I'll write a last post about my final thoughts on my three years at Flatbush Gardens when I have some more time. I just wanted to quickly write to say: I just got off the phone with Rick Miaw (director of leasing), and I am consistently amazed at how reasonable, competent, and most importantly professional Mr. Miaw is. To be honest, it's just a solid level of professionalism and professional competency; but when held in the stark contrast of the unreasonable, incompetent, and most detrimentally unprofessional attitudes and behavior of the management office, it is truly amazing. (To be fair: I've never actually spoken to Rafeal Garcia (director of operations), but that's mostly because he's never bothered to return a call, and regardless, his people's behavior are imputed to him professionally).
I have a lot of advice for future/current tenants, but I only have once piece of advice for Flatbush Gardens' owner-management. Put Mr. Miaw in charge. You don't have to change roles around, Mr. Miaw can still run leasing, and Mr. Garcia can still run operations, but pay Mr. Miaw more and make him "director of leasing and executive director of operations." At the end of the day, that's the story of Flatbush Gardens, with the expensive ad campaigns and the cheap paint, with the well run open houses and the ineptly run maintenance department: Flatbush Gardens' leasing office is run with four and a half stars, while Flatbush Gardens operations is run with about half a star, maybe one, maybe somewhere between.
If operations and leasing exchanged management teams, FBG wouldn't lose a single tenant, but wouldn't get a single new tenant either. As it stands, they get a lot, and lose them all shortly there-after (probably, I have no statistical knowledge of this).
Mr. Miaw, you have my email address. If you ever want to stop wasting your talent on a place that won't provide a product of the quality you should be selling, let me know if I could be of any assistance in effectuating that move.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Monday, October 11, 2010
6 shootings, 3 murders this year in the complex.
Signs went up recently about a special meeting with the commanding office of the 67th precinct (Oct. 12 at 8pm at 1404 Brooklyn Ave). Sign says "in light of the recent events."
This, of course, is the polite way of saying "since two people have been gunned down in the last two weeks within the complex..."
They couldn't be more sympathetic victims either. A young father who appears to have been mistaken for someone else, and a young boy who refused to join a gang.
According to this that makes six murders within the complex for 2010.
I'm sure they had a hard enough time renting places when they could claim zero murders (2009), with these, I can't imagine good things for the leasing office.
(Title corrected with thanks to the below commenter.)
This, of course, is the polite way of saying "since two people have been gunned down in the last two weeks within the complex..."
They couldn't be more sympathetic victims either. A young father who appears to have been mistaken for someone else, and a young boy who refused to join a gang.
According to this that makes six murders within the complex for 2010.
I'm sure they had a hard enough time renting places when they could claim zero murders (2009), with these, I can't imagine good things for the leasing office.
(Title corrected with thanks to the below commenter.)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Better get that sink fixed ASAP!
http://therealdeal.com/newyork/articles/brooklyn-building-workers-at-flatbush-gardens-housing-complex-managed-by-renaissance-equity-holdings-protest-pay-cuts
This doesn't add any more information than was already posted on each building's front door, which was previously mentioned here by MM. However, taking the fight to the media is usually an escalation right before actual striking.
Personally, I've had an 8.8% reduction in pay over the last year, and it will be 13.5% on Oct. 1st. Far more acceptable than a 30% benefit cut (maybe, depends on what "benefits" were cut, and how much the salary was cut). I don't know, I'm sure a lot of people, especially time/salary reduced people and unemployed people have mixed sympathies.
What about you? Support the strike? Or support 100% benefit cuts and scabs pulled from the ample ranks of the unemployed?
This doesn't add any more information than was already posted on each building's front door, which was previously mentioned here by MM. However, taking the fight to the media is usually an escalation right before actual striking.
Personally, I've had an 8.8% reduction in pay over the last year, and it will be 13.5% on Oct. 1st. Far more acceptable than a 30% benefit cut (maybe, depends on what "benefits" were cut, and how much the salary was cut). I don't know, I'm sure a lot of people, especially time/salary reduced people and unemployed people have mixed sympathies.
What about you? Support the strike? Or support 100% benefit cuts and scabs pulled from the ample ranks of the unemployed?
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Anyone have a story idea for Mr. N?
Hello,
My name is Richard N----. I am a reporter for TheBrooklynInk.com and journalism grad student at Columbia University. I will be covering the neighborhood of Flatbush for the next few months--writing stories about the news, people, events, and goings-on in the area.
I found your blog as I was doing some research on the neighborhood. As a blogger in the area, I was wondering if you had any general viewpoints or concerns that might lead me to any good story ideas. Is there anyone you'd recommend I talk to?
I'd love to meet you in person if you have any free time coming up. We could grab a quick cup of coffee or something. Perhaps you could tell my what I need to know about the neighborhood, from a resident's perspective. I promise I'm not a creep or anything, just a journalist from California who is a long way from home. I really want to do my job right.
Thanks for reading. I hope to meet you soon.
Best,Rich
My name is Richard N----. I am a reporter for TheBrooklynInk.com and journalism grad student at Columbia University. I will be covering the neighborhood of Flatbush for the next few months--writing stories about the news, people, events, and goings-on in the area.
