A Luxury Holiday Within Your Home With Context Travel

Annabella Pardo

Explore, learn and travel all around the world within the comfort of your own home, or book a flight and set your wings towards a new country. As borders are slowly opening back up, we are slowly retuning to our regularly scheduled programming of jet setting around new cities and enriching ourselves in new and distinct cultures. To prepare for our grand holidays, or virtual escapes, we are enlisting the wonderful expertise from Context Travel.

Picture via @ContextTravel

Context Travel is a network of scholars and experts who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology, who offer private, custom, and small group walking tours in 60 cities across six continents for almost 20-years. 

Recently launched, the digital learning program is called “Context Learning,” and it offers live interactive seminars and courses on a variety of cultural and historical topics with the company’s vast network of well-versed, PHD or MA-level degree scholars. Think of this as a LIVE version of Netflix where there are tons of options to choose from, select which one is most of interest to you and learn about your favorite subject.

Picture via @ContextTravel

Context is now the only travel company that allows you to start learning before you hop on a plane. Due to popular demand for long form travel, and because Context participants have built relationships with their experts/scholars over the course of the pandemic, Context is now taking one step further to launch  Context Journeys – the brand’s first fully planned, multi-day, small and group tours in cultural capitals across the globe.

Picture via @ContextTravel

Journeys will be led by the brand’s network of scholars, many of which hold PhDs or other terminal degrees in their field and teach at the university level, who specialize in fields such as art history, archaeology, cuisine, architecture, history, and theology.   

Picture via @ContextTravel

Recently launched new programs for those interested in the culture and history of Mexico City, both through Context Journey (in-person, multi-day group tour experiences) and Context Learning (virtual courses and conversations online). 

From its ancient ruins to its cosmopolitan neighborhoods, bustling markets to world-renowned museums —Mexico City should be at the top of everyone’s (in-person or virtual) travel list. For those ready to take flight and enter this vibrant, historically fascinating city in-person, then Context Journey has the perfect itinerary for all: 4 fully planned days guided by experts in Mexico City including a luxury hotel accommodation at the 5-star St. Regis Mexico City. 

Highlights of the Context Journey Mexico City Multi-Day Tour Include:

• Learning about the art and dramas behind the famous artist couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, with guided visits through their homes and studios

• A local look at Mexican food and beverage with an exploration of Mercado Coyoacan and surrounding neighborhood

• Taking a guided excursion to see the Aztec ruins and pyramids of Teotihuacan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a practicing archeologist

Interested travelers can learn more about the full itinerary and offerings for the Context Journey Mexico City tour here, and can  book the multi-day journey ahead of its January 13th 2022 start date. 

Those ready to start learning about Mexico City now can opt for Context Learnings’ Mexico City courses. From the Day of the Dead: Mexico's Celebration of Life After Death with Jazmin Caraveo-Tunon to Tequila and Mezcal: An Introduction to Mexican Spirits with Chantal Martineau—There are plenty of options of these expert-guided, culturally enriching courses, available now for registration. 

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Homes You Can Walk Through Without Taking A Step

No one wants to leave the home these days. Luckily, with today’s technology, you can tour, or even buy, a home without visiting in person. Don’t believe us? Check out these virtual tours and discover your new home.

Have a listing you think should be featured? Submit your open house or contact us to tell us more!

Buschwick

194 Cooper Street, Brooklyn, NY.

WHERE: 194 Cooper Street

SIZE: 4 Beds | 2.5 Baths

COST: $1,325,000

About: 149 Cooper Street is a two family 3-story townhouse in Bushwick. This elegant two family townhouse comes with parking. This home can be configured as a top floor apartment over an owners' duplex with private backyard or an owner’s penthouse 2 bedroom with roof deck over a rental duplex that covers your expenses. This home is everything you've ever wanted, it's filled with light, has hardwood oak flooring throughout and high end finishes.

The 2BR, 1.5 Bath owner's duplex incorporates an open kitchen on the parlor level for dining, living and hosting. The expansive kitchen is truly the heart of the home, with a wonderful island and room for cooking, working, and eating. The stainless steel appliances meet the home chef's every need, with a 5-burner range, high end refrigerator, dishwasher and a microwave drawer. Both bedrooms have direct access to a deck that overlooks the spacious private backyard. The outdoor space is a quiet sanctuary from the city's hustle and bustle. The flexible lower level of the duplex can allow for a living/recreation room plus half bath with W/D or a living space, a half bath with W/D and an additional 3rd bedroom with its own direct access to the backyard.

