TABLE OF CONTENTS

Coop/Condo Requirements 2

Forms of Ownership 3-4

Building Terms 5

Step - By - Step Buyers Guide 6-9

Step - By - Step Renters Guide 10-13

NYC Schools 14-15

Manhattan Hospitals 16

Helpful Resources 17

International Welcome 18-19

Neighborhoods 20-27

Page1 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC COOP/CONDO REQUIREMENTS

To be prepared to act in a speed appropriate to the New York City real estate market, it is suggested that you take these steps before your homefinding visit:

Select a New York City Real Estate Attorney. They are utilized to close all real estate transactions.

Speak with a Mortgage Lender/Broker and obtain pre-qualification for a loan. This makes you more qualified in the eyes of the seller.

Review your credit report and remove all disputed claims. Reduce your debt, especially outstanding credit card balances.

Have at least 10% of the purchase price available in liquid assets.

For Coops, your total annual housing costs should not exceed 25 – 30% of your gross reported income and your total debt should not exceed 35-40% (except in the case of substantial liquid assets).

Board packages Personal and business reference letters, for which your agent can provide examples. will require at Employment verification letters and/or paystubs minimum Bank verification letter Brokerage Statements Net Worth Statement Previous two years tax returns Mortgage loan application and commitment Landlord reference Credit check authorization

Condominiums sometimes require as much information as cooperatives. It is a good idea to have the above materials easily accessible.

For those applying to lease in a coop or condo, completion of a board package well be required.

Page2 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC FORMS OF OWNERSHIP

COOPERATIVE Cooperatives, or Coops comprise approximately 75-80% of New York City’s real estate market. When purchasing a Cooperative apartment, one purchases shares of stock in a Corporation that owns the building and possibly the land beneath. A stock certificate representing the purchased shares and a proprietary lease giving the right to occupy the apartment are conveyed at closing.

The size of the apartment and its amenities determine the number of allocated shares, which therefore determines the amount of maintenance. Maintenance covers the upkeep of common areas, staff salaries, as well as payment of real estate taxes and interest on any underlying building mortgage.

A Board of Directors, whose duties are to conduct the business of the Corporation and oversee the Management Company of the building, is elected from among the shareholders. Typically, the Board reviews the application of each prospective shareholder or lessee and presides over a personal interview prior to approving any purchase or lease. The Board has the right to approve or deny any applicant without cause.

Most Coops require shareholders to occupy their apartments as primary residences, however normally an allowance is made for one or two years of subletting. A prospective lessor is required to submit a formal application and personally interview with the Board for its approval.

Financing a cooperative purchase requires the use of a personal loan rather than a mortgage. The lending institution holds the original stock certificate as collateral, since the lien is actually against the shares. As with a traditional mortgage, the interest on the loan is tax deductible.

The Corporation establishes the amount of allowable financing, the most common percentage being 75% or less. Some buildings stipulate 50% or no financing at all.

Estimated time from accepted offer to closing: 3-4 months to purchase, 30 days to lease

CONDOMINIUM The ownership of a Condominium apartment is similar to the ownership of real property. A purchaser of a Condo takes title by deed for not only the apartment but also a percentage of the building’s common areas. Each owner pays property taxes to the city and common charges to the Board of Managers for their individual units. Real estate taxes are deductible, however common charges are not.

The Board of Managers is elected by the Condo residents to oversee building operations and enforcement of the “house rules.” The Board uses the common charges to pay employees, repair and improve the building.

Page3 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC FORMS OF OWNERSHIP

CONDOMINIUM (continued) Condos did not traditionally have an approval process, however in recent years have implemented a procedure whereby purchasers and lessors must submit an application. The Board of Managers reviews this application and must either approve the applicant or exercise the condominium “right of first refusal” to match the purchase price. Although uncommon, the option to purchase the apartment from the current owner rather than have it transferred to the applicant is available to the Board.

Most Condo policies towards subletting are considerably more lenient than Coop policies. By allowing the right to sublet, Condominiums are often the best choice for investors. Lessors should be prepared to submit an application to the Board to receive approval.

Estimated time from accepted offer to closing: 1 - 2 months to purchase 10-30 days to lease

CONDO – OP By definition, a Cond-op is a residential cooperative where the ground floor (typically commercial units) is converted into a separate Condominium owned by either an outside investor or the original sponsor of the building. Because the owner of the Condo is not the owner of the Coop, the Coop does not receive the benefit from the Condo income.

Cooperatives that operate in the style of a Condominium are commonly yet inaccurately referred to as Cond-ops.

TOWNHOUSE A purchaser of a Townhouse receives “fee simple” ownership of real property. The owner is responsible for payment of real estate taxes and maintenance and is solely responsible for approving the sale of the property.

Page4 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC BUILDING TERMS

Pre-War Buildings are those built before World War II. These buildings tend to be less than twenty stories and are recognized for features such as larger rooms and/or windows, hardwood floors and high ceilings. These can be doormen or non-doormen.

