I’ve read a lot of speculation about what it’s like to live at the fabled Apthorp – mostly by people who don’t live there. Well, I moved into one of the renovated apartments a year ago, and I’d like to share my experience with the building. I’m writing this particularly for anyone who is considering spending millions of dollars to live in one of the refurbished units like mine. Let’s start with... [more]
I’ve read a lot of speculation about what it’s like to live at the fabled Apthorp – mostly by people who don’t live there. Well, I moved into one of the renovated apartments a year ago, and I’d like to share my experience with the building. I’m writing this particularly for anyone who is considering spending millions of dollars to live in one of the refurbished units like mine.
Let’s start with the positive aspects: First, some of the staff are genuinely kind and helpful men. The B Building doorman, Brooks, is an exceptional human being, always happy to see you, big smile – the kind of person you wish the earth were populated with. Likewise, Robert, the D building custodian has a wonderful disposition, he works hard, and always has a smile. Ariel, the daytime doorman in Building C is always happy, waving and greeting everyone, and is a pleasure. Some of the rest of the staff – Eric, Dennis, Richard, Remy – perform their jobs well and can generally be counted on to help when called upon.
Second, the apartments themselves, the renovated ones, are spectacular. I have not seen the combination of tall ceilings, room capacities, salvaged architectural detail and gracious layouts like this anywhere else.
This ends the list of positive aspects. Now, turning toward the matters that have more of an impact on your experience of living in the building:
First, and without question most important, the building manager, Mike Gjelaj, and his assistant, Nicole Miles simply should not have their jobs. There is not a single worker on staff that I’ve spoken to, and that’s most of them, that respects Mike. There is no sense of discipline, and little professionalism among the staff. Some examples: 1) Mike himself can be found most days and most hours standing outside the back gate smoking and chatting with the myriad construction workers who come and go all day long; 2) Doormen talk, text, play games, and listen to music on their phones while they are on duty and this goes uncorrected; 3) Doormen are commonly asleep on the evening shift when you come from dinner or the theater; 4) Doormen often sit in the lobby chair, moving it into the corner where it’s nowhere near the door they are supposed to be attending; 5) Doormen frequently are not even in the lobby. In our building, the daytime doorman simply was not in the lobby the vast majority of the time. The result of all of this is the doormen don’t do the one job they are presumably there to do: open the door. If I had to guess the percent of times a doorman actually opened the door for me, either coming or going over the past year, I think a realistic estimate would be less than 10% of the time. So, you arrive home with groceries, packages, dry-cleaning? Good luck…you’re on your own. Some of the doormen have two day jobs, so they will work at another building from 8am to 4pm, then rush over to the Apthorp where they take up their duties from 4pm to midnight. Of course they fall asleep, get sick, can’t stand up, have to talk on the phone to make arrangements life requires. My question is, why do we pay thousands of dollars every month for service that is promised but not provided?
Nicole Miles, the office assistant, is another dangerously weak link. Most often, she will not even respond to an email request. She treats every interrogatory as a threat or a bother and, incredibly, she lies about very important issues. Example: before we signed the papers that would begin our residency, we asked for the status of every apartment above, below, and on either side of us to try to gauge the potential noise that might be created via construction projects. This was incredibly important since one of us works from home, and quiet for phone conversations is imperative. Nicole gave us the status of each apartment, basically assuring us there would be no work. About a month after we moved in, a complete year-long renovation started on the apartment above ours, resulting most weekdays in noise starting at 8am (work is not supposed to begin at the Apthorp until 9am) and continuing straight through until 5pm. Imagine noise so loud you literally cannot hear someone on the phone.
In addition to this noise, there are so many apartments being renovated at the Apthorp that you can never get an elevator. Construction workers, tired of waiting for the service elevator, take the main passenger elevator. Naturally, the doormen do nothing to stop or discourage this. There is dirt everywhere, and the language that you will hear every day in the central courtyard is truly disgusting. Again, the management is ineffective, so no attempts are made to control this. Quite the opposite, the building manager seems to revel in befriending these foulmouthed workers. It is truly astonishing to walk in and out of a building that costs what it does, and to be treated to this kind of behavior with no one in charge.
Other topics have been covered by others at length, and they are all true: you can fill up a water glass with brown sludge that comes out of your kitchen sink, you can go without heat for over a week before the building will fix it. Yes, at Christmas and New Years, we had NO HEAT – NONE – for nine days. At no point did anyone tell us they were working on this problem, most likely because they were not, and there was no follow up at all. Ramos, the head engineer, was never able to fix anything we called him about. And when they tell you something will be fixed – a loose front door handle, for example – you will never hear from the building staff again. It is not uncommon to walk through the courtyard and find a resident screaming in exasperation at one of the building maintenance staff. And you empathize, because again, you cannot believe that the maintenance fees we pay cannot afford a higher quality staff. The building manager lives in a free, multi-million dollar apartment and draws a salary of nearly a quarter of a million dollars a year. Why are we not able to get someone who actually can manage this building and its staff, set an example, and make the experience of living at the Apthorp everything the marketing materials assure us it will be?
