A hybrid for Sam, but we're not talking about cars
Finding a 1BR for Sam Masur
First, an apology to Gabrielle Zevin, the architect of the character, Sam Masur.
I misspelled Mr. Masur’s name in our first post in the series, and she — an avid follower of More For LES — let me have it. (No, she didn’t, but I’m detail oriented and, if we’re going to create an alternate piece of fiction based on a character in Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, we can surely spell the name right .)
Anyway, Sam is looking for a one-bedroom apartment in 10002, nearby where the Unfair Games office is stationed — DUMBO. That’s an easy hop onto the F train at East Broadway, although Sam has a disability that impedes his ability to walk long distances and use the stairs. Hence, we’re looking for an elevator building . (You can see a recap of the story in the series opener, which includes the misspelling.)
Sam is working with a budget of between $600,000 and $900,000 . He’s got excellent credit and will qualify for a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.25% interest , with 20% down.
Here’s what he’s already seen:
Today, we’ll see what “happy” Madison Street yields, as Sam sees a condo in Two Bridges .
List Price: $769,000
Bedrooms / Bathrooms: 1 BR / 1 BA
Approx. Size: 610 SF
Monthly Carrying Charges: Not listed
Monthly Taxes: $825
Monthly Mortgage Payment (6.25%): $3,782
Total Monthly Overhead: $4,607
Details: Renovated one-bedroom residence in a doorman building in Two Bridges. The apartment offers hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, generous storage, washer/dryer hookups, and south-facing views toward the Manhattan Bridge and water . Building amenities include an elevator , roof deck , live-in super, and indoor garage (additional fee).
Commentary: As with the unit Sam saw yesterday, re: 48 Henry Street #7, this one lacks evident appeal . In fact, the images featured are those I took from others in the building — not even this particular unit — just to give a sense as to what Sam might find there. So, Sam has to get into the actual unit to check it out . He’ll also have to inquire about the common charges, since they’re conveniently omitted.
This could be because the building is a hybrid, meaning it has sales and rentals, but that could simply be a generous interpretation.
What we know is that it neighbors the Manhattan Bridge, so the windows had best afford sound-proofing . We also can’t get a sense of the building itself, without an in-person visit . It does, however, appear to have an indoor garage, which — for an additional fee — is a major perk .
Coming up!
