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Category: New York Neighborhood

Discover various New York neighborhoods and areas in the entire State through our team of experts who bring you their valuable input on the real estate market.

What is the housing price in Queens?

Do you want to know more about the housing price in Queens? When deciding where to live, cost is a major factor to consider. Purchasing a home is a massive investment, so getting an idea of the prices for a specific area is important. New York has a reputation for small apartments with high rents, but this isn’t the case everywhere. There are many houses, decently sized apartments, condos, and more for sale in Queens.

Queens traces its roots back to the 1600’s, when it was founded as one of the original counties comprising the Province of New York. From these humble beginnings, it has since exploded in growth and population. Queens is currently the second-most populated county in New York state, also making it the second-largest borough in all of New York City.

What is the state of the Queens real estate market?

In 2020, the Queens real estate market slowed. However, it never fully stopped, which has allowed a quick recovery and rapid growth. In quarter 1 of 2021, the median sale price was half of what it had been a year prior. The market then boomed, with the second quarter of 2021 median sale price being more than twice what it had been the previous year. The median fell by roughly $200,000 for the remaining two quarters, but prices were still much higher than they had been in 2020.

In 2020, there were a total of 9,857 real estate transactions across the entire year. The most transactions occurred in quarter 4, with 3,179, and the fewest number of transactions, 1,610, happened in Quarter 4. In contrast, 2021 saw 14,922 real estate transactions. Quarter 1 saw the fewest, with 3,282, and Quarter 3 saw the most, with 4,350. Even when the Queens real estate market was at its lowest, it managed to outshine 2020’s market.*

As of May 2022, the median sale price in Queens was $545,000, with a price of $615 per sq. ft., and 1,064 transactions, while the second quarter of 2022 saw 4,178 sales, a 18.8% year over year.

The pandemic caused many people to be stuck in their homes for long periods of time. This gave people a new perspective on their spaces and drove demand away from crowded places like Manhattan and toward more open locations like Queens. Small apartments are no longer preferable since being quarantined inside a small space can become uncomfortable quickly. As a result, demand for luxury houses for sale in Queens increased, which drove prices up in tandem. The median house sale price in Queens in May was $798,000, up 6% year-over-year, while coop and condo prices were down 3%, showing a need for more space and less cramped, confined apartments.

Queens is the fourth most expensive borough in New York City. This, alongside its beautiful neighborhoods and cultural diversity, caused the demand for housing in Queens to grow even before the pandemic, and 2021 only saw the demand soar to new heights. As a result, housing prices are up, and rents are climbing.

*Data from PropertyShark

View of the 7 Express train subway line in Queens, with the Manhattan skyline in the background during sunset.
A picture of the Unisphere, a spherical stainless steel representation of Earth located in the Meadows–Corona Park in Flushing, Queens.

Where is the best place to look for real estate in Queens?

When looking to purchase real estate, there are plenty of diverse neighborhoods to choose from. If you’re looking at apartments for sale in Queens, consider looking in Astoria. With its heavy Greek influence, a Little Egypt, and an abundance of family-owned businesses, Astoria proves to be an enticing choice. This is compounded further by the combination of affordable and high-end housing and a growing reputation for fine dining. House prices here range from $250,000 to well over $2 million. There’s somewhere for you here, no matter your budget.

When looking for condos or co-ops, Long Island City and Jackson Heights spring to mind. Jackson Heights has quiet and historic residential areas, such as the Historic District, and busier commercial areas that provide the neighborhood with a bustling nightlife. It can be busy, but there is a variety of different cultural restaurants from places like Tibet and India that make the hustle worth it. Home prices here range from $300,00 to under $1,500,000. Long Island City can be quiet during the day, but also has a vibrant nightlife with concerts, weekend markets, and cocktail bars. With a past of industrialism and newer modern additions, the city’s luxury high-rises each have their own unique flair. The house prices here tend to be closer to $1 million, with most being higher.

If luxury is the goal, Jamaica Estates, a subsection of the larger neighborhood of Jamaica, and Forest Hills Gardens are the best choices. Jamaica Estates is a beautiful neighborhood with a diverse mix of cultures. The stunning sights of the colorful city, elaborate architecture, and stunning tree-lined streets mean that homes here are priced between $1,000,000 and $3,000,000. Forest Hills Gardens is also one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Queens. The quiet residential districts surrounded by parks and gardens have easy access to The West Side Tennis Club, resulting in house prices that can be quite extravagant. While you can find homes of all prices, many are near or over $1,000,000, with some being nearly $4,000,000.

What to consider when looking in Queens?

Vie of Queens and the high rises of Long Island City downtown borough skyline at dusk.

When looking at real estate in Queens, knowing what you’re looking for will help dictate the prices you should expect. When looking at the neighborhoods, homes typically range between over $200,000 and $4,000,000. This large range shows how diverse Queens is.

