Foreign Property News | Posted by Zarni Kyaw
The furnished garden duplex at 337 E. 62nd St. in Lenox Hill — a unit now available for rent for a cool $18,000 a month — comes with plenty of amenities: outdoor space, a separate entrance and multiple high-tech “smart” features among them.
On the other hand, pets aren’t allowed. And neither are a few other things.
The 2,300-square-foot dwelling cannot be used for “any obscene performances,” as defined by the state’s penal code. Nor can the property be used for “obscene or pornographic purposes or activities.”
That’s because the 22-unit condominium building, constructed 10 years ago, was built on land sold by the Archdiocese of New York. The property traded for $7 million in early 2012.
The site was formerly occupied by a convent associated with the nearby Our Lady of Perpetual Help church. The church itself was razed in 1998.
Additionally, the premises must not be used for “any abortions or euthanasia proceedings,” or to provide “counseling or advice relating to abortions, birth control or euthanasia.” Any display of related signage is also prohibited.
(A view of the duplex unit’s kitchen.Tyler Gustin / BOND New York)
(Among its many features, as well as its use restrictions, the unit has floor-to-ceiling exposures.Tyler Gustin / BOND New York)
Such use restrictions are not uncommon for deconsecrated churches and land sold by religious institutions.
“Faith communities can transfer title to their property but keep a non-possessory interest in its use,” said Rev. Patrick Reidy, an associate professor at Notre Dame Law School in Indiana, who studies religious property.
(The exterior of 337 E. 62nd St. Mollie Chandra)
(The duplex opens to a yard, with this level of outdoor space being a rarity in New York City.Tyler Gustin / BOND New York)
Ref: This NYC rental can’t be used for ‘pornographic purposes’ or ‘any abortions’ — here’s why (nypost)