Post War are larger buildings than Pre-War, built between the 1950’s through the 1970’s. Most will have doormen. They can be found on most city blocks constructed of white, red or brown brick.

Modern Buildings are generally built from the 1980’s through the present and tend to be condominiums. They are mainly hi-rises with doormen and/or concierge services. Many will house a health club and/or pool within the building.

Loft Apartments are usually large open spaces with high ceilings and big windows. They are predominantly located in the downtown neighborhoods and seldom have doormen.

Brownstones or Townhouses are usually 4 to 6 stories and are either single- family homes or have been converted into multiple apartments (usually one per floor). Generally, these buildings offer a lot of charm with wood moldings, fireplaces and outdoor space, however rarely doormen.

Walk-up buildings are no more than 6 stories and have no elevator and no doorman. They were originally constructed as multi-family housing. As one can imagine, the higher the floor – the less expensive the apartment.

Studio is one or two rooms combining a living room and sleeping area. The kitchen may be within the same room or separate.

Alcove Studio (or L-Shaped) is a one or two room studio with a separate alcove, which can be used as a sleeping area or “walled off” to form a bedroom. Please note that any alteration to the apartment should always be discussed with the landlord.

Convertible (or flex) is an apartment with either an alcove that can be “walled off” to create an additional bedroom, or whereby the living room is large enough to split, making an additional bedroom while still retaining some of the living room space.

Junior is similar to a convertible in that it is typically an apartment with an alcove adjacent to the living room.

Duplex or Triplex are apartments with two or three floors respectively.

Loft Area or Mezzanine is an additional space created in apartments with very high ceilings. The loft area is usually constructed above the living room, acces sible by a staircase or ladder and typically used for storage or sleeping space.

Page5 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP BUYER’S GUIDE

PREPARATION Speak with your Real Estate Agent about what you require of a home and a neigh- borhood. Defining the price range, size of apartment, and building amenities will give your agent a good starting place for your search, but flexibility in any of these areas will increase your chances of locating a well chosen home.

Please view the Coop/Condo Requirements section for a list of items you will be expected to submit. WORKING WITH YOUR AGENT Fully disclose your financial situation and your preferences to your agent. She/he will guide you to the apartment that best fit your parameters, thereby reducing the length of your purchasing process. HOME FINDING VISIT Your agent will meet you at a predetermined location to escort you to properties matching your established parameters. Communicating your likes and dislikes to your agent will help them locate the perfect apartment in the shortest amount of time. The best time to view properties is Monday – Friday, 9am to 6pm, although it is still possible to view many things on weekends. Although New York City does not have a formal MLS, all reputable firms share their list- ings, the process for which is overseen by the Real Estate Board of New York. What this means for our customers is that Halstead agents have access to all available listings. THE PURCHASE PROCESS Offer Submit a verbal offer through your agent. An offer includes not only your preferences such as price, closing date, and included/excluded personal property (light fixtures, etc.), but also your qualifications as a buyer i.e.: current income, job description, net worth and debt status.

Contract Once the seller accepts your offer, the seller’s attorney supplies your attorney with the contract. Your attorney will review with you the contract which, after execution must be returned to the seller for sig nature accompanied by a 10% deposit to be held in escrow until closing.

Until both parties sign a contract, a seller can accept another purchaser’s offer. Instruct your attorney to proceed expeditiously. Immediately apply for a mortgage. The loan process may take up to 45 days to complete and hinges on your ability to provide all the required financial documents to your broker/banker.

Page6 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP BUYER’S GUIDE

Board Package: While awaiting your mortgage commitment, your agent will assist you with completion of the Condo or Coop board package. Your completed package must be returned to your Agent within 10 days of receipt of the fully executed contract or 3 days from the date a bank commitment letter is received, whichever applies. Both the application and the Net Worth statement should be typed.

Interview Upon review of your application, the board will schedule a personal interview. The Board’s decision is customarily made know within 72 hours, however some Boards may take longer. Meet with your agent beforehand to prepare. Upon board approval, notify your attorney who in turn will coordinate the closing date. This can take up to 2 weeks to schedule.

Inspection The day before or the morning of the closing, your agent will accom- pany you to inspect the property. Make certain to check appliances, the removal of personal property and that the premises are in broom swept condition.

The Closing At the closing, be sure to bring your driver’s license or passport, checkbook, and all certified checks as instructed by your attorney. Cooperative and Condops: Closing is normally held at the office of the buildings management company. In attendance are you, your attorney, the seller, the seller’s attorney, the lender’s attorney, a representative from the management’s transfer department, and the real estate agent(s). Checks representing the balance of the purchase price and adjustments are exchanged for the keys to the apartment. Condominiums and Townhouses: Closing is normally held at the office of the seller’s or lender’s attorney. In attendance are you, your attorney, the seller, the seller’s attorney, the lender’s attorney, the title company closer and the real estate agents involved. Checks representing the balance of the purchase price and adjustments are exchanged for the keys to the apartment or house.

Move In Day Speak to your agent or the management company regarding the move - in policies of your building. An appointment is often required.

