"What made this sale attractive, in addition to its excellent location and the fact that the properties could be vacated and free of debt, were the additional air rights totaling 25,000 sf from both 1484 Second Ave. and 307-309 East 77th St.," Ezratty says.

The air-rights made the acquisition highly attractive in the market place. "As an inducement to sell its air rights, the owner of 1484 Second Ave. received a one-time right of first offer to purchase the retail component of the new development. Under the option, the retail condominium will be leased by the developer for a minimum term of ten years, and then sold to the owner of 1484 Second Ave. for a price based on a specified cap rate," Ellard says in a statement.

Alchemy Properties plans to construct a 62,000-sf, high-end condominium complex on the newly acquired site. The exact plans for the project have not yet been detailed.

Earlier in the month, GlobeSt.com reported that the Decorators Center Building at 315 E. 62nd St. had been put on the market. Newmark Knight Frank is exclusively marketing the 63,000-sf, 100% occupied property, which is expected to sell for $35 million. This building could also turn into a condo project based on the buyer.

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