Q & A with Dottie Herman

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Q1 - Two questions: How do I go about getting e-mail alerts for new Elliman listings for prewar apartments in Manhattan of more than 2,000 sq ft?

Second question: Is there an expert at Elliman that could recommend loft architects? Interested in innovative "movable walls" or ways to partition without destroying the open feel of a loft.

A - The easiest way to get email alerts is to register at Elliman.com. Here's a link: https://www.elliman.com/join-today. When you sign up, you will be prompted to enter your preferences for apartment type, size, price range, and area. Once you have selected your criteria, you will be asked if you would like to receive email updates based on your preferences. Simply choose yes. We will start sending you daily updates of any new properties or price changes of properties you have previously viewed, including those of other firms.

For information on architects, you can visit the professional services directory of AIA New York: https://aiany.aiany.org/index.php?section=corporate-directory. Here you will find information on architects based on their particular expertise.

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Q2 - I am the owner of a condo in Midtown Manhattan. I am shortly relocating abroad for a few years and need to rent out my apartment. How do I go about doing this?

A - Condos in Midtown Manhattan are in great demand. If you plan to do the leasing on your own, you should request the Leasing Package Requirements from your building's Managing Agent. Check to see if there are any special House Rules for Renters and what fees are involved. Alternatively, hiring a Real Estate Professional may prove to be more expeditious. Your Broker should be well acquainted with your condo and can help you procure a credit-worthy  tenant in a timely fashion. If you need our help in finding a Midtown Rental Specialist, we can assist you.

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Q3 - I would like to rent out my apartment and don't know how to go about it, and/or what it is worth. What advice would you have for me?

A - First, it is most important for you to verify that your building will permit you to lease or sublet your apartment and, if so, for how long. If you are able to rent, it is best to familiarize yourself with the Leasing/Sublet Requirements and the paperwork required. If you are not hiring a real estate professional to assist you in the process, you can visit our website at www.Elliman.com to learn about rents for comparable units currently on the market. If you would like to hire a real estate professional, we would be most happy to help you select a Rental Specialist in your neighborhood.

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Q4 - My partner, along with 3 dogs (2 small and 1 medium sized) and myself are likely to be relocating to NYC. We have visited, but never lived in the city, and have very cursory knowledge of the various neighborhoods. What resources do you suggest I review prior to working with an agent? I don't want to waste the agent's time and money, nor mine. Best Regards.

A - The process of selecting a real estate professional involves not only researching their expertise, but also talking on the phone, or meeting with them personally to establish a rapport. Your agent is both resource and sounding board, and the relationship between you is key.

Suggested first steps are researching agencies and agents who may have been referred to you. Visit their website, read their bios, and look at the listings they represent. If you have special neighborhoods that you initially prefer, your online search may produce agents with specialties. In addition, once you do select an agent, you need to be sure to communicate that he or she must show you pet-friendly options only. Not all buildings in New York allow pets, and 3 dogs is a challenge. The search feature on Elliman.com allows you to select a "Pet Friendly" option, which can help you filter out properties that will not accommodate your dogs. You can also view neighborhood guides on Elliman.com to start getting a feel for where you might like to be.

We'd be most happy to assist you in your search and to match you with one of our real estate professionals who is best suited to your needs and who will help you find your home in New York.

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If you have a real estate question for Dottie, please send it to; Reporters@WPCnews.com