The Apthorp looks to sell its renovated units for about $2,100-$2,400 a square foot. They claim parity to well-known Upper East Side buildings that get these amounts. The problem is, while the units themselves are beautiful, the building in which they exist is poorly managed. If I knew then what I know today, I would not pay more than half what I did. Half.
So, if you are considering the Apthorp as a potential residence, look past the beautiful gates and the impressive courtyard. Ignore the claims of similarity with other well-known buildings that charge top prices. Instead, focus on what your day-to-day experience is going to be like living there: you’re on your own, the staff is unmotivated and unmanaged, the management office is incompetent and the infrastructure is so old that you will live with constant headaches such as no water for 14 hours straight, no heat, windows that do nothing to block the amazingly loud noise coming from Broadway, etc, etc. Maybe in another 20 years the Apthorp will be ready for prime time; until then, take the advice of someone who made the mistake and steer clear.
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
How much was your apartment?
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Response by sidelinesitter
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 1596
Member since: Mar 2009
Nice rant. Certainly on the strong end of debut posts on SE.
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Response by falcogold1
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4159
Member since: Sep 2008
sjketterer...that was beautiful.
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Response by csn
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 450
Member since: Dec 2007
kind of sad
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Response by West81st
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 5564
Member since: Jan 2008
sjketterer: Thanks for posting. There's been a shortage of Apthorp news since the Mann-Leviev feud quieted down. Did you buy or rent?
The issue with the duties of a "doorman" can be tricky in a building that has converted recently from rental to condo. The person who looks like a doorman may technically be something else, like a lobby attendant, concierge or even a porter. So opening the door for you might not be in the job description. It can be an awkward situation: a well-meaning employee wants to "go above and beyond", but the union discourages it and there can even be situations - especially in a recent conversion with a lot of rent-regulated tenants - where the sponsor restricts the services the staff can provide.
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Response by MIBNYC
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 421
Member since: Mar 2012
Sad ..this was one of my dream buildings to live in
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Response by uwsbeagle
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 285
Member since: Feb 2012
The poster has legitimate gripes but let's keep it in perspective: the construction WILL end at some point and the building will hopefully return to a liveable environment with easy access to elevators, staff, etc. I agree that the building manager seems completely inept and should be fired.
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Response by UWSSearching
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 0
Member since: Mar 2012
thank you for posting. We had looked at a number of apts and considered - they are so beautiful! - BUT the financial management of the building seemed really scary. Helps to know we made the right decision. Sorry for your situation.
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Response by NYC10007
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 432
Member since: Nov 2009
If you purchased an apartment, you certainly aren't helping your own resale value with this posting. Not that most purchasers probably even know what Streeteasy is, but still, I'm impressed.
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Response by MIBNYC
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 421
Member since: Mar 2012
NYC ... Soooo what is she suppose to do ..just swallow the bullshit ?
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Response by West81st
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 5564
Member since: Jan 2008
NYC10007: Read between the lines. Looks like it was a one-year rental.
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Response by glamma
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 830
Member since: Jun 2009
i thought it was a he
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Response by drdrd
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 1905
Member since: Apr 2007
Anybody think that he/she threw the great staff under the bus by sharing "There's not a single worker on the staff . . . that respects Mike" ?
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Response by apt23
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 2041
Member since: Jul 2009
w81. Believe the OP inferred that it was a purchase. >>If I knew then what I know today, I would not pay more than half what I did. Half.>> -- in reference to ppsf.
NYC1007 -- If OP is a buyer and plans to stay long term then, short term hit to prices would not affect OP yet if this kind of rant gets results, the OP's quality of life would improve. Probably the point. And very effective.
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Response by sidelinesitter
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 1596
Member since: Mar 2009
"before we signed the papers that would begin our residency...
This would be an odd way to describe a purchase. Sounds more like signing a lease on a rental. Wouldn't a purchaser more likely say something like, "before we signed the contract..." or "before we closed on our apartment..."?
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Response by truthskr10
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4088
Member since: Jul 2009
Seems like it does fall on building manager, Mike Gjelaj.
Majority of the staff are hearing the complaints and probably agree with most of them.
Is there some kind of slavic mafia dominating nyc doormen or their union?
Seems like every building is staffed with a large chunk of yugoslavian last names.
At the Rivergate where I used to live, more than half of the 40 names on the christmas card of porters,handymen,concierges,doormen were so.
Anyway Rivergate management was attrocious,and the building greatly changed in many ways.
Most of the doormen agreed. But they can't do anything.
