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[+] It seemed too good to be true, and it was. Asked on here a while ago about unemploym... 8 replies
Talk : : November 19, 2009
It seemed too good to be true, and it was. Asked on here a while ago about unemployment and a new job as a real estate broker with only commission. A couple of people said, sure, you can claim unemployment until you actually make money (which could be days, weeks, months...). Nope. As soon as you are doing anything which MAY lead to pay in the future, you are considered employed. If you work 4 or more days, you can't claim. Work 3 days and you get 1/4 of your UI, 2 days, you get half, one day you get 3/4. You can apparently still claim while you are studying to get your license, etc., but once you're really working, you're on your own. Just another case of "don't believe everything you read on UB"!
8 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.19.09, 09:58 AM [ Flag ]-
I didn't rely at all! Just asked since I was here, to see if anyone had experience. Got answers (just for fun), and then called to check. I'd never take UB's word for anything remotely serious!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Ok, but your post made it seemed as if you relied on the answers given to your detriment. Glad you didn't for your sake.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Ah, oh, no, was just commenting on the accuracy of info provided on here as the gospel truth! Thanks for your concern -- that WOULD have sucked!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Take everything you read here with a grain of salt.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]And a margarita : )
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
that rule is ridiculous, and I don't know anyone who is completely honest to the DOL about "working" before actually making money.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: I actually understand it. Say you work 3 months and then sell a $1.5M apartment. If you get half of the 6% commission, that's $45K. Do that once every 3 months and you're grossing $180K. It'd be nice to be able to collect and then pay back once you start earning, I guess, but I don't think someone making that kind of money should be collecting benefits. I agree that lots of people are probably, ahem, creative in their claims -- and really the questionnaire I answer weekly would allow me to say I am not working F/T and not making money this week, I've not refused any jobs, etc. truthfully.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
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[+] POLL: Let's consider the pros and cons of having a family in different Manhattan Neig... 116 replies
- That would lower the value of the real estate...
- , it IS a big deal. if u are paying thru the roof for real estate (millions), you want nice neighbors who are on the same page as u....
Talk : : November 19, 2009
POLL: Let's consider the pros and cons of having a family in different Manhattan Neighborhoods.
116 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.19.09, 08:19 AM [ Flag ]UWS (below 110 & Above 72)
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pro: Riverside Park! Love being close to the river:)
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Two train line choices (C/D & 1/2/3) and Two BIG Parks!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]North of the 80s, the PSes are not great.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:26 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pros: Central & Riverside Parks, Fairway/Citarella, Symphony Space, mostly decent/good public school options; Cons: ?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Cons: Spotty shopping north of 87th Street...But the new Whole Foods is great! Wish we had a Kmart or Target up here!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]That would lower the value of the real estate
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]What would? Kmart? or "spotty shopping"?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Kmart/Target
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]There's a Kmart in the East Village and it doesn't seem to have driven the prices down in that area, I'd say...
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]And that Kmart is usually pillaged!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
How is that different from BB&B, TJMaxx or Whole Foods? Kmart at Coopers Union/Astor definately helps that neighborhood.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: grew up in rural PA and Kmart was always the mean kids insult - "You shop at Kmart!" It does seem to have a more negative connotation than a lot of other stores, though I guess that's been replaced by Walmart now.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Not if you are around 110. It is great in that area.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:15 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no - i went to columbia. there's not a lot of fresh meat/fish up there i think...
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ita. loooove the new whole foods.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
westside market has great produce on 110.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 05:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
not great restaurants, far from everywhere else
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Couldn't disagree more!!! An assortment of different restaurants--middle of the road, family/local and variety of ethic foods.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]but restaurant per capita sucks and variety doesn't come close to downtown nabes
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Totally agree, however, 80% of those downtown restaurants have no interest in your stroller-bound monster. I eat out frequently in the 70's and 80's and can count on 1 hand the number of restaurants where I have felt not welcome with my toddler. For date night, I can always grab a cab to Spice Market, or the Gansevoort, or etc. etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 01:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Pros: parks, museums, lots of "kid stuff" (haircut, clothes stores etc), preschool options. Con: restaurants suck.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]great parks, very kid friendly.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 06:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Central and West Village
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Con: Small/Few Parks for the amount of children! Bleeker Street and WSQ are always crowded.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We love the trees on every street. But the sidewalks are very narrow for a double wide stroller!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Too many NYU kids! They are loud and rude.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]As compared to...?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 04:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]we're in the far west village and never see them.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 04:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Cons are transvestite hookers then!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 06:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]not too many of those around these days
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]there are on my block. always a little scary to run out to starbucks at 6 a.m.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 07:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
pros: beautiful housing stock, low density (not many high-rises) great schools, great restaurants. cons: not many parks (though hudson river park is great), more tourists/students the closer to central village you get.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 04:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
East Village
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]SoHo/Tribeca
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Con: Too many tourists (SoHo) to go shopping...
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Even families with $$$ attend public
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is a pro, right?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: it's a pro, but it's (generally) not true!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:25 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think at 234 it's fairly true. Publics for soho aren't really in soho but are more 41/3 (and I agree, that's significantly less true).
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 06:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
con; some nasty little brat euro-trash kids run around at the parks...but overall a great nabe
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pro: Least crowded Whole Foods in the city (Tribeca).
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]tribeca - great transportation to anywhere in the city.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Have you ever been to Tribeca? Have you ever seen a bus there? 1/9 or bust!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Tribeca con: Hipsters left long ago. Replaced by hedge fund guys. there's not much to do south or there. Always heading north, unless BPC floats your boat.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]pro: pretty quiet, still know tons of people in the neighborhood. con: no decent doctors or synagogues down here.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
LES
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]welcoming, hip mommy friends--who use that term ironically.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Either small tight apartments or glass towers--nothing inbetween:(
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]disagree. signed mom in 1600 ft 3 bedroom in one of the brick coops
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Lucky you!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]playdate at my place!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you're probably right, although I happen to be in 1800 sq feet in a 7 unit/floor building
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]essex street?
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 07:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
diversity -- race, occupation, religion, economic (btw, I consider that a pro)
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]cons: lack of subway lines/transportation; schools
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]cons: lack of good supermarkets, good korean delis
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 04:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]there is not a lack of bodegas. Supermarkets, I agree.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i live way east... no good bodegas. unless you count a place to get your lotto tickets as good. :(
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
pro: in addition to what others have said....lots of great restaurants/cafes/shopping con: I live on the LES, but might as well be in China. I'm having a difficult time living amongst the Fujianese. Dodging the spit, constant sound of hocking loogies, women being treated as second class citizens, lack of basic considerations....really making me crazy.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]and you didn't know any of this before you moved?
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 06:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, snarky, I didn't. I lived 4 blocks north for 4 years. It's amazing the difference 4 blocks makes.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Smart people do their homework first.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 07:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
sounds like you are in chinatown, not les
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, I'm on the LES, but might as well be Chinatown.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]curious: what street? hester?
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Canal and Orchard
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that is chinatown
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 07:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, that is not. I think I know where I live.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 08:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that is dangerously close to chinatown!
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 08:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Murray Hill
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]we live across the street from st. vartans which is great. excellent public school. Convenient to all other areas
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]cons: lack of subway lines; annoying 22yr old crowd Thurs-Sat evening/nights
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yorkville
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Con: Long bus ride/walk to my dcs school!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Too far from the subway and central park
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pros: John Jay and Carl Schurz parks. Tons of kiddie class options. Absolutely full of dc to play with. Lots of relatively affordable highrises, d/e bldgs with good playrooms. Convenient to shopping. Cons: walk to subway. let's hope this is solved in the next few years.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I doubt it. If they didn't push to resolve the transportation problem during boom years, they certainly are not going to push it to be completed now.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]heard they are specifically pushing to subway now to employ people. they are certainly making more obvious progress on 2nd than I've seen in the past 10 years.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]we'll see how long it lasts...sigh
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA. I'll believe the 2nd Ave subway actually exists when I ride it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Carnegie Hill
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Quaint; good shopping/cafes; long ride to any theater venue.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]The occational sighting of the "blue blood socialite" of years past with an outrageous hat and jewels. Makes me giggle just thinking about it!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]occasional? the neighborhood is crawling with blue-blood blondes in Barbour jackets, and men/boys wearing navy blazers with gold buttons, khakis, and loafers on the weekends. ugh.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA with the socialite thing, and grew up somewhere cheesy so I like people watching at Yura and seeing all the kids in uniforms. Pros: 92nd St Y and lots of parks, playground, museums, sports stuff (Asphalt Green, the park, etc.) for kids, quaint and not that crowded. Cons: PS198 and if you are under 70 the restaurants for date nights.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 12:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Lots of private school kids/hunter running around the neighborhood. Impossible to find good restaurants and too stuffy.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]there are som v nice restaurants there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:47 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]aside from Sfoglia, they're all over-priced and utterly mediocre, and there's a lack of decent take-out, too
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Pros: beautiful architecturally, clean, quiet, close to park, museums; Cons: socially vapid, almost no good restaurants or food shopping, boring as hell
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pros: quiet, peaceful, calm and lovely environment. Can see the sky. Near to many schools and museums and Central Park - all easy walks. Close to public transportation - Lex subway, 86 and 96 crosstown buses, plus all the avenues and buses on Mad and Fifth that go east to west. Ever-changing foliage in park avenue medians - tulips, begonias, xmas trees. Good access to many churches and synagogues. Access to incredible resources at 92 Street Y.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]And cons: bad supermarkets (dirty and overpriced). Boring. Too homogeneous.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
South Street Seaport
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pro: The Paris offers excellent daycare during the day.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]The Paris....the cafe? offers daycare?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Cons: The Paris is an option for daycare.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Tourists:( The Peking :)
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
UES: con subway construction pro: lots of playgrounds, parks, families
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Con: Lots of Projects between amsterdamn and Columbus & 96th Street Station Construction.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Is living near projects really that big of a deal to people? I'm not trying to start trouble, I just honestly don't get why some people warn that there are projects nearby in certain areas like they're toxic waste plants or something. I'm not gonna lie and say I'd walk through them at night, but just their presence in the neighborhood? Subway station construction is annoying, with that I agree.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It isn't the safty issue (anymore), but rather the children who live here attend the local ps. Research has show the effect of social class and parent involvement on general school test score...Under Obama/Bush NCLB, that means reduced funding for low performing schools. So PS 75 draws from an UMC neighborhood (see Riverside & West End), but because of the high % of projects kids, has LOWER test scores, less parent involvement and less political clout in the DOE. We send our kid to a private BECAUSE of that reason.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]How charming. At least you're honest!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
yes, projects ARE a big deal. I wouldnt walk thru them at night, nor would i want my kids riding bikes down those streets. or walking down those streets. or being exposed to waht goes on. sorry, but yes, it IS a big deal. if u are paying thru the roof for real estate (millions), you want nice neighbors who are on the same page as u.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Perhaps you should move to Mayberry, then...
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Then seriously, you cannot live in most of NYC, which can be block to block, even in the "nicest" neighborhoods. I live on CPW, and there are city housing projects within 2 blocks of my apartment. If you want everyone your DCs sees to look like you, I know some lovely suburbs you should be looking at.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Sorry. Above is for UWS.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
South Harlem (below 125th, west of 5th): pros= large apts & brownstones, 3 awesome parks (central, morningside, mt.Morris), fairway & citarella. every kind of diversity, close to A,B,C,D,1,2,3. Cons= weak schools, weak retail.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Park Slope
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Pros: incredibly kid-centric, beautiful brownstone architecture, convenient to Manhattan. Cons: such a cliche!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 11:15 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]convenient to manhattan? not really. cons: too long a commute, schools are too crowded, overpriced. one pro you overlooked: prospect park.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 04:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you work downtown, Park Slope is as "close" as UES or UWS.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]not really. if you take the express from w. 72nd to wall st. you're there in ten minutes. the 2/3 from gap won't do the same. and forget the f or the d train.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Other parts of Brooklyn not an option (Brooklyn Hts, Cobble Hill, etc)?
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Stuy Town / Peter Cooper Village
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 02:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Lots of kids and families, elevator, tons of outdoor space and play grounds.. but kind of secluded even though its in the city it feels like a city of its own.. a little weird maybe?
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 02:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] I am interested on being on the board at dc's school. How does that happen? Do they... 37 replies
- Either need to be a (very) big donor or have something else "special" to offer board - either "diversity" or a skill they need (legal, investing, education, real estate, etc.). Anyone else not in one of those categories - fuggetaboutit....
Talk : : November 19, 2009
I am interested on being on the board at dc's school. How does that happen? Do they ask you? Do you ask them?
37 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.19.09, 06:56 AM [ Flag ]give a big donation. or else invest a lot of time volunteering for other duties like the fundraiser or the PA
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Right ... but after i've done that, how does the board process happen. Who initiates?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]they think of a list and consider. Approaching them is not going to get you anywhere.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Why do you want to be on the board? Is this a nursery school or K-12?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]K-12. Interested in how the school is run ... capital decisions, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]c'mon its simple networking--get the board list of current members and work it (sahm use your noggi please)--and give $ too!!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:47 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]if you cannot figure this out how will you figure out the capital budget??
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
honey, if you dont know how this works, you're not an appropriate candidate. sorry.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]eyeroll, please
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]w/ev. we all know this type. bored, unqualified individual who thinks her money qualifies her for an important job but doesnt have a clue how to get things done or be helpful to her institution. trust me, the people on the board know how to navigate.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]i work with boards ALL the time, they might as well be people who are interested and have money. most of these people are self aggrandizing blow hards that can't get out of their own way.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]self aggrandizing blow hards who know how to navigate themselves onto the board, natch
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
np: while i agree that could have been said better, OR is right--you really need to be extremely involved with the school in order to be considered for the board. unless someone is very powerful or very rich, they want board members that are an impt part of the school fabric. if OP is, she should make her interest in being on the board known to the school director or a key board member.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 10:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
btw, i don't think volunteering matters so much. boards are typically comprised of big donors
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 07:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
OP here again ... with some advice for all the people who clearly don't know what they are talking about. First, I am not a sahm (and your comment was offensive to all who are) and am currently on a number of corporate and non-profit boards. Each industry has its own protocol in choosing board members. In some, if you approach the board and "ask" it is really not appropriate. In some others, they are always looking for members so are happy when people approach and ask. Since my dc is in K, i was simply curious as to how schools work in this way. And, I assure you that if you use the words either "honey" or "noggi" during board meetings, you will no longer be welcome. Thanks!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]lol !! good for you@
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]good luck op. i assure you that your entitled attitude will take you far!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]quickly tell which corporate boards, because I want to short them ASAP. Anyone as sophisticated as you, (nuancing the different ways to get on a board), asking for info like this on UB must be a stellar corporate director. Are you a GM or AIG director?