I found your blog as I was doing some research on the neighborhood. As a blogger in the area, I was wondering if you had any general viewpoints or concerns that might lead me to any good story ideas. Is there anyone you'd recommend I talk to?
I'd love to meet you in person if you have any free time coming up. We could grab a quick cup of coffee or something. Perhaps you could tell my what I need to know about the neighborhood, from a resident's perspective. I promise I'm not a creep or anything, just a journalist from California who is a long way from home. I really want to do my job right.
Thanks for reading. I hope to meet you soon.
Best,Rich
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Do I still recommend Flatbush Gardens?
No. Unfortunately. Those of you familiar, will likely know my opinion of FBG is that it's a reasonable place to live. That you get what you pay for here, and it's a fair, if not good deal, with regard to quality/service/safety/etc per dollar.
While I still have no super-serious complaints, has anyone noticed a marked decline in the complex?
My kitchen sink is broken in at least three ways, and literally unusable. It has been this way for over a month. The roommate (having some weekdays off of work) is in charge of interfacing with maintenance. She has been down there at least 20 times, all during the hours they're scheduled to be open. Over half those times they were in fact, not open, with no explanation. (And different times of the day, like maybe they got in late, or left early, or were at lunch, but those could only explain a few of the misses). The other times, a work request was submitted, and she was told it would be placed in the queue, pointing to the huge stack of papers on the desk, with a subtle, "don't hold your breath" look.
I also see less advertising, less security (but to be fair they could easily be out there just as much and I wouldn't run into them because of my schedule recently), less renovation teams, less of our porter, etc.
It could just be me, but it feels like maybe things are in a serious decline.
Anyway, point being: At this time, I'm no longer comfortable saying that if you can tolerate mediocre quality for a cheaper price, then Flatbush Gardens presents a value option. My current perception of the quality/service/safety/etc per dollar, is that it does not provide a very good value.
While I still have no super-serious complaints, has anyone noticed a marked decline in the complex?
My kitchen sink is broken in at least three ways, and literally unusable. It has been this way for over a month. The roommate (having some weekdays off of work) is in charge of interfacing with maintenance. She has been down there at least 20 times, all during the hours they're scheduled to be open. Over half those times they were in fact, not open, with no explanation. (And different times of the day, like maybe they got in late, or left early, or were at lunch, but those could only explain a few of the misses). The other times, a work request was submitted, and she was told it would be placed in the queue, pointing to the huge stack of papers on the desk, with a subtle, "don't hold your breath" look.
I also see less advertising, less security (but to be fair they could easily be out there just as much and I wouldn't run into them because of my schedule recently), less renovation teams, less of our porter, etc.
It could just be me, but it feels like maybe things are in a serious decline.
Anyway, point being: At this time, I'm no longer comfortable saying that if you can tolerate mediocre quality for a cheaper price, then Flatbush Gardens presents a value option. My current perception of the quality/service/safety/etc per dollar, is that it does not provide a very good value.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
I thought Duane Reade was supposed to be NYC special.
Duane Reade's slogan is "Your City. Your Drugstore." Despite being purchased by Walgreens, they still ask for your business by telling you that they get NYC and they understand you NYers. Unfortunately, they don't even know what NYC is.
I was in the Duane Reade today, buying some "whole natural almonds" for $3.99. It's one of their many Duane Reade branded products that tries to relate the product to the city in a clever or humorous way. This one says "8 million nuts, one tiny island." I think this is funny and fair. What it is not, however, is accurate. Can anyone see why?
Well I'll tell you why. It is a well known fact that there are approximately 8 million people living in NYC. It is an even better known fact that Manhattan is an island. However, what should be known my anyone or any store claiming to be a NYCer, or someone who "gets" NYC, is that NYC includes all five boroughs, including two islands (Staten and Manhattan) one non-island (Bronx), and two sections of a large island (Brooklyn and Queens as the west part of Long Island).
Even if you're a Manhattan snob (whether you live in Manhattan or elsewhere like my roommate, who lives in FBG and refuses to acknowledge that Brooklyn is part of NYC) and say that the lesser 4 boroughs are technically NYC but not really, then you still have to admit Duane Reade failed on this package design, because (1) they operate in all five boroughs and (2) it would have to say "1.6 million nuts, one tiny island."
I imagine, some ignorant and/or manhattancissistic person living in Manhattan and working for whatever ad company writes this stuff knew of the 8-million people number tossed around in conversation and never realized that didn't mean 8-million people live on Manhattan. (I also think the city uses the "8 million NYCers" statistic in ways that it intends people to not stop and think about it, since NYC is a tourist destination partly as one of the most densely populated area in the world, which is more impressive if you found a way to fit 8 million people on the little island.
Anyway, I don't expect tourists to know NYC is bigger than Manhattan, or expect them to set foot outside Manhattan more than twice (i.e. the trip to and from the airport), but if Duane Reade is going to be NYC's store, it should figure out what that means.
I was in the Duane Reade today, buying some "whole natural almonds" for $3.99. It's one of their many Duane Reade branded products that tries to relate the product to the city in a clever or humorous way. This one says "8 million nuts, one tiny island." I think this is funny and fair. What it is not, however, is accurate. Can anyone see why?