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Response by truthskr10
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4088
Member since: Jul 2009
SLS
Could also be seller of 5A. By the sales history, Im sure there's a story
StreetEasy History
04/28/2009Listed by Douglas Elliman at $3,375,000.
05/21/2010Price increased by 24% to $4,201,319.
11/10/2010Listing sold.
12/14/2012Sale recorded for $3,095,321 -26.3%
Apt23>If OP is a buyer and plans to stay long term then, short term hit to prices would not affect OP yet if this kind of rant gets results, the OP's quality of life would improve. Probably the point. And very effective.
Bingo
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Response by West81st
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 5564
Member since: Jan 2008
truthskr10: Lots of immigrants from the Balkans and the Caucacus have succeeded in building management. Many started out as handymen and worked their way up to Super. Think about it: Eastern Europe was a great place to learn how to maintain obsolete infrastructure with limited access to parts or tools.
Once they were in a position to make hiring decisions, they have tended to recruit and promote from their own communities, which in turn sets up the next generation to get good jobs in other buildings. (Bit of a crude generalization/stereotype, but that's how it goes.) It's not a "mafia", exactly, although a pernicious side effect tends to be a not-so-subtle racism. Basically, it's an Old World way of conducting business that persisted, for obvious reasons, during the Iron Curtain years: you trust family first, then people from your village, and so forth. Plus, if you give your neighbor's nephew a job, the favor will probably be returned at some point; if you don't, the snub will be remembered. It won't cause a blood feud like in the Old Country, but you might not be invited to the next picnic either.
So, if your Christmas tip list includes a lot of Albanian, Armenian or Serb names, that's probably why.
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Response by truthskr10
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4088
Member since: Jul 2009
west81st
Yes I was being a bit facetious, the union aspect emphasized more than the people(s) background for the mafia reference, but I was genuinely interested to know.
Our city get waves of immigration dominated by region from time to time.
I recall the russian and brazillian waves in the 90s, and assume the Balkan Wars caused a wave as well.
I just couldnt figure how it played into NYC building lower management.
Your explanation sounds quite reasonable and plausible.
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Response by yikes
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 1016
Member since: Mar 2012
you inferred, the OP implied.
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Response by truthskr10
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4088
Member since: Jul 2009
Actually my biggest crime was probably using the terms slavic and yugoslavian.
I'm still trying to understand what's wrong with the term "oriental" before "asian" makes the list.
And the surprise on my african american friends faces when I tell them the exact translation of the yiddish word "shvartze" is "black."
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Response by uwsbeagle
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 285
Member since: Feb 2012
Just don't translate Arnold's last name.
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Response by Truth
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 5641
Member since: Dec 2009
truthskr:
It's the Albanian mafia.
No need to apologize.
As my friend,who's a retired NYPD Detective and now a private investigator told me:
"The Albanians have become the new Building Super Mafia. Their friends all carry guns and every time they're arrested, for whatever reason -- they have a gun on them and/or in their vehicles. The Supers don't carry guns while at work."
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
>I'm still trying to understand what's wrong with the term "oriental" before "asian" makes the list.
Oriental is for rugs.
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Response by columbiacounty
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 12708
Member since: Jan 2009
liar.
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
columbiacounty
9 minutes ago
Posts: 11203
Member since: Jan 2009
ignore this person
report abuse
liar.
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Response by renterjoey
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 351
Member since: Oct 2011
I would be very surprised if the OP was actually an owner of the apt. He/She sounds like a very disgruntled renter in this building. I assume since the building went from a rental to a condo there might be some renters that are feeling quite uncomfortable living in this building and are quite annoyed about the conversion. Kind of sounds like a negative ad from a renter trying to persuade potential buyers to think otherwise.Just my opinion of course.
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Response by MIBNYC
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 421
Member since: Mar 2012
Wow ..what is it with many of you MOFOS ?? Shoot the MESSENGER ?? At least the OP is giving the scoop on whats going on at this building.
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Response by renterjoey
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 351
Member since: Oct 2011
I have read several articles about this conversion of the APTROP and there appears to be many rent regulated tenants still living in in this building that are quite pissed off about this conversion. Think about it if you were a long term renter in this building and they converted it to a condo would you be pissed?
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Response by renterjoey
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 351
Member since: Oct 2011
I have to also assume that the staff and management treat the renters in this building different than the owners.
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Response by columbiacounty
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 12708
Member since: Jan 2009
the statement that OP moved into one of the renovated apartments a year ago clearly refutes your theory.
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Response by renterjoey
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 351
Member since: Oct 2011
columbia you might be right. OP might be subletting this apt. I also believe that the OP may be a very high maintenance renter..