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Atleast she is not on any of our DC's school boards yet, that is good to know. I think OP is a veteran co-op board member.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]totally. her corporate board experience is on the "board" of her friend's startup technology firm. sigh.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Still you come here seeking advice, hilarious!
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]also I meant noggin-- your very small brain
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]i'm still trying to figure out who called her a sahm. man, this one is three kinds of crazy.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]trying to figure it out--figure what out--Suzy did it..whats to figure out --which anonymous poster did it..go get em, so funny
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]somebody did, up in the top part. the same person who typo'd noggin.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]yup. see it now. sorry.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]and so? what a detective
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Either need to be a (very) big donor or have something else "special" to offer board - either "diversity" or a skill they need (legal, investing, education, real estate, etc.). Anyone else not in one of those categories - fuggetaboutit.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was approached by a current board member who I didn't know, but was friendly with at drop-off and pick-up. She asked if I'd be interested and then I had to fill out an application and 6-weeks later, they called and offered me the position. Now that I'm on the board, I also realize there is a separate step where they all get together and gossip about everyone who turned in an application and sometimes it's not so nice.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]as opposed to when after drop off people get a coffee and gossip not so nicely..oh people can be not so nice, like where ever they are..did you expect fancy board proceedings, a lot of power point??
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Filling out an application and providing a lot of personal details is very different from people getting together and talking about you. What's your problem this morning? You seem like a very contrary cranky butt! I'm glad I don't have to deal with you.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]She's just jealous that she's not board worthy...
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 08:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you do I am chairman of the board--lol, your right I am pissed off today--but it does not surprise me, people are gossips--with or without sensitive info at their fingertips..but regardless, sorry for being nasty though
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I have been on a school board, and can tell you many of them are self-perpetuating (nominating committee or person sits on the board). Every school is different, but they generally look for: alums to help perpetuate the culture, big money donors ("money boards"), or people with professional skills they need (law, finance, medical, architect) - usually it is a mix. They will need to know you well, so get involved now. Every board is charged with fund raising, so volunteer for the annual fund, it would be a good start. BTW I have worked on school budgets as a board member, so I can answer any burning questions.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 09:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you have a good bankroll..what would be a good amount to give to the annual fund but stay below the radar of school thinking you are big money but it still be a meaningful amount??
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 11:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]All the schools publish the annual fund donor list. You will be able to tell from that. At our school, I think that amount would be about $5 - 7.5 - $10k depending how under the radar you want to be. They publish a "gap" number, which is code for what they would like if you can afford it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 12:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ps - any amount is really appreciated. Often they are going for % participation.
[ Reply | Options ]11.19.09, 01:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Visited a most beautiful apt this weekend,architecturally one of the greatest buildin... 14 replies
- What you've "done wrong"? Because you think everyone else is making millions a year? I know all about real estate envy but please regain some perspective here. It's like saying, "How come I'M not 5'10" and 120 lbs. with Blake Lively's hair?"...
Talk : : November 15, 2009
Visited a most beautiful apt this weekend,architecturally one of the greatest buildings (in famous apt houses of Manhattan book, etc.) and I'm just . . . wondering where did I go wrong in life that I'm not married to someone who earns seven figures so I can afford this too....I suppose I'll get over it but sometimes remaining ignorant makes life easier...;o)
14 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.15.09, 06:30 PM [ Flag ]Or where did you go wrong that you can't make more yourself?
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA. You went wrong looking for someone to support you. I'm a SAHM myself right now but I don't look down on dh for not making more money. If money issues really bothered me I'd go back to work.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]god, people who take everything so literally can be so boring. I hear ya, sister. This city can be poisonous. More and more everywhere. You just have to take a breath and be happy for your health and relative good fortune.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]yeah, you're right. I'm thankful for my family's health...fingers crossed it continues. Thanks. OP
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
BTDT and then came home to our 850 sq ft that is in desperate need of a fresh coat of paint. Someone is always going to have more, and if you live your life wishing you had it, then you will never appreciate what you do have. FWIW, I'll take my tiny apt, the wonderful DH/father and great DC that share it with me over having to be the overly uptight 3rd DW who is terrified that DH is going to leave her too any day of the week.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think it is sad that you assume people with money and beautiful apartments are unhappy, troubled souls. I hate to break it to you, but there actually are rich people who have everything and actually enjoy it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^ I don't think all people w money are unhappy, but oddly enough on average they are no happier than people with a lot less.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i think it's sad that you would wonder why you didn't MARRY somebody who earns seven figures instead of asking why--if it's so important to you to live in a beautiful apartment--you didn't earn the money yourself. why would you write yourself off and assume that you don't have the ability to get what you want in life?
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 07:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i agree, this is weird.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Feel sorry for your husband.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 07:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Do you have a DH that loves you? If so, then you've done nothing "wrong." If you want $, then go get a job.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 08:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]What you've "done wrong"? Because you think everyone else is making millions a year? I know all about real estate envy but please regain some perspective here. It's like saying, "How come I'M not 5'10" and 120 lbs. with Blake Lively's hair?"
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]i live in one of those buildings/apartments and i promise there is nothing to be jealous of! a big apt in an old building means lots can break down, lots of headaches, and same problems as old buildings anywhere in the city. the only things that matter are health and happiness.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 06:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] For those who claim is 250k is barely middle class: 8 replies
- live nicely in Manhattan. they shouldn't have to feel they are just making it because the real estate market and cost of food, etc. are so ridiculously out of whack. and yes, there...to live nicely in Manhattan" Why? Nobody has a God given right to live anywhere. Manhattan, like most places, is a free market. Real estate costs what the market will bear....
Talk : : November 15, 2009
For those who claim is 250k is barely middle class: http://www.nytimes.com/pages/national/class/index.html
8 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.15.09, 05:15 PM [ Flag ]I think they are not claiming it is not middle class NATIONALLY, but rather barely middle class in NYC.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 05:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I don't think living outside your means changes what class you are.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 05:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no offense, but they are not all living outside of their means. it is very difficult to stay in manhattan with current cost of living on 250k HHI. yes, people make a choice and can move to the burbs or outer boroughs, but people who make 250K should be able to live nicely in Manhattan. they shouldn't have to feel they are just making it because the real estate market and cost of food, etc. are so ridiculously out of whack. and yes, there is a difference. something is wrong when a loaf of bread at a NYC supermarket costs twice what it does across the river in queens or jersey city.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]"people who make 250K should be able to live nicely in Manhattan" Why? Nobody has a God given right to live anywhere. Manhattan, like most places, is a free market. Real estate costs what the market will bear.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 06:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Market rent is driven up by rent control and stabilization--and PLENTY of people game or cheat the system to keep those super cheap apts.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 07:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Maybe 25 years ago that was true, right now only around 5% of all rental apartments in NYC are controlled/stabilized. Everything else is at market rate, including practically everything built since 1974.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 08:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Amen. These ppl have no idea what MC class means.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 08:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]people confuse "middle class" with having a middle class lifestyle - and in manhattan, that is hard to do at a normal mddle class income. my feeling is, if you want the lifestyle, live elsewhere. if you want manhattan, sacrifice the lifestyle.
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 09:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Stimulus Package
... the holiday shopping season. And this year, despite all of the empty storefronts throughout the city, we've got a number of new children's boutiques helping to prop up the local real estate market. Here are some of our faves to keep in mind after turkey day: Lemonade Former preschool teacher Maggie Eigen brings us a store that will quench your thirst for kids' duds ...NewYork : November 13, 2009
[+] Any recommendations for a good, dedicated real estate broker in Brooklyn? My husband ... 4 replies
Talk : : November 12, 2009
Any recommendations for a good, dedicated real estate broker in Brooklyn? My husband and I are expecting and are looking to buy a 2BR, but need someone in Bklyn to really guide us. Any recommendations???
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.12.09, 08:59 PM [ Flag ]You might take a look at Brownstoner.com for information on specific neighborhoods and values. But buyer's brokers are really not done that much in B'klyn.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 03:15 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Marc Wisotsky in Park Slope has been doing it for years and knows how to get the job done. Not a charmer type of guy but very good at what he does.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 07:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]We love Denise LaChance from Corcoran. She's based in SoHo but lives in Brooklyn and knows the different neighborhoods.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 08:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]check out Chris Howard- I worked with him a couple years ago- he is based in Park SLope now I think
[ Reply | Options ]11.14.09, 04:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Best and worst school tour you've been on so far and why? 57 replies
- They know far more about the curriculum and are more comfortable about taking you into classrooms. Some of the parents are like real estate brokers....
- these schools should never use parents. have had some real stinkers. fieldston lower the tour guide told a story about her kid being bratty...
Talk : : November 12, 2009
Best and worst school tour you've been on so far and why?
57 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.12.09, 08:20 PM [ Flag ]Collegiate best, HM worst. Too tired to get into why but it was night and day. One was substance and the other was flash.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 08:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]trinity and bank street.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 08:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]bank street was worst? I loved it, but it was last year
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^ was disappointed that we didn't get in.....
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
all souls / brick
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 08:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]tell me why you didn't like brick . . .
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Curious to hear about brick as well. I really liked the school after our tour.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
ECFS/Dalton tied for best, Trinity clear and away the worst
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 09:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Who did you have at Trinity - have heard the guide can make all the diff.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I actually don't remember her name and I wouldn't print it even if I did. She was a mom who had two DCs, one in the LS and one in MS. She was pleasant but she spent a lot of time showing us the same, non-pertinent things ("look... here's another empty K class... note the storage space!). She also candidly told us that she was worried that tutoring was so prevalent in the upper grades that it was no longer for remedial or enhancement purposes and that all kids would eventually be forced to do it just to keep up with each other. Her comments left an impression... we are all for academic vigor but don't think we want such a hyper competitive environment for our DC.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 05:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Dalton/Riverdale/St B tied for best; HM and AS tied for worst
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 09:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]for format and style only - best Friends, worst Grace. has everything to do with the person giving the tour....nothing to do with the facility or the program.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Loved our friends tour, too. Had a great parent guide and it made all the difference.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 08:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Very true. Absolutely hated our Friends tour bc we had a terrible tour guide.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]was it a parent or admin?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Parent. Couldn't wait for it to end.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]hated ours a number of years back. very very arrogant about why friends was better than any other school. she was the reason we didn't apply.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Dalton/ St. B. tied for best, ECFS/Collegiate tied for worse, which I think reflects on the difference between admin. vs. parent tour guides more than the schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 08:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Do you prefer parents or admin?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Admin! They know far more about the curriculum and are more comfortable about taking you into classrooms. Some of the parents are like real estate brokers.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA! best tours were with admin, worst tours were with zealot parents who were hyped on the koolaid but offered little in terms of actual useful info
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 10:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: SO SO true. a great parent tour beats a bad admissions rep tour (very unusual), but nothing can compete with a good tour by the DOA or asst DOA IMO. plus, parents of kids in early grades are not so good at letting you know anything about the school past 1st or 2nd grade and parents of HS kids often don't remember the lower school or it was different when their kids were there. Best parent tour we had was a mom with an 8th grader and a 1st grader - she really knew that school.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Best: Friends, LREI Worst: Grace. At friends love the parent who did tour. Grace parent was odd.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto, had a really strange woman at Grace but a really great one at Friends. Haven't gone to LREI yet
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Mary gives the tour at LREI - She is great
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Best: Brearley Worst: LREI and Dalton
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I fond those little basement classrooms at D so depressing
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 10:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 10:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]DC at Dalton now. I tend to agree about not loving the LS space but it does not even seem to register as cramped to DC.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 10:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think the responses here are motivated by "other" reasons
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]because it isn't possible that some people would be less than gaga over D?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:26 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
There's one LS school event at Dalton in particular (Multicultural Festival) where all the kids, parents, grandparents, special friends, etc. are invited and that's the one time where I feel the tight space cramps an otherwise amazing event.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 12:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Little Dalton bought a townhouse next to the main building (where admissions office is now) and will be converted to make more space. No more will be upstairs/downstairs interviews. Will be more space for all.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I liked the Saint Ann's tour. Thought it was pretty comprehsive and liked the relatively small audience with HOS at the end.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 10:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]and...such a big contrast to Packer! (dh and I each preferred a different school, but agreed that the contrasts were more vivid than we'd expected.)
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Packer was very corporate.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Best: Dalton. Worst: Brearley (the tour guide was absolutely horrible and the other admin people turned me off)
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]So funny. I am the poster who had the exactly opposite reaction to these two schools. I wonder how much it all has to do with the person you get. Did that influence your feeling about the schools themselves? More so than the interview?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I don't know if everyone in Admin office at B is like that or just all the people I was assigned for tour/interview/Q&A were bad by coincidence. But I went into the whole thing with positive attitude about B and came out of it really sour. Almost pulled appn but left it in there but will put B on the bottom of our list when we talk to PSD. A part of the reason was also the kids we saw (esp'ly minorities kids since it's imp to me) and how happy/integrated they looked.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We felt the same about Dalton, though I didn't go in having a particularly positive idea about Dalton but I left having a very negative one.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 12:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]why left with such negative about D?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]seemed showy more than really showing us the school
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
best dalton. worst HM (a student guide so maybe I am being too harsh)
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 12:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Why did so many people hate HM? I went there. DD still too young to care, but might apply next year.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Most thorough: St B's; Least thorough: AS; Favorite: ECFS
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 01:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]We've toured 12 schools, uptown, downtown, single sex, coed. Not sure where we'll live next year, and covering all bases. Best tours were St. Bernard's and St. Luke's. Both are thorough, thoughtful and let kids talk. Faculty are also inviting and welcoming. Worst tour at Friends.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Had a nice tour of Nightingale but turned off by LS.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 02:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Wise move. Signed, ex-NBS mom who couldn't stand lower school & now happily transferred.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 03:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]where are you now?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 04:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
these schools should never use parents. have had some real stinkers. fieldston lower the tour guide told a story about her kid being bratty, snotty, and entitled and credited fieldston with turning her into a kid who would act that way -- good for her, she is right to tell a teacher she knows better kind of thing, why respect the experience and wisdom of a teacher trying to help you when you are 6 and know everything? it was awful.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 05:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np.When we were looking at Fieldston for HS, our tour guide was a student who was positively inarticulate and had just transferred to the school that year so had been there all of 1-2 months. Knew nothing about the school. I thought that showed really poor judgement on part of Fieldston.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 05:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np and ita. the parent tours are so hit or miss.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 05:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]agree but when they are good, they can be far better than some of the administratos who don't have direct experience!