The top floor is a 2BR 1Bath luxe unit. The design is extremely unique, the unit has super high 13 ft ceilings, original exposed wooden beams, 3 skylights that provide a feel of luxury, style and comfort. The bath blends chic and functional with stylish tiles, an oversized double sink vanity and a built niche in the bathtub. This top unit has great potential. By adding an elegant spiral stair it could easily be transformed into a penthouse unit with direct rooftop access with beautiful city views and outdoor private space.

For more information click here

NoHo

WHERE: 75 Kenmare, 5A

SIZE: 2 Beds | 2.5 Baths

COST: $4,795,000

About: This bright and airy split two-bedroom, two-bath corner residence features white oak floors throughout, expansive windows and a concealed laundry closet with washer and dryer. The well-appointed kitchen is outfitted with Gaggenau appliances, a marble island with a custom oak bar top, accented by a rear pewter topped counter, marble backsplash, matte-white cabinetry and an integrated oak paneled refrigerator.

The master bedroom boasts an expansive walk-in closet and en-suite five fixture master bath; a true rban oasis. A freestanding Devon&Devon tub and frameless glass enclosed shower surrounded by French Vanilla marble and titanium Travertine walls and radiant heated floors, a custom floating elm dual vanity with Bianco drama marble countertop and sinks with brushed-nickel fixtures and a dramatic custom backlit satin bronze and nickel framed mirror. The second bath features a frameless glass enclosed shower, a sleek retreat finished with honed Pompeii basalt floors, Bianco Drama marble walls and custom designed elm vanity, Bianco drama marble countertop and sink accented with satin nickel fixtures and artfully crafted backlit satin nickel mirrors. The powder room is a pearl in a space-starved city with a Bianco drama marble floor laid in a custom hexagonal pattern, floating elm vanity and Bianco drama marble counter top and sink accented by an illuminated satin nickel framed mirror.

For more information click here

Upper East Side

WHERE:  433 East 74th Street, 5

SIZE: 5 Bed | 6 Bath

433 E 74th St - 5th Floor.

COST: $4,995,000

About:  The Lux 74 is a boutique "lifestyle" condominium building located south-facing on East 74th Street between 1st Ave & York Ave on a tranquil tree-lined block. Some of New York City's most elite schools are close by as well as John Jay Park, Carl Schurz Park, the East River Promenade, the Q train within talking distance, cafes, restaurants, museums and more. This full-service, white glove post war building was built in 2007 and designed by ADG Architects & Design PC. The building amenities include a full-time concierge, superintendent and porter, private gym, private storage, and the best part, an incredible furnished roof top complete with an outdoor kitchen and BBQ. Fall in love with this immaculate, light filled, private full floor home on the 5th floor of The Lux Condominium, one of the Upper East Sides most exclusive boutique buildings! A 1-Million-dollar gut renovation has transformed this 5-bedroom, 5.5 bathroom into a one of a kind masterpiece sparing no detail. This triple mint, full floor, colossal apartment features floor to ceiling windows, a generous laundry room, state of the art appliances, Sonos and Lutron systems controlling everything from motorized solar and black out shades to the wireless controlled lighting system, and much more. Step off the elevator into your own private mudroom style entry foyer completed with custom built-in storage. The entrance of the 5th and highest floor is encapsulated in a large foyer with custom cabinetry, a trio of closets, and custom finished hardwood floors. From the entryway the home opens up into the living and dining room, both of which are flanked by south facing, sun-lit floor to ceiling windows.

