There is a reason why the overall rating for this building is a measly 36% (perhaps a bit lower once I submit my review).

THE PROS:

a.) Units/layouts are spacious. I've seen (and lived in!) 1 BR's that are the same size - if not smaller - than the studios here.

b.) With the exception of 1 or 2, the doormen are friendly and accomodating. The maintenance team is extremely polite and requests are fulfilled quickly.

c.) Close to many subway stations - very convenient.

THE CONS:

a.) There is construction everywhere - you literally walk under scaffolding for blocks & blocks! Granted, not necessarily the building's fault, but construction does bring about 3 nuisances - LOTS OF NOISE (beginning very early in the a.m.) and LOTS OF RATS. They run amuck on the streets, alongside herds of roaches despite efforts from the Downtown Alliance to keep the neighborhood clean. The construction also makes for very narrow sidewalks; you literally have an armful of bruises by the time you get to your destination.

b.) Other reviewers are accurate - you do hear your neighbors easily - whether it's running water, doors slamming, loud music, dogs barking, etc.

b.) For the past few weeks there has been an awful (think rotten eggs), unavoidable stench permeating the halls and units. Opening a window does no good; we're pretty sure the scent is coming from outside.

c.) ...Mix that in with the recurring smell of marijuana that flows through here everyday - UGGH!

d.) Besides public transportation, not close to the "basics". The nearest grocery store (Gristede's) is a 10-12 minute walk away and Duane Reade (closed on Sundays!) is about an 8-10 minute walk away.

e.) Most of the cardio equipment in the gym does not operate properly (and/or the TV's) which can be frustrating for a workout fiend like myself.

f.) Tip - If you can avoid it, never, ever live above a bar/restaurant. Despite the 'Respect Tenats' sign displayed outside of Merchants NY (which is just below), no one respects it. My neighbors and I have called Management on several occasions to ask customers, live bands, etc. to tone it down during late hours.

I'll sum up by saying that Management recently slid notices under all the tenants doors proposing a referral program - I think they are desperate to lock in renters.

Most times, I am the only person in the lobby/in the elevator/on line to get my package at concierge/at the gym. Where is everyone''' If that's not a sign, I don't know what is.

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