Page7 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP BUYER’S GUIDE

CLOSING COSTS IN MANHATTAN: COOPERATIVE APARTMENTS

For The Seller

Broker...... 6% Own Attorney...... $1,500 and up Co-op Attorney or Managing Agent...... $450 and up *Flip Tax...... variable Stock Transfer Tax ...... $.05 per share *Move-out Deposit ...... $500 - $1,000 New York City Transfer Tax...... 1% of gross purchase price if $500,000 or under ...... (filing fee of $25 also required) ...... 1.425% of gross purchase price if over $500,000 New York State Transfer Tax...... $2 per $500 of purchase price Payoff Bank Attorney...... $300 and up UCC-3 Filing Fee...... $20

For The Purchaser

Own Attorney...... $1,500 and up Bank Fees * points...... 0 to 3% * application, credit & appraisal...... $400 - $600 * bank attorney...... $450 - $600 * UCC-1 filing fee...... $20 Short-term Interest...... up to one month *Move-in Deposit...... $500 - $1,000 Managing Agent or Co-op Attorney (Recognition Agreement Fee)...... $200 and up Lien Search...... $300 Maintenance Adjustment...... up to one month Mansion Tax...... 1% of price when price is $1,000,000 or over

*Where applicable

All information furnished herein is from sources deemed reliable. No representation is made as to the accuracy thereof and it is submitted subject to errors, omissions and change without notice. We advise Parties to transactions to consult their own counsel for verification of these costs.

Page8 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP BUYER’S GUIDE

CLOSING COSTS IN MANHATTAN: CONDOMINIUMS/TOWNHOUSES

For The Seller

Broker...... 6% Own Attorney...... $1,500 and up Managing Agent Fee...... $450 and up Move-out Deposit...... $500 - $1,000 New York City Transfer Tax...... 1% of gross purchase price if $500,000 or under ...... (filing fee of $25 also required) ...... 1.425% of gross purchase price if over $500,000 New York State Transfer Tax...... $2 per $500 of purchase price Misc. Title Company Fees...... $100 Payoff Bank Attorney...... $300 and up

For The Purchaser

Own Attorney...... $1,500 and up Bank Fees * points...... 0 to 3% * application, credit & appraisal...... $500 - $600 * bank attorney...... $450 and up Recording Fees...... up to $350 Mortgage Tax...... 1.75% of amount of mortgage on loans under $500,000 or 1.875% of amount of mortgage on loans over $500,000 Fee Title Insurance...... Approx. $675 per $100,000 Mortgage Title Insurance...... Approx. $500 per $100,000 Violation Search...... $170 Managing Agent Fee...... $250 and up Short-term Interest...... up to one month Common Charges...... up to one month Bank Escrows...... 2-6 months of real estate taxes Mansion Tax...... 1% of price when price is $1,000,000 or over Move-in Deposit...... $500 - $1,000

*Where applicable

When purchasing a condominium unit from a Sponsor, the Purchaser will be required to pay New York City and New York State Transfer Taxes, as well as the Sponsor’s attorney’s fee. (typically around $750)

All information furnished herein is from sources deemed reliable. No representation is made as to the accuracy thereof and it is submitted subject to errors, omissions and change without notice. We advise Parties to transactions to consult their own counsel for verification of these costs.

Page9 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP RENTERS GUIDE

PREPARATION Speak with your Real Estate Agent about what you require of a home and a neigh- borhood. Defining the price range, size of apartment, and building amenities will give your agent a good starting place for your search, but flexibility in any of these areas will increase your chances of locating a well chosen home.

Your homefinding trip should not be scheduled any earlier than 4 weeks prior to your desired lease start date. The New York City rental market operates on a 30-day cycle and should you visit earlier, it is unlikely that many apartments with your desired move – in date will be available to be seen.

Please view the Landlord Requirements section for a list of items you will need to bring with you on your homefinding visit. WORKING WITH YOUR AGENT Fully disclose your financial situation to the agent. She/He will guide you to the apartments that best fit your parameters, thereby reducing the time it takes to obtain a lease.

YOUR HOME FINDING VISIT Your agent will meet you at your pre-determined location to assist with viewing properties matching your parameters. It often happens that the perfect apartment is found on the first day, however if it is not, your agent will take the knowledge gained from the day and apply it to the next days search. It is imperative that you be honest with your agent and openly express to her/him your likes and dislikes. This will allow her/him to help locate your new home in the shortest amount of time. The best time to view properties is Monday – Friday, 9am to 6pm. Although Manhattan does not have a MLS, the many different brokerage firms share their listings, meaning that one agent has the ability to show you everything. Before you view property, you will be asked to sign Halstead’s Commission Agree- ment. The signing of this agreement is recommended by the Department of State and protects both you and the agent.