The living space features a built-in bar with a wine fridge for entertaining. Off of the dining room, the chef's kitchen is spacious and welcoming. The kitchen is brand new and fully customized. The statuary marble countertops and backsplash are protected by "Tough Skin", a film that allows very hot and cold substances, or liquids like lemon juice or wine to touch the surface without damage. Appliances in the kitchen include Wolf stove, Subzero refrigerator with double freezer drawers. From the living space you enter into the west wing of the home, which houses two generous sized bedrooms and a bathroom. Across the home in the east wing you will find an additional bedroom and bath, and a playroom that can also function as second master bedroom as it is outfitted with an en-suite bath and walk-in closet. The master suite occupies the northern wing of the home. It has access to the property's private 20-foot balcony. It is outfitted with a dressing room, a massive walk in closet, two full gut renovated baths, and an additional four closets throughout. The sensational dressing-room is a fantasy for any Manhattanite; exhibit your finest collections of bags, accessories, and shoes. Separately, the main master bath is spa-like with luxurious features including dual-sinks, a glass enclosed shower, brand name hardware, and an additional vanity room.

For more information click here

505 Clinton - 4F.

Clinton Hill

WHERE:  505 Clinton Avenue #4R

SIZE: 2 Bed | 2 Bath

COST: $1,500,000

About:  505 Clinton Lofts is tucked away on a charming tree-lined street in historic Clinton Hill, where homeowners will enjoy a quiet oasis at the epicenter of one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Brooklyn. The building's unique facade features dramatic and industrial chic floor-to-ceiling windows flooding each of the residences with natural light and remarkable views.

Residence 4R is a 1,014sf two bedroom duplex home with soaring 20ft ceilings. Enter into an expansive living space, your breath will be taken away by the sheer size of the massive wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows. With exposed beams, custom frosted glass & steel doors and high ceilings; this is loft living at its finest! The expansive open chef’s kitchen enjoys custom Italian cabinetry with paneled appliances, subway tile backsplash, LED under-cabinet lighting, a Bertazzoni four-burner gas stove, Bosch dishwasher and refrigerator with freezer drawer.

The home opens effortlessly and enjoys two oversized balcony, accessible though both the living room and second bedroom. The master suite enjoys a private terrace as well. Take in the fresh air and enjoy a morning cup of coffee with the sunrise to the East or an evening glass of wine with friends or family. Throughout, the home features 7.5” hand-scraped, antiqued, & brushed white oak floors, tilt & turn windows and a Bosch Washer Dryer. Private outdoor space, natural light, layout, and gorgeous finishes all come together in this bespoke package.

For more information click here

Founded in March 2020, PropTech Consulting’s Managing Partner, Jonathan Klein, shares his perspective and expertise, while identifying novel and creative approaches for his clients’ unmet needs. As an independent consultative authority on XR, PropTech Consulting bridges the gap between real estate and technology companies in this current volatile environment. Our goal is to drive transformative change in the real estate industry through innovation, technology and transparency. Based in New York City, PropTech Consulting serves as a trusted resource for its technology solutions, professional services and growth advisory.

How VR Could be an Advantage in Real Estate

VR is amazing to look at and experience on television. However, did you know it has some very real uses in the industry? In a major city like New York, VR is a great option for people wanting to look at or sell places on the market. You will be able to look at Manhattan apartments in ways that you couldn’t before. Let us take a very close look at how VR could be an advantage in real estate.

Home previews

To start things off, VR is fantastic for home previews. Traditionally, the best way to preview a home without being on the property is to take a look at photos. The homeowner might send pictures of the property, and you can scroll through them to get an idea of what you are working with. However, photos don't tell the full story. You don't get the full effect of a 3D environment that real-life gives. 

Shadows and tall ceilings can distort reality and create a disparity in photos. When it comes to a preview, you want it to be as accurate as possible. VR makes progress toward a 3D environment where you can view all the details of the home.

View photography

Next in line, VR is awesome for viewing photography. Maybe the full 3D environment of the home isn't yet implemented in the system. However, immersive photos are still a good alternative. Set up the VR system and go through a slideshow of photography in San Diego, for example, to learn about homes in the area. You'll be able to view these high-quality photos without any distractions. Moreover, the VR simulation leads to a larger screen than you would have on a smartphone or computer. 

The bottom line is, VR is all about simulating actuality. When you can see a life-size photo right in front of your face, buying that home is more tempting. It makes an overwhelming place like the Upper or Lower Eastside much more manageable for deciding on your future home investment. You can see the handrails on the stairs and every ridge of the windowsill. Real estate agents are taking advantage of the immersion of VR to market their properties like never before.