With more affordable homes found in Jackson Heights and Astoria and much more expensive offerings in Jamaica Estates, Long Island City and Forest Hills Gardens, there’s someplace in Queens for your budget. However, there are many other neighborhoods to consider. Each one provides different cultures, views, amenities, and more.

The western portions of Queens have beaches and beachfront properties. Places like Astoria and Flushing are rich in museums and culture. Other neighborhoods are filled with trees. Every one of them has a unique mix of cultures. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, expensive property or an apartment in a busy city, Queens has something to pique your interest. If you’re looking for a space to call your own, BARNES New York can help guide you.

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How to buy a brand new apartment in Brooklyn?

Buying a brand new apartment in Brooklyn is an amazing and rewarding experience to be had by buyers of all backgrounds and lifestyles. Brooklyn is a city filled with life, color, and culture that shows in nearly every neighborhood and part of the city.

While searching for an apartment to buy and going through the process can be time-consuming, it can be made easy by understanding your budget, each neighborhood, and the overall steps to buying a brand new apartment in Brooklyn. When looking for a space in Brooklyn to call your own, BARNES New York is here to help guide you.

What is your budget?

View of the NYC skyline at the back, with the Brooklyn skyline in front, during sunset.

How much are you willing to spend on your apartment? In Brooklyn, the median sale price of an apartment market-wide, including resale and new developments, is around $980,000 as of July 2022*. When considering brand new apartments in new developments in Brooklyn, the median sale price increases to $1,200,000 in July 2022*. Like other New York neighborhoods, co-op apartments are often cheaper than condominiums, but it’s fairly rare to find a brand new co-op building. In general, homes in a new development in Brooklyn will cost more than existing resale. Important tip: it is best to save about 20% of the cost of the apartment before buying, if possible. This gives you plenty of wiggle room when looking for a brand new apartment to buy and greatly strengthens your offer.

Having a reasonable budget of $1,000,000 or more will ensure you find new apartments and condos for sale in Brooklyn that will meet your needs. But, of course, prices also go up with more accommodations, features, and luxuries available. Depending on what you’re looking for, set yourself a limit to finding hidden gems in your home and avoid overspending. It’s best to talk to your banker or mortgage broker to request a pre-approval letter to help you pinpoint your budget.

*Market data from UrbanDigs

What about location?

The price of the apartment you buy in Brooklyn can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood it is located in. While areas such as Williamsburg and Dumbo tend to be more expensive, Greenpoint and Carroll Gardens can be much cheaper options.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is one of the trendiest area in Brooklyn, filled with bars, restaurants, and retail stores, feeling much like a giant city within an even bigger city. An apartment in Williamsburg is ideal for Manhattan Bridge views, easy access to luxury shops, and a comfortable residential feel. Although there are also plenty of work opportunities in Williamsburg, it is great for many residents to settle in as well. There’s always an new apartment to buy in Williamsburg thanks to several solid new development programs.

Dumbo

Dumbo is priced similarly to Williamsburg, emerging as a hotspot in recent years as former industrial spaces are converted to cozy residential homes. However, the price is worth it, as it is filled with lovely streets lined with vintage shops and unique pieces, and it’s a popular spot for older groups. Several new development programs offer beautiful housing options in the neighborhood. Whether you are buying a new condo or co-op in Brooklyn, Dumbo’s vision is sure to make it a stunning home.

Greenpoint

Greenpoint is a great area to settle in as there’s less hustle and bustle than Williamsburg, which is just south of it. The area has many beautiful brownstone apartments and is home to a large Polish community. The food at Greenpoint is excellent and varied, so it’s great for people of almost every culture, especially Europeans. New buildings in the area offer brand new condos with good amenities and easy access to the subway.

Carroll Gardens

Carroll Gardens offers a small selection of brand new apartments, but provides a small-town feel from within Brooklyn’s big city, and even though it is smaller than many other neighborhoods in Brooklyn, the close-knit community can make any newcomers feel welcomed. An apartment in Carroll Gardens is not only beautiful, but it is also great for those who are looking for a quiet house in a smaller neighborhood.

What is the buying process like?

As a potential buyer who wants to buy a brand new apartment in Brooklyn, you should work with an experienced buyer’s agent. By working with a buyer’s agent, you can save money by helping you find great deals on apartments, working with your best interests in mind, and help you navigate the different neighborhoods in the city, especially with agents specialized in new constructions in Brooklyn and its different areas.

In addition, it is important to prepare documents for your offer and to find a real estate attorney. Once the offer is accepted, your attorney will review the offering plan before you enter a purchase contract.

Because it can be difficult to get a mortgage on a new development, you might want to consider working with the “preferred lender” for the building, who is usually familiar with the construction and able to give loans more easily. Start building requests as soon as possible to stay on top of additional messages and information while staying organized with important information.

How do I secure the apartment I want?

