Client Stories
Selling twice on the Upper East Side
David and Courtney sell two residences over-ask with multiple offers.
The Needs
David and Courtney, long-time Upper East Siders, had grown into, and slowly out of, their converted Junior Four apartment on East 69th Street. Their son, Harrison, was fast becoming a toddler, and they were expecting their second, their daughter Olivia, in a few months. They aspired to find a three bedroom co-op in their neighborhood that would accommodate the expanding needs of an active family of four.
Planning a First Move
We set our boundaries at the low-60s to the mid-80s on the Upper East Side. We prioritized properties David and Courtney could renovate. Our clients had gained confidence from creating a wonderful custom-designed apartment on East 69th, and wanted to do so again. Warmth of staff and a vibe of intimacy were also of utmost importance.
After a few near misses, including passing on an overbid sponsor sale on East 86th, we viewed an estate condition three bedroom apartment at a prime co-op on East 76th. The home’s long-time owner was a renowned cookbook author who had perfected her recipes in its windowed kitchen. It was perfect. We pursued the home aggressively, leapfrogging an existing cash offer through decisive terms and a direct personal appeal to the seller. Our offer was accepted, financing and board approval followed, and the timing of our closing allowed our clients to proceed with a renovation in an expedient manner, completing the reno in 2018.
While their new property was expertly renovated, we listed the clients' Junior Four co-op on East 69th, with a target closing to coincide with the culmination of the East 76th renovation and their move-in. The property was released with a viral marketing campaign, and produced a productive open house period with over 70 visitors. After receiving six offers, our clients selected an over-asking price transaction with a wonderful young couple who progressed smoothly through the board process.
Executing a Second Sale
Just four years after moving into their newly renovated home, David and Courtney decided to move out of state to be closer to family, and Ian Katz was again hired for a second time as the clients' listing agent in 2022 to sell their East 76th Street residence. A deliberate pricing and marketing strategy paired well with the superb renovations implemented, and an offer 8.5% over ask by a supremely qualified buyer was accepted in only three weeks time.