Remote sales

In the grand scheme of things, more real estate sales are being done overseas than ever, especially in the market of New York. Primarily coming from Italy, according to Forbes. Because technology has evolved so much, there's really no need to be physically present at the property. Real estate agents are constantly in negotiations with people from across the country. If the buyer has VR, they can ask the agent whether they can view the property in this manner. This leads to a more cohesive idea of what is on the line and what each party expects from one another. 

In addition, VR establishes a standard in the industry. Almost all VR systems are compatible with one another, so it doesn't matter which real estate agent a client is working with. Once a home has been simulated properly, it will be available to everyone on the market.

Home comparisons

Last but not least, VR is excellent for home comparisons. You might capture the layout of the home at different stages. Take photos right now and create a VR file of the current layout. One year from now, repeat the process and compare the files side by side. You'll be able to notice what has shifted around in the home and any damage to the interior. Similarly, view the home from its exterior to record the state of the mailbox, backyard, and chimney. 

Many investors interested in real estate want to see the development of the home over time. With VR, you'll be able to create a visual timeline of sorts. This is much more effective than simply writing down what has changed, which will be open to interpretation. Let people see the progress for themselves with VR.

When all is said and done, these are a couple of ways that VR could be an advantage in real estate, primarily within a big market like New York. The real estate market evolves every year, and agents are always looking for ways to sell properties. VR is a powerful tool that should not be overlooked.

Regina Thomas is a Southern California native who spends her time as a freelance writer and loves cooking at home when she can find the time. Regina loves reading, music, hanging with her friends and family along with her Golden Retriever, Sadie. She loves adventure and living every day to the fullest.  

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Rockland County: An Alternative to New York City

Caroline Fiske

As New York City is slowly starting to come back to life during the various reopening phases, people have been looking to live in other places besides New York City. Mainly because of wanting a bigger house to be quarantined in rather than a claustrophobic apartment. Listed below is a house that is on the market located in Rockland County. This is just one of the many options for being a New York resident somewhere other than New York City.

Maksim Akelin Photography

Located at 7 Tompkins Court in Nyeck, this gorgeous Hudson Riverfront Mediterranean-style mansion comes with 200 feet of a private beach area behind the house. It has hit the market for $1.85 million in Upper Nyack, NY. Located on a private hillside and just 30 miles away from New York City, this 4,429 square foot accompanies 6 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms with picturesque views throughout the home. 

The owners of this house are Dorit and Stan Kramer, they are the founders of the well known “Art Cafe” in Nyack, NY, their son Daniel is now in charge of this cafe. The Kramer’s bought the land and in 2001, their Hudson Riverfront dream home was born. This home has been the site of all family events from weddings to birthday parties to graduations, and the Don DiNovi inspired kitchen was featured in Signature Kitchen and Baths in the Spring of 2003. Dorit and Stan have raised five kids and nowadays they are downsizing and staying locally. Below is a link to the video of the Kramer’s magnificent Hudson Riverfront home.

Besides the private beach and the beautiful exterior surroundings of nature, this house also contains .63 acres of the former Rose family estate. It is also conveniently located less than a mile away from the center of Nyack Village. Built-in 2002 and crafted with organic wood, metal, and stone, you will be transported from the time you walk through the large oak gate and trellis leading into a private courtyard garden and then enter the house through double, elegantly carved, heavy maple doors. You can also see and hear the calming essence of the Hudson River from everywhere in the house. With wrap-around terraces, terracotta tile roof, double-sided fireplace with hand-hewn pine beams, a custom gourmet kitchen with a walk-in pantry, two decor wall ovens, a mosaic tile entry, customized stained glass windows, a three-car garage, custom wrought iron railings, a 48" glass-front Traulsenfridge, and imported light fixtures, how could you go wrong?

So what are you waiting for? If you are looking for a place to live in New York that isn’t New York City, get this house before it’s gone!

Laura Weintraub at Weld Reality is the listing agent.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

The Growing Interest From Homeowners Within NYC to Sell Properties Via Auction

Caroline Fiske

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, NYC residents are now looking at selling their properties via auction. Concierge Auctions, in particular, is a popular way for these NYC residents to sell their properties online. Before the coronavirus happened, the NYC auctions have been slow but now this business is better than ever. Due to quarantine and being stuck in a small space in an apartment, suburbs are now the place to be for quarantine.