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Response by MMC285
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 30
Member since: May 2009
So SJK....how about outing yourself? Owner or renter? I think you ARE a buyer and that you have actually experienced all that you say you have. I think it was indeed brave for you to expose yourself. Renters usually just move on. Any renter that got themselves into a nightmarish ordeal would just not renew the lease and move on. Many building that are either new or new conversions go through this type of process. So many contractors moving in and out through many projects makes it impossible to control. What usually happens is that the shareholders or unit owners eventually take over the Board and then order is restored. Bad managers and employees are replaced, and responsiveness changes. As long as the sponsor is in control ofthe Board all efforts will be geared towards prioritizing the sponsor's interests over those of the owners.
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Response by sjketterer
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 2
Member since: Sep 2010
Hi everyone...a friend said I should check back here on my post; interesting to see all the different reactions. Rather than get into an online back and forth, I'll simply offer to talk to anyone who is genuinely interested in the building and what it's like to live there. You reach a point in life when you see unjust behavior and you realize the right thing to do is stand up, point at it, and declare it unacceptable. The Apthorp simply has no business charging the prices it does when the service level it delivers is so far below that stated value, period. I'm not in the country right now, but if you write me at parklover77@gmail.com, I'll be more than happy to engage in useful discourse. Happy to speak on the phone as well, once I return. Happy New Year to everyone.
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Response by renterjoey
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 351
Member since: Oct 2011
My guess OP is a renter who is very pissed off about this conversion. This is not unusual.
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
>Happy New Year to everyone.
It's January 12th. We are beyond the "Happy New Year" time of thew new year.
Besides, you could have easily answered some questions, especially about the status of your residency, but you for some reason decided to leave it a mystery, and then proceed to tell us how important you are because you are out of the country and don't have time for us now.
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Response by Riccardo65
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 347
Member since: Jan 2011
Oh my Lord, talk about the pot calling the kettle black...................... When's your next "concert"? Are you going to have Lady GaGa and Justin Beiber as openers and ME as the star???? I could sing the mad scene from Lucrezia Borgia and finish with my greatest hit, "Ugo, Conte di Parigi." I'm already rehearsing the two mad scenes.............................
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Response by nycpartime
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4
Member since: May 2010
I feel the need to put my 2 cents in to this conversation. I am an owner at the Apthorp. we did our own renovation so our apartment might be a bit different than apts that the building is renovating. we have lived there for the past 6 months. we went through the renovation without a hitch and the building was great with our contractor. I have had no problems what so ever with any of the building staff. Nicole at the office has always addressed any issues I have had and answers questions promptly. We love our doormen (granted that they are not at the door at all times but that is ok with me). most times gate men will ask me if I need help carrying anything in if my hands are full. everyone makes the effort to say hello to me and addresses me by name.
-windows. the noise from the street can get loud but unfortunately since it is a landmarks building we did not have any say in the windows that we replaced. we had to use the window installer that the building had chosen.
-the apt next to us is now being renovated. it can be loud but I was assured it would be done soon. our contractor was not able to come in to building until 9am and had to leave at 4:30. when workers next door were coming in earlier i went to Mike and Nicole and was told that rules had changed. the apts being renovated by building start earlier and end later and I was told that those contractors were given a shorter window to finish. my Reno took 18 months and building is telling perspective buyers apts will be ready in much less time. all workers I have run in to say hello. yes I have heard not so great language but not when workers are aware I am standing close enough to hear.
-as far as I know there was only 1 day when water was out. we were having problems with heat around New Years but I thought it was our own issue and my own electricians came in and all turned out fine. we have never had muddy water out of our facets.
-we have introduced ourselves to tenants and owners in our building and all have been so nice.
-gym and everything else has been great.
We absolutely love walking through those gates every day and I don't think I will ever get sick of it. I feel so very lucky to be able to be an owner in this gorgeous old historic building. all this being said I am positive I live in another tower than the original poster so not sure what is going on in building A which I think he is talking about.
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Response by MidtownerEast
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 733
Member since: Oct 2010
Imagine: Foul-mouthed construction workers. How uncouth. I bet they have terrible table manners as well. I would expect Apthorp construction workers to have been educated at Miss Porter's.
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
>Foul-mouthed
>uncouth
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Response by falcogold1
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 4159
Member since: Sep 2008
Riccardo65,
Forgive my question, when I read your writing I picture a toned down version of the character of the houseboy played by Hank Azaria in the movie "The Bird Cage" with a similar but authentic accent. Just for shits & giggles...how close am I to the real Riccardo?
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Response by Riccardo65
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 347
Member since: Jan 2011
Can't answer that one. Have never seen the movie. I don't enjoy gay movies because I'm not gay. Guess it just seems that way????? One can be an internationally known opera singer and still be straight. Shall be play "What's My Line"? You can be Dorothy Killgallen.....................
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
Riccardo65, are you saying to falcogold1 that only gay people can enjoy movies like The Bird Cage?