Well I'll tell you why. It is a well known fact that there are approximately 8 million people living in NYC. It is an even better known fact that Manhattan is an island. However, what should be known my anyone or any store claiming to be a NYCer, or someone who "gets" NYC, is that NYC includes all five boroughs, including two islands (Staten and Manhattan) one non-island (Bronx), and two sections of a large island (Brooklyn and Queens as the west part of Long Island).
Even if you're a Manhattan snob (whether you live in Manhattan or elsewhere like my roommate, who lives in FBG and refuses to acknowledge that Brooklyn is part of NYC) and say that the lesser 4 boroughs are technically NYC but not really, then you still have to admit Duane Reade failed on this package design, because (1) they operate in all five boroughs and (2) it would have to say "1.6 million nuts, one tiny island."
I imagine, some ignorant and/or manhattancissistic person living in Manhattan and working for whatever ad company writes this stuff knew of the 8-million people number tossed around in conversation and never realized that didn't mean 8-million people live on Manhattan. (I also think the city uses the "8 million NYCers" statistic in ways that it intends people to not stop and think about it, since NYC is a tourist destination partly as one of the most densely populated area in the world, which is more impressive if you found a way to fit 8 million people on the little island.
Anyway, I don't expect tourists to know NYC is bigger than Manhattan, or expect them to set foot outside Manhattan more than twice (i.e. the trip to and from the airport), but if Duane Reade is going to be NYC's store, it should figure out what that means.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Single Female
Well, I've not posted anything in a while, and everyone's number 1 super-happy-fun topic is the Single Female perspective on safety, so I thought I'd elevate MM's recent comment to a post:
MM says by way of update:
I am a 20-something, single, white female. Over the past 6-9 months I have felt a little more unsafe than when I moved in in 2008. There does seem to be an increase in the amount of "creepy guys" loitering in the courtyards and they always seem to have something smart to say to me. I do have a tendency to snap back at them so I'm sure that doesn't help my situation. And with summer being here, it's only going to get worse. Come to think of it, it's not just the courtyards, it's the whole neighborhood in general. Am I afraid of physical violence? Honestly, sometimes I am. A group of teenagers tried to start trouble with me one night on the walk to the gym on Flatbush Ave, but a good samaritan interfered. I've started carrying pepper spray. I'm not afraid of being robbed though. I live in one of the best buildings in the complex and I'm sure that helps my situation alot. I think it would be rather hard to rob someone since it would be VERY obvious what is going on with all tenants always coming and going.Either way, when my lease is up in Oct, I'm out of here.All I can say here is that if you are considering the move, ask to see available units in the best buildings-1370, 1372, the ones directly across from there (I don't know the #'s), as well as the one above the maintenance office-these are all well maintained and have lots of friendly neighbors. Spend an afternoon wandering around the neighborhood to see how you feel (night too!). But to be frank, since the economic crash, you can find a cheaper unit closer to Manhattan that will probably have better maintenance and mgmt.
MM says by way of update:
I am a 20-something, single, white female. Over the past 6-9 months I have felt a little more unsafe than when I moved in in 2008. There does seem to be an increase in the amount of "creepy guys" loitering in the courtyards and they always seem to have something smart to say to me. I do have a tendency to snap back at them so I'm sure that doesn't help my situation. And with summer being here, it's only going to get worse. Come to think of it, it's not just the courtyards, it's the whole neighborhood in general. Am I afraid of physical violence? Honestly, sometimes I am. A group of teenagers tried to start trouble with me one night on the walk to the gym on Flatbush Ave, but a good samaritan interfered. I've started carrying pepper spray. I'm not afraid of being robbed though. I live in one of the best buildings in the complex and I'm sure that helps my situation alot. I think it would be rather hard to rob someone since it would be VERY obvious what is going on with all tenants always coming and going.Either way, when my lease is up in Oct, I'm out of here.All I can say here is that if you are considering the move, ask to see available units in the best buildings-1370, 1372, the ones directly across from there (I don't know the #'s), as well as the one above the maintenance office-these are all well maintained and have lots of friendly neighbors. Spend an afternoon wandering around the neighborhood to see how you feel (night too!). But to be frank, since the economic crash, you can find a cheaper unit closer to Manhattan that will probably have better maintenance and mgmt.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Just checking in, and maybe checking out.
So, I haven't been home much. Probably 1 night a week. Don't know if anything is going on or not. Last time I did laundry the "gym" was still as unfinished as it was before. But there is a sign about "information on membership fees coming soon." So I guess the gym is not an amenity. (Probably because they would have to offer it to the rent stabilized people who are paying under-market too, so they can't really roll the cost into rents).
I'm thinking about moving. Not for any particular reason, except I like change. I'm tempted to stay, it being stabilized with free utilities, including free A/C (and I like it cold).
Does anyone want a 2-bedroom in FBG? It's 1,350/month (which is the current going rate), but it's stabilized at that level, whereas most units have that as a preferential rate that can be jacked up quite a bit after the first year or two. Also, though FBG wouldn't agree with this, they cannot demand an A/C charge for any of three air conditioners, so it's free utilities, including free A/C. Also, there's a queen sized loft bed in the smaller room (which is good, because unless you're a kid, the second bedroom in FBG is just too small). That cost like $800 to build, and I don't really want to have to remove it (no piece of it fits out the door, i.e., I'm going to have to unscrew everything to get the wood out to the trash).