1 Fifth Avenue, Residence 10D

Some of the condominiums that are currently being auctioned next month are at 330 East 38th Street (The Corinthian) Residence 52K and at 1 Fifth Avenue, Residence 10D. The 330 East 38th Street condominium was originally priced at $1.7 million and the 1 Fifth Avenue condominium was originally priced at $3.2 million.

Today’s marketplace is a whole different ball game. Properties are now taking a much longer time to sell especially if the space is a small New York City apartment. For example, I live in the suburban town of Fairfield, Connecticut. The vast majority of the houses in my hometown are two or three-floor houses with plenty of space to function in during quarantine. The home demographic of Fairfield is especially attracting New York City residents including my new across the street neighbors. A husband and wife and their young daughter who were originally from New York City just moved on my street because they wanted to get out of the city. They love the spacious backyard, the not so crowded street, the friendly neighbors, and the optimal living space that a suburb has to offer.

In 2019 before the pandemic hit, the top New York City property sales were more than 1,2000 days on the market according to the Global Auction Leader of Concierge Auctions.

That statistic was shown during Concierge Auctions’ 4th annual “Luxury Homes Index,” a national report that investigates the top 10 highest priced properties in the year 2019. At least 50 popular United States markets tracked the overall health of their luxury homes as well.      30 East 38th Street (The Corinthian) Residence 52K.

30 East 38th Street

The bidding for these beautiful properties such as the 330 East 38th Street condominium, the 1 Fifth Avenue condominium and many more will be from this June 26th to June 30th at Concierge Auctions’ online marketplace. You can visit their website and start bidding at www.concierge auctions.com.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Walk Through This Crown Heights Home Under A Million

This week we are taking a virtual look through 658 Park Place, Unit #8 is an expansive and beautifully restored condo in Crown Heights listed for $995,000. With city views and abundant character this is an exceedingly rare pre-war home on a gorgeous tree-lined block.

Image Credit: Warburg Realty//Jamie Fedorko 

Located in a boutique building with only nine homes, Apartment 8 is a nearly 1,100 square foot floor-through two-bedroom, two-bathroom home with excellent light from three exposures and Manhattan skyline views. Some of the standout features include a sprawling living room and dining room with character-filled whitewashed exposed brick walls and bay windows overlooking Park Place. The open plan windowed kitchen and living space flow down the hallway to two large, well-lit, and quiet and rear-facing bedrooms, including the master with its ensuite bathroom and walk-in-closet, and your own in-unit washer/dryer. 

Virtual Tour Credit: Asteroom

658 Park Place is a well-run condominium that offers video intercom, bike storage, stroller storage, private storage units, tax abatement, and an enviable location just off of Franklin Avenue, on which shopping and dining options abound. 

Listed for $995,000 by Jamie Fedorko of Warburg Realty, this home is a seamless blend of pre-war elegance and modern convenience in a prime Crown Heights location.

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• Virtual Tours Across Some of New York's Most Luxurious Buildings

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Virtual Tours Across Some of New York's Most Luxurious Buildings

While Covid-19 has impacted in-person visits to sales galleries and tours of buildings, technology is being deployed to host virtual sales tours for interested International and domestic buyers to showcase each development. Now’s a better time than ever to view some of the most luxurious buildings in Manhattan that you weren’t able to before.

111 West 57th Street

111 West 57th Street, is a bold yet graceful residential tower that soars perfectly centered over Central Park in Midtown Manhattan. The tower is the second tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere and recently topped out at 1,428 feet following the installation of a 300-foot decorative steel crown, paying homage to the most iconic and celebrated skyscrapers of Manhattan’s pre-war Golden Age. Architecture by SHoP Architects and interior architecture by William Sofield. With only one residence per floor, the design of each of the tower’s 46 full-floor and duplex residences maximize the astounding park and skyline views.

The XI

The XI features architecture by Bjarke Ingels. It is a mixed-use residential and commercial development realized through an extraordinary collaboration between the world’s most visionary minds, including BIG, Gabellini Sheppard Associates, Gilles & Boissier, Enzo Enea, and Six Senses. Soaring above the Hudson River and the High Line and occupying one square block between 17th and 18th Streets between 10th and 11th Avenues, TheXI is comprised of two towers clad in travertine and bronze. The XI offers 236 luxury condominium residences, as well as the first US hotel destination by Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas (awarded World’s #1 Hotel Brand by Travel + Leisure in 2017, 2018 and 2019). 