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Response by NWT
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 6643
Member since: Sep 2008
Riccardo, you need better PR. All that turn up online are your 1975 role as one of the Marschallin's footmen, and once in the chorus in 1991. The wig-flushing incident got much more press, so might count as internationally-known.
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Response by drdrd
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 1905
Member since: Apr 2007
Wig flushing? Reminds me of that scene from 'Valley of the Dolls' . . .
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Response by huntersburg
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 11329
Member since: Nov 2010
>Riccardo, you need better PR. All that turn up online are your 1975 role as one of the Marschallin's footmen, and once in the chorus in 1991. The wig-flushing incident got much more press, so might count as internationally-known.
Did you also search under the email address that he posted on one of the threads here on SE?
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Response by NWT
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 6643
Member since: Sep 2008
Of course. I was busy looking him up while others were writing him pretending to be Truth.
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Response by Truth
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 5641
Member since: Dec 2009
NWT:
The most interesting of those others was the one claiming that my real name is "Jennifer".
"Jennifer" sent him an e-mail with some of the very same info that I received via e-mail from
a member of the streeteasy community (with whom I cut off e-mail contact), years ago.
That info was never posted on streeteasy.
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Response by Riccardo65
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 347
Member since: Jan 2011
I would love to find out about this wig-flushing incident. Definitely not me. I sang internationally from 1971 until 1980. Then in the San Francisco Opera chorus from 1981 throuth 1991. So there's the truth, pardon the pun for whoever TRUTH is or claims to be. I'm not at all ashamed of who I am and don't care what anyone thinks they might know.
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Response by MIBNYC
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 421
Member since: Mar 2012
~~~ Its raining men alleluya ~~~ its raining men, AMEN ~~~
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Response by NWT
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 6643
Member since: Sep 2008
But Riccardo, you acknowledged the wig episode when you said: "And to set the record straight, yes, I flushed wigs down the toilet so I could sport my gorgeous, white blond spikey do!!!! I was the prima donna assoluta!!!!!"
When you first showed up early last year, something about your tone made me think "We got us a live one here!" and you haven't disappointed. Keep talking.
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Response by Riccardo65
almost 13 years ago
Posts: 347
Member since: Jan 2011
BUSTED!!!!!! But I no longer pretend to be someone I'm not. I'm old and sedate now, but I have many wonderful memories. I guess I should stop participating in this forum. But I love New York, New York real estate, and most of all, you crazy, wonderful New Yorkers. Nowhere in the world do you find such peeps... Love to you all, even if you hate.
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Response by guest1234
over 12 years ago
Posts: 22
Member since: Nov 2010
x
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Response by guest1234
over 12 years ago
Posts: 22
Member since: Nov 2010
Well, I can comment on the building too as an owner.
I have found Mike, the super, a nice guy, but almost overwhelmed with the construction.
And rules have changed since we bought an already renovated apartment.
It was suppose to be 9 am to 4 pm.
But, now it is is 8 am to after 5 pm.
There is also construction on Saturdays, it is suppose to be quiet construction, but usually it is not.
I have difficulty getting the regular elevator as the construction workers are constantly riding the elevator.
They are suppose to use the service, but that is being used for construction debris.
They are polite, but also they don't speak any English, so in fairness I have never heard them curse.
I have complained to the office manager, young woman named Nicole, who just yesses me to death.
The doormen are hit or miss. Some will help me with my packages and open the doors.
Others are sitting in the one lone chair and texting. While the plus is they are not actually talking on their phones,
the texting is quite annoying as their eyes are glued to it. ( yes, I am from the older generation, I don't text).
The handy man, Ramos, comes very quickly. No complaints.
Garbage is handled in an unusual way. It is put out in the back hallways, but there are no garbage cans?
I asked and was told it was a fire hindrance.
The porters for the building spend too much time gabbing and not enough time cleaning.
For a white glove building, gloves ( when worn) are dirty.
The water is weird. No other way to put it. Sometimes, it comes out reddish brown.
Every time it does, I call the super and they say they are "flushing the pipes".
I am not sure what that means, but half the time I need to constantly run the dishwasher twice.
For the maintenance fees we pay, the service should always be 100%.
Dogs - if you don't love them, don't buy here.
This is a dog building.
One of the bigger problems is how dirty the building is due to the constant construction.
There needs to be better air filters. And better sealing of the building's apartments that are under construction.
So, definitely a mixed bag. I believe my apartment will only go up in value.
But, I do wish the building was held to a higher standard of care in terms of cleanliness.
'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
How much was your apartment?
Nice rant. Certainly on the strong end of debut posts on SE.
sjketterer...that was beautiful.
kind of sad
sjketterer: Thanks for posting. There's been a shortage of Apthorp news since the Mann-Leviev feud quieted down. Did you buy or rent?