Once the offer is accepted for your Brooklyn apartment, you can begin the process of closing on your new home. After signing off, your brand new apartment in Brooklyn, New York, is now completely yours!

The process usually takes about up to 2 months for condos and up to 3 months for co-ops for resale, but for brand new homes and buying off the floor plan, the timeline can greatly vary, especially when some apartments are being sold before the construction even begins! If possible, provide documents such as IDs, tax returns, and other important records to be as thorough as possible. Buying an new apartment in Brooklyn can be a long but highly rewarding process, and having these resources available will help streamline it. Owning a home in a beautiful city filled with color, friendliness, and diversity is a huge step forward in life. Contact BARNES New York to start looking for your brand new apartment in Brooklyn!

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What is the real estate market like in the Hamptons?

Like most residential areas outside of big cities, the Hamptons have seen a tremendous influx of home buyers and residences since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. People want to live outside the city more than ever while still remaining somewhat close, and the housing market reflects that.

Like most of the world, the Hamptons has a competitive housing market where buyers enter bidding wars against other buyers to land the house. Because of that, areas of the Hamptons that have been harder to sell in have suddenly become a buyer’s destination. And with some revitalizations of shopping districts and nearby downtowns, those areas have become even more desirable.

About How Many Residences Are on the Market Today?

At the time of writing, over a thousand homes were for sale or rent in the Hamptons, with listing prices ranging from approximately $400,000 on the more inland properties up to $78,000,000 for the oceanfront properties. When considered over the entire year, rental prices start at around $14,000 annually and go up from there.

The listings, as described above, are located throughout the Hamptons, from the westernmost stretch (Westhampton, Westhampton Beach, and Eastport) to the eastern tip (East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk).

Where is the best place to live in the Hamptons?

Of course, this leans a little on personal preference: do you like oceanfront properties more than wooded inland ones? Or do you prefer properties closer to restaurants, shops, and museums? But, with that being said, and with so many real estate options in the Hamptons, there is something that will fit within your ideals.

What is the upside to Westhampton?

Of the Hamptons, Westhampton is the closest neighborhood to New York City. By car, it is just under 1 hour and 30 minutes to Midtown Manhattan, making it the ideal location for those who would like to commute to the city frequently. Because of this, Westhampton has seen some upswing in the amount of purchases lately.

Couple that with a revitalized downtown, its proximity to the water, and it’s clear that Westhampton will continue its upward trajectory.

What is the upside to East Hampton?

Montauk

Farther away from New York City is East Hampton, a quieter area in the Hamptons. For reference, by car, it is just under a 2-hour drive from Manhattan (near Central Park). It has a thriving downtown with plenty of charm and accommodations and is perfect for those wanting to experience New York without all of the crowds and business of the big city. It also has incredible views, plenty of parks with hiking trails, and long, scenic beaches.

Of course, with such features and accommodations, East Hampton real estate has seen an uptick in buyers lately and can be competitive.

How competitive is real estate in the Hamptons?

According to the Hamptons Real Estate Report by Hedges, the Hamptons real estate market has declined in terms of the number of sold listings. However, the amount of each sale had increased over the previous year, meaning that even though fewer properties were sold, the amount they sold for was higher.

The reason for the increase in sale prices can be pinpointed to two reasons. The first reason being that it costs construction companies more money to build properties due to the uptick in labor and material costs throughout the world.

The other reason also relates to construction. Again, because of the cost to build (and the material shortage), companies just can’t build new properties as frequently as they had before. And for that reason, there are fewer properties for potential buyers. That means for those that are on the market, the lack of properties make it ultra-competitive, and potential buyers often have to enter bidding wars against other buyers.

Any recommendations for property buying in the Hamptons?

Beautiful brown mansion with a driveway and a fountain.

There are many property and real estate opportunities in the Hamptons despite the decline in the number of sold listings—almost every village, town, and hamlet within the Hamptons has property for sale. It then becomes a matter of where you want to live; or where you can afford to live. For those looking to spend upwards of 10 million dollars, the oceanside properties of East Hampton, Amagansett, or Montauk would be of interest.

Those hoping to spend less than 10 million dollars but still desire an oceanside property should look to Westhampton, Westhampton Beach, Eastport, or the areas around those villages. And for those not wanting to spend a million dollars, looking at the villages and hamlets more inland would lead to desirable options.

What does the future of real estate in the Hamptons look like?

Because of the pandemic, the Hamptons has seen an influx of buyers gobbling up their real estate supply at record rates. Rates which, largely due to material shortages, construction companies and contractors haven’t been able to keep up with. As a result, not only had the Hamptons seen a decrease in the number of sales, but it had also experienced a decrease in supply.

However, with many companies leaning more on remote workers than ever before, several agencies and real estate heads are predicting a more stable and ‘normal’ market for the Hamptons in the future. To check out all the finest luxury listings available, alongside expert advice and guidance, be sure to contact BARNES New York.

