Now... you might say... finding an apartment in NYC is a horrible experience, all of the brokers are shady.. etc etc.. however, let me tell you the story of one unicorn real estate agent who broke all of those norms.
Three years ago, I decided to move from NJ to NYC and reached out to numerous online listings to see apartments in the city. I saw about 40-50 apartments, and with that being said, about 15 brokers who showed them. I started being extremely aggressive with my negotiating tactics, so when I first met Justin, needless to say I wasn't the nicest of all clients.
He showed me one apartment in the EV, and I wasn't too sold on it so I figured if I negotiate and be assertive, I would maybe like the deal a bit more. (Additionally, I was 26 and looking for my first NYC apartment so I was not going to have some beautiful luxury building.) Well, I lost that apartment and Justin dealt with my huffing and puffing. He then sent me numerous listings, in my price range, all around the city - and told me to trust him with what I was going to see. I reluctantly said fine and told him I would see him for a full day of apartment viewing the next day.
Now, of course, it turned out to be a snowstorm, but nonetheless, Justin was waiting for me at the first apartment with a giant umbrella and the huge genuine smile he always has. Not only did we find an apartment that day, I got approved and signed the same day since I was to move in a couple days after that!
Fast forward a few months later, we check in a couple of times over lunch to make sure I'm happy with my living situation, and everything is well.
Here comes the following story. 3 years after the first move, my gf and I are now looking to move into the West Village, Greenwich village area... and who do I call? Someone who I now consider one of my closest friends, Justin.
We go to see a few apartments, and on our third apartment we realize we struck gold when we found a top floor, huge 1 bedroom of an elevator building in the GV with an open concept and all of the bells and whistles that has been on the market for only 15minutes. We realize we need to RUN to the bank to get the deposit asap to take it off the market - what does Justin do? Since he's this giant graceful antelope with huge legs he runs to chase to secure the line before my gf and I get there - we get the deposit and take it off the market! But that's not all, he then makes sure that our puppy (Stefan the tiny yorkie) will be put directly into lease.
I can't say enough about Justin. He's responsible, he's so intelligent, his experience on the real estate market and conditions are impeccable, and he will fight for his client. I will forever use him when finding apartments in the city to rent/buy, and truly believe he is the most trustworthy real-estate agent in the city.
You are lucky if he's on your side and is your realtor, he really will get you the best price, the best apartment, and be extremely professional and diligent. He is meticulous in ensuring all of the paperwork is properly done and will help you triple check your documents. He is the best.
PS - HE GOT MY PUPPY DIRECTLY INTO THE LEASE AS A TENNANT.. I MEAN COME.. ON..!!! read more