Weekly Roundup: Higher floor premiums, chef on the move, growing demand, record low loan rate, renovation advice, views of Fed and economists

Open house, other signs indicate market is ‘willing to stop flirting with recovery and commit wholeheartedly’

First-time foreclosures continue to decline, but trend is unlikely to last

With surging demand, Manhattan rents climb 7.1 percent higher than year ago

Flawed system caused dramatic swings in assessed value of some co-ops and condos, comptroller’s office says

Plaza’s developer negotiates $600 million sale of former hotel

Inventory gap yawns between 2012 and much higher average of prior three years

Increasing number of first-time homebuyers decide it would be cheaper — and smarter — to own rather than rent

Appraisal executive demystifies premium for higher floors

Some co-op boards becoming more comfortable with corporate ownership

U.S. attorney’s civil complaint seeks ownership of Washington Heights rental building allegedly purchased with illegal cash

Northern Westchester towns, villages vie with Hamptons for summer renters

And Long Island real estate industry finds itself accommodating numerous buyers from overseas

Celebrity chef buys SoHo penthouse

Actor’s newly listed home is a long way from