[ Reply | Options ]11.15.09, 08:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Best - Trinity. Worst - Dalton and Spence
[ Reply | Options ]11.14.09, 10:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]MCS
[ Reply | Options ]11.14.09, 08:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Was the best because of many factors.
[ Reply | Options ]11.14.09, 08:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Best: Dalton and St. B. Worst: ECFS and Trinity
[ Reply | Options ]11.14.09, 11:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] DC bombed the SBV. Waiting for the ERB results. Very nervous. Do a lot of people real... 88 replies
- "Above" private school? Not really. Just can't live near a good one. As I said earlier, private school is cheaper than real estate in a good school district....
Talk : : November 11, 2009
DC bombed the SBV. Waiting for the ERB results. Very nervous. Do a lot of people really get shut out of kindergarten? What do people do if local public school and G&T's aren't an option? Have you heard of people having to leave the city because of kindergarten? Feeling scared and depressed.
88 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.11.09, 10:39 AM [ Flag ]you can always move to a diff neighborhood in the city where the zoned public is good
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Sell our place in this market? Not likely.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]rent t out for a couple of years and move or try for charter schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Bombed? A score of 100 or 130 or more?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Less than 130
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Are you open to privates? These scores can vary based on DCS state and the tester. ERB might be very different.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^Also certain privates do not give much importance to ERBs and there are K-5 options available in the city
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, we want private. Have applied to 14 schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]For privates,the score is just one input. TTs can be super competitive, but there are plenty of excellent schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We applied to top schools. Sadly and wrongly, we assumed DC would test well. Obviously, we were wrong and it's too late now to apply to lower tier schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]All 14? Where did your apply? Some schools don't care as much about the ERB as other. Also, you still do not know how he'll do. SB could have just been a bad day.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yes, it happens. You start prepping for the OLSAT as it is a test that one can prep for. Also, look into un-zoned options & new programs starting up. I had three friends who explored these options - one opted for new program rather than g&t - all are very happy. GL. What do you mean bombed? May not be as bad as you think & ERB might be better.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]What is the OLSAT? That's for G&T programs? I don't even know how that works. Sadly, the last thing we want to do is send our kids to public given the vestiges of No Child Left Behind, the budget cuts, etc. Why is it so hard to educate your kid in this city?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:47 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]then you will have to leave for the suburbs or elsewhere if you get shutout. sucks, I know, but that is the reality.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]so leave
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, it is for the G&T. You need sign up fairly soon. I understand your concerns but there are many schools that are able to get around the horrible policies of NCLB and actually educate your children. There are many excellent and dedicated teachers in the public system. And it may not be over for private - you don't even have the ERB score yet - it might be fine. Also, did you apply broadly?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]deadline already passed to sign up for the G&T
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Really? In the past it has been December.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]it was Nov. 6th.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]There were many posts here reminding that deadline was last week, so it has past for 2010 admission. -NP
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Okay, I am not on here often and applied a few years ago for this stuff. I'd still call the DOE office of special ed and see if there is any way to get in an application. Probably won't work, but might be worth a try.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Special ed? Why? DC doesn't have any disabilities.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]G&T is housed in the office of special ed.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Well if you did not submit your OLSAT testing form already you may be out of luck. Apply to a wide range of privates.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Deadline already passed. For OLSAT AND for private schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
try and get a grip, it will probably work out.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Are PSDs able to do anything for kids who are SO? Do schools ever reconsider?s
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I know a family who was shut out and then got in a very nice school off WL. Try and be confident and focus on what you can do.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes they can and the good ones try to make sure there are no SOs
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
No Ivy for you!
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:47 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You must be having a worse day than op.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR: I was being sarcastic :)
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks, your sarcasm really helps!
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]That's what I'm here for. The kid will be fine. Get a grip. Seriously.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You say this such ease. Why, was your kid SO and it worked out in the end? Are you in a decent public or do you have to commute across the city to a G&T? Do you like NCLB?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]NP, but we commute across the city for a great public. If I didn't have a good zoned public as a backup, I would have definitely signed up for the OLSAT. But unfortunately for you, it's too late now.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We didn't want to do public. We just tried for Hunter because... why not? But we didn't expect DC to do so poorly and now fear ERB results will be similar.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I do know of one family who applied to 12 and got shut out with a score in the low 70s, but the playdates also didn't go well.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]i don't even know where to begin with OP. she is above public school yet crams her dcs into 1 bedroom in harlem like it's 1902. op, you either need therapist or financial advisor or both, stat.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]"Above" private school? Not really. Just can't live near a good one. As I said earlier, private school is cheaper than real estate in a good school district.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]But it doesn't make sense that it is more affordable to you to send 3 dcs to private school. One - I could understand. But 3? That's over $200,000 a year in pre-tax salary.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
doesn't really matter. in no way is it funny when she is down on her kids results.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you shouldn't have assumed if you live in a bad zone that dc would get into hunter or g&t. maybe he will do better on olsat. gl.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OLSAT is not an option for OP, see above.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]TOo late for OLSAT
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Kindergarten is not mandatory. some keep kids in preschool another yr. some move to decent zone. some find the lottery schools, some go parochial, some leave the city, some go to crappy zone for K and then apply to first. Many report better scores on erb vs. sb.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]if you can afford private (and i'm betting you aren't a fa candidate) you can afford to live in a good zone. but you wanted it all. the big apartment in the iffy zone and dc in private or at least a good public, too. too bad for you it might not work out that way
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]why are you being so mean to op? i'm sorry op. i understand how you feel.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thank you! We live in a bad neighborhood in Harlem and that's all we can afford. Moving to another zone is not a possibility for us financially and we have three DCs so need a bit of space. As it is, kids are all in one room. It is cheaper to send to private school than to sell a place and move to a good zone in this economy.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Did you apply broadly to privates?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]14 schools
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
My kid did poorly on SB too. I was a little surprised, since I privately thought he was a genius, but I also think it was poor luck. I mean in the next 2 months my kid will likely increae his vocabulary by 300 words and learn subtraction, so I'm not sure this testing at 4 makes any sense. However, I too, am thinking of leaving the city. I hate having my 4 yo tested. it's gross.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I do too, but can't leave city. Feel trapped. I hate this system.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you cannot rent your place, even for 2 years out of 5?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Rents are depressed in Harlem and wouldn't cover mortgage. We can't afford mortgage and maintenance in good zone and rents are too high for us.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
but you're talking about moving to the burbs. i'm confused. and if you have $$ to send 3 dcs to private you can't be all that hard-up. maybe you won't make a profit on your place but it doesn't sound like you'll be cleaned out.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We live in Harlem. Market is seriously depressed here. We have a huge mortgage. It's not that easy. Even three DCs in private is cheaper than housing in a good zoned public.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: some people move to a rental for a few months just to get dc in to a better public school and then move back to their home when coast is clear. Not saying this is legal, but it is done.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It just feels wrong to me, morally, and am not comfortable with breaking the law either.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Then you move out and rent an apartment in a good zone and rent out your home until the market changes and you can sell it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]this is nice to hear.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Not in Brooklyn.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 08:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Look, you don't want public, just say that. Trying to convince people it doesn't make sense financially with 3 dcs won't wash. If you get so, do an extra year of pre-K and apply again to the WL you came closest to getting in.GL
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 08:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks, but just trust me on the financial front. Without going into too many specifics, we are not financial idiots and there are extenuating circumstances. Suffice to say, we can afford private but not moving.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 11:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
E X A C T L Y. Anyone thinking private for 3 kids has serious income.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]or is getting fin aid...
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 03:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i think theres one mean poster on here. i'm signing off. she's obviously having a rough day.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks, I am. Feel completely wiped out. Can't focus on work at all.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
what is your zoned school?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You don't want to know, really. It's inner city Harlem, failed schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yes, many people leave the city bc they do not want to send dc to zoned public and either cannot afford private or do not get into private.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]But if we can't sell our place then we can't afford to move. Can't qualify for a mortgage wihtout selling current place.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 10:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]these are things people fail to consider when buying an apartment and having kids. your choices: zoned public, unzoned public, private, parochial. if you absolutely cannot send dc to zoned public and you get SO of every private (and I mean every independent which is hard bc there are new schools that will be more open in admissions) then you can look at parochial schools and unzoned public schools. Do your research. Hunter is not a realistic "option" for most kids - it's not one anyone should be counting on.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We weren't counting on Hunter, knew it was a long shot. We are counting on privates. We assumed DC would test well.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: but a bad score on SB does not mean that dc won't get into any private. there are privates that take lower scoring dc. i know an 87 (unconnected) at Town, there are dc w lower than that at Hewitt, Dwight, BWL, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You CAN sell your place. There is a price for everything and everyone makes choices. Life is not perfect. That said, you applied to FOURTEEN SCHOOLS and many kids score better on ERB than SB, so take it one day at a time.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
People do move to the suburbs for K when their kids get shut out of private schools. The option is to send dc to a mediocre private school, for which you will still pay upwards of 30K in tuition. Or you move to a better public zone.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 11:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]i really can't understand why you can't leave the city. it is that you can't or you don't want to?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Doesn't mean anything. My ds bombed SBV and got 99X3 on ERB
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 02:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np Erb is a MUCH easier test with a lower ceiling. I know several dcs who got high 90s on erb and didn't make it to the 90th percentile on SB. Her dc might do well enough to get into tt; who knows?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 03:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Have seen it both way, erb better than sb or vice versa. Not every Hunter round 2 candidate (who took ERB) gets a 99x3 in ERB
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 09:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Really? Where did he end up in school? Any idea why he did so well on one and not the other? The person who administered SBV said DC did not seem to take it seriously and wasn't comfortable.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 04:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]We are going through admissions process right now, so don't know where he'll end up. Apparently ERB tester was a nice enthusiastic young woman that my ds really liked, so he did his best; and he didn't like the SBV tester much.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 01:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Look at charter schools (for which you are not at all late) www.nycchartercenter.org/manhattan.asp. Standard UB advice is to check with Parents League if you get in a jam (which may come later). If you are in a jam late in the game, repost on UB, and I'll see what I can do.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 03:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]bombed b/c under 130? ARe people here living in some kind of parallel universe? Hope you are not always so disappointed in your lovely child.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 04:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Our oldest of 3 got shut out a few years ago with a 97. Just as well as sending 3 to private would cost about 2MM all in. We did G&T, and #2 got into #1's but it didn't seem worth it to keep rolling the dice (and do the same for MS/HS and with #3). Moved to burbs and couldn't be happier. Burb public where we are is far better than any public or private we applied to (my kids aren't Hunter types so I don't need an advanced curriculum...just a solid/regular one). Yes, it sucks that Dh has to commute but I think it's easier for a grown man to commute than to haul the kids all over the city for school.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 05:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]My god, you haven't even gotten the ERB results! There isn't necessarily any correlation between the ERB and the SB. Chill the heck out!
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]these tests are ridiculous. honestly, there's no reason to believe the erb's will be terrible. also, i don't think it's too late to apply to bank street and calhoun, which don't really care about erbs. i think just about everyone does get in somewhere. one friend got in somewhere the day before school started.
[ Reply | Options ]11.12.09, 09:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] on paper my life looks super - dh and i have good jobs with short commutes, own a bea... 10 replies
- OP: since we got a lucky with real estate and school, we stayed in the city while many of our middle class peers moved away. i know this is a broad generalization, but i feel the only folks left in the city are the uber...
Talk : : November 11, 2009
on paper my life looks super - dh and i have good jobs with short commutes, own a beautiful brownstone and kids go to a great public with the option of staying through high school - yet, the craziness of city life is still wearing me down. we worked so hard to get in this position, but I'm thinking of bailing on NYC.
10 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.11.09, 06:08 AM [ Flag ]you probably have always dreamed you would have this life. now that you have it, it's lost it's luster- almost like a new car. try to fill yourself up with the things that matter- friends, family, memories, fill up your spirit. My Mom always said, "Bloom where you are planted"
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Can't respond to OP for some reason: OP, so bail.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: excellent advice, but btdt. got involved in dc's school, joined a temple, has these weekly dinner parties and even tried cognitive therapy, but still feel out of place.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR here: I have to say, growing up in a semi-rural part of the US and relocating to a much more high powered materialistic society (relative to where I grew up), makes everythign and everyone sometimes seem superficial.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: I think you've answered your own question. You want to move. NYC is not a panacea. In fact, it's quite stifling for most people. Look around and investigate places where you could move and still retain some connection to urban life. GL.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Why so sure OP wants a connection to urban life?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 07:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Well, before making any leaps, think about what you DO want from life that you don't have and make sure that any move would be able to achieve that...or maybe there's a way to adjust your life here in NYC that would bring it more align with what you want.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 06:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: ITA. OP hasn't said what she doesn't like about NYC life except "craziness". It's very possible that she won't like some aspect of another city or suburb's life, too. All of life is about tradeoffs, and you can either focus on the negatives or the positives. Of course, sometimes there IS something very wrong about your lifestyle and it's worth moving to change it, but there's no sense from OP of what that is. She might feel like she doesn't "fit" in the suburbs, and usually there are far fewer choices of groups to fit in with there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 07:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
So why not move? It's not like New York is some kind of amazing place that you'd be crazy to leave behind. It's a great city for some things, and a horrible one for others. Another place might fit you much better.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 07:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: since we got a lucky with real estate and school, we stayed in the city while many of our middle class peers moved away. i know this is a broad generalization, but i feel the only folks left in the city are the uber rich or struggling creative types. not really my ilk.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 09:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] $4000 on housing per month is OK for HHI $170k? If we have 1 dc (school okay) and no ... 56 replies
- I think many of you are forgetting that when tax savings are factored in for interest and real estate taxes(she is talkign about getting a mortgage), her "net housing costs would be between $3200-3,400, roughly....ll be building mroe equity. Basically, the tax effect is a real one that you need to consider, all I'm saying!...can stop working in the industry for 20 years, sell real estate, and come back to it. And pension vesting (in...
Talk : : November 10, 2009
$4000 on housing per month is OK for HHI $170k? If we have 1 dc (school okay) and no need to save for retirement? College - dc will go wherever dc can get a scholarship. Crazy?
