7 Expert Tips to Ace Your NYC Co-op Board Interview

After months of searching, you found the NYC co-op of your dreams. You submitted an offer, maybe did some negotiating with the help of your buyer’s agent, and got an accepted offer from the seller. Whew! 

But the process is far from over. As you’ve probably learned, you still need the board’s approval before you can move forward with the purchase. They’ll review your REBNY financial statement, bank and brokerage statements, check your references, and verify your employment, among other steps. They’ll also schedule a board interview in which members will ask you questions to get a better sense of who you are.

As with all interviews, this can be intimidating, to say the least. But with the right preparation, you’ll come to the meeting ready to answer whatever questions are posed to you. Here’s a quick sampling of what to expect:

Common Questions in a NYC Co-op Board Interview

• Do you have any pets?
• What are your renovation plans?
• What kind of work do you do?
• Do you conduct any business from home?
• Do you often entertain guests?
• What are your hobbies?

What is the Goal of the Co-op Board Members' Questions?

Be aware that while the members of the board are genuinely using this time to get to know you as a person, they also want to see what kind of a neighbor you would be. Will you frequently host large, loud parties? Are you a musician who practices late into the night? Will other residents have to worry about whether you clean up after your dog in shared outdoor spaces?

Each question is designed to see how your presence may impact residents around you. There will also be questions about your financial situation and job security. If you have any gaps in employment or contract work in your history, those may very well come up in the interview.

There may also be more personal questions asked, such as whether you smoke or how often you drink. While some questions may seem intrusive, it’s best to answer them confidently without losing your cool.

Preparing for a range of questions is certainly an important step in getting ready for your board interview. Here are a few more tips to impress the people who may decide your housing fate.

NYC Co-Op Board Interview Tips - How to Prepare

1. What to wear: Plan to dress conservatively. If you have a favorite suit or blazer, feel free to bring it out. If you’re more comfortable in a pair of slacks or a skirt with a nice shirt, that’s fine, too. Dark wash denim jeans will likely be okay, but be sure to dress it up with a professional top and shoes — no sneakers!
2. When to arrive: Plan to arrive a little early if at all possible. Don’t be late! If board members are late, that’s on them. If you’re late, it reflects poorly on you. Being on time, if not early, shows that you are reliable and ready to make this commitment.
3. How to respond to questions: If you’re buying on your own, you can run through potential questions and plan your answers accordingly. If you’re a couple heading into the interview together, figure out in advance which person will be answering which types of questions. One of you might be better with financials, while the other relates better on a personal level. Don’t try to answer together, and certainly don’t interrupt or disagree with each other during the interview (this is why it’s so important to run through potential questions together ahead of time).
4. Asking your own questions: Don’t! Unlike a job interview, where you’re encouraged to come with a list of questions of your own, a board interview is pretty one-sided. If you do have any pressing questions, ask your agent — not the board members.
5. Discussing renovations: If you are asked about planned renovations, keep your answers brief. Things like a fresh coat of paint and minor repairs are typically fine, but avoid mentioning major construction like knocking down walls or overhauling the kitchen. Nobody likes living near a construction zone.
6. Getting personal: Be prepared for potentially uncomfortable questions, but don’t let your guard down for seemingly innocuous ones, either, which could be probing. For example, if you have school-aged children and you’re asked about their after-school activities, stick to quiet hobbies like reading and art — this is not the time to bring up afternoon band practice. In general, don’t go into too much detail in your answers, you might unknowingly say something that can turn off board members.
7. Take a deep breath: In real estate, it’s easy to feel like you’re rushing around one minute, and then dragging the next. Take things as they come, and don’t be alarmed if it takes a few days, or a week or more to hear back after your interview. It can take some time for boards to discuss the interview and come to a decision. Don’t reach out to board members directly to follow-up. Speak with your agent if you’re concerned, but know that most times, it pays to be patient.

What if my co-op board interview is virtual via a video call?

Whether you are attending an in-person interview with co-op board members or a virtual interview via a Zoom or Skype call, the same tips apply. Make sure you have the necessary software or app downloaded to your computer or portable device, and be on time.

Overall, our best advice is to present yourself confidently, professionally, and authentically. Get comfortable discussing things like finances and long-term plans, and remember to smile.

The co-op board interview is a monumental step forward in the NYC home buying process, so if you’ve made it this far, give yourself a pat on the back — you’re almost there!

 

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