The issue with the duties of a "doorman" can be tricky in a building that has converted recently from rental to condo. The person who looks like a doorman may technically be something else, like a lobby attendant, concierge or even a porter. So opening the door for you might not be in the job description. It can be an awkward situation: a well-meaning employee wants to "go above and beyond", but the union discourages it and there can even be situations - especially in a recent conversion with a lot of rent-regulated tenants - where the sponsor restricts the services the staff can provide.
Sad ..this was one of my dream buildings to live in
The poster has legitimate gripes but let's keep it in perspective: the construction WILL end at some point and the building will hopefully return to a liveable environment with easy access to elevators, staff, etc. I agree that the building manager seems completely inept and should be fired.
thank you for posting. We had looked at a number of apts and considered - they are so beautiful! - BUT the financial management of the building seemed really scary. Helps to know we made the right decision. Sorry for your situation.
If you purchased an apartment, you certainly aren't helping your own resale value with this posting. Not that most purchasers probably even know what Streeteasy is, but still, I'm impressed.
NYC ... Soooo what is she suppose to do ..just swallow the bullshit ?
NYC10007: Read between the lines. Looks like it was a one-year rental.
i thought it was a he
Anybody think that he/she threw the great staff under the bus by sharing "There's not a single worker on the staff . . . that respects Mike" ?
w81. Believe the OP inferred that it was a purchase. >>If I knew then what I know today, I would not pay more than half what I did. Half.>> -- in reference to ppsf.
NYC1007 -- If OP is a buyer and plans to stay long term then, short term hit to prices would not affect OP yet if this kind of rant gets results, the OP's quality of life would improve. Probably the point. And very effective.
"before we signed the papers that would begin our residency...
This would be an odd way to describe a purchase. Sounds more like signing a lease on a rental. Wouldn't a purchaser more likely say something like, "before we signed the contract..." or "before we closed on our apartment..."?
Seems like it does fall on building manager, Mike Gjelaj.
Majority of the staff are hearing the complaints and probably agree with most of them.
Is there some kind of slavic mafia dominating nyc doormen or their union?
Seems like every building is staffed with a large chunk of yugoslavian last names.
At the Rivergate where I used to live, more than half of the 40 names on the christmas card of porters,handymen,concierges,doormen were so.
Anyway Rivergate management was attrocious,and the building greatly changed in many ways.
Most of the doormen agreed. But they can't do anything.
SLS
Could also be seller of 5A. By the sales history, Im sure there's a story
StreetEasy History
04/28/2009Listed by Douglas Elliman at $3,375,000.
05/21/2010Price increased by 24% to $4,201,319.
11/10/2010Listing sold.
12/14/2012Sale recorded for $3,095,321 -26.3%
http://streeteasy.com/nyc/sale/407074-condo-390-west-end-avenue-upper-west-side-new-york
5A's seller was the sponsor.
NWT, your 20-15 vision never disappoints.
Apt23>If OP is a buyer and plans to stay long term then, short term hit to prices would not affect OP yet if this kind of rant gets results, the OP's quality of life would improve. Probably the point. And very effective.
Bingo
truthskr10: Lots of immigrants from the Balkans and the Caucacus have succeeded in building management. Many started out as handymen and worked their way up to Super. Think about it: Eastern Europe was a great place to learn how to maintain obsolete infrastructure with limited access to parts or tools.
Once they were in a position to make hiring decisions, they have tended to recruit and promote from their own communities, which in turn sets up the next generation to get good jobs in other buildings. (Bit of a crude generalization/stereotype, but that's how it goes.) It's not a "mafia", exactly, although a pernicious side effect tends to be a not-so-subtle racism. Basically, it's an Old World way of conducting business that persisted, for obvious reasons, during the Iron Curtain years: you trust family first, then people from your village, and so forth. Plus, if you give your neighbor's nephew a job, the favor will probably be returned at some point; if you don't, the snub will be remembered. It won't cause a blood feud like in the Old Country, but you might not be invited to the next picnic either.
So, if your Christmas tip list includes a lot of Albanian, Armenian or Serb names, that's probably why.
west81st
Yes I was being a bit facetious, the union aspect emphasized more than the people(s) background for the mafia reference, but I was genuinely interested to know.
Our city get waves of immigration dominated by region from time to time.
I recall the russian and brazillian waves in the 90s, and assume the Balkan Wars caused a wave as well.
I just couldnt figure how it played into NYC building lower management.
Your explanation sounds quite reasonable and plausible.
you inferred, the OP implied.
Actually my biggest crime was probably using the terms slavic and yugoslavian.
I'm still trying to understand what's wrong with the term "oriental" before "asian" makes the list.
And the surprise on my african american friends faces when I tell them the exact translation of the yiddish word "shvartze" is "black."
Just don't translate Arnold's last name.
truthskr:
It's the Albanian mafia.
No need to apologize.