For more information on this issue, please visit: www.dos.state.ny.us/cnsl/apthunt.html

Page10 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP RENTERS GUIDE

APPLICATION AND LEASES Throughout all the changes in New York City’s real estate market, one thing remains the same: once you have found the apartment you want, it is best to act immediately. If you have prepared the documents listed in the “Landlord Requirements” section, then you are ready for the application process. The application process is as varied as the landlords themselves. Most frequently you will be asked to complete an application, which together with your letter of employ- ment, previous landlord reference and credit report (run either by your Halstead agent or the landlord) will be submitted to the prospective landlord for approval. Usually there is an application fee that can range from $25 - $100. Upon landlord approval, your agent will schedule a lease signing at which you will be required to provide first month’s rent, security, and the brokerage commission. Please see the “Coops, Condos, Condops, and Townhouses” section of this guide for more information on applications and approval time frames. Remember that in most circumstances a personal check will not be accepted for these fees. Read the lease and any attached riders in their entirety. Your agent can help define anything that is not clear to you.

MOVE IN DAY Your new landlord will determine how your copy of the lease and keys will be relayed to you.

Speak to your agent or superintendent regarding the move in policies of your building. Routinely an appointment is required.

Page11 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP RENTERS GUIDE

Prospective tenants may be required to submit numerous items to prove financial ability. As a general rule, landlords require that the prospective tenant have an annual income equal to 40 - 50 times the monthly rent, a good credit history, and a previous landlord reference. (Depending on the landlord, combined incomes for roommates or couples may be used.)

The following is a list of regularly required information:

MINIMUM REQUIRED PAPERWORK Letter of Employment Usually a brief statement on employer’s letterhead of annual salary, bonus, position held, and start date. International customers will also want to have included the number of years, if any they worked for their current employer.

Letter from Current Landlord Should reference length of tenancy and history of paying rent on time. If you cannot obtain a letter, bring the previous landlord’s name, address, and phone number.

Good Credit if your credit is not in good standing or you have no US credit history, you may require a guarantor.

Personal Identification A Passport or Driver’s License. Additional information you may wish to have on hand (normally used in coop/condo applications.)

Copy of Recent Paystubs

Tax Returns Typically for two years prior

Financial Statement A statement version should be acceptable

Bank Letter or two months of statements Confirming status, balance of account(s), and date opened

Two Business Letters of Reference Usually from former landlords or employers

Page12 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC STEP – BY – STEP RENTERS GUIDE

In addition to the above list, it is essential that you prepare the necessary funds before arriving for your home-finding trip. Landlords do not usually accept personal or out-of-state checks. We suggest bringing funds equal to one month’s rent and a month’s security deposit in the form of travelers checks or enough credit line on a credit card to be converted into certified checks at a local bank.

The brokerage commission, as stated in the commission agreement, is agreed to be paid at the time of lease signing. Payment may be made in the form of certified check, travelers check, money order or wire transfer.

If you have questions regarding meeting these requirements, speak to your agent or relocation counselor about the possible use of a guarantor.

As a consequence of the stringent requirements of New York City landlords, the use of a guarantor is often employed. A guarantor is an individual that can co-sign the lease. Guarantors should earn in excess of 80 times the monthly rent in annual income. These persons should also own their own home. Guarantors from New York City are best, but ones from the tri state area are usually acceptable. Not all landlords will accept guarantors from other states.

Page13 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC NEW YORK CITY SCHOOLS

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Public Schools are divided into six districts, with each district further divided into zones. Residency in a Zone simplifies the application process to registering your child in the Spring (or upon relocation) for the following school year. Should a school out- side your district or zone be selected, your child is not guaranteed admission and the local district should be consulted.

Four specialized high schools comprise the exception. Bronx HS of Science, Brooklyn Tech, and Stuyvesant HS select their students from those with the highest scores on their individual admittance exams. LaGuardia HS of Performing Arts has a different admittance procedure.

Call the board of education at 718-935-2000 for a copy of the entire high school directory as well as the admissions process. PRIVATE SCHOOLS There are over 100 private schools in New York City, many with long waiting lists. These schools require mandatory testing from the Educational Records Bureau (ERB), interviews, school tours, and references. Contact the schools after Labor Day for brochures, application, and procedures. ERB testing forms should be completed in early October.

The following list provides good sources of specific school information:

Center for educational innovation & public education assistance 212-868-1640 39 West 32nd Street, NY NY 10001

The Parents League of New York 212-737-7385 115 East 82nd St, NY NY 10028

The 92nd Street Y Center for Youth and Family 212-427-6000 1395 Lexington Ave, NY NY 10128

Abacus Guide Educational Consulting, Ms. Emily Glickman 212-71-ABACUS 145 West 67th Street, NY NY 10023 www.abacusguide.com or [email protected]

Office of High School Admissions 212-481-7034 22 East 28th Street, NY NY 10016

Educational Records Bureau 212-672-9800 140 W 66th ST, NY NY 10023

Child Care, Inc. Private Nursery Schools 212-929-7604

Page14 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC NEW YORK CITY SCHOOLS

PRIVATE SCHOOLS (CONTINUED) Resources for children with special needs:

Resources for children with special needs 212-677-4650 200 Park Ave, NY NY

Manhattan Parent Center 212-481-5584 22 East 28th St, NY NY

Suggested Publications & Web-Site:

The Manhattan Directory of Private Nursery Schools by Linda Faulhaber

The Manhattan Family Guide to Private Schools by Catherine Hausman and Victoria Goldman, SoHo Press

The Parent’s guide to New York City Best Public Elementary Schools by Clara Hemphill, SoHo Press

Public Middle Schools, New York City’s Best by Clara Hemphill, SoHo Press

www.ci.nyc.ny.us - general information on each school as well as test scores, evaluation of facilities, and a mission statement detailing strengths.