What kind of housing and properties are available in Westchester?

Westchester County, located immediately north of New York City, has been an increasingly desirable place to live. More than ever, the lure of living outside the heart of New York City has grown, and interested buyers are turning their attention to the surrounding areas. According to a report by the New York City Comptroller, the population in Westchester has risen more than 9% since the start of 2020.

Westchester County is perfect for those who want to be close to one of the greatest cities in the world without being right there in the thick of it. Many of the houses in Westchester are under 30 minutes away from Manhattan by car or under one hour by train, making commuting and staying in touch with the New York City scene extremely easy.

Plus, Westchester offers a wide array of living options, from luxury apartments to homes to villas, and pockets of its cities even offer affordable housing programs. There’s a little something for everyone in Westchester.

What comprises Westchester County?

There are 6 cities, 19 towns, and 23 villages throughout Westchester County. The county is the second most populated county in New York (the first is Bronx County). But if you exclude New York City, Westchester becomes the most populated. The county has an area of 450 square miles, roughly the size of Rhode Island.

What are Westchester’s cities like?

Westchester’s 6 cities are Peekskill, White Plains, Mount Vernon, Port Chester, New Rochelle, and Yonkers. Peekskill is located at the northwesternmost tip of the county along the Hudson River. White Plains and Mount Vernon are located inland, whereas Port Chester, New Rochelle, and Yonkers are located along the eastern shoreline of the county.

What kind of property is available in Peekskill?

Peekskill has a plethora of living options and is home to some of the best villas in Westchester. Homes here typically range from $250,000, on the low end, to $1 million on the high end. Most homes offer multiple bedrooms as well as two or more bathrooms.

Its villas, which are expansive and often riverside, typically fall under the $300,000 price tag and similarly include multiple beds and baths. However, some villas are offering less space for cheaper.

There are no shortages of luxury apartments in Peekskill. Most are strategically placed so that each room offers picturesque views of the Hudson or one of the area’s surrounding parks.

What is Peekskill like?

Peekskill is just under 50 miles north of New York City. It takes around an hour, by car or train, to reach Grand Central Station in Manhattan.

Peekskill is heavily invested in its art scene and is where many of New York’s artists live. It is home to a thriving performing arts center and several attractive nature parks, historical sites, and museums. There is a diverse array of restaurants in the city as well as a Farmers Market located in Peekskill’s beautiful downtown.

What kind of property is available in White Plains and Mount Vernon?

Larchmont Aerial Drone Photos of Marina and Premium Point

White Plains offers a more suburban feel despite being just 33 minutes away from New York City by train. As a result, it has a wide array of homes priced from around $500,000 on the low end to over a million on the high end, all of which typically yield multiple beds and baths. White Plains also offers luxury apartments in its downtown high rises.

Mount Vernon is the southernmost city of Westchester and touches New York City’s Bronx borough. Being so close to the city, homes can easily surpass $1 million, and the travel time to New York City’s Grand Central Station is under 30 minutes by car or train. As a result, there is a spattering of luxury homes and apartments in Mount Vernon.

What are White Plains and Mount Vernon like?

White Plains ranks among the best suburbs of New York. It has a strong downtown scene, small neighborhoods, and its own thriving economy. Over 100 businesses have their headquarters in White Plains, and because of that, the suburb is ever-growing. As a result, there is always something going on in White Plains, from performing arts to museums to nature parks to recreational activities like golf, blading, or kayaking.

Despite being in Westchester County, Mount Vernon has a strong New York City feel to it. It is one of the county’s most diverse cities and offers an array of restaurants, shops, and parks that support that diversity. Its homes will be more compact than Westchester’s other cities, but that is to be expected given its proximity to New York City.

What kind of property is available in New Rochelle, Larchmont, and Yonkers?

New Rochelle and Larchmont are located along the eastern shoreline of Westchester County, and their housing options range from $300,000 on the low end to over $5 million on the high end. Condominiums can fall under $150,000 in either city. They also offer waterside and luxury villas.

Yonkers is located on the western side of Westchester along the Hudson River. It offers villas and luxury apartments/condominiums. Its housing options range from $400,000 on the low end to over $1 million on the high end.

What are New Rochelle, Larchmont, and Yonkers like?

Yonkers began as an industrial extension of New York City but has since been transformed into its own thriving community. The developers kept the city’s history intact, and many of its living options are in newly-renovated historical buildings. The city has a wide array of culturally-diverse restaurants and shops in its booming downtown, as well as a host of walkable parks.

New Rochelle and Larchmont border each other, and both are chock full of everything water-related. Between the two cities, they share sailing schools, yacht clubs, and rowing clubs, plus play host to sprawling nature preserves, top-rated museums, and fun beer gardens. Each city has its own downtown and offers everything you need, so you don’t need to make the trip to New York City if you don’t want to.