I'm thinking about moving. Not for any particular reason, except I like change. I'm tempted to stay, it being stabilized with free utilities, including free A/C (and I like it cold).
Does anyone want a 2-bedroom in FBG? It's 1,350/month (which is the current going rate), but it's stabilized at that level, whereas most units have that as a preferential rate that can be jacked up quite a bit after the first year or two. Also, though FBG wouldn't agree with this, they cannot demand an A/C charge for any of three air conditioners, so it's free utilities, including free A/C. Also, there's a queen sized loft bed in the smaller room (which is good, because unless you're a kid, the second bedroom in FBG is just too small). That cost like $800 to build, and I don't really want to have to remove it (no piece of it fits out the door, i.e., I'm going to have to unscrew everything to get the wood out to the trash).
Monday, January 25, 2010
Semi-interesting.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/25/nyregion/25stuy.html?partner=rss&emc=rss
It's interesting in that, when people ask where I live, I often use the well known Stuyvesant Town as an example (but half as tall). However, I'm sure FBG is not facing the same kinds of problems Stuyvesant Town is.
It's interesting in that, when people ask where I live, I often use the well known Stuyvesant Town as an example (but half as tall). However, I'm sure FBG is not facing the same kinds of problems Stuyvesant Town is.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
24-hour state of the art laundry room.
So, when I first moved in the laundry room closed at 9 with last call at 7pm. There is no announcement to the contrary that I've seen, but I've been down there past 9pm a few times, and it was unlocked. So I guess the "state of the art" laundry room is actually 24-hours now. Good news for us insomniac cleaners.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Someone asks for an updated opinion.
"I am originally from Marine Park which isn't that far fromFlatbush Gardens and to go to high school, I'd have to take the 41 tothe Junction to catch the 5 train as well as Holy Cross being thecemetery that family members are buried at. Growing up, that area wasless than desirable to say the least. I haven't read the full blog soI don't know if you're originally from Brooklyn/NYC or from outside ofthe area. If you've been a long time resident, have you seen anoticeable improvement to the area?"
>> I'm originally from Florida, and have been in NYC for 2 years now, after 3 years in DC. So, pretty new. I've lived 10 months in Brooklyn Heights, and 14 months in FBG.
"If you're new to the area, in thetime that you've lived at Flatbush Gardens, do you feel that thingshave improved even with the economy suffering?"
>> Things must have improved, because I think the neighborhood is pretty great. Safe and friendly. To hear the "old-timers" tell it, it was nothing but a giant crack den and gang hang out. Ok, at least once a week there is a pot odor coming from at least one apartment. I've never done pot, but I think it should be legal and have no problem with that. I've never seen any other drug use or symptoms of a drug using community. I'm sure there is plenty, but if I can't see it, then I really don't care about it. Is it Brooklyn heights, park slope, or even south-east williamsburg? no, but I think it's just fine. As for the economy, I suspect the concern there is (1) fewer cops, and (2) more people sitting around with nothing to do and needing money. Idk, hasn't seemed a problem. If anything, the economy is making FBG a more "reasonable" option for all those yuppies in Manhattan who have gotten pay cuts and the like.
"Do you own a car and if so, is it easy to park and do you feel comfortable having a car in theneighborhood?"
>> I do not, but I've rented a few and parked them on the street without incident. The complex has a couple paid garages. Before the second one opened up, there was an issue with no parking spaces available. However, I think that's been resolved, and a few months back they were actually offering incentives to get new parkers in there. They may be full now, but I can't imagine the wait list is that long. Remember, everyone out here is trying to save a buck. That's why so few people install AC units even though it's hot in the summer. With free street parking, a lot of folks are just going to take the extra time and extra risk to street park for free. I think the garage is $90 a month. I'd pay it for just convenience, let alone safety.
"If you had to do it all over again, would you chooseFlatbush Gardens or would to look to move to an area that may not beas convenient train-wise as where you are but for the same price you'dget a nicer apartment/living situation?"
>> Based on the way you ask the question, I'd certainly say yes. If I've disliked anything it's the commute. People who grow up in these super-urban areas seem to be ok with long commutes, like it's part of life. I hate them. So yes, my commute is only 35 minutes during rush hour, I live a half block from a 2/5 stop, and my destination is 100 feet from a 5 stop. By NYC standards my commute is a breeze, but I still hate it. In the BK Heights I was door to desk in under 14 minutes. So, I'm not a good person to ask about a quality to commute convenience trade off. I like it here. If you could get me to work in under 15 minutes, I'd probably never leave. Annoying at times, but still a great deal. Not everyone agrees here, but I still recommend it. I have friends who would rather die than live out here. For no other reason than they need to be within 5 minutes of a bar at all times. As long as you can handle a "family area" with no "hip young trendy" places, then I recommend this place.
Other's can weigh in with their own assessments.
>> I'm originally from Florida, and have been in NYC for 2 years now, after 3 years in DC. So, pretty new. I've lived 10 months in Brooklyn Heights, and 14 months in FBG.
"If you're new to the area, in thetime that you've lived at Flatbush Gardens, do you feel that thingshave improved even with the economy suffering?"