As my friend,who's a retired NYPD Detective and now a private investigator told me:
"The Albanians have become the new Building Super Mafia. Their friends all carry guns and every time they're arrested, for whatever reason -- they have a gun on them and/or in their vehicles. The Supers don't carry guns while at work."
>I'm still trying to understand what's wrong with the term "oriental" before "asian" makes the list.
Oriental is for rugs.
liar.
columbiacounty
9 minutes ago
Posts: 11203
Member since: Jan 2009
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liar.
I would be very surprised if the OP was actually an owner of the apt. He/She sounds like a very disgruntled renter in this building. I assume since the building went from a rental to a condo there might be some renters that are feeling quite uncomfortable living in this building and are quite annoyed about the conversion. Kind of sounds like a negative ad from a renter trying to persuade potential buyers to think otherwise.Just my opinion of course.
Wow ..what is it with many of you MOFOS ?? Shoot the MESSENGER ?? At least the OP is giving the scoop on whats going on at this building.
I have read several articles about this conversion of the APTROP and there appears to be many rent regulated tenants still living in in this building that are quite pissed off about this conversion. Think about it if you were a long term renter in this building and they converted it to a condo would you be pissed?
I have to also assume that the staff and management treat the renters in this building different than the owners.
the statement that OP moved into one of the renovated apartments a year ago clearly refutes your theory.
columbia you might be right. OP might be subletting this apt. I also believe that the OP may be a very high maintenance renter..
So SJK....how about outing yourself? Owner or renter? I think you ARE a buyer and that you have actually experienced all that you say you have. I think it was indeed brave for you to expose yourself. Renters usually just move on. Any renter that got themselves into a nightmarish ordeal would just not renew the lease and move on. Many building that are either new or new conversions go through this type of process. So many contractors moving in and out through many projects makes it impossible to control. What usually happens is that the shareholders or unit owners eventually take over the Board and then order is restored. Bad managers and employees are replaced, and responsiveness changes. As long as the sponsor is in control ofthe Board all efforts will be geared towards prioritizing the sponsor's interests over those of the owners.
Hi everyone...a friend said I should check back here on my post; interesting to see all the different reactions. Rather than get into an online back and forth, I'll simply offer to talk to anyone who is genuinely interested in the building and what it's like to live there. You reach a point in life when you see unjust behavior and you realize the right thing to do is stand up, point at it, and declare it unacceptable. The Apthorp simply has no business charging the prices it does when the service level it delivers is so far below that stated value, period. I'm not in the country right now, but if you write me at parklover77@gmail.com, I'll be more than happy to engage in useful discourse. Happy to speak on the phone as well, once I return. Happy New Year to everyone.
My guess OP is a renter who is very pissed off about this conversion. This is not unusual.
>Happy New Year to everyone.
It's January 12th. We are beyond the "Happy New Year" time of thew new year.
Besides, you could have easily answered some questions, especially about the status of your residency, but you for some reason decided to leave it a mystery, and then proceed to tell us how important you are because you are out of the country and don't have time for us now.
Oh my Lord, talk about the pot calling the kettle black...................... When's your next "concert"? Are you going to have Lady GaGa and Justin Beiber as openers and ME as the star???? I could sing the mad scene from Lucrezia Borgia and finish with my greatest hit, "Ugo, Conte di Parigi." I'm already rehearsing the two mad scenes.............................
I feel the need to put my 2 cents in to this conversation. I am an owner at the Apthorp. we did our own renovation so our apartment might be a bit different than apts that the building is renovating. we have lived there for the past 6 months. we went through the renovation without a hitch and the building was great with our contractor. I have had no problems what so ever with any of the building staff. Nicole at the office has always addressed any issues I have had and answers questions promptly. We love our doormen (granted that they are not at the door at all times but that is ok with me). most times gate men will ask me if I need help carrying anything in if my hands are full. everyone makes the effort to say hello to me and addresses me by name.
-windows. the noise from the street can get loud but unfortunately since it is a landmarks building we did not have any say in the windows that we replaced. we had to use the window installer that the building had chosen.
-the apt next to us is now being renovated. it can be loud but I was assured it would be done soon. our contractor was not able to come in to building until 9am and had to leave at 4:30. when workers next door were coming in earlier i went to Mike and Nicole and was told that rules had changed. the apts being renovated by building start earlier and end later and I was told that those contractors were given a shorter window to finish. my Reno took 18 months and building is telling perspective buyers apts will be ready in much less time. all workers I have run in to say hello. yes I have heard not so great language but not when workers are aware I am standing close enough to hear.
-as far as I know there was only 1 day when water was out. we were having problems with heat around New Years but I thought it was our own issue and my own electricians came in and all turned out fine. we have never had muddy water out of our facets.
-we have introduced ourselves to tenants and owners in our building and all have been so nice.
-gym and everything else has been great.