What other property is out there?

There are over 1,000 Westchester homes for sale throughout the county’s 450 square mile area. Plus, there are an array of villas and luxury apartments in Westchester, NY, which means there is bound to be something for everyone.

Westchester is a growing and thriving county just north of New York City that offers all of the same conveniences while stretching your money. Its properties yield more land, bigger homes, and a quieter lifestyle all while remaining easily accessible to the heart of New York City.

Read more on Westchester’s real estate and let BARNES guide you to the right house, villa, or luxury apartment in Westchester, NY.

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Why should you invest in a New York City home?

By Annie Newman

New York is one of the most attractive cities in the world to live in and attracts global attention since the beginning of its history. It is not only an exciting place to live in but it is also a world capital in many ways. It is the location of major financial institutions, world renowned cultural districts, the seat of the United Nations and has more population per square feet than most cities across the country. The real estate in New York City is priced at a high value due to its coveted status as one of the greatest metropolitan areas in the world. New York City consists of the following 5 boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx. They all offer unique homes, condos, lofts and apartments that only increase in value over time and can satisfy a wide array of lifestyle needs.

The New York City real estate market

New York apartments are quite in demand and regardless of price, often have many people eyeing the same homes for sale at the same time. One charming neighborhood in Manhattan named Chelsea, recently attracted hundreds of people to a two bedroom open house event where the line to enter had almost a 30 minute wait. Not many cities on earth can boast such a phenomenon. New York City apartments for sale are often difficult to choose from as there are so many neighborhoods and boroughs that offer exclusive living spaces. It is important to do the right research before investing in a luxury condo in New York or any type of home as each area has its own character. Many older residences offer high ceilings, large lobbies, decorative features, hardwood floors and historic charm. The newer constructions are built smaller and are usually found in high rises but do include more modern advantages than prewar constructions. Some New York homes for sale are more expensive but are built in quieter areas that have more of a suburban feel. The New York penthouses for sale offer incredible views of the Manhattan skyline that are truly breathtaking and worth the investment. One can spend days visiting the arts and cultural centers and museums around the city and the fast paced lifestyle of New York is inviting for all those who are looking for a fulfilling experience.

Neighborhoods in New York City

The Upper East Side in New York is known for its trendy and upscale homes, restaurants and shops. Part of Central Park and many museums surround the area that can be filled with tourists all year round. Purchasing or renting an Upper East Side apartment is a source of pride for many residents.

Chelsea is a Manhattan neighborhood that is quite central and has more townhouses and low-rise buildings that make the area more home-like than the skyscrapers of other districts. A lot of former factories have been transformed into art galleries, condos, and trendy upscale living spaces. It is mainly residential and doesn’t reflect the more bustling neighborhoods that are in the financial districts. It has a lot of history and restored homes. SoHo in New York is another fancy neighborhood that includes many designer stores, high end shopping and elegant homes. It has a lively nightlife and attracts all types of artists and vendors.

The SoHo apartments in New York are well located and offer both historical styles of architecture as well as top of the line modern constructions. TriBeCa is a very expensive neighborhood of Manhattan that has a suburban look with cobblestone streets and multimillion dollar residences. It has a family friendly atmosphere and the TriBeCa apartments are usually high priced due to its special character as a quiet area in the big city. There are many lofts for sale that were formerly built as industrial buildings and have spacious accommodations. In a city that has over 8 million inhabitants, every square foot is precious real estate. Some families who are looking for a peaceful neighborhood in New York without having to commute to further suburbs in other boroughs can choose TriBeCa as a primary residence.

The Upper West Side of Manhattan is famous and its name is probably more recognized that many other New York districts. The area includes Central Park, one of the only preserved green spaces in the city, as well as many museums and is a desired zip code to live in. It has many affluent residents and notable structures and is also more convenient for families or people looking for a more quiet living space.

The Upper West Side of New York offers apartments that are luxurious, beautifully restored and have cozy living spaces. The streets are quieter and one does not have to be concerned with the loud distractions of the more densely populated areas. The East Village of New York is more known for its busy nightlife, bars, music venues and restaurants. It does include mansions and prestigious homes as well as row housing. It is a center for culture and the East Village apartments are well located for those who want more of a fast paced lifestyle. It is easy to access all the cultural venues that are so close by.

The West Village of New York is quite special in the sense that the city imposed the maintenance of the historic facades of many buildings and therefore the area has kept a lot of its historic charm. There are many theaters that display modern cultural trends and movements. In general, New York City itself is a mix of old and new, modern and historic, busy yet livable and exciting as can be for all those who call it home.

BARNES New York is at your disposal to help you choose the right New York City home for your needs and aspirations. We have a team of knowledgeable experts who can guide you through the process of purchasing your dream residence in the City that never sleeps. 

