What a shame

Wow, what a gorgeous apartment! That said, I won't even bother asking for a showing. I am adjacent to real estate in my job and I've heard horror story after horror story about the board in this building, from agents and buyers and sellers alike. They reject most every candidate, even highly qualified ones who meet all the criteria, have stable jobs, good credit, great references, etc. I even... [more]

Wow, what a gorgeous apartment! That said, I won't even bother asking for a showing. I am adjacent to real estate in my job and I've heard horror story after horror story about the board in this building, from agents and buyers and sellers alike. They reject most every candidate, even highly qualified ones who meet all the criteria, have stable jobs, good credit, great references, etc. I even talked to one guy who met every requirement, and grew up just a few buildings down the block - they rejected him, too! There's lots of speculation as to why it's like this - some cite discrimination or elitism, others suggest incompetence. One lawyer I talked to said this board makes up their mind before they ever interview an applicant. Who knows? But it's sad. On a positive note, I heard there's a major effort by tenants to remove this board at the next election cycle. Hopefully the place gets turned around. It's a historic landmark and such a stunning building. Whatever the case, do think long and hard about investing your time, money and energy into applying for an apartment in that building. If you proceed, go in with the understanding that your chances are slim. [less]