Thoughts on the Glove Factory Lofts?

Hi! I recently saw a unit I love in the building but have seen a few negative items about it (particularly how it was busted for being an illegal hostel a while back). How can I find more information on it? Also, does anyone have a sense on how negotiable the rent there would be? The one bedroom unit I'm looking at was originally listed in the middle of December at $2,600 and is now going for $2,500. Can I ask for less or is that pretty decent for the building? This is my first time renting an apartment in NYC so I'm not sure how that process works... Do I negotiate before or after getting approved? Any and all advice is much appreciate! Thanks!