56 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.10.09, 02:30 PM [ Flag ]>we are pretty frugal.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 02:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]what neighborhood?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 02:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]UWS
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 02:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
why no need for retirement?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 03:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: I want to know too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]planning to die early? live on the streets in old age?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 08:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np. We have no need to save for retirement, either. Both DH and I are fully vested in our union pension plans.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You are spending half of your net. Seems a bit high to me.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Take home pay is $8800/mon. So yes, almost half. But I sah and we don't need any money for childcare and we are very frugal. Get hand me down clothes for dc, I cook and never eat out, no personal grooming expenses, no car, no other debt (other than mortgage), no cable, internet/phone expensed by dh's co as dh works from home. Family money takes care of college/retirement. Tax ded'n for the mortgage will bring down true housing cost by a few hundred dollars.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]>can't touch family money for a long time.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yes insane. Is fancy address more imprtant than college?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]NOT fancy address, and college is taken care of. Want a small 2bed/1bath apt in UWS. Has $250k for downpayment. I've looked and looked and most apts were going for $750k-800k.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]College is taken care of by hoping someone keels over? Spending half your income is begging for trouble
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 04:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]No. Trust for dc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Does dc have a trust or are you hoping for a scholarship? Which is it?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I never said scholarship though it'd be nice. Trust.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you most definitely did say scholarship. Your original post: "dc will go wherever dc can get a scholarship."
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh my, where the hell is my brain? you are right. I did write that.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your brain is not the brain of someone with this problem, which is how/why you made the mistake. Fake.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You said scholarship in your post! I call fake now, you're not making any sense.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I agree, this is fake
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh now I agree with you. I hate saying this, but that's weird.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 12:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
How is it taken care of if he goes whereevet he can get scholarship!?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: yes, i don't understand. but i wouldn't count on a scholarship, unless you are OK with dc possibly not going if he isn't a stellar competition.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I don't understand how college is taken care of when you said that he will go wherever he gets a scholarship.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yes. I make more than twice what you make and would not spend this much.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I don't think its too high, but even though you don't have to save for college/retirement, saving is always good. Having room to not have to be so frugal is also good.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]yes, but how will we ever own anything? I'm looking for a 2BR apt (around 900 sq ft) in UWS. If we wait for more downpayment, housing price will go up and we'll never own.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I make 60K and pay 1400/mo for housing. It's the same percentage.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If your take home is $8800/month, that leaves you $4800/month for everything else. I really think that it is reasonable and you should still be able to save a little if you're as frugal as you say.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh, I forgot to add that we'd also have additional $20k/year for bonuses. $8800/mon is just monthly paycheck. $20k bonus is our cushion.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 06:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I think many of you are forgetting that when tax savings are factored in for interest and real estate taxes(she is talkign about getting a mortgage), her "net housing costs would be between $3200-3,400, roughly. That actually makes a big difference and I'm sure she'll be fine.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]But on the other side, you have to factor in the costs of owning - assessments, maintenance beyond what you pay, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 08:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I own an aprtment. Our fees have gone up $150 over the last 6 years- started out around $1000. So that's less than 2%. Maintenance for us has been non-existent and any plumbing issues were handled by our building. rent will incerase on average at elast 3% over a 10 year period- with owning your taxes and maintenance will incerase but if fixed arte laon your mortgage payments won't, so overall you will be paying less in 10 years. You will however be seeing less interest in your mortgage payments so tax deductiblity will go down, though amortization will go up and you'll be building mroe equity. Basically, the tax effect is a real one that you need to consider, all I'm saying!
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 09:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: $4k/mon assumes $1k for maint (includes taxes in a coop) and $3k for mortgage. Again, we'd also have $20k bonus for cushion.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 12:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
np. We have no need to save for retirement, either. Both DH and I are fully vested in our union pension plans.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 12:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You do realize, I hope, that bad things happen to good pension plans. I wouldn't count entirely on that. Companies go under, unions revisit their obligations as companies reorganize, pension plans fold... having a pension plan is great, but in these times you certainly can't count on things working the way they should!
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np; can we just focus on a hypothetical situation then of not needing to worry about college or retirement bec they're somehow taken care of? And based on OP's income of $8800/mon plus $20k bonus, is it feasible to do $4k on housing?
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You apparently don't understand the distinction between COMPANY pensions and industry-wide UNION pensions. Our union pensions would only go under if our entire industry (in our case, entertainment) were to "fold". Over the past year, despite the crippling recession and enormous market downturn, our pension funds only lost 4% of their total value. And frankly, "saving" for retirement is absolutely absurd unless you're at LEAST Upper Middle Class and can sock away significant chunks of your income. To equal even the most modest of pensions ($45,000/year annuity yield), you'd have to retire with at least two MILLION dollars. The average American household retires on less than $100K in their retirement plans. Even half-million dollar a year households admit they can't "get by" here in Manhattan. If they can't do it, how can we as a society expect "average" Americans to have even just ONE million dollars in their retirement accounts? It's actually mathematically impossible. This whole notion of 401(k)s and IRAs is total bullshit.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]year families admit they can't "make it" here in NYC, so how can we honestly expect "average" Americans to be totally funded for their retirements? It's actually mathematically impossible for a family earning the median income $50K in America today to on their own fund a retirement that would provide even $25K/year, unless they saved HALF of their GROSS income every single year from age 20 to 65.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no true. compound interest.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 03:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
This fully vedted in union pension plan stuff doesn't make sense to me for either np or op. What union job gives you take home pay of $8800? And a bonus of $20K? Carnegie Hall stagehand? Full professor? In any case, don't bet on every pension plan surviving all future recessions/depressions. Do you read your pension plan's annual report, and did it go down last year? Also your pension is based on your income AND number of years of seniority. If you don't go back to work in the same field that vested pension will give you a nice dinner out every month and that's all.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]DH's union job (screenwriter) paid him $2.1 million last year. My union job (television director) paid me $210K. Yes, we read our pension plans' annual reports. And as I posted above, so far our plans have lost only 4% of their total value. And in our pension plans (like most other entertainment unions), once you're vested, you're vested. For life. The initial vesting is only $5,000 of union-covered earnings per year for five consecutive years. Then you can make as much or as little as you want. Or you can stop working in the industry for 20 years, sell real estate, and come back to it. And pension vesting (in any union pension) has nothing to do with seniority.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np. DH is an IBEW electrician. $240K last year.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]NP. Fully vested in AFTRA (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) pension. Radio news anchor. $400K.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
That is us although we save what we can for retirement and college.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]We're not saving for college. DCs will just have to pay their own way, the way DH and I did it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]nothing wrong with that
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well you can tell your kids that instead of saving for their college tuition, you spet $4k/month on a nice apartment. I'm sure, as adults, they will thank you.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR. I really don't care what my DCs think once they reach adulthood. We're providing food, shelter, clothing, and strong moral values. If they resent what they didn't have, that's really not my problem.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]What moral value is not paying for college? My experience is that my aprents paid, I went to good college. Dh's parents didn't pay, husband turned down good college for cheap state u. has always regretted it as adult. my mom made minimum wage to save for my college. i think there was a lesson there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The lesson here is that your husband could just as easily have gone to the "good" college if he took out loans and worked part-time jobs. We all make choices. Signed, DH who paid for his own Ivy League degrees.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You are totally full of it. Your parents TOTALLY helped you out with you degree.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Um, wrong.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
NP: I paid for law school with loans and I will 100% spare my DC the burden of educational debt if I can afford it. IMO, you're better off coming out of the "cheap state u" with no debt than coming out of Ivy with a huge debt burden that will constrain your career choices for 15+ years.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 01:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
If it's a matter of robbing your retirement to pay for your kids' education, that's insane. You can always borrow for college -- you can't borrow for retirement.
[ Reply | Options ]11.11.09, 02:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] What is UWS 90s like? Been looking for a 3BR apt for a few months (to buy) and dont ... 23 replies
- where?? i would like 1900-2000sq ft, real 3BRs, more classic 7 than classic 6...
- Broker here -- in real estate parlance, "desirable" means "expensive." So, don't look for the most desireable avenue. Focus on what you want: WEA gives your Hudson River...
Talk : : November 10, 2009
What is UWS 90s like? Been looking for a 3BR apt for a few months (to buy) and dont want to live in UES. Budget is $2mil. Beginning to sense that the only area in UWS that we can afford is in the 90s and 100s. Is that considered less desirable than the 70s/80s hence the price differential? We are a family with young kids. Thanks.
23 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.10.09, 12:48 PM [ Flag ]The 90s and 100s really vary by Avenue. Many parts of the 90s and 100s are just as nice as the 70s and 80s, but the zoned public schools are mostly not good, and also it takes longer to get to midtown or downtown for work, obviously.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^That said, on the UWS you are not limited to your zoned public school if your child qualifies for G&T (which is not that hard), and many parts of the 90s and 100s are beautiful. In some ways it's better than the 70s and 80s because it's more neighborhoody.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 12:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]G&T is surprisingly "hard" for lots of 4 year kids, esp. boys. It's a crapshoot at that age, so I wouldn't count on G&T.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Looking at a place on WEA and 90s. which avenues are more desirable in the 90s? i am really resisting moving to the 100s.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 12:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]WEA and Riverside are the nicest avenues in the 90s and 100s. But, also, I don't think the 100s is worse than the 90s. In fact, the low 100's are nicer than parts of the high 90's.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Broker here -- in real estate parlance, "desirable" means "expensive." So, don't look for the most desireable avenue. Focus on what you want: WEA gives your Hudson River trail, possible waterfront views, but no Central Park and less central/convenient.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Depends on where in midtown/downtown. You can take 2/3 express trains at 96th. Also, 96th station renovation will be done soon, and I imagine it'll be quite nice.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 05:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you shoudl also eb able to find a 3BR in the 70's/80"s if you have $2mm to spend. without a doubt.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 12:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]where?? i would like 1900-2000sq ft, real 3BRs, more classic 7 than classic 6
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]one for starters, if you go to street easy every day you'll find them. Not tons that meet fyour sf req's but they are definitely out there- especially lower 90's- below 96th street and west of broadway is a fabulous area !
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^oops: http://www.nestseekers.com/Properties/23984
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thanks. have seen this apt. the layout needs to be revamped and has high monthly. evidence of low appreciation too - current owner bought it for 1.65 in 2006 and the owner before them bought it for 1.6 in 2003!
[ Reply | Options ]11.17.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
don't be obsessed with "below 96th street" when there are fabulous apartments above 96th street as well.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]west of broadway is not nice up here. trust me. She's looking for 200 ft2, which will run $2MM, even in the 90s.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]below 96th street and west of broadway is nice- it's east of broadway where you ahve issues-
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I don't usually go up there but went to check out the new Michael's today. They're really trying to develop the area around 96-100 on Columbus. So right now you have an odd mix of low rent mom and pops stores and new big box stores, Starbucks, Whole Foods, lots of schools and activities for little kids. The question for me is if the economy gets worse before it gets better will this area gather the momentum needed to raise it to the level of the 70s and 80s.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 12:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i have 2 dfs with gorgeous apartments on WEA at 104 & 107. Both are beautiful prewar buildings, with large rooms. lovely neighborhood, great restaurants on broadway near there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I wouldn't move up there unless I knew that dcs are definitely in private school. It's good to have a solid zoned public school to fall back on.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]we're 95th between cpw and col. Whole Foods just opened on 97th & columbus. it's awesome. I wouldnt love our neighborhood if i was not right next to central park. its sooo mice up here. tennis courts, reservoir. but west end is nice too with the park.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]try www.psony.com. there are large 3 bedrooms in our buildling for sale for under $1.5mm
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]sorry. www.sharesofny.com
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This unit in particular, is S nice, and only $1.2mm... http://www.sharesofny.com/65-w-95-unit-4fg/ I wanted it!!
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
just stay away from amsterdam and columbus between 100th and 110th. really not good up there. the old crack valley.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 01:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Need to buy a gift for our real estate broker who stood by us for 2 years while we se... 7 replies
Talk : : November 10, 2009
Need to buy a gift for our real estate broker who stood by us for 2 years while we searched for a house. Dont love the champagne, wine thing. Would like to spend about $100. any ideas?
7 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.10.09, 08:45 AM [ Flag ]Gift basket.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 08:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]good website? red envelope> what else? tia!
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]chelseamarketbasket.com
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:15 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
a 3 some?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 08:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]WTF- doesnt she earn of commission?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]that was not my question AHOLE
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
referrals
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] want to live in brooklyn, but just can't afford it. can anyone suggest a neighborhoo... 8 replies
- Do a search on the NYtimes website, real estate section, in Brooklyn, max 700k. You'll be pleasantly surprised I think! I saw entire houses, with small gardens in Sunset Park, Lefferts Garden and Ditmas Park in your price range....
Talk : : November 09, 2009
want to live in brooklyn, but just can't afford it. can anyone suggest a neighborhood in the city with good schools where we can get a 3 bedroom for under 700k?
8 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.09.09, 06:33 AM [ Flag ]maybe forest hills?
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]PS 101 and PS 196 are both great.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Do a search on the NYtimes website, real estate section, in Brooklyn, max 700k. You'll be pleasantly surprised I think! I saw entire houses, with small gardens in Sunset Park, Lefferts Garden and Ditmas Park in your price range.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]schools are no good in those areas.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Prospect Lefferts has horrible schools. Sunset Park is iffy except for gifted and talented. Have heard marginally better things about the Ditmas elementaries.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Can I just ask, is it the down payment or the monthly nut that is the problem? We have a two family in Brooklyn. The rental income really makes a huge difference if you can sock away the DP.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Riverdale, but our schools are getting really crowded here. We're not hip either.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] WOHMs: What do you do? SAHMs: What did you do before you were a SAHM? I am interested... 65 replies
- I worked for commercial real estate firm....
- are turned away every year. Sure, a portion of them aren't qualified, but the real problem is that there aren't enough seats in medical schools in this country. we...
Talk : : November 07, 2009
WOHMs: What do you do? SAHMs: What did you do before you were a SAHM? I am interested in getting a cross-section of career women on this board--seems like a lot of us had/have cool jobs!
65 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.07.09, 03:26 PM [ Flag ]Trader. I tried sahm for a while but it didn't work (for my personality
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 04:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP and ditto
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 04:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I worked for commercial real estate firm.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 04:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]How long were you sahm? This gives me hope. I am in finance and want to sahm now, but I'm worrid if it doesn't work out I'll never get hired again.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was a SAHM during the boom years, so I was lucky enough to both get out and get back in while it was good.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Policy analysis for city govt
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Very cool. any particularly interesting policies you have worked on?
