As humans, we naturally are drawn to other people who share similar interests. When we talk about community, we focus on a common thread used to bring people together to advocate and support one another. In its simplest form, a community is a group of people with something in common.
That sense of belonging that comes along with being a part of a community gives people a supportive group to help them cope with difficult challenges, brings them together to solve problems, as well as celebrate life’s lighter moments.
Whether it be through a physical group where members meet up on a regular basis, or via a virtual space like social media groups, connecting with your community is important, especially when you are new to the neighborhood.
Finding common connections with your new surroundings is beneficial to homeowners in a variety of ways. If the area is one that is completely new for you, finding organizations or groups within your neighborhood will allow for the opportunity to learn all about your new surroundings.
Whether that entails discovering local businesses to shop at, linking up with volunteer based organizations, joining a club. or discovering some of the history behind your town, creating these types of relationships with other people helps foster a sense of belonging.
One way to get involved is to check out the social events your local neighborhood has planned. Oftentimes seasonal events are organized for residents to get involved and enjoy some local hometown fun. Two upcoming fall events here in Brooklyn – Blocktoberfest 2022 hosted by the NY Brewers Guild on Satruday, October 1st, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The annual fall festival celebrates beer brewed here in NYC.
Two weeks later, on Saturday October 15th, there is a Fall Festival taking place at Atlantic Terminal Mall with a host of fun activities for children and families.
A strong sense of community has also been shown to have positive effects on both mental and physical health. Connecting with your community helps prevent isolation and teaches people how to be more empathetic towards one another.
Curious to learn more on how being connected to your surroundings is important to your overall well-being? We’re sharing a few of the ways in which community enriches people’s lives for the better.
Community Enhances Your Sense of Belonging
A sense of belonging is one of the most significant needs that humans have. It is what draws us together with other like-minded individuals who we can turn to for friendship and support. It is here where we discover common ground with those around us. When people find themselves as the “new guy in town,” it helps to get to know your neighbors. Lifelong friendships have been made between people who met by chance due to geographic location.
Community Encourages Social Support
Being part of a community enables us to show support to others. If you look within your neighborhood, you’re likely to find organizations that were created for the sole purpose of helping out the community.
In Brooklyn, The Kiwanis Club of Brooklyn is dedicated to helping local children and families through a variety of wonderful programs. Being a part of such an organization means you’re making a difference in the lives of others while helping to build a better community.
Community Reduces Anxiety and Depression
When people feel connected to a part of something bigger, it gives them a sense of purpose and need. Being able to help others, whether it be a nieghbor, or an organization, creates a feeling of accomplishment, and a sense of pride knowing that you have made a difference, no matter how large or small, in someone’s life. Providing support to others will in turn make others aid you in your time of need.
Community Builds Trust
When we build a strong sense of community, we’re also building trust with people who are not in our immediate circle. Connecting in a community allows you to step outside your comfort zone.
Oftentimes, when new to an area, it can be difficult to find some of the things we take for granted in more familiar surroundings. Doctors, childcare, petcare, repairmen, you name it, we all have questions when we move to a new location.
Social media is a great resource for connecting with people within your local area. If you search platforms like Facebook, you can find private groups geared towards your particular area. Instagram is another great resource to search for groups. Join and follow the ones you find valuable to obtain a wealth of information.
A great example on Facebook is the public group entitled, Brooklyn Food, dedicated to highlighting all things food related. On Instagram, check out Brooklyn Magazine, a page dedicated to all things for the borough. Whether you pose questions, or take notes on suggestions from other members, you are bound to find some true gems.
Social media has proven to be a valuable tool when it comes to connecting to your community. The internet is a great tool when it comes to finding local events and activities taking place in your neighborhood. Brooklyn residents can always check out the website, Happening Next, as well as Patch, to find out what is happening within the borough.
Community Provides Opportunites for Businesses
When people have a strong sense of community, they want to see their neighborood and its people flourish and one way in which to ensure that is by supporting local businesses. Whether it’s through online communities, or word of mouth, community’s assistance helps business owners interact with customers and gain valuable feedback.
There are many reasons why connecting with your community is important, finding a sense of belonging and purpose is truly at the heart of it all. Overall, it enhances our quality of life as well as enhancing our hometown.
At the beginning of every New Year, most people make resolutions that involve some form of change. Whether that be professionally or personally, it’s a chance to give ourselves a goal to start anew.
For anyone who has had their sights set on jumping into the real estate market then you know how crazy it’s been these past two years as the pandemic turned the home buying process completely upside down. It may be a New Year but is it a new market?
With mortgage rates hitting a historic low, coupled with an inventory shortage, the red-hot real estate market saw homes selling within hours of being listed, bidding wars ensuing, and sale prices closing over asking price.
When it comes to the real estate market, we know anything is possible, but housing experts predict that in this New Year, buyers will likely see similar trends to the last two years which included elevated prices, low-inventory, and fast turnaround.
