real estate adviser: How to Help Small Shops From Around the World Stay Open During the Pandemic

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How to Help Small Shops From Around the World Stay Open During the Pandemic

I've always put a premium on where I live. I love being in urban environments that are rich with different cultures, activities, transportation options, and small businesses. Pre-pandemic, I lived in Williamsburg, New York, and spent every Sunday walking up and down the street discovering new restaurants I wanted to try or thoughtfully curated shops I never knew existed. But it took me a while to become acquainted with my neighborhood.

Moving to New York from Massachusetts was definitely an adjustment. At first, I was intimidated by the pace of the city and the aggressive reputation New Yorkers hold. But as I spent more time in my new hometown, I realized these stereotypes were false. I formed close relationships with the staff that worked at my local bodega, the bartenders of bars I frequented, and eclectic shop owners. Enriching conversations added personality to my neighborhood and made me feel like a local.

Since moving back to Massachusetts to be with my family during quarantine, I've been prioritizing helping the small New York-based businesses that make the city unique. I follow Nicolas Heller on Instagram (@newyorknico), who outlines local businesses that make up the backbone of New York, and donate to their Go Fund Me campaigns for rent relief and other projects whenever possible. I also support my favorite places like Nitehawk Cinema, Furnish Green, MoMa Design Store, Serving New York, Brooklyn Candle Studio, and Brooklyn Winery by buying merchandise and décor. Plus, whenever I look at my new goodies, I travel back in time and reminisce about my experiences there.

I encourage you to support your favorite local businesses, too. Your contributions can help small shops from around the world stay open when their businesses have declined throughout this difficult time.

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