Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New York

Apartment Lease Signing

I am currently negotiating with a large property management company in NYC to enter into a two-year lease agreement for an apartment. I have requested to review the lease agreement in advance of the signing, and have also requested that I have an attorney review the agreement in advance of the signing. The management company originally told me that they would send me the lease agreement in advance of the signing. However, when I complained that to the company that it was not being responsive and following up on some things that it has previously committed to, the company informed me that it was no longer willing to allow me to view the lease in advance of the signing. The management company told me that the apartment is cheap and they want to raise the price anyway, so if I am unwilling to accept their terms I should not enter into an agreement with them. The management company is refusing to send a completed copy of the lease agreement (and riders) to me in advance of the signing and will only let me review the lease on site at the time of signing. Is there any illegal action on the part of the management company given that they will not allow me to review the lease outside of their premises?


Asked on 4/04/05, 6:22 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
John O'Donnell Attorney at Law

Re: Apartment Lease Signing

There is nothing illegal that I am aware of. Keep in mind that the rental market in NYC continues to be hot with a take it or leave attitude by property owners, and their managers.

You should be able to bring your attorney to the lease signing, and the attorney may take his/her time to thoroughly read over the terms of the lease.

However, based upon what you already know about the management company, you may expect some of the lease terms to be objectionable. It is likely that you will not have much room for negotiation.

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Answered on 4/05/05, 10:39 am
Phroska L. McAlister PHROSKA LEAKE McALISTER

Re: Apartment Lease Signing

Your perspective landlord is telling you that your request is essentially pointless, inasmuch as the lease terms are NON-negotiable. Also, what terms and conditions are you concerned about? NY residential apartment leases are generally "boilerplate" or fairly standardized.

Thus, you sign it the way it is,. or not, without change or add ins.

Good luck,

Phroska L. McAlister,ESQ

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Answered on 4/05/05, 5:08 pm


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