Page15 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC MANHATTAN HOSPITALS

The yellow pages contain a complete list of the over 121 hospitals in New York City. In case of emergency, 911 should always be called. The following list contains addresses and phone numbers for some of Manhattan’s largest and best known hospitals.

Bellevue Hospital Ctr. 462 First Avenue 212-562-4141

Beth Israel Medical Ctr. 170 East End Avenue 212-870-9000 10 Union Square East #4C 212-844-8288 356 West 18th Street 212-206-7206

Cabrini Medical Ctr. 227 East 19th Street 212-995-6000

Harlem Hospital 506 Lenox Avenue 212-939-1000

Lenox Hill Hospital 100 East 77th Street 212-434-2000

Mount Sinai Hospital 1190 Fifth Avenue 212-241-6500 620 Columbus Avenue 212-579-1520

New York Hospital/ Cornell Medical Ctr 525 East 68th Street 212-746-5454

New York Presbyterian Hospital 1324 York Avenue 212-746-4080 177 Fort Washington Avenue 212-305-4993 119 West 24th Street 212-746-7200

NYU Hospital 170 William Street 212-312-5000 550 First Avenue 212-263-7300

St. Luke’s Hospital 114 Amsterdam Avenue 212-523-4000

St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital 15 West 125th Street 212-996-4916

St. Vincent’s Hospital 170 West 12th Street 212-604-7000

Tisch Hospital 560 First Avenue 212-263-7300

Page16 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC HELPFUL RESOURCES

Cable TV Services Time Warner www.twcnyc.com Customer Service 212.598.7200

City Assistance Fire Department 911 212.999.2222 Police www.nypd.com 911 212.374.5000 Passport Services www.travel.state.gov 212.206.3500

Electric Services Con Edison www.coned.com Customer Service 800.752.6633

Environmental www.ci.nyc.ny.us Protection Services Noise Complaints 212.966.7500 Poison Control Center 212.764.7667 Sanitation 212.219.8090 Sidewalk Repair 212.225.5368

Post Office www.usps.com 212.967.8585

Public Library Main Branch www.nypl.org 212.930.0800

School Information The Parents League of New York 212.737.7385 Educational Records Bureau 212.873.9180 Abacus Guide www.abacusguide.com 212.712.2228

Telephone Service Verizon www.verizon.com 212.890.1550

Transportation JFK Airport www.panynj.gov 718.244.4444 LaGuardia Airport www.panynj.gov 718.533.3400 Newark Airport www.panynj.gov 973.961.6000 Ferry/NY Waterway www.nywaterway.com 800.530.FERRY Amtrak Trains www.amtrak.com 800.USA.RAIL Long Island Railroad www.mta.nyc.ny.us 718.217.LIRR New York Subways & Buses www.mta.nyc.ny.us 718.330.1234 Metro North Trains www.mta.nyc.ny.us 800.METRO.INFO PATH & NJ Subway www.panynj.gov 800.234.7284 Taxi Complaints or Lost Property www.nyc.gov/taxi 212.692.8294

Page17 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC INTERNATIONAL WELCOME

We at The Halstead Property Company would like to welcome our international clients to New York City and the United States of America. We hope you will enjoy your stay here and we look forward to assisting you with your relocation needs.

There are several items you will need in addition to the ones mentioned in other areas of this booklet. Please be advised that these are not complete lists, but are meant to help prepare you for your homefinding experience. If there are any questions you have with regards to your relocation, your Relocation Agent will be more than happy to assist you. Entering The US You must go through customs at the first point of entry. Have the following documen- tation readily available for presentation: Visa (i.e. L-1, H-1B, J-1 stamped inside your passport) Completed U.S. Custom’s declaration cards (available on en route flight)

Financial Information A copy of your latest income tax return Property ownership verification Financial history letter from bank Bank records/asset records Credit or loan documents Work permits Social Security number

Medical Records Immunizations Current medications History of illness

Birth Certificate/Marriage License Bring originals (preferably translated into English and notarized)

Household Goods Shipment Keep in mind the following when bringing electrical appliances in from one country to another Electrical outlets and current standards are based on 110-120 volt, 60 cycles AC Most large appliances cannot be converted to U.S. standards American equipment uses the NTSC system

Inventory It is a good idea to keep an inventory list of all items packed, shipped or stored. Take photos of items which have been separately insured.

Entering the U.S. Show the immigration officer your: Visa (stamped in your passport) I-94 card (The officer will attach this to your passport. Do not remove the card after you leave the airport.) U.S. Customs declaration card.

