Vicious B

Haven't got a clue about American Football...without sounding completely ignorant, it seems a bit like rugby but with padding? (might be a little controversial..but having dated a rugby player for years)

I'm only really into football (EPL) and Rugby...

Spurs match last night = horrific!!

H Bomb

Switched to PM - I am sure people dont want to see chatter about how poor Spurs are - everyone knows that already!

Jerseygirl

We have a separate forum for that!

http://britishexpats.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=66

IlAlfie

I'm going to be a naysayer about Murray Hill. It's quite bland. Our first NYC flat was there and I was glad to move. Our next flat was in Hell's Kitchen, which I preferred.

Make sure they give you a broker service as part of the package. They typically charge 10-15% of annual rent as the fee (such is the demand in NYC, you pay the estate agent). You can do it without a broker though but it's useful initially.

The big high rises, or the full service buildings, are a good bet and they're used to renting to foreigners. They knew that we wouldn't have a credit history etc. Be prepared to provide 2-3 months' rent as deposit if you don't have a credit history. We moved into a Glenwood property and didn't need the mega deposit or credit history. Worth a look. They have a few buildings. Good luck!

H Bomb

I have sent Glenwood an email to see if they meet our requirements for an apartment.

Are there any other big name companies that own multiple buildings? We are already in touch with Avalon as it looks like we will be in one of their apartments for the first month whilst we find a more permanent residency.

jaffy23

I listed a few you can go directly to, and see current inventory at http://britishexpats.com/forum/showp...4&postcount=53

IlAlfie

Brodsky organization is also good. They have lots of buildings, especially in upper west side. Both Brodsky and Glenwood are no fee apts so you don't need a broker. If you use a broker then the broker may still be paid by them and possibly you. I'm sure there are lots of horror stories re NYC brokers on here: read them! Do not let a broker take you to a no-fee apt or building unless he/she is going to be paid by the building. No point paying $5K as a fee when it could have been free if you did it yourself. Some companies insist on brokers so just choose carefully. Best if you get one paid as part of your relocation package. We did and he was v good.

Some of the "no fee" companies aren't great. Shoddy housing, poor maintenance so check them out thoroughly. NYC renting is a world apart but the good news is that there's a quick turnover.

Chrisdc

The amazing website nybits.com helps you browse through all those big buildings. I've used it in every apartment search for years.

I agree that Murray Hill is a bit bland. Though it does have Ess-a-Bagel, the best bagels in Manhattan bar none!

My first NY flat was Waterside Plaza. Amazing views of the East River. Right on top of the UN School. But that long walk to the subway in the bitter winds of January can really get to you!

H Bomb

That is exactly what I am after - thanks @Chrisdc.

Is amazing - after weeks of looking over apartment buildings I havent come across that website once.

IlAlfie

I'd forgotten about that website! It's great although the listings are not quick to be removed/updated so double check before you get too excited about a flat! The big buildings have rental offices too so you can just walk in and ask. They almost always have a 'show' flat.

Chrisdc

Yeah - I would always start at NYbits - find an apartment I liked and then try looking on the management company's own website (eg: rockrose.com)

Vicious B

Ok...so i don't want to tempt fate, but i should be getting my final formal offer letter tonight woohoo! Will accept by the morning and then we can get the ball rolling properly...excited much!!!

H Bomb

Good luck. We have our Visa interview 1st week of May!

Vicious B

Finally...my formal offer letter has arrived YAY!!!

MCDesi

Congrats. I've been following this thread and your journey so far. Just joined the forum myself because I am going through the same things and am awaiting my formal offer.