>> Things must have improved, because I think the neighborhood is pretty great. Safe and friendly. To hear the "old-timers" tell it, it was nothing but a giant crack den and gang hang out. Ok, at least once a week there is a pot odor coming from at least one apartment. I've never done pot, but I think it should be legal and have no problem with that. I've never seen any other drug use or symptoms of a drug using community. I'm sure there is plenty, but if I can't see it, then I really don't care about it. Is it Brooklyn heights, park slope, or even south-east williamsburg? no, but I think it's just fine. As for the economy, I suspect the concern there is (1) fewer cops, and (2) more people sitting around with nothing to do and needing money. Idk, hasn't seemed a problem. If anything, the economy is making FBG a more "reasonable" option for all those yuppies in Manhattan who have gotten pay cuts and the like.
"Do you own a car and if so, is it easy to park and do you feel comfortable having a car in theneighborhood?"
>> I do not, but I've rented a few and parked them on the street without incident. The complex has a couple paid garages. Before the second one opened up, there was an issue with no parking spaces available. However, I think that's been resolved, and a few months back they were actually offering incentives to get new parkers in there. They may be full now, but I can't imagine the wait list is that long. Remember, everyone out here is trying to save a buck. That's why so few people install AC units even though it's hot in the summer. With free street parking, a lot of folks are just going to take the extra time and extra risk to street park for free. I think the garage is $90 a month. I'd pay it for just convenience, let alone safety.
"If you had to do it all over again, would you chooseFlatbush Gardens or would to look to move to an area that may not beas convenient train-wise as where you are but for the same price you'dget a nicer apartment/living situation?"
>> Based on the way you ask the question, I'd certainly say yes. If I've disliked anything it's the commute. People who grow up in these super-urban areas seem to be ok with long commutes, like it's part of life. I hate them. So yes, my commute is only 35 minutes during rush hour, I live a half block from a 2/5 stop, and my destination is 100 feet from a 5 stop. By NYC standards my commute is a breeze, but I still hate it. In the BK Heights I was door to desk in under 14 minutes. So, I'm not a good person to ask about a quality to commute convenience trade off. I like it here. If you could get me to work in under 15 minutes, I'd probably never leave. Annoying at times, but still a great deal. Not everyone agrees here, but I still recommend it. I have friends who would rather die than live out here. For no other reason than they need to be within 5 minutes of a bar at all times. As long as you can handle a "family area" with no "hip young trendy" places, then I recommend this place.
Other's can weigh in with their own assessments.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Laundry... the prodigal amenity has returned.
As Megan first noted here, the laundry room has been totally shut down for some time. Wrath followed-up here with an on-site inspection, having out smarted their sign with the secret entrance, also known as "the other door." In an effort to see how many older posts I can link to, I'll ponder with reference to this, what is the difference between the laundry room being closed and opened?
But really, I'm writing to report that I went there this morning to get mail and check it out myself, and they were back up and running, with people doing their laundry.
Though I laugh as much as others when FBG continues to characterize the new and nice laundry room as "state-of-the-art," I do think it's really nice. A lot of machines and less than half the price of the two commercial places closest to the apts. I mean, to me, state-of-the-art might require something a little more futureistic or feature-full than a "super-wash" for a quarter. I do like that for a mere 2-bits you may actually get the soap out of your clothes, but "state-of-the-art"? What exactly is the washing machine art anyway, that it has a current state? Anyway, don't think it should close at 9pm (last call is 7pm), but when open, and when working, it's really nice. Including new ammenities like a vending machine (currently broken, lol).
Get your clean on!
But really, I'm writing to report that I went there this morning to get mail and check it out myself, and they were back up and running, with people doing their laundry.
Though I laugh as much as others when FBG continues to characterize the new and nice laundry room as "state-of-the-art," I do think it's really nice. A lot of machines and less than half the price of the two commercial places closest to the apts. I mean, to me, state-of-the-art might require something a little more futureistic or feature-full than a "super-wash" for a quarter. I do like that for a mere 2-bits you may actually get the soap out of your clothes, but "state-of-the-art"? What exactly is the washing machine art anyway, that it has a current state? Anyway, don't think it should close at 9pm (last call is 7pm), but when open, and when working, it's really nice. Including new ammenities like a vending machine (currently broken, lol).
Get your clean on!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Copyright shmopyright.
In an effort to post without having to do any work or writing or effort... I'm going to jack some content from curbed. I mean, they cited/characterized my blog without asking first, so I'm taking their content without asking first.
In the linked article, new leasing director Rick Miaw commented with the following:
As the leasing manager of Flatbush Gardens, I feel it is necessary to respond to the article “Established Tenants Fear Tides of Change at Flatbush Gardens.” As was stated at the end of the article, Clipper Equity is very respectful of the residents at Flatbush Gardens and our management, maintenance and security staffs are always working to improve the property and the quality of life within our community. We do not differentiate between “established “ and new tenants.
It is surprising that the article did not mention that over $20 million has been spent on this neighborhood which has a history of neglect from previous owners. As the buildings date back to the 40’s there is a constant need for repairs and updates and Clipper has conscientiously been making these improvements. There is a new elevator in each building, new boiler system and many other improvements.