Page18 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC INTERNATIONAL WELCOME

New York City Weather Average low temp: 26 Average high temp: 85 Average # of sunny days: 107

Mass Transit New York is well serviced by a network of subways and busses. For more information and Links to maps, please see the jelpful resources page.

Using the Telephone Calling a Number – Every U.S. number has a 3-digit area code and a 7-digit number. For example, the number (212) 381-2282: “212” is the area code “381-2282” is the number

Local Numbers – For most local calls, it is necessary to dial only the 7 – digit number. When calling from Manhattan to Brooklyn for example, you will need to dial the Brooklyn area code even though it is a local call. When calling from one borough to the next you must always use the area code. When dialing a Manhattan number while in Manhattan, you only need to dial the seven-digit number.

Long Distance – Dial “1” plus the area code and the number.

International Telephone Calls – Dial 011, the country code, the city code, followed by the 7-digit number. For Example, 011-01-32-555-1212

“800” and “888” Numbers – Many business numbers start with “800” or “888”. These numbers are toll-free; that is, your call to them is free even if the recipient is not in the local calling area. Dial “1” plus “800” or “888” then the number.

“900” Numbers – If you call a number with “900” or “915” or “976”, you may pay extra for the call. Calling these telephone numbers may become expensive. Prior to calling, check to see how much the cost is per minute.

“911” Emergency Calls – You should call “911” only in emergency situations. For exam- ple, if you need assistance from a police officer, the fire department or an ambulance.

Operator Assistance Calls – Dial “O” for Operator Assistance in the U.S., “01” for inter- national assistance in areas with direct dialing, “00” for international assistance in areas without direct dialing. An operator can help with collect calls, person-to-person calls, calling card calls, emergency calls and general problems.

Other Telephone Services Available – Many telephone companies offer cellular telephone service. You should check contracts closely and compare prices with other providers. For an additional fee, many cell telephones and home or office telephones can be equipped with the following options: Paging Service, Answering Service, Call Waiting, Call Forwarding and Voice Mail.

Page19 RELOCATION 1-800-765-2NYC NEIGHBORHOODS

BATTERY PARK CITY North: Chambers Street South: Battery Place/State Str./South Str. East: West Street West: Battery Place/South End Avenue

Profile: Battery Park City is a “city within a city”. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan island, it was completed in 1976 and comprised of landfill. The open space in its design is obvious in the wide streets, numerous parks and picture postcard views from virtually all corners of this self contained neighborhood. Hudson River Park is one of the city’s most family oriented parks with an extensive playground. Battery Park City offers many full–service modern luxury buildings, which makes this the perfect area for many busy Wall Street executives.

Subways: 2,3,1,9,A,C,E,4,5,6,J,M,Z

Buses: Cross-town on #22 Uptown on Hudson Street Downtown on 7th Ave

Parks & Landmarks: Battery Park City itself Robert F. Wagner, Jr. Park World Financial Center

CHELSEA

North: 30th Street South: 14th Street East: Fifth Avenue West: West Street

Profile: Chelsea has long been a quiet residential area with some of the city’s most charm- ing brownstones, townhouses and other luxurious living choices. It has always been a thriving community for artists and actors claiming such residents as George Gersh- win, Mark Twain, and Andy Warhol. The Chelsea Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1884, held the claim to fame at that time as New York’s tallest building. Today it is considered one of the most desirable areas in which to live.

Subways: C,E,A,1,9,2,3,L

Buses: Cross-town at 23rd Street and 14th Street Downtown on Avenues 9,7,5, and Broadway Uptown on Avenues 10, 8, and 6

Parks & Landmarks: Chelsea Park General Theological Seminary 26th Street Flea Market Chelsea Piers Sports Complex

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MURRAY HILL North: 39th Street South: 25th Street East: Second Avenue West: Madison Ave

Profile: This neighborhood is named after Robert Murray whose 18th Century farm once covered the area. Murray Hill’s most historic landmark is the Pierpont Morgan Library on 36th Street and Madison Avenue. The library was designed by architect Charles McKim in 1906 and funded by industrialist J.P. Morgan. Murray Hill is a unique en- clave nestled just south of Grand Central Station. Convenient to everything, experts claim that this newly chic area has some of the best values in town. Here one can find townhouse lined streets as well as luxury doorman buildings.

Subways: 6,4,5,7

Buses: Cross-town on 34th Street Downtown on 2nd, 5th, Park and Lexington Avenues Uptown on Park, Madison, and Third Avenues

Parks & Landmarks: Pierpont Morgan Library Lord and Taylor flagship store

NOHO

North: Astor Place South: Houston East: Bowery West: Broadway

Profile: NoHo (North of Houston) is an eclectic neighborhood containing much of NYU hous- ing for the thousands of students attending the nearby New York University. Buildings are predominately five or six story walk-ups with some larger pre-war type buildings. Residents flock to the many coffee shops, cafes, and shops that frame Broadway.