Another contributing factor fueling home buyers were the extremely low interest rates which hovered near historic lows for an extended period of time, a result of the Federal Reserve buying mortgage backed securities to support the economy. But in 2022, the Fed plans to lessen those purchases to curb rising inflation. As a result, mortgage rates are expected to rise.
How much they will increase is not entirely clear, but economic predictions estimate the Fed may raise interest rates three times in 2022. This potential change will have an effect on the home buying process although the new policy isn’t likely to “hurt” buyers in the next few months. Regardless, it’s safe to say anyone looking to purchase are encouraged to act sooner rather than later.
While the buyers are out there, it’s the sellers who are slowing down a tad bit. When the pandemic started, the demand increased and pushed the home prices to an all-time high. And although we have rounded the corner when it comes to the pandemic, the 2022 housing market will likely continue to be costly, with home prices and rents remaining on the higher end of the spectrum.
Along with the demand for homes comes an increase in demand for rentals, especially as we head into the first quarter of 2022. The previous discounts that landlords had been giving out during the height of COVID are practically gone. As these concessions disappear, many renters are finding it difficult to afford their current apartments and will have to move.
As a result, there will be an increase in availability with inventory opening up. The demand for rentals in the neighborhoods chock-full of amenities will also be greater. The areas most desirable are the ones with shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, especially as these sectors have re-opened their doors and welcomed back their customers. For many people, these amenities are an important factor when it comes to deciding where to live. Being close to all of these things, as well as transportation, is a luxury many potential renters, and even buyers, seek out. Areas such as Dumbo, Fort Greene, Bushwick, Gowanus, and Red Hook, will be some of the more attractive places to live for these reasons.
Finding a place to call home, whether buying or renting, is never as easy as we hope it will be. The real estate market will always go through highs and lows, and this upcoming year is no exception. Keeping that in mind, here are a few things to consider for anyone planning to make a move in 2022.
Prices will remain high
According to economists at Realtor.com and Zillow, the competition isn’t likely to die down this year. Economic trends such as low inventory, elevated demand, and low mortgage rates will continue to give sellers leverage in the market.
Buyers will continue to see potential bidding wars, particularly when the market picks up in the spring and summer months. Although it’s hard to predict exactly what’s going to happen, Zillow predicts home values will rise by 11% in 2022. While not as high as in 2021, it’s still a substantial increase.
Increase in interest rates
With the likelihood of interest rates rising multiple times this coming year means mortgage rates are likely to increase as well. Home experts predict a 30-year fixed mortgage rate will reach 3.60% by the end of 2022 compared to the average of 3.30% as of now. The upside to an increase in mortgage rates is that buyers scooping up property for investment purposes may lessen, giving the people who buy homes to live in more of an advantage.
Inventory will remain low
The number of homes actively for sale fell to a record low at the end of last year, and the etnrance of new listings has been slow moving into 2022. Spring has generally been the time when the market picks up and while there are likely to be more listings come spring and into summer, there may not be enough to meet the demand. It will continue to be a strong sellers market.
Home buyers, be prepared
With the way the market is trending, it’s important for buyers to be on their A-game. That means doing research ahead of time, having the proper documents readily on hand, and being ready to act quickly. That includes making an offer almost immediately. For some buyers, purchasing out- of-state has them relying on photos and showings being done via computer and over zoom.
From the realtor side, agents not only have their eye out for new listings, but listings that are “coming soon” to the market. Knowing what a client wants and how much they’re willing to spend allows agents to hone in on the right properties. There’s no sense in taking potential buyers to properties that don’t meet their needs or are out of their price range when the market is this competitive.
And while the 2022 real-estate market may not reach the incredible heights it did in 2021, don’t expect it to slow down anytime soon. In the meantime, do what you need to be prepared for when the right home comes along and work closely with your real estate agent who can guide you through the entire process.
If there is one thing, we can all agree on is, this year has been like no other. Throughout almost all of 2020, things have looked a bit different and this holiday season is no exception.
As we brace for a potential second wave of COVID-19 shutdowns here in New York City, independent businesses, along with the local eateries, have shifted the way in which they operate. They have faced profound challenges throughout the year and have all had to creatively come up with different strategies to stay afloat.
Operating a lot differently than they’re used to has been tough, especially during the holiday season. With so much uncertainty looming ahead, it is extremely important to continue supporting the people and places we enjoy frequenting year-round.
Along with making customers happy, the locally owned businesses play a huge role in the economy as well as the community, moving both forward in a positive way. The success of one local business can have a trickle effect – if a business is doing well, they’ll need to hire additional staff or employees, and in turn, will look towards the community to fill those roles.
When shopping local, over 65 percent more of the dollar stays right in the local community compared to shopping online. Supporting these types of businesses helps keep stores open and their employees employed. Another reason why it’s important to support our local “neighbors.”
