More For LES: Shorts

Join Alexander Kotler as he takes viewers on walking tours through the Lower East Side, sharing insights on places and properties.

Ben won’t make coffee at home. Part of that comes down to standards. He has “opinions” about water temperature, pressure, and extraction. Also, his budget won’t allow for an in-home La Marzocco espresso machine—though he’d probably find another excuse not to brew his own. Instead, he ensures that his apartment is within steps of a reliable coffee shop.

His current lease is expiring, and his landlord is increasing the rent to $5,000 per month. Ben’s maximum budget is $4,000, so he’s in search of a new apartment. Because he spends much of his time on the Lower East Side, that’s where his apartment search begins.

Like many people, Ben has routines. Unlike many people, nearly every part of his morning follows the same sequence.

His alarm goes off at exactly 6:31 a.m. on weekdays, set to WNYC — the local NPR station. He listens while brushing his teeth, always with Colgate MaxFresh Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste. If he doesn’t shower, and he usually doesn’t on weekday mornings, he gets dressed.