11 Hoyt

Featuring architecture designed by critically acclaimed Jeanne Gang and interiors by Michaelis Boyd Associates, 11 Hoyt is a 57-story tower that rises 660 feet and spans almost an entire city block with frontage along Hoyt, Livingston and Elm Street. Located in downtown Brooklyn, one of the building’s distinctive features is an elevated, private park for residents that surround the building. Measuring nearly 27,000-square-feet it is built atop a two-story base that houses 40,000 square feet of retail space. The building includes 481 residences ranging from studio to four-bedrooms and an expansive collection of more than 55,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities.

The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria

The Towers of The Waldorf Astoria: Model Residence by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing

The Waldorf Astoria has been a beacon of timeless glamour for nearly a century—home to Hollywood’s elite, host to countless world leaders, and the site of famed cultural events and galas. The property is in the midst of an unprecedented restoration, undertaken with care by developer Dajia Insurance Group and renowned architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.

The wide variety of residences at The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria range from gracious studios to opulent four bedrooms and penthouses, many with unique floorplans and private outdoor spaces. Privacy and security are paramount, with a discrete residential experience separate from the hotel, two fully-staffed entry lobbies, a porte cochère with 24-hour valet service, and concierge closest into the entryway for every residence, allowing for secure delivery of packages and room service.

565 Broome SoHo

565 Broome SoHo is Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano's first residential building in NYC and the tallest residential tower in SoHo. Renzo's vision for the building is shaped by light, which led him to design conjoined glass towers with curved corners and a unique "low-iron" glass with a crystal-like sheen that allows the facade to take on the color of the weather, as well as to create clear views from the interiors. 

565 Broome SoHo features 17,000 square feet of amenities, highlighted by a 92-foot tall indoor conservatory with live green walls and three full-grown black olive trees; 55-foot long saltwater pool; private gated porte cochere that leads to the automated parking system (located above ground and encased in glass so cars are visible from street level). Residents also have access to a children’s playroom, 24-hour concierge and attended double-height lobby, fully equipped fitness center, and landscaped outdoor terrace.  

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Real Estate Transitions to Virtual Showings Amid Covid-19

Briana Gonzalez

Social distancing practices, along with the interim shutdown of businesses to ensure public safety, is molding the way Real Estate agents are showcasing homes. Adjusting to more virtual-based tools, Mansion Global claims FaceTime tours, Instagram Live Q&As and 3-D virtual tours are slowly becoming the new option in order to still cater and draw in potential buyers at home.

200 E 21st St, New York, NY, 10010, USA.

Although this isn’t a particularly new conception, agents can personalize the videos and calls from buyers. In an interview with Mansion Global, Houston-based Compass agent Marnie Greenwood said:

“I have builders' homes that are specs and are vacant, I’ll get on WhatsApp with a family, so I’m going around and showing them the house and they can ask in real time, ‘go back to the master closet.’ Or if one of the family members isn’t there, I save the video and send it so they can watch and follow up with questions later.”

Even in an interview with the Real Deal, Douglas Elliman’s John Gomes says,

“to cut down on initial visits that prove pointless, a first, in-person showing may be replaced by a virtual one. We’re scratching the surface with these videos we’re trying to put together at the last minute. When we come out of this, we’re going to be doing a lot of digital, virtual-type showings.

Health and the safety for ourselves and others outweighs all else, but even so, accessibility is vital as some sellers and buyers are unable to wait for the pandemic to ease to find a new home. PropTech Consulting, for example, is offering a virtual tour of 200 East 21st Street, Residence 17B. You can look through the 3-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom contemporary-designed space, with open windows for tons of natural lighting and get a glimpse of the view- all while social distancing at home.

image source: streeteasy.com

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Virtual Home Tours to Inspire

Briana Gonzalez

As we practice social distancing and have veered towards video conferencing with apps like Zoom or Google Hangouts, we have been able to get some glimpses into the homes of our friends, clients, bosses and coworkers alike. As strange as this peek into their intimate spaces may seem, it can often inspire us to re-look how we organize and decorate our own spaces. Below are a few homes that can help to create a satisfying backdrop not only for the frequent video conferences, but it gives you the opportunity to create something new- a breath of fresh air.