As we focus in on the good we can do as a community, we can support our local shops, even if it’s in a slightly different way then we’re used to. If you’re wondering how, consider some of the following ideas:
As we are days away from the holiday, there is still time to grab those last-minute gifts. Brooklyn neighborhoods are bustling with local shops and we’re sharing just a small sample of what the borough has to offer:
In addition to grabbing gifts (or even something for yourself) from these and other independent shops, remember to also check out your local eateries. Whether you’re looking for a meal for two, catering for a bit more guests, in search of some delicious desserts, coffees, or teas, check out some of these local spots:
As we close out a year that has been difficult for so many people, remember we can help make a difference by choosing small businesses.
When talking about the city of Brooklyn, one can’t help but acknowledge the fact that it is a melting pot of many different cultures which is one of the reasons why the borough is a sought-after destination.
Of the many different ethnicities that make up our country, Hispanics are the nation’s second-fastest-growing racial or ethnic group, making up roughly 18% of the nation’s total population.
According to data from The Pew Research Center, the overall total reached 60.6 million in 2019 and based on the 2010 Census, 19.8% of Brooklyn’s population was of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin.
Hispanic Heritage month, which runs between September 15th and October 15th, marks the celebration of a culture that has seen, and continues to see, great strides and accomplishments.
Originally established as Hispanic Heritage week in 1968 as a celebration that recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came to this country, it then became a month-long celebration back in 1988.
Interesting Fact – September 15th was chosen as the start date because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Hispanic countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Over the years, there have been a great number of trailblazers and history makers who have paved the way in a variety of outlets, some names more recognizable than others.
People like Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic female astronaut (she visited space four separate times), Lizzie Velasquez, an anti-bullying advocate, Sylvia Rivera, a Venezuelan-Puerto Rican transgender person who fought tirelessly for LGBTQ rights and is credited with putting the “T” in the acronym LGBTQ, Berta Caceres, a leading environmental and human rights activist who spent her life fighting for the rights and land of the indigenous Lenca people of Honduras, and the notable Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a groundbreaking figure in modern politics.
Big name stars like Rita Hayworth, Rosie Perez, Jimmy Smits, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, and Christina Aguliera, to name just a few, have come out of Brooklyn or the surrounding boroughs, and went on to be a force in their respective fields.
When we speak of Brooklyn being a melting pot of cultures, there are quite a few neighborhoods with a strong Hispanic presence. Bushwick, a neighborhood originally founded by the Dutch, became predominantly Hispanic by the late 20th century, and today has the largest Hispanic community, many of whom are Puerto Rican with some Dominican and people from South America.
Interesting Fact – Approximately 80% of the neighborhood population is Hispanic and the dominant language spoken is Spanish.
Other areas with a strong Hispanic presence include:
East New York, originally founded as the town of New Lots in the middle of the 1600s, began to see a rise in the Hispanic community towards the latter part of the twentieth century.
Sunset Park, a sparsely developed area in the late 19th century, but one that would be called home by many Hispanic and other immigrant groups by the 21st century.
Williamsburg, an area that has not only gone through gentrification since the late 1990’s but has always welcomed numerous ethnic groups within the enclaves of the neighborhood.
Red Hook, originally a prosperous shipping and port area in the early 20th century is now home to many ethnic groups including Hispanic.
Puerto Viejo Dominican Bistro in 1940 Brooklyn NY
Along with the multi-cultural neighborhoods that many Brooklynites call home, the borough is also filled with an array of Hispanic-owned businesses which allow both residents and out-of-towners the opportunity to experience the culture.
With a wide array of culinary options, there are quite a few neighborhood restaurants to try. And despite the numerous obstacles businesses have faced over the last several months due to the worldwide pandemic, these tried and true neighborhood gems have continued to serve their patrons. Some establishments to check out include:
Puerto Viejo – This Dominican Bistro has been a neighborhood staple since 1986. Serving up authentic dishes using only the freshest ingredients, a meal at Puerto Viejo will leave you feeling like it came straight from your kitchen. – 564 Grand Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Love, Nelly – Serving Columbian inspired sweets, Love, Nelly, located in East Bushwick, pays homage to co-owner and baker Stephanie Gallardo’s mom. All of the sweet treats are reminiscent of the childhood memories Stephanie has of visiting family in Columbia and South America. – 53 Rockaway Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233
Casa Ora – This farm to table restaurant not only serves up some home cooked Spanish food, it is also focused on bringing the beauty and nature of Venezuela to NYC. In an effort to give back, Casa Ora donates a portion of their revenue to families forced to seek asylum due to lack of human rights. – 148 Meserole Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Devocion – Launched in 2006, Columbian born Steve Sutton set out to bring his customers the freshest coffee imaginable. With not one but three cafes, (Williamsburg, Downtown Brooklyn, and the Flatiron District in NYC,) this farm-to-table coffee can also be ordered directly from Devocion’s website for anyone who cannot make it to one of the three locations.
While these are just a few places within the various Brooklyn neighborhoods, authentic Hispanic cuisine can be found throughout the entire borough.
As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month, it’s important to learn more about the people and brands whose roots are embedded in the Hispanic culture and continue to break down barriers, along with the pioneers who helped pave the way for others to follow.