This is a rent-stabilized community of over 10,000 residents with 2,469 homes spread out in 59 buildings over 30 acres. We have a staff that is dedicated to the maintenance of resident’s units and who work full time to make the repairs needed throughout the property. They are always evaluating urgent repairs and regular maintenance so that situations are properly addressed.
In 2006, Flatbush Gardens opened a completely new state of the art laundry facility. There are 65 industrial washers and 50 industrial dryers with proper plumbing and ventilation. This is adjacent to the new 24/7 mail and parcel post center. A new fitness center is planned for the same building.
Flatbush Gardens’ 1940’s buildings were not constructed to handle washing machines in the units. The landlord only finds out about a washing machine in a unit when a neighbor complains of a leak or water damage in their home. The landlord then takes action as the machine is causing a quality of life issue for the building. Improperly self-installed machines tap into the building waterlines causing numerous water issues throughout the building and there are the additional ventilation and drainage issue that are not correctly addressed which become a problem for the whole building.
The well-being of Flatbush Gardens’ residents is of paramount concern to this landlord and all the steps they have taken and will continue to take are legal and undertaken to strengthen the quality of life for all residents.
Our on-site maintenance office is open Monday – Friday, from 9 to 5 and the telephone number is 718-856-4505.
Rick Miaw
Flatbush Gardens
Leasing Manager
POST-SCRIPT: read the comments here for Megan's reply, ripped from the same comment section on curbed.
In the linked article, new leasing director Rick Miaw commented with the following:
As the leasing manager of Flatbush Gardens, I feel it is necessary to respond to the article “Established Tenants Fear Tides of Change at Flatbush Gardens.” As was stated at the end of the article, Clipper Equity is very respectful of the residents at Flatbush Gardens and our management, maintenance and security staffs are always working to improve the property and the quality of life within our community. We do not differentiate between “established “ and new tenants.
It is surprising that the article did not mention that over $20 million has been spent on this neighborhood which has a history of neglect from previous owners. As the buildings date back to the 40’s there is a constant need for repairs and updates and Clipper has conscientiously been making these improvements. There is a new elevator in each building, new boiler system and many other improvements.
This is a rent-stabilized community of over 10,000 residents with 2,469 homes spread out in 59 buildings over 30 acres. We have a staff that is dedicated to the maintenance of resident’s units and who work full time to make the repairs needed throughout the property. They are always evaluating urgent repairs and regular maintenance so that situations are properly addressed.
In 2006, Flatbush Gardens opened a completely new state of the art laundry facility. There are 65 industrial washers and 50 industrial dryers with proper plumbing and ventilation. This is adjacent to the new 24/7 mail and parcel post center. A new fitness center is planned for the same building.
Flatbush Gardens’ 1940’s buildings were not constructed to handle washing machines in the units. The landlord only finds out about a washing machine in a unit when a neighbor complains of a leak or water damage in their home. The landlord then takes action as the machine is causing a quality of life issue for the building. Improperly self-installed machines tap into the building waterlines causing numerous water issues throughout the building and there are the additional ventilation and drainage issue that are not correctly addressed which become a problem for the whole building.
The well-being of Flatbush Gardens’ residents is of paramount concern to this landlord and all the steps they have taken and will continue to take are legal and undertaken to strengthen the quality of life for all residents.
Our on-site maintenance office is open Monday – Friday, from 9 to 5 and the telephone number is 718-856-4505.
Rick Miaw
Flatbush Gardens
Leasing Manager
POST-SCRIPT: read the comments here for Megan's reply, ripped from the same comment section on curbed.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Meet the Press.
So apparently this blog has been cited by no less than curbed.com and nypost.com. This leads me to believe I'm still the only one who cares to jot down oberservations of FBG living.... I mean, if you have to cite this blog as evidence of something, well, you're reaching.
I also think 99% of the NYPost article is probably bullcrap. Oh, the tanant advocacy lawyer thinks harrassment might be going on in favor of gentrification? The rent-stabalized tenants fear harrassment? I want to see one confirmed housing court docket number where FBG attempted to evict a tenant who paid their rent but refused to pay the A/C fee. (BTW, if that docket number happens to have my name on it, since I pay my rent and refuse to pay the A/C fee, then consider me served). Don't tell me they're just taking their time to file the paper-work... my roommate (former ex-roommate and co-signee) forgot to mail in rent once, and had eviction papers delivered before the next month's invoice. I hate to be cynical, or misaccuse actual victims, but I think the majority of people in a tenant legal clinic didn't pay their rent and now have 100 newly invented reasons for why they did nothing wrong and the landlord is evil. (When in fact they did a lot wrong and the landlord has just the usual 5 or 6 reasons for being considered evil). FIX MY SINK JERKS!
I also think 99% of the NYPost article is probably bullcrap. Oh, the tanant advocacy lawyer thinks harrassment might be going on in favor of gentrification? The rent-stabalized tenants fear harrassment? I want to see one confirmed housing court docket number where FBG attempted to evict a tenant who paid their rent but refused to pay the A/C fee. (BTW, if that docket number happens to have my name on it, since I pay my rent and refuse to pay the A/C fee, then consider me served). Don't tell me they're just taking their time to file the paper-work... my roommate (former ex-roommate and co-signee) forgot to mail in rent once, and had eviction papers delivered before the next month's invoice. I hate to be cynical, or misaccuse actual victims, but I think the majority of people in a tenant legal clinic didn't pay their rent and now have 100 newly invented reasons for why they did nothing wrong and the landlord is evil. (When in fact they did a lot wrong and the landlord has just the usual 5 or 6 reasons for being considered evil). FIX MY SINK JERKS!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
New leasing director.
