Now that 2003, which opened with political strife and closed with one of the worst winters on record, is over, brokers are looking ahead and eagerly anticipating another strong year in 2004. An improved economy and enticingly low interest …

Start thinking of the ideal places to live in the city and there's a good chance that the Upper West Side will come to mind pretty quickly. It's generally thought of as one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Manhattan, thanks to its qu…

A variety of HVAC technologies can be found in New York City's residential housing stock. Here's a look at some of the more common elements. Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) PTAC is the acronym for packaged terminal air conditio…

Efficiently heating and cooling residential buildings in New York City is a challenge. Decades ago, energy conservation and comfort simply were not the issues that they are today. What may be seen as a hardship today, (i.e., lack of air co…

The "loo." The "WC." The "john." Or - for the more civilized folks - the "powder room" or the "lavatory." Whatever you choose to name that room in your house that comprises a toilet, shower/bath, sink and a mirror, you use it - a lot.…

With new technology often comes new terminology - and lists of parts and functions that seem lifted directly off the pages of a sci-fi novella. When many of us were kids, terms like "retinal scanner" and "biometrics" were strictly Sta…

These days the simple door-buzzer and intercom building security systems that were the industry standard not so long ago are going the way of the dinosaur. Like it or not, soon the stuff of science fiction films will become reality. Today,…

Whether doing chores such a laundry or using gym equipment or swimming pool, we want to maximize the time we spend doing the things we like, and make the less-pleasant jobs as hassle-free as possible. Residential buildings are in business …

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg presented a $45.7 billion budget plan for fiscal year 2005 and awarded property owners a $400 tax rebate to thank New Yorkers for their sacrifices in helping the city weather its fiscal crisis. "New York Cit…

The following phone numbers, Web sites, and mailing addresses can serve as your first line of defense against identity theft and fraud. To opt out of pre-approved credit card offers, call 1-888-5-OPTOUT. This is a secure line run joint…