inside it.

The Best Time to Move to Phoenix, AZ in 2026

If you’re planning a relocation to the Valley of the Sun, timing your move can make a major difference in both comfort and cost. Understanding Phoenix, AZ moving weather conditions and seasonal trends can help ensure a smoother, more budget-friendly… Read More

What is the Longest Lasting Roof Material? A Guide to Durable Roofing Options (2026)

When it comes to roofing, the longest-lasting materials are a top consideration for homeowners seeking durability and long-term value. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an existing roof, understanding which materials provide the best lifespan can help you… Read More

How Much Can Your Landlord Raise Your Rent in NYC? (2026)

How much your landlord can increase your rent in NYC depends on your apartment type. First, determine whether you rent an unregulated (free-market) apartment or a regulated one, such as a rent-stabilized or rent-controlled apartment. In unregulated units, there’s no limit… Read More

What Is a Protected Buyer List in NYC Real Estate? (2026)

In NYC real estate, a protected buyer list includes names of buyers on whom your listing agent can still earn a commission after the original listing agreement expires. This list is also known as a protection clause, safety clause, or… Read More

Acceptable Forms of Earnest Money (2026)

Home sellers typically accept earnest money in the form of personal checks, certified checks, ACH bank transfers, or wire transfers. Cash is generally not accepted because it’s difficult to track and record. Buyers have little incentive to use cash since… Read More

NJ Closing Costs in 2026

NJ closing costs split differently between the parties: buyers usually pay loan, title, inspection, survey and escrow charges, while sellers pay the Realty Transfer Fee and, for covered transfers over $1 million, a 1% to 3.5% Graduated Percent Fee. New… Read More

Can a Landlord Legally Reject an Emotional Support Animal? (2026)

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a pet that offers comfort and companionship to individuals facing mental health challenges. Even if a landlord generally prohibits pets, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) requires them to permit ESAs, provided the owner has… Read More

Mortgage Co-signer Guide (2026)

A mortgage co-signer is someone who agrees to share responsibility for a mortgage loan with the primary borrower. This option can assist the main borrower in obtaining a mortgage or better loan conditions. Below is a detailed overview of what… Read More

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back (2026)

Ending a lease can be stressful, especially when trying to get your security deposit returned. A security deposit is money the tenant pays at the start of the lease. It protects the landlord from damage. Here are some tips to… Read More

How to Write a Lease Termination Letter (2026)

In real estate, a lease termination letter, also called a notice to vacate, is an important document. It tells your landlord you plan to end the lease and leave the property. This is usually necessary for rentals without a fixed… Read More

What to do with a balcony if you don’t need a relaxation area: drying room, storage room, workshop (2026)

You don’t have to put a sofa or hammock on every balcony. In innumerable apartments, these spaces languish empty and useless, wasted square footage. Balcony Conversion to a Usable Space Could Save You Time, Money, and Frustration. You can even transform it into a… Read More

FROG Room Meaning in Real Estate

FROG stands for finished room over garage. It’s a heated, finished space above an attached garage, used as an office, playroom, guest room or gym. It is not automatically a bedroom: that needs 70 square feet, a 7 foot ceiling… Read More

Bahia Grass: Everything You Need to Know (2026)

Bahia grass is a widely used warm-season grass known for its toughness, low maintenance, and heat- and drought-tolerance. It is frequently planted in lawns, pastures, and sports fields throughout the southern U.S. If you’re considering using Bahia grass for your… Read More

NY Continuing Education for Real Estate Agents (2026)

All New York real estate licensees must complete 22.5 hours of continuing education (CE) before renewing their license. These requirements of NY Continuing Education apply to salespersons, associate brokers, and brokers. The 22.5 hours include 11 elective hours and 11.5… Read More

How Much Is the Mansion Tax on Long Island? (2026)

The Long Island Mansion Tax is 1% of the purchase price for residential properties costing $1 million or more. Buyers typically pay this tax. For instance, if you buy a home for $999,999, no Mansion Tax applies since the price… Read More