We absolutely love walking through those gates every day and I don't think I will ever get sick of it. I feel so very lucky to be able to be an owner in this gorgeous old historic building. all this being said I am positive I live in another tower than the original poster so not sure what is going on in building A which I think he is talking about.
Imagine: Foul-mouthed construction workers. How uncouth. I bet they have terrible table manners as well. I would expect Apthorp construction workers to have been educated at Miss Porter's.
>Foul-mouthed
>uncouth
Riccardo65,
Forgive my question, when I read your writing I picture a toned down version of the character of the houseboy played by Hank Azaria in the movie "The Bird Cage" with a similar but authentic accent. Just for shits & giggles...how close am I to the real Riccardo?
Can't answer that one. Have never seen the movie. I don't enjoy gay movies because I'm not gay. Guess it just seems that way????? One can be an internationally known opera singer and still be straight. Shall be play "What's My Line"? You can be Dorothy Killgallen.....................
Riccardo65, are you saying to falcogold1 that only gay people can enjoy movies like The Bird Cage?
Riccardo, you need better PR. All that turn up online are your 1975 role as one of the Marschallin's footmen, and once in the chorus in 1991. The wig-flushing incident got much more press, so might count as internationally-known.
Wig flushing? Reminds me of that scene from 'Valley of the Dolls' . . .
>Riccardo, you need better PR. All that turn up online are your 1975 role as one of the Marschallin's footmen, and once in the chorus in 1991. The wig-flushing incident got much more press, so might count as internationally-known.
Did you also search under the email address that he posted on one of the threads here on SE?
Of course. I was busy looking him up while others were writing him pretending to be Truth.
NWT:
The most interesting of those others was the one claiming that my real name is "Jennifer".
"Jennifer" sent him an e-mail with some of the very same info that I received via e-mail from
a member of the streeteasy community (with whom I cut off e-mail contact), years ago.
That info was never posted on streeteasy.
I would love to find out about this wig-flushing incident. Definitely not me. I sang internationally from 1971 until 1980. Then in the San Francisco Opera chorus from 1981 throuth 1991. So there's the truth, pardon the pun for whoever TRUTH is or claims to be. I'm not at all ashamed of who I am and don't care what anyone thinks they might know.
~~~ Its raining men alleluya ~~~ its raining men, AMEN ~~~
But Riccardo, you acknowledged the wig episode when you said: "And to set the record straight, yes, I flushed wigs down the toilet so I could sport my gorgeous, white blond spikey do!!!! I was the prima donna assoluta!!!!!"
That's at http://streeteasy.com/nyc/talk/discussion/32970-lost-in-nyc-coop-world?last_page=true
When you first showed up early last year, something about your tone made me think "We got us a live one here!" and you haven't disappointed. Keep talking.
BUSTED!!!!!! But I no longer pretend to be someone I'm not. I'm old and sedate now, but I have many wonderful memories. I guess I should stop participating in this forum. But I love New York, New York real estate, and most of all, you crazy, wonderful New Yorkers. Nowhere in the world do you find such peeps... Love to you all, even if you hate.
x
Well, I can comment on the building too as an owner.
I have found Mike, the super, a nice guy, but almost overwhelmed with the construction.
And rules have changed since we bought an already renovated apartment.
It was suppose to be 9 am to 4 pm.
But, now it is is 8 am to after 5 pm.
There is also construction on Saturdays, it is suppose to be quiet construction, but usually it is not.
I have difficulty getting the regular elevator as the construction workers are constantly riding the elevator.
They are suppose to use the service, but that is being used for construction debris.
They are polite, but also they don't speak any English, so in fairness I have never heard them curse.
I have complained to the office manager, young woman named Nicole, who just yesses me to death.
The doormen are hit or miss. Some will help me with my packages and open the doors.
Others are sitting in the one lone chair and texting. While the plus is they are not actually talking on their phones,
the texting is quite annoying as their eyes are glued to it. ( yes, I am from the older generation, I don't text).
The handy man, Ramos, comes very quickly. No complaints.
Garbage is handled in an unusual way. It is put out in the back hallways, but there are no garbage cans?
I asked and was told it was a fire hindrance.
The porters for the building spend too much time gabbing and not enough time cleaning.
For a white glove building, gloves ( when worn) are dirty.
The water is weird. No other way to put it. Sometimes, it comes out reddish brown.
Every time it does, I call the super and they say they are "flushing the pipes".
I am not sure what that means, but half the time I need to constantly run the dishwasher twice.
For the maintenance fees we pay, the service should always be 100%.
Dogs - if you don't love them, don't buy here.
This is a dog building.
One of the bigger problems is how dirty the building is due to the constant construction.
There needs to be better air filters. And better sealing of the building's apartments that are under construction.
So, definitely a mixed bag. I believe my apartment will only go up in value.
But, I do wish the building was held to a higher standard of care in terms of cleanliness.
The good old days on streeteasy....
So, live at the Apthorp or nah?