200 East 59th Street 

The condominium residences really focus on natural and open lighting, the lighter seating facing the windows capturing the light (and the city/Central Park view), the rounded curvature of the furniture, and the mixture of deep-toned accents and wood elements come together to establish a sleek yet comfortable look. The two-model homes at 200 East 59th Street all feature interiors designed by Cyril Vergniol, the eclectic French designer of Paris’ luxe Hotel de Crillion. Cyril takes inspiration from artists like Salvador Dali and Joan Miro, infusing surrealist art into his designs.    

Quay Tower 

The Quay Tower condominium residences overlook Brooklyn’s waterfront and the Brooklyn Bridge Park. The space is almost reflective of the sunset, the color schematics taken from the combinations of blues and rich reds and oranges providing a fun pop of color.  

While you can still draw inspiration from the following homes, these listings below are also offering virtual sales tours and one-on-one appointments for viewings- ensuring safety as key.  

Avora 

The Avora, LEED-certified full-service condominium, is located on the Weehawken waterfront in New Jersey with a focus on the integration between luxury and sustainability practices. Avora was developed by acclaimed national homebuilder Landsea Homes, contemporary architecture is mixed with elegant and luxe interiors. The onsite team has launched a new virtual tour feature which is comprised of video tours and an immersive model look-book. Current availability ranges from a 933-square-foot one-bedroom for $815,000 to a three-bedroom, two-bathroom with a private balcony for $2.8 million. 

One United Nations Park 

Located along First Avenue, One United Nations Park offers a luxe global lifestyle for residents. 460 feet above the East River, it features a collection of elegant residences with views of the East River and Manhattan skyline. The interior designs of the building are contrasted with the layered black glass exterior design, offering floor-to-ceiling windows. Developed by the legendary Solow Building Company and designed by Richard Meier & Partners Architects, One United Nations Park features Manhattan’s first fully automated and integrated custom ‘smart home’ system that regulates temperature, lighting and motorized window shades. Pricing for current availability starts at $1.25 million.  

Greenwich West 

Greenwich West is Hudson Square’s newest residential tower, aiming to reinterpret New York City’s loft aesthetic through an acclaimed Parisian design team Loci-Anima, marking Greenwich West as the first tower in NYC designed by French female architect- Francoise Raynaud. 30 stories high, it is one of the tallest buildings in the Soho area, featuring panoramic views of the Hudson River, New York Harbor, Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. The interiors of Greenwich West have a bohemian flair to them, the interiors designed by Sebastian Segers, most notable for his work with clients such as Giorgio Armani and Christian Dior and his collaborations with designer Marc Newson and Patrick Blanc. Virtual tours are available through an immersive and exclusive online experience, even sharing glimpses of the rooftop terrace views.  

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Ideal Properties Group Launches Virtual and Remote Listing Viewing Option: “Showings on Demand”

Ideal Properties Group, a leading real estate firm with offices in Brooklyn and Manhattan, today announced its new “Showings on Demand” system. The virtual and remote listing viewing option is available to all Ideal clients for all of the company’s sales and rental listings

“As we launch our ‘Showings on Demand’ virtual listing viewing capability, we are strongly encouraged by the opportunities it affords to everyone involved in the home showing process,” stated Aleksandra Scepanovic, Managing Director of Ideal. “Our engineers have been working on developing a full-cycle digital alternative to rental and sales transactions. The fluid and rapidly evolving situation surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in and around New York City has seen our team quickly ramp up the effort. On the apartment rental front, for instance, from client registration to lease signing, our procedure will offer clients an experience comparable to in-person showings, while affording them the luxury of seeing their selection of homes on their mobile or desktop devices, remotely and in the safety of their own environments. In a city of renters, we believe this digital procedure is going to be extremely valuable to everyone involved.”

“The health and safety of our sales and support staff, as well as the health and safety of the communities we serve – are of the utmost importance. We are focused on using our technological knowhow to provide our customers with the best possible service, one cognizant of the times we live in,” said Erik Serras, Principal Broker at Ideal.

“Showings on Demand” allows for uninterrupted flow of showings and minimizes rescheduling. It also provides agents the opportunity to conduct all aspects of a rental transaction digitally, from client registration to showings, application process and lease signing.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.