Great building for LMI households
Pros
This is a great place to live. It has a live-in super, two full-time porters, and a full-time handy man. All of them are congenial, responsive, and hard-working. Thanks to them, the building is generally clean and presentable. Many tenants have lived here for decades, are aging in place, are quiet and responsible, and proud of where they live. (On my floor, all the longtime residents have each other's cell phone numbers in case of an emergency. ) There are also a good number of tenants who are families with children and teenagers. Surprisingly, the latter don't hang out in the hallways, stairwells, or elsewhere on the grounds. On weekends and holidays, there are no loud parties for the most. Another thing that catches my attention all the time is when I take the stairs, there is no graffiti or are markings anywhere on the walls. I should mention there is a tenants association. One final thing: Not only is the building a great place to live. So is the neighborhood! The building sits between not one but two malls. There is a third mall five blocks away. There are at least 8 supermarkets in a five to six block radius. Subways stations are two and three blocks away in each direction.
Cons
I have a few complaints. One, the elevator on my side of the building (there are two sides, each with an elevator) breaks down every couple of months. One time it was out for three weeks. Yes, three entire weeks. The reason: the part needed to fix the elevator is hard to find. Second, there are lots of rats (big ones!) on the grounds (outside, that is) after dark, especially where the porters put out the garbage. (There are several restaurants on the same block as the building.) Third, the walls between units are thin. This means that if, for example, you're a loud talker, your neighbors will pretty much hear everything you say.
Advice to the owners
Do something about the rats!
Big and accessible
Pros
Large building close to multiple transportation options and right across the street from Target and QC mall. Two 24 hour laundry rooms and a mailroom with Amazon hub. Three porters to clean and maintain building daily including one who is a handyman.
Cons
Since it is in such an accessible place and partially faces Queens Blvd, the neighborhood is really loud/busy. The closed windows mostly cover the noise, but in winter when the heat is in full blast it’s necessary to open them for some air. Building is cleaned daily, just beware when walking near the outdoor garbage area by the service entrance. Lots of rats especially after dark since this space is also behind a few restaurants. Elevator is also broken down a few times a year, so not the best option for elderly/handicapped.