Smadar will take advantage of you
I had an extremely disappointing experience with Smadar in her role as the listing agent for my former apartment. Her conduct throughout the leasing process—from move-in to move-out—was consistently unprofessional, misleading, and at times deeply concerning.
🔹 Move-In Mishap:
Despite claiming to have worked with the building for years, Smadar completely botched my move-in. Once I paid her the broker fee and signed the lease, she didn’t provide any guidance about the move-in process—not even basic information like where to pick up the keys or how to access the building. I had to find out on my own that I needed to reserve the elevator in advance, which is standard protocol for the building. On top of that, she failed to inform me that weekend move-ins were not allowed, a basic building policy. As a result, I made a trip to NYC only to be turned away. Thankfully I lived just two hours away—but had I been relocating from farther, it would’ve been a costly and stressful mistake entirely caused by her negligence.
🔹 Undisclosed Property Defects:
Major issues like a permanently fogged window (due to internal condensation) and a dishwasher that frequently filled with foul-smelling water were never disclosed during the showing. I later learned Smadar was aware of both issues, which makes the omission all the more troubling.
🔹 Ongoing Misrepresentation:
During the final months of my lease, I personally witnessed Smadar showing the apartment to prospective tenants while continuing to hide these same problems. This wasn't a one-time oversight—it was a pattern of misrepresentation, violating basic ethical standards in real estate.
🔹 Unsafe and Unaccompanied Showings:
On two occasions, Smadar allowed strangers to enter my unit for viewings without accompanying them and one time, without notifying me. This created serious safety and privacy concerns and is illegal.
🔹 Unprofessional Showings While on Vacation:
While she was on vacation, Smadar arranged for someone—whom she never identified—to show the unit on her behalf without informing me of who would be coming or when. This person arrived over an hour late with no communication, creating confusion and unnecessary concern. The lack of transparency and coordination was unprofessional and unacceptable.
🔹 Security Deposit Issues:
After I moved out, I was charged a $140 “cleaning fee” with no justification, even though I had left the unit spotless. Only after pushing back legally was the full deposit returned. This reflects a broader pattern of trying to take advantage of tenants.
🔹 Contradictory Lease Communications:
I was told I could not renew my lease because repairs were scheduled and the new lease would begin May 15. However, I later discovered the unit was listed as available for April 15 on StreetEasy, with a $200 price increase, and a new tenant moved in just days after I left. This misleading communication raises serious questions about transparency and fairness.
🔹 Inappropriate Requests for Personal Information:
After I vacated and closed my utilities, Smadar asked for a copy of my final ConEd invoice (which I provided, redacted). She then insisted I share my account number, which is tied to private personal information, claiming the new tenant couldn’t register the address (even though there wasn't supposed to be a tenant until May 15). Given her prior conduct, this request felt inappropriate and invasive.
🔹 Reputation Among Building Staff:
Don’t just take my word for it—Smadar has a poor reputation even among the building staff. If you want independent confirmation, contact the management office at 2 World Wide Plaza at (212) 765-0846. Ask to speak with any of the long-time staff members. Everyone I spoke to had strong negative opinions about working with her.
Overall, my experience with Smadar was defined by miscommunication, deception, and disregard for basic professional standards. I would strongly advise other renters to proceed with caution before working with her.