So, apparently FBG has a new head of leasing and renewals.
http://www.flatbushgardens.net/contact/
Mr. Rick Miaw. I have no comment. I wish Mr. Miaw luck in this new position and hope Miss Nora Gross has moved on to bigger and better things.
http://www.flatbushgardens.net/contact/
Mr. Rick Miaw. I have no comment. I wish Mr. Miaw luck in this new position and hope Miss Nora Gross has moved on to bigger and better things.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
They changed the locks on us.
The outside door of buildings 1350, 1352, 1354, 1356, 1360, 1362, 1364, 1366, 1370, and 1372 had their locks changed today. Management so kindly posted this flier YESTERDAY. You know, it's kind of a big deal to change the locks, maybe a little more than 18 hours notice is in order?
It says you have to have valid ID. That's bull crap, they can't lock you out of your apartment just because you can't prove who you are. They should know who you are. Anyway, I don't have an ID (who drives anymore? driving is so last centry). The roommate went down to pick up the keys, because shockingly I was out of the house to work before 9:30. Otherwise I would be able to report the hilarity that ensued as I went to get the keys without ID.
FYI, when your key doesn't work, go get a new one.
BTW, a little (though incredibly annoying) trick I learned watching "The Big Bang Theory," if you want to get into a building, just run your hand over all the buzzers.... someone, in some apartment is bound to be awake and buzz you in without saying "hello."
It says you have to have valid ID. That's bull crap, they can't lock you out of your apartment just because you can't prove who you are. They should know who you are. Anyway, I don't have an ID (who drives anymore? driving is so last centry). The roommate went down to pick up the keys, because shockingly I was out of the house to work before 9:30. Otherwise I would be able to report the hilarity that ensued as I went to get the keys without ID.
FYI, when your key doesn't work, go get a new one.
BTW, a little (though incredibly annoying) trick I learned watching "The Big Bang Theory," if you want to get into a building, just run your hand over all the buzzers.... someone, in some apartment is bound to be awake and buzz you in without saying "hello."
Thursday, August 20, 2009
No a/c fee for me... EVER!
I've decided I'm not going to pay the A/C fee. Before getting into this, I would just like to state for the record, that in theory, I think all these rent-stabalization laws are stupid and counter-productive. However, I'm not going to say no to free money.
Also, very important, I know FBG doesn't read this, but I really wish they did, because I will say this and mean it... Getting into these little fights costs me more money than I save, by being away from work to do it. If FBG management showed one drop of courtesy or respect, I would gladly pay these things instead of fighting over them. However, since they have ignored 10s of phone messages, 10s of voicemails, and 10s of letters mailed to them, all requesting that they just call me back so I may ask them a question or two, since they have ignored me so much, I will be a pain, and exercise my rights to not pay them.
Here's a fun fact about the air conditioner fee:
http://www.dhcr.state.ny.us/rent/factsheets/orafac27.htm
"An owner may collect from a rent stabilized tenant any of the charges for an air conditioner without obtaining a DHCR order. An owner must charge a tenant for an air conditioner at the time the units are initially installed, or within a reasonable period of time after its installation. If the owner fails to charge the tenant within a reasonable period of time after the installation, the owner waives the right to collect the charge."
This is the part that makes me so freakin' happy: When I first moved in, I wrote 10s of letters about the things that were never finished in the apartment, and begged them to call me to tell me if they would fix them, or wouldn't, so I could hire someone. They ignored me. However, the best part is, in those letters, I asked them to bill me for my air conditioner units installed in July 08. They ignored that too. I thought, wow, at least I'm getting some benefit from their total incompetence. However, this section of the DHCR regulations states that I now never have to pay them. To be sure, over a year would probably be unreasonable even if I never brought it to their attention, but it's 100% unreasonable since I begged them to bill me for it a year ago, and they refused. I haven't told them I'm not paying it yet, so we'll see how that goes. I'm guessing, not well.
Also, very important, I know FBG doesn't read this, but I really wish they did, because I will say this and mean it... Getting into these little fights costs me more money than I save, by being away from work to do it. If FBG management showed one drop of courtesy or respect, I would gladly pay these things instead of fighting over them. However, since they have ignored 10s of phone messages, 10s of voicemails, and 10s of letters mailed to them, all requesting that they just call me back so I may ask them a question or two, since they have ignored me so much, I will be a pain, and exercise my rights to not pay them.
Here's a fun fact about the air conditioner fee:
http://www.dhcr.state.ny.us/rent/factsheets/orafac27.htm
"An owner may collect from a rent stabilized tenant any of the charges for an air conditioner without obtaining a DHCR order. An owner must charge a tenant for an air conditioner at the time the units are initially installed, or within a reasonable period of time after its installation. If the owner fails to charge the tenant within a reasonable period of time after the installation, the owner waives the right to collect the charge."
