Make a Confident, Informed Property Decision with Expert Guidance from an architect
Pre-Purchase Consultation
You’ve worked hard to get to the point of investing in a property, but navigating whether it’s the right choice for your renovation goals can be overwhelming. Our pre-purchase consultation provides you with expert analysis, helping you understand whether a property is a sound investment. We evaluate the feasibility of your renovation goals, including budget and timeline, so you can make an offer with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Do I need a permit for my renovation? Learn whether your project will require permits, and avoid costly mistakes.
Questions to Ask Your Architect, Interior Designer, or Contractor: Get answers to key questions you should ask during your renovation process.
Architect Fees Explained: Understand how architect fees work and what services are included.
Dreaming of the Perfect Home? Don't Let Hidden Issues Turn It Into a Nightmare
Falling in love with a property is easy, but uncovering its true potential – and pitfalls – takes an expert eye.
we understand the excitement and anxiety that comes with finding your dream home or investment property.
Common Challenges in Property Purchasing:
Don't let these challenges derail your vision. Our Pre-Purchase Consultation is designed to give you the insights you need to make an informed decision.
Overlooking critical structural issues
Underestimating renovation costs
Missing hidden potential in seemingly outdated spaces
Navigating complex zoning laws and building regulations
Balancing preservation with modern upgrades in historic properties
Your Trusted Guide in Property Assessment
With over 15 years of experience in renovating and restoring properties across New York City, the Hamptons, and beyond, Havard Cooper Architect is your ideal partner in this crucial decision-making process.
Our team of experts, including WELL AP and LEED GA certified professionals, brings a wealth of knowledge in:
Historic home renovations
Modern architectural innovations
Sustainable design solutions
Navigating local building codes and regulations
We've transformed countless properties, earning recognition in Architectural Digest, Interior Design, and other prestigious publications. Now, we're ready to lend our expertise to your property search.
Recent Press
Pre-Purchase Consultation Process
Initial Discussion: We start by understanding your vision, needs, and budget.
On-Site Assessment: Our experts conduct a thorough evaluation of the property.
Potential Analysis: We identify the property's hidden potential and possible challenges.
Regulatory Review: We assess zoning laws and building regulations that may affect your plans.
Roadmap: We provide a rough roadmap of the next best stepd.
Detailed Report: You receive a comprehensive report with our findings and recommendations.
Take the First Step
Towards Your Dream Property
Don't make a decision you might regret. Let Havard Cooper Architect help you see the true potential – and true cost – of your next property.
what you risk by skipping a professional’s advice
Purchasing a property with hidden structural issues
Overpaying for a property with limited potential
Missing out on a diamond in the rough
Unexpected renovation costs that blow your budget
Regulatory surprises that derail your plans
BEYOND THE BASICS
BEYOND THE BASICS
Start from a place of knowledge, know before you buy a property what you’re getting into.Buying a property in New York City is no small task, whether it’s a charming brownstone or a sleek new build. The excitement of owning a piece of this dynamic city is undeniable, but making sure you’re making a sound investment requires a deeper look. Renovating can unlock a lot of potential, but there are key things you need to consider that often aren’t top of mind. Here are 10 essential tips that can help you avoid common pitfalls, ensure your property’s value, and make sure the renovation process goes smoothly. From understanding air rights to energy efficiency, these tips will guide you through what to expect and how to maximize your investment.
air rights
Even with newer builds, you may have unused air rights that allow you to expand vertically. However, these rights don’t come without cost—both financially and in terms of time. Expanding a structure requires zoning analysis and architectural planning, so ensure the added value is worth the investment.
2. Landmark Status Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Renovate
Many homeowners assume that a building’s landmark status means renovations are out of the question. Even in newer properties within historic districts, renovations—especially interior updates—are often allowed. External changes may need approval, but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible with careful planning.
3. Prioritize Structural Integrity Over Cosmetic Changes
Whether you’re dealing with an older property or a newer build, underlying structural issues like foundation cracks, sagging floors, or outdated systems can impact long-term safety. It’s easy to focus on surface upgrades, but addressing structural components first will save you headaches in the future.
4. Alteration Agreements Vary, Even in Newer Builds
For condo or co-op owners, even newer buildings may have strict alteration agreements that govern renovations. Rules such as the 'wet over dry' restriction (which prevents placing wet areas like bathrooms over dry living spaces) can influence your project scope, so always review these agreements before moving forward.
5. You Can Still Improve Energy Efficiency in Newer Homes
Just because a home is newly built doesn’t mean it’s optimized for energy efficiency. Programs like NYSERDA’s Comfort Home initiative can help you enhance your home’s energy performance through better insulation, high-efficiency windows, and modern HVAC systems, all while keeping your home comfortable year-round.
6. Outdated Systems Can Still Be an Issue in Newer Builds
Even if the home is relatively new, there may still be concerns with outdated or poorly installed systems. Don’t overlook the need to update electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, which may have been installed to minimum standards rather than optimized for efficiency or longevity.
7. Local Building Departments Can Help, Even for Newer Homes
If your home is in a historic district or has zoning restrictions, the local building department or commission can provide valuable guidance on what’s permitted. Rather than seeing them as a hurdle, use them as a resource to streamline the approval process and ensure your renovations meet local standards.
8. Thoughtfully Designed Extensions Maintain Value
Adding space to a townhouse, brownstone or single-family home doesn’t have to disrupt its aesthetic. If you’re thinking of extending, consider building in a way that complements the home’s current style. This can increase both its functionality and market value, without losing its design integrity.
9. Modern Features Can Be Seamlessly Integrated
Whether your home is new or historic, modern amenities like smart home technology, energy-efficient appliances, or solar panels can be incorporated into the design. Thoughtful placement and planning ensure these updates blend with your home’s architecture while increasing its efficiency and convenience.
10. Don’t Rely Solely on Comps—Understand True Value
Comparable sales (comps) are useful, but they don’t tell the whole story. Factors like structural integrity, the condition of internal systems, and future renovation costs must be considered when determining a property’s value. Work with a professional to evaluate whether the home is priced appropriately based on these elements.
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Before you make an offer on any property—whether a newer build or a historic home—consult a seasoned design or architectural professional.
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They can assess potential renovation challenges, zoning issues, and help you understand what it would take to make the property truly meet your needs.
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This step can prevent costly mistakes and ensure you’re making an informed investment.
