Teens Create Website to Ease NYC Housing Search

Quick Smiles:

• High school friends launch a site to help renters find affordable housing.
• Realer Estate simplifies access to rent-stabilized and below-market apartments.
• The teens’ inspiration came from personal experiences with NYC’s housing challenges.

Two 17-year-olds, Beckett Zahedi and Derrick Webster Jr., have developed Realer Estate, a resourceful website designed to make finding affordable apartments in New York City much easier for renters.

Their project brings together public data and real estate listings, streamlining the search for rent-stabilized and budget-friendly housing options in a city known for high costs.

Inspired by personal challenges and classroom lessons, both teens dedicated their free time—often choosing coding over basketball—to create a practical solution for fellow New Yorkers.

While acknowledging the magnitude of the city’s housing issue, Beckett and Derrick hope their work brings lasting positive impact for renters.

“I’ve always loved helping people,” Webster said.

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