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]None that I can say without outing myself lol
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Fair enough. Sounds like a good job to have though.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]It is. I love it. Thanks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
how did you get into this? do you have an advanced degree? thanks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 10:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Teacher (pre-k)
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]physician
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]me too. I thought I was alone. How do you feel about it? I like my life but feel that people disapprove.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 08:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]why do you feel this way?
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 10:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I read that though half of doctors are woman, the women are choosing to work p/t in order to raise children. And now there are fewer doctors available. But I done hold it against the moms. The government should allow more people to be doctors considering the government subsidies the residencies.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]MD here: it's a bit tricky, a big part of the problem is that medical school is so grueling, at least 10% of my class failed out after the first year (big state school). You don't want them to dumb down the standards, and still produce quality physicians. It's just not so easy to ramp up
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 07:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]there are about 45K medical school applicants for about 20K seats. So about 20K people who want to be doctors are turned away every year. Sure, a portion of them aren't qualified, but the real problem is that there aren't enough seats in medical schools in this country. we shouldn't be turning 20K people away from the profession every year while we're moving towards a universal coverage model.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 08:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Fully agreed
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 05:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]MD from above-it's absolutely true that there aren't enough medical school graduates, but again, I have to say that sometimes I'm still floored by how poorly educated some of my new incoming residents are every year. (I work in a teaching hospital). I feel that we are still so far behind in educating the ones who are already in the process, that it's hard for me to see how they can really just increase the number of graduates quickly. I think it can be slowly phased in. Don't get me wrong, I don't think there aren't enough people who are intelligent enough to do the work, but the amount of education you need to get to that level needs a lot of external forces, like great anatomy teachers, great physiologists who aren't in tremendous supply. Nursing is having the same issue, not enough nursing education around.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
professor
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]what subj?
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]biology
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
money manager
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]dietitian
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Development (i.e. helping developing countries get money).
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This I LOVE. I am a big proponent of Kiva.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:18 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i'm really interested in this. what sort of degree is required?
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 11:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
SAHM: formerly Cardiac/Transplant ICU RN at world renowned hospital. now caring for my own family, instead of yours. Miss caring for others tough, will probably go back before too many years go by.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 05:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I can see why you would miss that--I imagine it is an extremely high-paced job. Do you want to go back to being an RN in a hospital or pursue a different path?
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I am not really sure. I learned that the part of being a nurse I like most is teaching, so I might choose some sort of health education path. lactation consultant, diabetic educator, etc. but there is certainly something "fun" about the high pressure/fast action in post op heart and liver transplants.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 09:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
former magazine editor now a sahm.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto. lucky mag. you?
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]me too. now sahm
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]what department were you in?
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
sahm - former high net worth broker in an investment bank.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Magazine editor.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 06:45 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Human Resources at an international corporate bank.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 07:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Museum Educator
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 07:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is a job I would love! Currently a K teacher on maternity leave, but would love to go back to school for museum ed.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]It really is very rewarding. :)
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
SAHM now - formerly raised $ for a hedge fund
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 07:38 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]big firm lawyer
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 07:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 11:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
SAHM: Human Resources. Like being SAHM while dc young. Projecting grad school when they are full day in school.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 08:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]urban planner - transportation and community development. SAHM now for 12 years. do lots of volunteering and use my skills that way. will go back soon, if I can find the right fit.
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 08:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]art director
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]SAHM: former government atty.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]civil rights attorney & one of the few (seemingly on UB) happy lawyers.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]This sounds great--can you tell us how you got into that?
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]had own media and marketing company. Couldn't sell my time AND take care of dh/ds, so had to throw in the towel. Miss parts of it but not the annoying clients.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Corporate Auditor
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 08:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]WOHM: Banking Technology.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 08:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]WAHM, worked in publishing. Now a freelance editor and writer, work from home part-time.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 09:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]how's tricks? i do the same and am finding it slow going these days.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 03:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
WAHM -- writing my dissertation when I get a chance...sadly not paid for this work though!
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 10:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]what are you getting your PhD in?
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
former broadcast journalist, current sahm
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 03:25 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]SAHM: model and desktop publisher/word processor.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I founded a green energy company. I use to work in the food industry, laboratory.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I work the energy thing from a home office.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 05:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
SAHM while also studying for my PhD. Previously, researcher at a government think tank. Hated every moment of it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.08.09, 06:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]IT Project Manager/Business Analyst
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]SAHM now - Worked at an all girls' private day school doing fundraising and special events. I miss it from time to time - mostly the social interaction!
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]WOHM: venture capital
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 09:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] REAL ESTATE GURUS: we are planning to sell our house. how much would our closing cost... 4 replies
Talk : : November 06, 2009
REAL ESTATE GURUS: we are planning to sell our house. how much would our closing costs and realtor fees, etc be on a $300k sale?
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.06.09, 12:27 PM [ Flag ]Depends on where the house is located and what you're paying a broker. Could be anywhere from 7-9% of the sale price.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 12:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]CA and I think she takes 6%
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 12:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]CA is less expensive than NY. If broker is paid 18k (6%) on $300k, then I would estimate your closing costs at an additional 6-8k. Ask your broker for a sample Hud 1 with all of the estimated closing fees.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 12:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]k thanks
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 12:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Totally ignorant question, but I have only been a renter in manhattan. Do you pay pro... 4 replies
- for a coop maintenance includes real estate taxes, because you own shares in the building, not real estate technically. For a condo, real estate taxes are not included in maintenance, because you own distinct property, everyone in the building is individually billed....
Talk : : November 05, 2009
Totally ignorant question, but I have only been a renter in manhattan. Do you pay property taxes on top of maintenance fees, or does the maintenance include prop tax?
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.05.09, 07:52 PM [ Flag ]If you own in a co-op, property taxes are included as part of the maintenance.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]for a coop maintenance includes real estate taxes, because you own shares in the building, not real estate technically. For a condo, real estate taxes are not included in maintenance, because you own distinct property, everyone in the building is individually billed.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thanks!
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]in a condo, maintenance is actually referred to as common charges
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Need to move to Boston area for DH's job. Any advice? Would we be miserable in the 'b... 51 replies
- Some people (who are not jewish) feel a little left out by the large population of jewish people - kind of like being any minority I guess - and apparently some people (eg real estate agents etc) are not nice to you if you are not part of the tribe. It doesn't bother us (we are atheist) but then again most of our friends don't live in Newton...
Talk : : November 05, 2009
Need to move to Boston area for DH's job. Any advice? Would we be miserable in the 'burbs? What towns have great schools? It would make the most sense for DH's commute to be south of the city.
51 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.05.09, 01:02 PM [ Flag ]Friends who are international urban types and both WOH FT live in Weston and are happy and love the schools - kids are in later elementary school.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^ oops, I meant Wellesley - I get my friends confused.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I've also heard good things about Wellesley.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
how adaptable are you? how good are you with change? Hingham has a great school system.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP- Uh semi-adaptable? I'm already transitioning from a WOHM to SAHM. DH's new job involves a big raise. Does Hingham have public transit? The MBTA website is crap.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Hingham has a boat and a commuter rail. Excellent schools, adorable coastal town.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes it does. My husband grew up in Hingham and his family is still there. I go there a few times a year and it's really very pleasant. It's also just a few minutes from a decent beach and the Harbor is pleasant. Lots of beautiful, historic homes.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Hingham is lovely but it's the middle of nowhere. You would need two cars.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]it's 13 miles south of boston.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Right. It's more than an hour outside of the city with no public transit unless you're want a 90 min commute. I grew up on the South Shore, I know where Hingham is.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 03:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]That's not true. You can take the train on the Greenbush line from two stops in Hingham, the ferry or a bus.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 05:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]yup. or drive. lots of good options.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Boston native here. Newton has the best public schools (arguably in the country) and is convenient for commute to city. If you want to be more "in" the city and not compromise good schools, I'd check out Brookline. Westwood is also a great place for families and a little less jappy than Newton. Wellesley is lovely, too. I see someone rec. that above.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]my sister lives in brookline...great schools...i like the vibe of being part urban part suburban there that nyc doesn't really have (maybe parts of queens or brooklyn are similar)
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ita with these two--Brookline and Newton. Wellesley and Weston and Hingham are nice but really, really suburban/far out. Brookline and Newton have great schools and nice walkable neighborhoods, good public trans. and they're not far at all from downtown Boston.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: don't know about newton, but brookline is expensive. many who move farther out into greater suburbia do it to get more space, nicer house, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]True, but like everywhere else the cost is due to the great schools, ditto Newton. And Wellesley and Weston are both $$$. Acton is nice, pretty suburban/rural and the schools are terrific, but it may be further west than you want. I'd definitely come and have a look around--all of these places are very different. I just prefer someplace like Brookline where you're not in the car all the time and kids have more freedom to roam around on their own once they're middle-school age.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
brookline is a great place to raise kids, and newton would be too
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 05:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Newton is great - we live there. Fairly easy to get into the city (commuter rail, depending on where you live, or drive on the pike) and it is close enough in that even with traffic driving doesn't take too long. Good schools, although dcs are not old enough yet- it is why we picked this town. It is very jewish though, I think at least 50%, if that matters to you. Is DH's job south of the city though, or just in the seaport? It takes me 25-30 mins for my commute and I work @ seaport.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 10:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Op- Why would that be a problem? (Serious question, I grew up Catholic in a Catholic town).
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 11:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Some people (who are not jewish) feel a little left out by the large population of jewish people - kind of like being any minority I guess - and apparently some people (eg real estate agents etc) are not nice to you if you are not part of the tribe. It doesn't bother us (we are atheist) but then again most of our friends don't live in Newton either.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 12:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]interesting. I just think of Newton as classic intense suburb--very competitive schools, very driven parents, a lot of money and a shrinking/disappearing middle/working class. I don't know how the Jewish thing plays into it--it used to be pretty diverse.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 04:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Milton is lovely and south of the city but close in, although I don't think it's got a commuter rail station.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Depending on where you live in Milton, you can be near the Braintree stop on the redline. And yes, it is very nice place to live.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Milton public schools aren't very good, though.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 04:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]That's what I've heard as well.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 09:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
South of boston: Hingham and Cohasset.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I learned that you can be miserable in the most wonderful place if you aren't open to the change. If this is a move you have to make then be sure your head is in the game. Good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]best post of the evening.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP- I'm sure we'll be fine. Yes, I have to move but it will be good for the family. It's what's best for my DH and DD. I'm just overwhelmed by the amount of research we have to do at the moment.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 03:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Agree with the above if you want urban/suburban feel go with Newton or Brookline. Beautiful towns and excellent schools, a stone's throw from Boston, great restaurants, hospitals, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 05:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Why not downtown? There are schools there, private for the most part though one or two publics ok. Concord, Lexington, Belmont, Arlington...good schools, some of these towns are better than others. Hingham is a terrible commute. I kind of wonder if anyone recommending the South Shore actually lives there and works? Newton is ok, I disagree that the schools are the best in the state, and Newton is so big that the schools are variable. Brookline is appallingly expensive though I would say the schools are the best in the state. The commute in and out of Brookline is not great, especially on public transport though depends where you work. If you mentioned where DH was commuting to might be able to help better. But most of the close lying suburbs are very nice and not really suburban in a bad way, the Boston area is so much smaller than the NYC area.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 07:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Places to live in Newton: City made up 13 villages--Waban, Chestnut Hill, West Newton Hill but there are other nice areas-->generally below the Pike and above Route 9. Below Route 9 has nice homes but it's a different vibe: way more suburdan, bus is only public transportation. Brookline is more urban. Newton is urban transitioning to suburban. As somebody said to me, if you have 1 kid, Brookline is OK. More than that, live in Newton. Newton schools are generally better than Brookline.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 08:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP- DH will probably be working in downtown (near South Station) for the most part but will also have an office in Quincy which is why I had initially said south.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 09:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I live in Boston, DC goes to Boston public schools--it's been an uneven experience but not the nightmare that many make it out to be. It just depends on what kind of culture you're looking for and I'm not getting enough from your post. Where do you live now and what do you like about it? Are you a Brooklyn type or a UES type? And btw, you're right about the MBTA site--you might have better luck if you just Google places you're interested in and then look for the T or commuter rail.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 09:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We're on UWS right now. Pretty crunchy for UWS, though. Love being able to walk everywhere. Looking forward to taking my DD to museums, parks, the library. If we can find a town/neighborhood with a few decent not chain restaurants that would be great. I hate the idea of needing two cars but I don't want to limit our search based on what might be irrational fears. We're going to Boston next weekend to look around. Where do you live? I thought the Boston publics were not an option for us but maybe...
[ Reply | Options ]11.07.09, 07:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You'll get a very broad spectrum of opinions and experiences in the Boston Publics--maybe not too different from NYC. Wide range of quality, lots of suspense, angling, and angst about choosing a school and then getting in (you are guaranteed to get one of your top three choices, allegedly). We live in Jamaica Plain which is more B'lyn'ish--pretty crunchy, very mixed neighborhoods, wonderful "main street" and some really beautiful parks, Jamaica Pond, etc. very diverse and family friendly. Definitely still very urban though, not for everybody. The South End (not to be confused w. Southie, aka South Boston) is beautiful, all brownstones, and would be an easy walk to downtown and just about everywhere, lots of kids, great restaurants and shops and so on. Used to be very diverse and kind of crunchy but not really anymore--it's pricey but lovely. Both neighborhoods have a pretty strong group of public school parents and a few good elementary schools. Those are probably the places I'd point you within the city, otherwise I'd agree with other posters--Newton and/or Brookline might be right up your alley. Good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Awesome. I'm definitely going to take sometime to look at neighborhoods in the city when we go next week. Is it like NYC where they get "worse" as the kids get older? Are you afraid of running out of options once they hit middle school?
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 07:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, actually!! Kind of the opposite. Several good options for HS, including Boston Latin School, Boston Latin Academy, and several good charter hs's including Boston Collegiate and Academy of the Pacific Rim. A lot of people send their kids to private for elementary if they don't get their first-choice neighborhood school and then aim to get them into one of these schools for HS.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 09:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
if you lived in Boston itself your DH could walk to work. Might be something to consider.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
DH will be downtown near South Station 4 days a week and in Quincy one day a week.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 09:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]sorry for double post... first one didn't show up at first.
