How does one get in on the first round of new dev offerings

Spend some time on the wirednewyork site. They have some AMAZING guys who collect the most unbelievable info about building permits, delays, etc. I don't think many buildings are releasing very many apartments during the first round now. It's taking a few months, at the least, for most buildings to sell 50%, so the urgency isn't as great. When you are ready, a good broker who's been working primarily below 34th Street for awhile should be able to let you know when buildings you are interested in will open sales offices. The New York real estate publication, The Real Deal, also has ads and info in it regarding the new developments.
Good luck

We did it by cozying up to real estate lawyers who specialize in Manhattan residential. They're the ones who actually write the offering plans for the developers, and if you get in with one who does alot of this, it'll be in his/her interest to make sure you score a place as you'll hire them for the closing, plus they'll probably get a kicback of some portion (or all) of the brokers fee for bringing you to the party in the first place. That's how we scored the best unit (penthouse, wrap terrace, fireplace, etc.) in the new condo build that we decided to buy into.