Subways: N,R,6,B,D,F,Q

Buses: Cross-town on Houston, 8th Street and 9th Street Uptown on Lafayette Street, Bowery, and Third Avenue Downtown on Broadway, Bowery, and Third Avenue

Parks & Landmarks: Cooper Union for Arts and Engineering Foundation Building 55 Bleecker Street (designed by architect Louis Sullivan)

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FINANCIAL DISTRICT North: Chambers Street South: Battery Place & State Street East: South Street West: West Street

Profile: The Financial District is the oldest part of the city and the undisputed finance center of the United States. Until recently, this has been a predominantly commercial area. In the late 1990’s, though zoning changes allowed the conversion of many historic buildings into residential homes. The Financial District is now one of the most desir- able areas combining modern homes in a historical environment with easy access to every destination.

Subways: 1,2,3,9,A,C,E,4,5,6,J,M,Z

Buses: Cross-town on Chambers and Vessey Street Downtown on Varick, Third Ave., Bowery, West Side Highway, and FDR Drive

Parks & Landmarks: City Hall Park Vietnam Veterans Plaza Wall Street & The New York Stock Exchange

FLATIRON

North: 23rd Street South: 15th Street East: Park Ave West: Fifth Avenue

Profile: The Flatiron district name hails from the Flatiron building which was built in 1902. It was New York City’s first skyscraper and at the time, the tallest building in the world. The south is bordered by Union Square Park, which is home to popular cafes and first class restaurants. The Greenmarket at Union Square is filled with farm fresh edibles and homegrown crafts. Though this neighborhood is very Commercialized, the local residents think it’s Manhattan’s best kept secret.

Subways: 6,N,R,4,5,L

Buses: Cross-town at 23rd and 14th Streets Downtown on Fifth Avenue and Park Avenue South Uptown on Park Avenue South

Parks & Landmarks: Flat Iron Building Union Square, Madison Square Park

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GRAMERCY PARK North: 34th Street South: 14th Street East: First Avenue West: Park Avenue

Profile: The luxury development of Gramercy was built on swampland in the mid 19th Century by Samuel Ruggles. The residents were of the wealthy kind and all owned a key to the gated park. To this day the gate remains, the area is still considered one of the most elegant neighborhoods. Unfortunately, the only way to obtain a key is to live in one of the beautiful buildings facing the park. The surrounding area holds many brownstones and townhouses on quiet tree – lined streets.

Subways: 6,N,R,4,5,L

Buses: Cross-town on 34th, 23rd, and 14th Streets Downtown on Park, Third, Second Avenues and Lexington Uptown on Third, and Park Avenues

Parks & Landmarks: Union Square Stuyvesant Square Park Gramercy Park Theodore Roosevelt’s birthplace

GREENWICH VILLAGE

North: 13th Street South: 8th Street East: Third Avenue West: Sixth Avenue

Profile: More than any other neighborhood, Greenwich Village has long been known as the Bohemia of New York City. More than any other neighborhood, the Village is seen as a small town, which has helped home prices soar over the last ten years. True to its tradition, the Village is home to many artists, writers, and directors. However, the charm of the area has not been lost on business professionals and conservatives giving this location a fantastic mix of people.

Subways: F,L,N,R,4,5,6

Buses: Cross-town on 14th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Streets Downtown on Third and Fifth Avenues and Broadway Uptown on Third, Fourth, and Sixth Avenues

Parks & Landmarks: Washington Square Park Bleecker Street First Presbyterian Church Strand Bookstore

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KIPS BAY/TUDOR CITY North: 44th Street South: 27th Street East: FDR Drive West: Third Avenue

Profile: Kips Bay & the historic Tudor City both offer convenience for residents who want to be near midtown and have quick and easy access to LaGuardia and JFK Airports. This community is a haven for those residents who want to walk to their office at the United Nations, various consulates and embassies. The housing styles vary, but the area is predominately filled with doorman buildings offering the best in service.

Subways: 6

Buses: Cross-town on 34th Street Downtown on Lexington and Second Avenue Uptown on Third and First Avenues

LITTLE ITALY

North: Houston Street South: Canal Street East: Bowery West: Lafayette Street

Profile: Little Italy is home to the best Italian pastries in New York and, of course host of the famed San Gennaro Festival. The small streets are often blocked off during the warmer months while the restaurants turn them into outdoor cafes. Low-rise walk up buildings are the dominant housing type with limited apartments available at any given time. Nonetheless, creative types have rediscovered Little Italy as a delightful, conveniently location in which to live.

Subways: 6,B,D,Q,F,N,R,J,M,Z

Buses: Cross-town on Houston Downtown on Third Avenue and the Bowery Uptown on Third Avenue, Bowery, and Lafayette

Parks & Landmarks: Ferrara’s on Mulberry for Cannolis Bayyard Street Meat Market

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SOHO North: 44th Street South: 27th Street East: FDR Drive West: Third Avenue

Profile: SoHo (South of Houston), claims its fame as having the largest concentration of full and partial castiron facades anywhere in the world. The neighborhood was pio- neered in the 1960’s by artists looking for cheap rents. It is now difficult to imagine that this area was not always the thriving neighborhood it is now with the trendy and compelling shops, fantastic restaurants, and numerous art galleries. Made up 90% of loft style apartments, the rent and sale prices are amongst the highest in the city.