«New York City Neighborhoods» : Exploring the West Village with Pauline Lévêque

Interview by Rachel Brunet, director and editor-in-chief of Petit Journal New York

BARNES New York invites you in its series of articles untitled “New York City Neighborhoods”, where you can regularly discover the different districts of the city, in the eyes of French speakers who have settled there. They tell us all about their neighborhood, in their words, their tastes, their habits. Today, we take a walk in the West Village, in the company of illustrator Pauline Lévêque. With her husband, writer Marc Levy, and their two children, she has lived in this West Manhattan neighborhood for twelve years. The artist, who is exhibiting on November 11, 12 and 13 in Brooklyn, shows us her neighborhood, with its inspirations and habits. And without a doubt, its daily joys…

Lepetitjournal.com New York: You live in West Village. What attracted you to this neighborhood?

Pauline Lévêque: Before settling in the Village, my husband and I lived in London. There is an English side to it, green and calm in this neighborhood, but here the sky is blue almost every day. The streets are charming, the brownstones superb, and you don’t really feel the New York frenzy. It’s a little haven of peace in the heart of Manhattan.

Can you tell us about life in this neighborhood, the atmosphere? What makes it live, what drives it?

It really is village life. We know our neighbors, the UPS delivery man, the traders, the elderly in the neighborhood, the watercolorist who draws the street corners, the cellist who has been playing the same tunes for twelve years, the cigarette seller, the dog walker … And we find a bunch of dogs! Almost as many as children! It is very joyful and cordial to walk through the streets of the Village. But depending on the festivities, as with the Halloween parade, it’s not uncommon to come across extravagant, happy, or scary personalities. The shops on Bleecker Street have suffered greatly from the pandemic, but like the rest of the city, we are feeling a new lease of life and we are discovering new brands. The restaurants are all installed on the sidewalks and in the streets, which gives a European “bistro” side.

You are a mom. How is life with children and a family at TriBeCA? Are there many families?

Yes a lot. My children both go to a school in the neighborhood and the majority of their friends live there. We go to school on foot or by scooter, we meet up with friends on the way. It’s easy for last minute playdates and playground laps, too. We feel very safe in the Village. It is a very “kids-friendly” neighborhood. As proof, the ice cream parlor’s truck makes its daily rounds almost all year round!

You are an artist. Can you make us discover this district with your words? Is this a neighborhood that inspires you?

Very much. The outlook of the tree-lined streets, the alleys of townhouses, the view from the banks of the Hudson river… The area does not have too many tall buildings compared to the rest of the city, so I can see the sky with every walk, watch the roofs of small buildings with their water towers, have fun with graffiti, and see the Freedom Tower enthroned at the end of 7th Avenue.

Can you describe where you live, what attracted you, what do you like about your home?

The village is unlike any other parts of Manhattan. Unlike the rest of the city, the streets are not numbered, but have names. Before living here, I always got lost in this neighborhood, and had a soft spot for the corner of Perry Street and W4th. I am fortunate to live close to this corner that made me dream. And I still don’t get tired of it.

As a European, do you find a little European side to this district through the inhabitants, the shops, the schools?

Absolutely! I think the vast majority of people in the West Village are Americans, but the area really does have a European feel to it. By the way, Diptyque, Sandro, Maje, Bash can be found on Bleecker Street. The schools are on a human scale.

Your favorite places in the West Village?

Along the Hudson River, the children’s clothing store “Pink Chicken” on Bleecker Street, the restaurants “Mary’s fish camp”, “La Sevilla”, “Buvette”, “Bobo”, “Nami Nori”, “En Japanese »… Gay street, Morton and Bedford Street, St Luke’s place… Smalls jazz club on W10th. Etc., etc!

Is this a neighborhood that you recommend for those who want to buy or rent?

Sure, for both. West village is an expensive area, but if you can afford it, it’s the nicest area for me to live.

If you had to describe the West Village in three words?

Charming. Calm. Village!

EXPERTS DISCUSS – West Village

Rental Market in West Village: During Q3 2021, the median rent for an apartment in West Village was $3,000 for a studio, $4,000 for a 1 bedroom, and $5,500 for a 2 bedroom.

Sales Market in West Village: In the third quarter of 2021, across the West Village, the median asking price of sellers is $2,100 / sqft.

Interview by Rachel Brunet, director and editor-in-chief of Petit Journal New York

Chelsea, one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world

Interview by Rachel Brunet, director and editor-in-chief of Le Petit Journal New York

It stretches from 14th Street to 34th Street and 6th Avenue to the Hudson River. The Chelsea district has just entered the Timeout ranking of “49 coolest districts in the world”. This district of the West Side of Manhattan is known for its many restaurants, its famous sites, including the High Line, but also its art galleries. Between the inauguration of The Little Island this year and the opening of the exhibition ‘Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure’, next spring, immersed in the Chelsea district, one of the most “gay-friendly” in Manhattan, but a neighborhood that also has a bit of a French touch of some sort…

Chelsea among the coolest neighborhoods in the world

The ranking “the 49 coolest neighborhoods in the world” of the famous Timeout magazine is just out and awarded to 49 neighborhoods spread over the four corners of the planet under the title of “coolest neighborhood in the world”. The Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan comes in 6th place.

