This week readers visited Brick Underground to read about why pet-friendly apartments are more expensive in New York City. Buyers and renters can expect to pay more because most pet-friendly buildings also come with other amenities.

Also of interest: How to negotiate your rent when signing a lease for the first time. To be successful in today's competitive market, you need to do your research on rents for similar apartments, and consider offering a deal sweetener like paying the broker fee or moving in right away.

Here are this week's top five posts:

1) Are pet-friendly apartments more expensive in NYC?

2) 9 tips for negotiating your rent when signing a lease in NYC

3) Buying for the first time in NYC? Be sure to prep your finances first

4) Closing costs: A guide for NYC buyers and sellers

5) The 7 best ways to find a short-term rental while you renovate your NYC apartment