Subways: 6,N,R,B,D,F,Q,C,E,A,1,9

Buses: Cross-town on Houston Downtown on Broadway and Varick Uptown on 6th Avenue and Hudson

Parks & Landmarks: Promenade all along the Hudson River The Puck Building Balthazar Bakery Museum of Contemporary Art

TRIBECA

North: Court Street South: Chambers Street East: Broadway West: West Street

Profile: TriBeCa is home to world class restaurants, art galleries and some of the most elegant residential lofts. Many of the apartments sit alongside cast-iron architecture found on warehouse lined streets. Referred to as the East Coast Hollywood, this neighbor- hood has a fantastic mix of families, professionals, and movie stars. Although TriBeCa is closely related to SoHo, it’s calm streets and sense of community hold a distinctive charm all their own.

Subways: 2,3,1,9,A,C,E

Buses: Cross-town on Chambers Downtown on Varick and Broadway Uptown on Hudson and 6th Avenue

Parks & Landmarks: Promenade all along the Hudson River TriBeCa Film Studios Washington Market Park Robert DiNiro’s Restaurant – Tribeca Grill

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UPPER EAST SIDE North: 96th Street South: 59th Street East: Fifth Avenue West: FDR Drive

Profile: The Upper East Side at its southernmost ZIP code contains the city’s highest concen- tration of wealth. There is little that is not within a short walk: schools, stores, museums, and parks. The housing stock is varied, saturated with luxury co-ops, condos, single family town houses, and tenement-style walk-ups. The Upper East Side tends to be an area newcomers flock to whether due to its notoriety or wide array of price ranges.

Subways: 4,5,6

Buses: Cross-town on 96th, 86th, 79th,72nd,68th, and 59th Streets Downtown on Fifth Avenue, Lexington, and Second Avenue Uptown on Madison, Third and First Avenues

Parks & Landmarks: Central Park Gracie Mansion Museum Mile, along Fifth Avenue Carl Schultz Park

UPPER WEST SIDE

North: 124th Street (Morningside Heights) South: 59th Street East: Central Park West West: Riverside Drive

Profile: Some of the city’s first luxury apartments were built here around the turn of the century. The area is home to a diverse cross – section of people representative of the city as a whole. The avenues are quiet and residential, but close to shopping and transportation. The extension of the subway above 59th Street prompted many developers to take interest in the Upper West Side. Here they created grand lobbies, high ceilings, and 10-12 room apartments with beauty that befits the area. The Northern tip of the Upper West Side, known as Morningside Heights is home to Columbia University. This area as one of the most desirable areas in recent years, yet can still offer a little better value in real estate prices than its southern end.

Subways: 1,2,3,9,A,C,B,D

Buses: Downtown on Broadway, and Columbus Uptown on Riverside Drive, Broadway, Amsterdam, and Central Park West

Parks & Landmarks: Riverside Park Museum of Natural History Central Park Lincoln Center Columbus Circle

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(VILLAGE) - EAST VILLAGE North: 14th Street South: Houston East: Avenue D West: Third Avenue

Profile: Both culture and counter culture have learned to thrive together in this area of Manhattan. From inspiration for Charles Dickens to the birthplace of Punk Rock, the East Village boasts an exciting history. Far from the slums of the 1800’s, this neighbor- hood is home to budding artists, breakthrough musicians, and Wall Street brokers. The entire East Village is devoid of modernization as most of its aesthetics shows as walk-up “row homes” converted into multi-unit housing.

Subways: 4,5,6

Buses: Cross-town at 14th, 9th, 8th, and Houston Uptown on Avenues 2 and 3 & Downtown on Avenues 1 and 3

Parks & Landmarks: Tompkins Square Park St. Mark’s Place (Shopping Street)

(VILLAGE) - WEST VILLAGE

North: 14th Street South: Houston East: Sixth Avenue West: West Street

Profile: The West Village is currently among the least dense neighborhoods in New York City and one of the most desired areas to live. Much of the area consists of tiny streets lined with townhouses and brownstones. Although it is very easy to lose yourself in the old world charm of the West Village, it is easier to lose yourself through lack of knowing the streets. It is the only area in New York City where one can stand on the corner of West 10th Street and West 4th Street simultaneously. It is also the only area which is not laid out by a grid of Streets crossing Avenues. Real Estate is considered prime and therefore comes at a premium.

Subways: D,B,Q,A,C,E,F,2,3,1,9

Buses: Cross-town on 14th, 10th, 9th, and Christopher Streets Downtown on Seventh Avenue Uptown on Hudson and Sixth Avenue

Parks & Landmarks: White Horse Tavern James Walker Park Christopher Park Promenade all along the Hudson River Lion’s Head Inn

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