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 09:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ah. Hingham to south station will not be great though possible. You want to be on/near the red line or a commuter going into south station. why not something near Alewife station which is on the red line? that would be concord, lexington, arlington, belmont.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Or Cambridge, which is more crunchy/academic but still pretty urban. You can also walk to south station from the south end but unlike poster above, I would not trust Boston public schools. Also JP is farther away and no T goes there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 10:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Sigh. The Orange Line goes to Jamaica Plain as well as the second busiest bus line in the city and I'm guessing that OP has a car in any case. I think I was pretty straight-forward about the schools, but I'd definitely take Boston publics over Cambridge publics, especially on the HS level.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 12:18 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Do you take the orange line around forest hills? I would not go on it past back bay, it is sketchtastic.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 12:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not Jamaica Plain mom- wikipedia tells me that the Jackson Square, Stony Brook and Green Street stops are in Jamaica Plain. I thought Forest Hills was Roslindale?
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 12:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Roslindale is on the far side of Forest Hills Station and the Arboretum--not on the Orange Line. You really need to take the commuter rail or the bus to get there.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 03:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Sheesh--have you been on it since 1977? Not remotely sketch unless you are just truly afraid of all non-white people.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 03:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]dude, it is totally sketchy, kind of like the blue line, ick.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]dude--you don't know what you're talking about. Do you think the LES is sketchy? Brooklyn? Stick to Wellesley, OK?
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 09:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] would you buy a land lease co-op whose lease is expiring in just under 50 yrs? 16 replies
- high due to the ground lease payment I'm sure. Do you have a friend in real estate finance (I am). I would need all the details to determine if this is a...
- thank you! actually, it's not in NYC, and I'm new to this whole real estate thing. I didn't really know a land lease existed until now. I don't know anyone in real estate finance. In fact, the realtor we're working does not seem to be very knowledgeable at all. are there specialists who deal with precisely...
Talk : : November 05, 2009
would you buy a land lease co-op whose lease is expiring in just under 50 yrs?
16 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.05.09, 10:26 AM [ Flag ]?? anyone?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]it depends on the price, the terms of the ground lease (beyond the length)- who is the lessor? extension options? What is the price of your coop in comparison to others without ground leases?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the price is very good in comparison to similar properties around it (like 50%). I asked the agent for the lease contract, no response yet, so I don't know who the lessor is, and I have a feeling there is no extension option. And the co-op fee is really high. thanks for replying, btw.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the coop fee is really high due to the ground lease payment I'm sure. Do you have a friend in real estate finance (I am). I would need all the details to determine if this is a good deal or not. Is this in Battery park? Actually I think those are condos and the term of the ground lease is longer-
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]is it 190 east 72nd street...land lease issue waiting to implode....long story happy to share if this is the building
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thank you! actually, it's not in NYC, and I'm new to this whole real estate thing. I didn't really know a land lease existed until now. I don't know anyone in real estate finance. In fact, the realtor we're working does not seem to be very knowledgeable at all. are there specialists who deal with precisely these types of issues? what are they called?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I really don't know if there is someone who does this. Maybe an appraiser can help you? I could help you for an hourly rate, but not comfortable posting my info on UB-
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Do you know how to hide part of a post? I could send you my e-mail address, but I would prefer to hide it (so you need to click on the post to see the full text)
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
maybe not -- how long do you plan on being in it? I bought a land-lease condo (in NC) one time but the lease wasn't up for 99 years.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I don't really know. It's a big place so if it weren't for the land lease, we could be there for a while.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]See, I knew I'd be out in about 2 years, so I did it. I would think that the longer you stayed and the shorter the leasehold time, the less marketable it would be for resale.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh, ok. Yeah, your situation was a lot less risky.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 01:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I would never ever in a million years buy a land leased co-op. Look at the prices of apt at 301 E 63rd St. That's the nightmare you could have in store. The land lease was due to be renewed and their maint. fees more than doubled overnight.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Hmmm, just googled that. Thanks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]this statement is a little far reaching. there's an analysis that needs to be done-
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
depends. Some land leases have to renegotiate and then the maintenance goes sky high. There are some really cheap ones on streeteasy in the east 60s with huge Maint
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 02:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Unemployment question: if I become a real estate broker and have no salary or income... 4 replies
Talk : : November 05, 2009
Unemployment question: if I become a real estate broker and have no salary or income until I sell something and make commission, do I keep claiming unemployment until then? I mean, I'd be working but not earning. 3 months' work could yield a nice paycheck, or nothing. How does that work?
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.05.09, 06:23 AM [ Flag ]I think you still claim. Answer the questions honestly. I believe they ask if you work and ifyou work they ask what you earned so you'll say $0
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: Thanks. I will of course check with them. You can argue both sides: the 3 months working = commission in month 4, so you WERE earning in those 3 months... The questions when you claim ask if you've returned to work F/T - I think I'd be P/T. It sounds too goo to be true. Hmmm.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
yes, the formula to get unemployment takes into account your income over a certain amount of time.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Cool. I've been on it since July and am thinking of trying RE, but the no steady income part is daunting.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 09:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] What's the "best" (lots of little restaurants, good grocery, a few movie theaters and... 23 replies
- a million bucks to spend, esp in this economy, and that your comment might rub some people the wrong way. As for real estate: Price, Size, Location. Pick two....
- I seem out of touch. I've acknowledged what $1MM means in the NY real estate context and the greater context....
Talk : : November 05, 2009
What's the "best" (lots of little restaurants, good grocery, a few movie theaters and a nice park) neighborhood to buy in if your budget is only $1MM and your kids go to school on the UWS (70s)?
23 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.05.09, 06:13 AM [ Flag ]I'd say the West 90's/low 100's. Whole foods, parks, lots of restaurants, not many theatres but great area.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]agreed. esp with the addition of whole foods, it's more for your money. i don't think indie theaters are huge on the UWS--there's a loew's on 86th and bway and there's an independent by lincoln center (along with another loew's).
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Morningside Heights, near Columbia. Except for the theaters, but how often do you need that? You can subway down to Lincoln Ctr. once in a while.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]My DH lives for the movies, he goes 3-5x per week.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh, then come up with an extra million & you can live below 96th. Easy peasy. Not having to take the subway 4 stops should be easy to justify the expense.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
How big do you need -- 2 or 3 or 4 bedrooms?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]We would prefer 3 bedrooms, but could do 2 bedrooms (2 boys)
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
"Only $1 MM"? Only in NY...
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 06:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: seriously. this kind of post makes me want to bang my head against my desk. what an idiot.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I think near Columbia, west of Broadway OR I guess you could do very east 70s b/c there are more theaters and you could do the bus. I've lived in both. But when we go to look at apartments, they seem much cheaper to just rent them. Our rent has gone down in the last year and hopefully will go down again.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your budget is only a million dollars? You poor, deprived woman. Can you apply for public assistance or something? Food stamps? How ever will you manage?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh, give it a rest! She's not lamenting the fact that her budget is 1 million, she's stating it as a fact that is pertinent to the question. It's not useful to her if someone mentions a building or neighborhood that has apartments at 1.2 of 1.5 million. And million dollars houses exist everywhere, not just NYC.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'm looking for a 3 bedroom that is close to the W70s and I can't spend more than $1MM, that is a pretty tall order which is why I posted *only*.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]But surely you have to know that most people don't have anywhere near a million bucks to spend, esp in this economy, and that your comment might rub some people the wrong way. As for real estate: Price, Size, Location. Pick two.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
OR: She said "only" $1M. Had it not been for the "only" I would not have said a word.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You don't get it. In context to what I am asking for, $1MM is not a lot. I realize, that in the larger scheme of things, $1MM on housing is quite a lot, but I don't understand why you are so offended by it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'm not "so" offended. I'm not even offended. But you seem really out of touch. It's just kind of bizarre.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]No where do I seem out of touch. I've acknowledged what $1MM means in the NY real estate context and the greater context.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh, forget it. But do look around next time you're pounding the UWS pavement with that million dollars in your pocket. If you look very closely, you might see one or two people who are out of work or who have no healthcare or who--gasp--have to make do on a measly half a million. That way, if you should have to suffer with only a two-bedroom apartment, you'll be ever so grateful.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Where did I ever say that I was ungrateful? Why are you painting me as some Marie Antoinette figure? FYI, I was laid off in September 2008, we have no health insurance and I paid for my prenatal care and delivery out of pocket. Don't act as if I am some entitled idiot when you know nothing about me and I've given no indication that I am out of touch. We've been saving for this apartment for 7 years on incomes of $90K up until 3 years ago. So please, save me the sarcasm.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 08:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You know what? You don't get to be liked by everybody. Get over it. I'm an anonymous commenter on an anonymous board. I think you sound out of touch. That's one person's opinion. Go get some self esteem.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 09:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]teehee, this is classic UB. Pissy catfight over nothing. The two of you are bored, go get lunch already.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 09:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
http://www.streeteasy.com/nyc/sales/uws-manhattan/price:-1000000|beds%3E=2
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 07:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] What's a nice, cool, but modest housewarming gift? Have you gotten one you particular... 18 replies
- I think it's Italian. Our real estate agent did that for us when we bought our house and she was very Italian. (We're Italian too but I'd actually never heard of the tradition!)...
Talk : : November 04, 2009
What's a nice, cool, but modest housewarming gift? Have you gotten one you particularly liked event though not expensive?
18 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.04.09, 12:00 PM [ Flag ]scented candle, homemade cookies
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Dear God, no scented candles. Please!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np Diptyque candles are beautiful; I'd be thrilled if someone gave me one. My favorite for this time of year is Pomander--orange and clove. Evergreen and Baies are also very nice.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]my big beef with candles is that many have a ton of chemicals. ew.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
If there are dc's send cookies.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]linen handtowels with monogram for powder room.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]a nice assortment of fancy teas
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the silver tray at the MOMA design shop ($50) is hot. Everytime we've given it we get a huge reaction and people use it all the time
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 02:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]can you post a link? just looked but can't find one for $50ish
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I like the old Italian/"It's a Wonderful Life" thing. Wine/salt/bread. "Bread that this house never knows hunger, salt that life here always has flavor and wine that joy reigns for ever."
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i thought bread and salt was a jewish thing
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think it's Italian. Our real estate agent did that for us when we bought our house and she was very Italian. (We're Italian too but I'd actually never heard of the tradition!)
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 04:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
string of garlic or lavender
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 03:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]a small money tree plant...or any nice plant
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 04:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]A throw blanket
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]my favorite was a round cutting board with our monogrammed initial on it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i like those little planters that you can put on a windowsill. you can get one that does herbs like thyme, mint, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^something like this but i'm sure you can find it cheaper. http://gifts.redenvelope.com/productdetail.aspx?cobrand=RED&pid=30003874&ssid=4&REF=redshpgnextagfeed_30003874&PRID=REDESFD15&mr:referralID=a093ac5c-c9a8-11de-9c03-000423bb4e79
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Financial aid for private schools - NYC. My family makes about 80K a year-- adjusted ... 84 replies
- haircuts. Finally, I honestly can't believe, if you're for real, that you have the audacity to come back here and defend yourself. You have some real self-examination to do....
- 5m or something like that, your building has really crummy financials. $5k a month on common charges? what about real estate taxes?...
Talk : : November 04, 2009
Financial aid for private schools - NYC. My family makes about 80K a year-- adjusted gross income. We live modestly. Our 2 bedroom apt is $5K a month, and all expenses total about $175K a year, if we include private school (33K), food, rent, insurance, the occassion vaca etc. That means to break even we really need to earn $350 before taxes. Again, we earn more like 80K. The question is whether to apply for financial aid. I want to, but my husband thinks it's inappropriate because in truth we do have a lot of money in the bank -- specifically 2 million or so. However, it is not easy to make even investment income in this economy and each year we are down $200K. We don't own an apt, summer home, or any of that. Thoughts? Apply for financial aid or no?
84 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.04.09, 10:39 AM [ Flag ]It never hurts to apply but you will not qualify.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^Is it temporary b/c you and dh are out of work?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no just low income job in publishing. and husband sahd.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]well then your dh needs to get a job
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]and you need to find a cheaper apartment
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]we're paying market for a 2bedroom there is no cheaper.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you're looking in the wrong neighborhoods.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Move to the UES on York - you'll find plenty of non-doorman bldgs for under $3k or doorman for $3600. But I'm starting to think that maybe this post is fake.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]people -- stop being fake polices -- don't respond if you think that's the case; honestly, you're the kind of people I envision who start rumors in the neighborhood.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]dearie, we'll have plenty to gossip about you.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ok, dearie. enjoy yourself and hope that you don't grow old lonely and miserable by judging other negatively. good bye.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your overspending are your problem. BUT when you expect to receive financial aid, and ASK us about it, then yes, you'll be judged negatively. If you're going to have the balls to apply for aid, then grow a thick skin against the criticism.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
move to the boros, downsize to a jr. 4 (or even a one-bed). honestly, we looked for 2-bed rentals in great zones at the height of the market and were able to find small ones for less than $5k.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]"there is no cheaper?"
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
No kidding. "There is no cheaper" - what a load of BS. I make several times what they do and I don't pay $5000.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]seriously -- make 7x what OP does and my mortgage is what they pay in rent. OP, you can't afford your apt.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
hahahahahaha! i can't believe you had me up until the "two million in the bank"! is this a joke or do you really think you deserve fa with those kinds of assets?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]well, we don't own, but hope to. if someone owned an apt (2 beds go for 1.5 million) but made 80K there money would be tied up. we try to make money work for us, but stock market sucks and in 10 years at this rate we'll be through the 2,000,000. prob should move to suburbs! but this is the reality of expenses in NYC. I think 350K is needed to make a lifestyle work. We don't have a housekeeper or nanny.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]how did you save this much? was it an inheritance? and surely you can find an apartment for less than $5k a month!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Even if you bought an apartment it would still be considered an asset. I don't think you will get aid.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you have $2M in the bank and you're asking for FA?!?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you are an greedy idiot
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np ITTTTTTA. I'd be pissed if I knew someone like her was sucking at my dc's school's teat. Gross.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
this makes no sense. your rent is $60k a year and you only gross $80k?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]last year, we lost money in stock market, along with the rest of the planet. but even in a healthy stock market year, our income was just breaking us even with our expenses. and i don't see that in the future, sadly.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:50 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]again, your dh needs to get a job
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I would sure love to be the person reading your FA app.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]POST ON NY SCHOOLS!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thoughts? How do you sleep at night when you have the audacity to expect another family to pay for your child's education when you have 2mm in the bank?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA. either post is fake or poster is an idiot. or both.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Financial aid awards are generally determined by a national clearing house formula. You will have to disclose all assets and income, and most likely will have too many assets to qualify.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Moron
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You do understand what financial aid is supposed to be for, right? It's not to finance your lifestyle and outrageous rent.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You can't be this much of a greedy b*tch or stupid moron, so I'll just call you a troll and move on.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Wait...you earn $80K a year but spend $175K? This has GOT to be fake. NO ONE is this out of touch with reality.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]AND she wants FA with $2M in the bank!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you. will. not. qualify. start. writing. that. tuition. check.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]$2M in a 12 month CD at ING (1.75%) earns you $35k in interest. There. I just solved your problem.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You need to find her a way not to pay taxes on that interest. Or else she'll expect someone to pay that, too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Poor OP, imaging earning $35k on interest alone and having to pay taxes on it! What's the world coming to?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I can't believe she is stupid enough to lose $200k a year in investments.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
fact is with 2MM in the bank, there is no way you are getting aid. I work in FA and can say that with certainty. like it or not, if you owned an apt., yes, that would not be as big a factor, but that is the difference between a liquid and illiquid asset. SSS only takes into account the equity. however, most independent schools will not award FA to a family with a $2MM apartment anyway. there is qualitative analysis that goes into this too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]thank you for information. what is sss if i might ask?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Trying too hard. You should've said $500k in the bank or something a little more believable. No one believes your fake post. The point of being a troll is to start something controversial and will get differing opinions. This is just boring.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Best sentence of the day: "We live modestly... all expenses total $175k a year.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:51 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]excellent point--that's what dh and I gross combined
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]and don't forget spending is after-tax so she modestly lives off the equivilent of $330k
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Maybe she has Paris Hilton's dictionary... or English isn't her first language and she doesn't understand what "modest" means.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]this is modest in nyc
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]another delusional party heard from...