From “speak easy” to flea markets, restaurants, gay bars to green buildings, the Chelsea district caters to all tastes. Chelsea is a happy marriage of industrial style and contemporary construction, with one watchword: strolling. Trendy restaurants, cafes, small shops and openness to water and nature, if Chelsea made its entry into the Timout ranking, there’s a good reason.

Chelsea is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New York to have retained its original name. In 1750, an English entrepreneur named Thomas Clarke bought a “ten square block” piece of land near the Hudson River and named the estate “Chelsea” after a soldier’s house near London. Over the years, developers have built the heart of Chelsea between 14th and 23rd Streets West of Eighth Avenue and have designed the neighborhood with the boundaries we know today. Among the monuments, both literally and figuratively, of the Chelsea district, the famous Chelsea Hotel, Madison Square Garden, the High Line, Chelsea Market, The Little Island… But not only! Chelsea is a neighborhood that has its secrets.

Chelsea’s secrets

The top of brick buildings and water tower on a Chelsea rooftop.

The Grand Lodge of New York is the largest and oldest independent organization of Freemasons in New York. Founded on December 15, 1782, the Grand Lodge has jurisdiction over approximately 60,000 Freemasons. The historic 23rd Street and 6th Avenue structure has hosted various blood drives and charity events, as well as New York’s Masonic Security Identification Program.

Another of Chelsea’s secret, the atomic bomb … Although much of the research on the project took place at Columbia University, Chelsea also played a small but important role in the development of the atomic bomb. On West 20th Street, three buildings once made up the Baker and Williams warehouses, which housed thousands of tonnes of uranium. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the federal government cleaned buildings of residual uranium, disposing of over a dozen barrels of radioactive waste.

Another, sweeter secret… The building that now houses Chelsea Market was once the headquarters of the National Biscuit Company, or Nabisco. The factory officially opened in 1890 when eight bakeries came together to create a “super bakery” and continued to expand until 1958 when the company left Manhattan. In 1912, Nabisco invented his undoubtedly most famous product in Chelsea: the Oreo cookie. Chief food scientist Sam Porcello created the recipe, which has remained largely unchanged over a century later. The company also produced classic products such as Saltines, Vanilla Wafers, Fig Newtons, and Barnum’s Animal Crackers. Many remains of the original Nabisco factory are still there. Entering Chelsea Market from 9th Avenue between 15th and 16th Streets, the Nabisco plaque dating from 1898 still triumphs.

A bit of France in Chelsea

View of downtown Manhattan from a garden in Chelsea, with a terrace in the foreground and people watching at the skyline.

While many may think The High Line‘s concept of turning old train tracks into a park was started in Chelsea, The High Line was actually inspired by the Parisian project, La Coulée Verte, located in the 12th arrondissement of the French capital, built in 1993 from a disused railway line. The project, both architectural and green, follows the old Vincennes railway line and crosses an elevated viaduct to reach the Bastille. The High Line, the American counterpart of the Coulée Verte, was to have retail space underneath, but plans were scrapped after the spaces under the park were privatized.

With nearly 40,000 French people officially settled in New York, Chelsea is also a neighborhood taken over by expatriates. On 29th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenue, the O’Cabanon restaurant has taken up residence since 2015 with its adjoining shop where you can find a wide range of French products: cookies, preserves, syrups, cheese, cold meats, chocolate, cosmetics and even books in French.

Further south, within the Chelsea Market itself, the Norman pastry chef Jérémie Rousselet officiates at Tiny Feast. On a very French note, ham / gruyère baguette sandwiches, charcuterie boards and donuts are on the menu. “I have a lot of good memories with donuts: they remind me of summer and the holidays, their delicious smell, and when I was a child, in France, going to bakeries after school to have a donut” explains the French chef on the Tiny Feast website.

On 7th Avenue, between 19 and 20e rue, Le Singe Vert, a bistro with romantic decoration that serves cold meats, snails, onion soup, endive salad with duck confit, steak tartare or even a tab wine merchant.

It was also in Chelsea that the 2013 Chelsea Film Festival was born – sponsored by French nationals Ingrid Jean-Baptiste and Sonia Jean-Baptiste and whose 9th edition has just ended. This festival dedicated to the 7th art, highlights and awards international independent or emerging filmmakers. This year, among the 141 films presented, 11 were produced by French directors.

Chelsea, this neighborhood where it is good to stroll, work and live, however, remains an expensive neighborhood in New York. “As of September 2021, in Chelsea, the median selling price was $1,289,000, and reported on the surface the median price was $1,491 / sqft. For rentals, the average rental price in September was $3,675 for a studio, $5,150 for a one bedroom and $7,450 for a two bedrooms ”explains Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner at BARNES New York.