This is the part that makes me so freakin' happy: When I first moved in, I wrote 10s of letters about the things that were never finished in the apartment, and begged them to call me to tell me if they would fix them, or wouldn't, so I could hire someone. They ignored me. However, the best part is, in those letters, I asked them to bill me for my air conditioner units installed in July 08. They ignored that too. I thought, wow, at least I'm getting some benefit from their total incompetence. However, this section of the DHCR regulations states that I now never have to pay them. To be sure, over a year would probably be unreasonable even if I never brought it to their attention, but it's 100% unreasonable since I begged them to bill me for it a year ago, and they refused. I haven't told them I'm not paying it yet, so we'll see how that goes. I'm guessing, not well.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
As I mentioned in an earlier post:
"NY Property Law requires renewal leases to be sent to stabilized tenants no more than 150 days before expiration and no less than 90 days before expiration. They sent ours 84 days from expiration. The penalty/remedy for this is that the old rental rate will be in effect for all rent due dates occurring prior to 90 days from the mailing date. In other words, July 1st, which will be my first rental payment under the new lease will be on the old scale, and not the new one."
I told them that I was not going to pay the extra 98.64 for July. They called me in mid-july to tell me I had to. They claimed they replied to my letter, but I got nothing. I'd like it noted that when they go to evict someone they slide the information under the door, along with mailing it, but when it's any other issue, they just hope you find out what they said. Anyway, maybe they replied maybe they didn't. Management offered to send evidence of a timely renewal lease. I said ok. However, 1 month later, no evidence, no tenant copy of the lease, and no copy of this alleged reply. I called 6 times, and left 6 messages, politely asking when I could expect this, and they did not return my call once.
I try my hardest to be as pleasant is possible, and all I've ever asked of these people is to RETURN A PHONE CALL. They seem wholly unable to do such.
"NY Property Law requires renewal leases to be sent to stabilized tenants no more than 150 days before expiration and no less than 90 days before expiration. They sent ours 84 days from expiration. The penalty/remedy for this is that the old rental rate will be in effect for all rent due dates occurring prior to 90 days from the mailing date. In other words, July 1st, which will be my first rental payment under the new lease will be on the old scale, and not the new one."
I told them that I was not going to pay the extra 98.64 for July. They called me in mid-july to tell me I had to. They claimed they replied to my letter, but I got nothing. I'd like it noted that when they go to evict someone they slide the information under the door, along with mailing it, but when it's any other issue, they just hope you find out what they said. Anyway, maybe they replied maybe they didn't. Management offered to send evidence of a timely renewal lease. I said ok. However, 1 month later, no evidence, no tenant copy of the lease, and no copy of this alleged reply. I called 6 times, and left 6 messages, politely asking when I could expect this, and they did not return my call once.
I try my hardest to be as pleasant is possible, and all I've ever asked of these people is to RETURN A PHONE CALL. They seem wholly unable to do such.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Maintenance is getting mixed reviews from us.
So, the hot water knob in the kitchen stopped working. Very annoying.
I tasked the roommate with calling maintenance (since I work all the time and she is on a 56-week vacation courtesy of Obama's unemployment extensions). She's better with people anyway. So, maintenance gets a B for responsiveness, and a D- for the ability to ring a doorbell. We called Friday, and Monday there was a note saying they came and we were not there. Problem is, we were there. All three of us were there when they came (roommate, roommate's friend, me). She called back, and they came Wednsday and left a note. Again, all three of us were there. They came again Thursday and left a note. Again, all three of us were there. We went down to the office and asked what the deal was, they had no answer and said they'd put our name on the night list. Ha, the infamous night list. That's the list where 3-4 people get their problems addressed between 5pm and 12pm, while the 50 other people on the list are not only not helped, but there is no attempt to convert those names to the day list of the next day. I.e., if you call with an emergency, not only will you not be helped, but you better call back tomorrow, because FBG thinks that emergencies go away if ignored for 12 hours. Needless to say, no one came.
So, who knows if they'll ever come and actually ring the outside buzzer, inside door-buzzer, or God forbid, KNOCK.
Whatever.
I tasked the roommate with calling maintenance (since I work all the time and she is on a 56-week vacation courtesy of Obama's unemployment extensions). She's better with people anyway. So, maintenance gets a B for responsiveness, and a D- for the ability to ring a doorbell. We called Friday, and Monday there was a note saying they came and we were not there. Problem is, we were there. All three of us were there when they came (roommate, roommate's friend, me). She called back, and they came Wednsday and left a note. Again, all three of us were there. They came again Thursday and left a note. Again, all three of us were there. We went down to the office and asked what the deal was, they had no answer and said they'd put our name on the night list. Ha, the infamous night list. That's the list where 3-4 people get their problems addressed between 5pm and 12pm, while the 50 other people on the list are not only not helped, but there is no attempt to convert those names to the day list of the next day. I.e., if you call with an emergency, not only will you not be helped, but you better call back tomorrow, because FBG thinks that emergencies go away if ignored for 12 hours. Needless to say, no one came.
So, who knows if they'll ever come and actually ring the outside buzzer, inside door-buzzer, or God forbid, KNOCK.
Whatever.
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