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'm assuming that was OP.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
No, it's not, you lunatic. I make several times what OP does and my expenses are not $175k a year.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
In her $5K a month 2-bedroom!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Is the $2M accumulated through time (ie you've been working for like 30 years)? What is wrong with you as an employee that you only make $80k after 30 years?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 11:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]part of it was inheritance. also that is what i make or anyone in publishing makes. and my life is modest. i pay rent that is average for nyc - equals 60K a year. private school 35K a year. groceries 1500 a year. vacations which means travel to inlaws 5K a year. summer camp for kid in nyc- 7K a year. i don't have housekeeper, summer home, nanny. other expenses like clothes, haricuts etc. lets say 10K a year. this comes to 175 a year, but i agree, you need 350K of income to net that.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your life is not modest. $5k rent may be "average" (and I think that's arguable), but it is not average for your HHI. So you need to live within your means. You also do not need to spend $5k on vacation and $7k on camp - those are LUXURIES.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]poster below--our $4K camp expense is childcare. we both work ft with no nanny--but still, she doesn't need to spend $7K on camp.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, but her DH is a SAHD so camp is not needed. Let's add: $7000 camp + 50% of vacation $2500 + 50% of clothing $5000 + $35k interest on $2M = $495k. I'm not even including the confusing grocery bill. I just saved her half a million dollars.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:18 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ha! that's right! the camp is a total luxury.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]your math is bad. you saved her $50K, not half a millions!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]My bad, my bad.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Your rent, as you've been repeatedly told, is not average--it's high. I assume you spend 15,000 a year on groceries. I too only travel to inlaws for vacations and spend nowhere near $5000 to do it. We spend $4000K on summer camp (asphalt green). we also don't spend close to $10K on clothes and haircuts. Finally, I honestly can't believe, if you're for real, that you have the audacity to come back here and defend yourself. You have some real self-examination to do.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]People living modest lifestyles don't spend $342K on school and camp for their kids! I make 3X as much as you and I can't afford private schools and fancy camps. Get a clue, lady.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]$5K rent is not modest even in NY. NOT MODEST.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]As I've said, I make several times more than what you do and I what I pay towards housing do not come close to what you pay. I most certainly do not spend $10k a year on clothing and haircuts. Do you really mean $1500 a year on groceries? I do spend that much on vacations, but we travel to Asia and Europe for a couple of weeks, not to my inlaws. Do they live in Dubai or something?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]$5k to asia and europe? no way, unless you're traveling completely on miles.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Well, we don't really stay at fancy hotels because when we tour a city, we really tour a city and we really stop by the hotel to nap, shower and sleep. To that end we usually just rent an apartment instead of a hotel. Saves a ton of money on food, too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that's really not a lot of money for a long-haul trip. we typically spend about $5-7k per week of vacation, but admittedly, we don't typically use miles and we do stay at upper-end places and eat out pretty expensively. i remember a couple of years ago, we spent about $5k on a three day trip to disney! that was a bit ridiculous.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OK, so maybe my vacation spending isn't typical, but neither is $5000 to visit inlaws (where I am assuming they don't have to pay for lodging).
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]we travel to out of state inlaws too. we stay with them and our only costs are car rental (we don't fly and get a corporate rental rate) and food. we spend maybe $1500-$2K a year.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
please stop. $5-7K a week? $5K in three days? that's obscene.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I am not OP but I think your comment "What is wrong with you as an employee that you only make $80k after 30 years" is very offensive on so many levels. Do I have to explain why?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
don't feel so bad my condo maintenance is $5k, but we own the apt with no mortgage...so you and I "support" that average..
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]unless your apt is $5m or something like that, your building has really crummy financials. $5k a month on common charges? what about real estate taxes?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You should listen to DH more often.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You're nuts. $7k for a summer camp when dh is a SAHD? 5k on traveling? 10k on clothes and hair. Not only will you not qualify for FA, but you really need to re-evaluate your spending habits. You'll go through that $2MM before you know it if you don't change.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]time for you to retire to charlottesville va
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]$5K is not avg market rate rent for a 2 BR in NYC. I just saw an ad for a 2 BR/2BA on West 96th, doorman, gym in building, etc. for $3800. We pay $3650 in a 2 br/2b doorman on W 89th. And we make 5 x's what you do but are saving to buy. You must be in a prewar with large square footage to be paying that. You need to 1) move 2) have DH get a job...3) stop stuff like camp when DH not working, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 12:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA, and not all camps are $7K. DC at Riverdale which is half that.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no they don' t- they have 2 million in the bank - more money than most of us will ever see. Sorry that you don't see that. They can take that money if they want and buy a 2br for 900K these days
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 02:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You will not qualify. You spend $5k a month on rent and expect FA? LOL. Move to Harlem and pay $2500 for 3BR. No way you can maintain your lifestyle even w/o private school at $80k hhi after taxes.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITTA.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
So when you want to live a certain lifestyle, you count on the $2M. When you want FA, you only count your $80k income.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 01:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'll bite- although I think you might be fake- First of all- from a financial standpoint, I am in a very similar situation (1.6 mm liquid, dh makes around 150k- I SAH right now) - Never in a gagillion years would I even expect to apply for FA for privates- the only way private is a reality for us is if DH starts to earn more and I go back to work (which I plan on doing sooner than later) The next thing I have to mention- is how dumb I think you are spending/managing your money- you can look into specific investments (triple tax free bonds for example) that would guarantee a nice interest income for you to make ends meet- you need to work with a finance expert of some sort- I would look into buying a 2 bedroom apt- in a place like Hudson Heights- where you can get a sprawling 2 bedroom pre-war for around 800k with a maintenance under 2k- they have a great k-8 public district- or start looking in parts of bklyn & queens- we own a decent sized place in a good school district and our housing payments are less per month than yours- you guys just sound dumb- but I'm hoping this is fake- sorry.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] SANTA CLAUS CAME EARLY!!! Just got a notice from our co-op board: "In response to p... 98 replies
- Right? "My real compensation for running this firm into the dirt is in...doorman with children has at least another part-time job. The real problem is people anxious to move into buildings with a...Whenever the union suggests just that at contract negotiations the Real Estate Advisory Boards completely caves in. So, for those of...
- For real? We tip 30-100 per person, we do not ask...
Talk : : November 03, 2009
SANTA CLAUS CAME EARLY!!! Just got a notice from our co-op board: "In response to past complaints about favoritism, and in light of the current recession that has dealt a significant blow to many of our shareholders, the board of directors of (XYZ Building) has implemented a strict "no tipping" policy for the building staff." THANK YOU SANTA!!!
98 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.03.09, 12:44 PM [ Flag ]I want to live in YOUR building!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i think it's actually meanspirited. the building staff are living closer to the edge than you people are.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The building staff are free to find other employment. That's how it works for the rest of us.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thank you ebenezer. and a happy christmas to you too, mr. scrooge.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I love this comment. 'If you don't like it, leave.' I wonder if your tune would change if your husband said that to you.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]And you're free to move out of a full-service building and sign for your own damn packages like the rest of us proles.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]And I'm sure they will-and you'll be left with the bottom of the barrel.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Actually they won't. Whenever the union suggests just that at contract negotiations the Real Estate Advisory Boards completely caves in. So, for those of you who like to complain about your building staff's compensation, just remember it was because the RAB signed the contract. Nobody held a gun to anyone's head. So grow up.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 11:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
np- honestly this is not true- our doormen drive up in SUV's and retire far earlier than we do
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np. Co-op VP here. If you people only knew how much unionized (and most of them are union) building staff gets paid, you'd change your mind about tipping them. We have shareholders in our building who wish they had jobs like these. With regular overtime (that he works voluntarily), our building super is making six figures. PLUS free health benefits. PLUS a full pension. How many six-figure earners among us can expect "tips"?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]many of "us" call them bonuses, and rationalize them even if we've done a poor job.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ours gets a bonus too! drives me crazy because I am on the board. He makes $125 plus $25 bonus plus tips plus contractor kickbacks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]good for him. why should all the bonuses go to citigroup?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you are an idiot
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, actually, she's not. Citigroup has been teetering on the edge of bankruptcy and still paying bonuses. If your building was facing bankruptcy, his bonus would be the first thing to go.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Aha!!!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
So go out and get a job like "they" have then, and you'll be living large too!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I choose not to do that. And if they don't like their compensation, our building staff can also "choose" another option as well. FWIW, we also instituted a "no tipping" policy several years ago.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Oh my God, you mean your super has managed to make a good living out of doing his job? Doesn't he know that the natural order of the universe is for him to make less than the people he waits on?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]More power to him. He doesn't deserve, however, to shake down the tenants each holiday season for "tips".
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
LOL! Did you read about how much the stage hands at Carnegie Hall make in the NYT last week?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]do they get the apt they live in for "free" too? was wondering about that.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Most live-in supers do. That's like at least another $30,000, tax-free.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]not tax free. housing is classified as in-kind compensation and taxes are paid on that income. rental value is assigned to the apartment, usually well below market rate - closer to what would be paid if the apartment was rent-stabilized and that value is included in the super's W-2.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 07:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
most buildings are not union, particularly condos. the last 3 buildings i have lived in were not union and staff received no benefits. holiday tipping is the right thing to do regardless.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
no kidding. same here, our doormen drive nice cars. I cannot even afford a car.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]But you can afford a doorman. Stop whining. Or hell, get a job as a doorman.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 04:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]No one is whining. We're just saying doormen don't need our "tips", and I'm glad some buildings are finally doing away with this bullshit.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:26 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]"oh, I can't afford a car" is whining. If you wanted to stand at a door all day kissing rich people's butts and signing for their packages, you could afford a car, OK?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
It is like the mafia. do you think you can just walk in to apply? Do you think that everyone who lives in a coop are millionaires? Oh and sure you must live a whine-free life.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I don't have a doorman. If you buy into that whole system, then you buy into it. It's like moving to Alaska and then complaining about the cold.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
How do you know what your doormen drive?
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 07:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
bet the doorman thinks your name is ebenezer.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Guess no Santa for the doormen/supers. They rely on those tips.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Wow that sucks. I love tipping my building staff. In fact, I really enjoy giving gifts at holiday time. Too bad your building is so Scrooge-like.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]People will tip anyway. Tomorrow the doorman will get somebody a cab and be handed $50 instead of getting a Christmas card next month.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I would 100% tip anyway.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
so tipping was mandatory?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]op. No, it wasn't mandatory. But there have been problems in the building with favoritism -- staff treating the big tippers better than the rest of us, and even skimping on service for the non-tippers. I'm glad the board addressed this issue. If you can't get by on your salary in our building, find another job, or get a second job.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]wow. people really are pigs.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]So what happens if you violate the no tipping policy? They kick you out of your apartment?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Co-op board member from above. It's not the shareholders who violate the policy by giving tips, it's the employees who violate it by ACCEPTING them. And violating the policy will result in immediate termination.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]So your employees get fired because some of your residents decide to be decent human beings? Disgusting!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If the shareholders truly believe our staff is underpaid, they are welcome to petition the board to give them all across-the-board raises. If enough shareholders want it, they can even overrule the board in securing those raises. Of course, those raises will come out of everyone's pocket vis-a-vis increases in the monthly maintenance ...
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
wow - who says this is a capitalistic society.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Why doesn't the board just collect from anyone who wants to give and then pool the $$ to the workers, like we do in school? They get their tips, no one gets slighted. Or make it part of the common charges on behalf of the building. These people count on tips just like IB
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Mean rich people. I hope the compassionate ones still tip.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I would think that a better method would be to have a pool where everyone contributes into it and then each staff member gets 1 tip from the building - based on seniority, tenure, position. A lot of the really large rental buildings that have a stff of 40 people do this. That way the staff gets a tip, but there is no faoritism AND if you can afford say $20 total, then you can give that - whereas if you had to tip each person separately, that'd be like $2/each.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Total agree that this is a much more sensible solution. What was op's co-op board thinking???
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Actually, the co-op model seems to be working beautifully in this case, because the OP has found a group of like minded souls to live with.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i think they're called the green meanies
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Exactly!!! I can't agree more.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:45 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]That would be good.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I'd still tip and the board can kiss my fat ass.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You'd do that and let the staff you're tipping get fired?
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh please. They can't get Christmas cards from my kid? I can't shake their hand and wish them a Happy Holiday? Or give them a plate of cookies? If you think it is impossible to pass a tip to someone without the world knowing you are doing it, you have never tried.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You surely do embody the true spirit of Christmas.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]All the morons flaming you don't live in big doorman buildings in NYC. It's one thing to give a small gift to your doorman, and it's another to be expected to pony up $1000 in cash for your building's "staff" every Christmas or be blacklisted and never have any repairs/whatnot done to your unit. First of all, to those who claim this is a bonus - I pay taxes on my bonus, how about you? Second, my firm pays me my bonus, I do not expect my clients to give me gifts or else I won't do what I'm paid to do for them. Finally, a reasonable Christmas-time gift for the staff would be a plate of cookies or maybe a fruit basket that can be shared.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITTTA!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I love that on UB the unreasonable "bonus" this year is the few hundred bucks the super gets for plunging your shitter.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the super gets PAID by the landlord for plunging my toilet!! it's called a SALARY.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 07:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ohhhhh...and you high-finance types don't get a salary? Poor boo.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 04:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Right? "My real compensation for running this firm into the dirt is in my bonus. My salary is far below what I am truly worth."
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]lol--if the supers did to the building what those guys did to the banking industry...
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:26 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Can you imagine? The building would be like a Nickelodeon game show with everyone sliding down the stair well through puddles of slime. (The elevators of course only going up.)
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]LOL--literally!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
OR - I am not in finance. My bonus is a small % of my salary, is fully performance based (if I worked the way most maintenance staff in NYC works, I would NEVER see a bonus) and this year it'll be as fictional as Santa - I'm lucky to have my job. My point still stands - my super is compensated by the landlord, and if the landlord would like to give him a bonus, then s/he should. Maybe it'd be different if I owned my apartment, but I do not. I rent, and expect the super to provide the services on behalf of the landlord set out in my lease. I have the same relationship to my super as my clients do to me. My clients do not give me monetary gifts every season, so I don't see why I should either.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
So you'll give up your BONUS?? Aren't you the same moron who's been arguing that your bonus is your salary?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR - can't you have a conversation without degenerating into name-calling? No, I'm not the poster that argued that my bonus was my salary. It's a small (and disappearing) portion of my income.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 12:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
It's funny. I;ve lived in doorman buildings my entire life. My parents were not wealthy and never gave huge tips, but they did give everyone something every year. We do the same, and when we were first married and couldn't afford it everyone got $20. Our building staff have always been appreciative, we always get terrific service, etc. So IMO, it's not about the dollars, it's about being decent, showing your appreciation and recognizing that if everyone in a building with say 200 apartments gave even $10, that's a nice $2,000 holiday bonus. There is no need to go overboard.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 07:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]For real? We tip 30-100 per person, we do not ask for much service during the year and still sometimes it seems that some of them have problems even saying hello.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 11:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Considering the audience of UB, and the # of people who claim they can't live on $350k a year, I can guarantee you most people live in a DM bldg in NYC. And we all think OP is a cheap idiot.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
That totally sucks. I can't believe you're gloating about it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 02:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]They tend to be friendlier when November comes; and not pay attention as much after they get that tax free tip.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]good for you op. unionized laborers in co-ops shouldn't get tips, so many buildings have no choice but to work with the union rules and their obscene rates. meanwhile, board members are not compensated for many hours spent managing the building and making sure it doesn't implode financially and structurally.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 07:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Co-op Board Members (and I am one) are volunteers. No one forced you to run. If you want to get paid for the time you spend running the building, go work for the Managing Agent.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 07:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you have a problem with the union contract. you should take it up with the Real Estate Advisory Board, this is something any minimally competant building board member would know. Which might explain why your building is always teetering on the edge of implosion.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 11:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I think its hilarious that you are happy about it. As if other people are not going to give tips anyway!! We live in a house in Brklyn, but our condo in Miami has a "no tipping" rule, but trust me, we still tip the valet guys every time they park our cars, the pool boys (who bring us extra towels and usually are so helpful with the kids), the doorman, and the security guards who call me whenever I get a delivery (policy is not to call, you have to pick it up) just to let me know. I get them all nice xmas presents too. what are you gonna do? shoot me? ? grow up OP, and suck it up. and remember, this is NYC. $ talks and bullsh&t walks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 04:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]What are we going to do? If we find out about it, fire the employees who accepted the tips.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: You present it as if the staff could not be managed well enough to get them to do their job but somehow you are going to enforce this cheap ass rule. Please.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]No. I present this as the violation of a rule gets them fired.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]How would you know? This rule is unenforceable.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh give me an Fing break. re tips down at our Miami condo - as if we give it to them with prying eyes around!!! someone gets your car, opens the door for them, you discreetly place a couple of bucks in their hand. how does it benefit me? I ALWAYS get my car right away. they clean it for me if its a slow day. I dont go in there and write them a check and photocopy it and put it under the door of every other tenant. I guarantee you most of my neighbors are still tipping too. except cheap idiots like you, and some little old ladies.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 08:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is an awful burden to put on someone in a service profession, IMO. Because most owners will still want to tip, and many will insist vehemently that their tips be accepted. What is the employee supposed to do? Shove the money back in the face of the person that gave it to them? Throw it to the ground? Slip it under the door during the night?
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
who is "we"? you and your other cheapo vigilantes? give me a break!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
this sucks for the staff
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no, it sucks for OP. again. Our condo down in miami is "stricly no tips." everyone tips except for a$$holes like her, and little old ladies. she needs to grow up. if she cant afford to tip, she shouldnt be living in a full service building to begin with and should find some walkup in the heights.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Funny. My brother was a doorman at a place that had a no tipping policy. He said his biggest tipper was on the board.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Don't doormen make 50-80 grand a year? (not counting tips)
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 10:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]No. We make barely 40k. Every doorman with children has at least another part-time job. The real problem is people anxious to move into buildings with a full-time staff who don't have the wherewithal to afford it. Holiday gratuities are a reasonable expectation for those of us who work in building services and to have the rug pulled out from under the staff so close to the holidays is despicable.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 09:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]doormen go on UB?!
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]All kinds of men come here. (And not all "doormen" are men.)
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]seriously ... yuck. such elitism. they can often read too. and some are even college edumacated
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]not you; you cannot even spell.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 11:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]it was a joke. (the misspelling. not the 'yuck ... elitist part)
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 11:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You're really vomit-inducing. God.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You're free to move to a less expensive walk-up.
[ Reply | Options ]11.05.09, 10:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Let's play "career counselor." Anyone who is laid off or merely unsatisfied, give us... 142 replies
- , but no traditional skills. Good with technology, knoweldgeable about real estate, law, taxes. No record of regular employment, but..., spirits & chocolate. Also, I am completely obsessed with real estate. I renovated and sold our last apartment and am...it is a terrible to time to do anything with real estate....
- got the capital, its a great time to get the real estate. Alternatively, put together cooking classes for kids that...
Talk : : November 02, 2009
Let's play "career counselor." Anyone who is laid off or merely unsatisfied, give us a thumbnail of your background and key skills, and tell us which walls you've been banging your head against. Maybe we'll have some good ideas.
142 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.02.09, 03:06 PM [ Flag ]SAHM for past 4yrs. Worked as litigation attny for 5 yrs. Never really enjoyed litigation. Dont want to go back FT, but tired of SAH. We can live on DH salary, but some extra money would be nice.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]What did you like about practicing law? What skill(s) do you really want to use? What area of law did you work in? What did you dislike about litigation?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I found the politics of big firm intolerable. I hated the pressure, the feeling that every little "wrong" decision had major consequences. I didnt like long hours spent researching, writting and revising memos. I liked . . . Good question!
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Did you like talking to other lawyers about what they did? Maybe recruiting or HR would be a better fit. Was the work the problem or just the hours? If just the hours, maybe you could try to find a PT or temp/contract position. I know some people doing research/writing on contract basis - not much $$ but they get to work from home etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 07:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
volunteer your legal services at a charity you support
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 09:05 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]volunteer? And how do I pay for daycare?
[ Reply | Options ]11.06.09, 02:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Fundraiser for arts/cultural organizations: strong writing schools, organized, diplomatic skills/discretion, persuasive. Doing it part-time now and just feeling like I'm going to need a change soon.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]What would you think of diplomacy, lobbying, or sales? Do you have background in some specific area? If you said that art was your thing, I'd say; if you can sell art, then maybe go to a gallery. Auction house?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The dide between the non-profit and commercial art world is pretty strong, so it would be hard for me to "switch sides" without starting at the beginning, which wouldn't be worth it. Lobbying is an interesting idea.... I don't think I could do sales: too similar to fundraising without the "feel good" aspect!
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:38 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Lobbying typically presents itself as advocacy for some issue (e.g. funding for art teachers) or group (e.g. association of telephone companies), and it can involve working with the concerned individuals/organizations, as well as with the decision-makers.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 06:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
You could use some proof-reading skills, btw. :)
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 08:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]So could you. If you are in the US, it is proofreading.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 08:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Oh trust me, I'm no proofreader or proof-reader or what have you. But a cover letter that mentions her "strong writing schools" is not going to get far.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Luckily, I do proofread my coverletters, and yet I don't bother proofreading my UB postings, especially while multi-tasking.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 05:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh, I was just kidding!! I once made a crashingly horrible mistake in a cover letter (typed while dandling screaming DB) and I will never get over it (actually misspelled the title of the position I was applying for).
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Actually, I'm notorious for the above skills = schools kind of mistake. My head just 'replaces' words, so if I had the patience, I know that I should reread everything I type.
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]That's exactly the kind of mistake I made--a word swap. I find I'm doing this more and more as I get older--think the brain parts are just wearing down! Anyway, good luck, and didn't mean to rag you!
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I'm an outside-of-the-box problem solver. Entrepreneurial. Articulate verbally and in writing, but I'm too introverted to be in sales. Good listener. Pedigree education, but no traditional skills. Good with technology, knoweldgeable about real estate, law, taxes. No record of regular employment, but some cool entrepreneurial ventures. I'd like to help people and have some regular human contact. I'm OP.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]venture capital? start a non-profit? write a book? become a therapist?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Therapist is a long-term goal, but doing the training now seems a bit self-indulgent (when I feel like I should be working). Writing a book seems small and self-important. Fundraising seems like a major obstacle, but I'll think about what sort of non-profit I'd want to do. But venture capital is a GREAT idea. Thanks.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
start own business
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i've got one for you! helping senior citizens pay bills and do paperwork. you go to their house once a week, go through all their mail, send out checks, file paperwork, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Good one! Plus Medicare forms.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
What about becoming a mentor or a coach? I hear those are all the rage, these days.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I like this game. Journalist for 4 years, burnt out on that. English BA from Ivy, 4.0 GPA. A few years of basic business and finance experience, but terrible at math. Grad school suggestions welcome too, but high paying job preferred. :)
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 03:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the sooner you can get past your college gpa, the better you'll be. it really doesn't matter at this point.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I graduated 5 years ago, not 50. It's a unique thing that a number of interviewers have commented on. So it matters in that it helps me stand out and get in the door.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]lol. They comment on it because you put it on your resume & you look like an idiot! I assume you haven't gotten any of those jobs since you're still looking?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I disagree. If she's only 5 years out, 4.0 from Harvard is something worth putting on a CV. It's unique and a big deal.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]yeah, but you're the OP so we already know what you think.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]not OP, NP
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
recruiter mom here and 5 years out is too long to include your gpa. if you have impressive awards, achievements or anything else impressive (phi beta kappa), yes. otherwise you look like someone's mom with a bumper sticker that reads "my kid made the honor roll at bumf&ck junior high.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I'm gonna have to agree based on comments my husband has made to me more than a couple times. He is a high level executive who has placed thousands of consultants at top banks and accounting and auditing firms. One of his pet peeves are applicants who try to rely on past laurels, specifically ones dating from college, to paint a picture of who they are today. It is a great achievement (I'm a B student from a state school), but one that maybe should be left off the resume. I would consult people who specialize in perfecting resumes on this.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I disagree. Used to recruit for employer who only hired Ivies (years and years out) esp ones with good grades.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 03:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you're lame
[ Reply | Options ]11.04.09, 06:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
ita. I wish there was an eye-roll emoticon.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Other than getting really good grades, what are you really good at?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]what about some sort of political or religious group, where you monitor the media for them.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yeah, you probably would have a strong shot at being communications director at a variety of nonprofits or lobbying groups.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i love this post! i'm probably outing myself, but here goes. background in finance and research. also worked as a high school librarian but i never finished my degree. excellent research skills, very good computer/office skills and a grasp of finance and economics, very well organized. i've also done childcare and tutoring (mostly for reading). i'd strongly prefer not to take a full time job.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]teacher, equity analyst, manager at a pediatricians/doctors office
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]don't you need a degree in education to teach?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Public schools want you certified, which often(?) requires education training. But not private schools.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
because it's so easy to come by an equity analyst position today. Esp when you didn't finish your undergrad. Might as well play the lottery.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 01:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR: i don't think i can get a job in finance anymore. there are too many people lookign for work. but just to clarify, i do have a BA. i never finished my master's in library science.
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Prospect research (fundraising.)
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 12:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR: that's not a bad idea. it doesn't resonate with me at all but i bet i'm qualified for it. thanks for the suggestion!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 06:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
B.S. in Biology from Ivy league school. Applied to med school but got married so deferred. got pregnant (high risk) so lost my deferment. working at a world renowned lab at the Rockefeller insitute for close to nothing because i need some intellectual fulfillment, but hate the lack of interaction with people, and hate basic science and just scientific research in general. Love medicine, but not sure if Id be accepted after what NY schools see as me "blowing of" an acceptance offer (at least thats what my premedical advisor told me). Frustrated and still trying to figure out what to do with my life.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 04:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Nurse practioner?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]considered PA and NP options (even started filling out the "centralized application" that PA schools use so you can apply to all of em in one shot), but decided agaist it for many reasons. I feel like its either MD or something totally unrelated to medicine.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I would do PA, personally, when all is said and done, you'll make good $$ and have some flexibility to raise your dc. On the other hand, sounds like you really want to do medicine, so go for it!
[ Reply | Options ]11.03.09, 04:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
How old are you? This sounds exactly like me.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]24.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
would you want to go to med school with young DC anyways?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]yes, absolutely. but my premed advisor says I should wait at least 5 years and get some life experience because of the mistakes I made. sorry, but a planned pregnancy after marrige, that went high risk is not a mistake. that was gods "mistake," I didt do anything wrong.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
your advisor sounds like an idiot. If you're good enough to get in once (especially to a NYC school) you can get in somewhere again. high risk pregnancy sounds like a pretty good reason to defer, if you ask me. but do you really want to go to medical school at this point?
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 05:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]sometimes I think the same thing. what happened was, I was waitlisted at the school of my dreams. persistence (in the form of numerous letters of interest and updates) paid off, and I was accepted in May off hte waitlist (school begins in July). I decided to defer because my boyfriend proposed and we wanted to enjoy our wedding and honeymoon, one year of "relaxation" before embarking on our careers. deferrals can only be made for one year. was planning on starting in August of 2008. However in April (4th month) was put on partial bedrest and things went downhill from there...bleeding...pre eclampsia, lots of scares. there was no way I could have started in August and my MFM specialist OB wrote