Expensive, but cool, so is Chelsea…

Interview by Rachel Brunet, director and editor-in-chief of Le Petit Journal New York

Why should you search for a home in Westchester County?

By Annie Newman

Westchester is actually one of the first suburban areas to be developed outside of New York City. It is located just north of New York and is quite accessible as the distance is a reasonable drive to the city. It is located in the Hudson valley and consists of cities, towns and villages. It is surrounded by beautiful nature, a peaceful environment and is a haven for New Yorkers who are looking for a more suburban type of lifestyle. It has notable residents and was once home to the former US President, Bill Clinton. Yonkers is the most populated city in that region and the entire county attracts residents from all over Manhattan who are looking for more spacious and livable homes.

Westchester as a first choice suburb of New York

The Westchester County is a central suburb in the greater New York City region and began its history as an attractive place for upper middle class families due to its proximity to the Big Apple. Its many roads and public transport services are an attractive factor for commuters especially in a city where traffic can sometimes become a significant obstacle. The southern area of Westchester is rapidly becoming densely populated and more city-like than other parts of the county. Upstate New York is also closely accessible from Westchester and is an attractive factor in choosing a home there for those who like to go to the countryside on a more regular basis. Aside from the villages and towns that are found there, the main populated cities are: Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, White Plains, Peekskill and Rye.

A suburb with economic influence 

Most suburbs in the United States consist of mostly residential properties but the Westchester area is so close in proximity to New York City, one of the financial capitals of the world, that it attracts many Fortune 500 companies. Buyers who purchase a home in Westchester can have close access to jobs that have high earning potential without having to necessarily commute all the way to Manhattan. Some of these major companies include MasterCard, PepsiCo, IBM and Universal American. It is a great advantage in a city like New York that is densely populated, expensive and deals with major traffic to have suburbs that also offer great business opportunities. Unlike Manhattan, one can buy a home in Westchester that is spacious, has a big garden, easy parking and more without the daily stresses of a bustling metropolis. Just like California has Silicon Valley, eastern New York State has Tech Valley. The Westchester homes for sale are worth the investment as they are located in a region that has growing business opportunities and the demand keeps growing.

A damn in Westchester county, during the fall with orange and brownish leaves starting to fall.

The Westchester county charm

Westchester has a lot of historic buildings and beautiful sceneries. It is a charming and wonderful place to own a home. The architecture of the houses is known to be beautiful, with wide spaces and plenty of greenery. The oldest building there was built in 1670. There are libraries, museums, cultural arts centers, and many parks and recreation areas. Scarsdale is one of the closest districts to New York City and offers a lot of business opportunities and cultural attractions. The area may be historic but it also includes many newly built homes and luxury apartments across Westchester.

The real estate market in Westchester

The real estate market in Westchester is growing and the median prices for homes are in the higher ranges. It offers many luxurious properties that are significantly more affordable than in Manhattan, where an apartment can cost as much as a large house in Westchester. There are many cities and towns to choose from and some homes are located in areas that are so quiet and retreated that they are not even considered part of any town. The residents there can enjoy a more private life and choose a dream home close to one of the most popular cities on earth. One particular home in Westchester had gone on the market for $100 million, which many U.S. suburbs could not offer because of location. Being in driving distance to Manhattan naturally raises the value of homes in a suburb such as Westchester. Westchester houses for sale include waterfront homes, mansions, castles, and restored historic buildings. The standard of life is considered one of the highest in the country. There are many hills and rivers that mix farm life, suburban life and city life due to its status as a New York City suburb. The county continues to move forward and attracts many people from across the East coast to its beautiful landscapes. For home buyers who like nature, they can purchase a home that is close to many nature activities such as hiking, biking, watersports, and outdoor recreation. It has much to offer for its residents during both the summer and winter seasons. It also offers a meaningful sense of community compared to the big city. Those who are looking for rural homes with a large property can find such houses in the area. Many people rarely expect to find so much farmland just north of a city with millions of people. Some New Yorkers who purchased a second home in Westchester made it their primary residence during the pandemic months when many businesses and schools were closed in New York City. For those who are looking for Westchester apartments instead of the responsibility of a big property, they can also find many choices in one of the more populated districts of the county. Westchester offers a wide array of choices for your needs.

BARNES Westchester is at your disposal to help you search for your dream home in Westchester thanks to a team of experts that is available to guide you in your real estate goals.

Why should you consider buying a dream property in the Hamptons?

By Annie Newman

Did you ever find yourself thinking about purchasing your dream home? We often hear of names of cities and areas across the United States that are synonym with beautiful beaches, sceneries, celebrity homes, luxurious manors and fancy streets. Some of the most popular places in the United States that come to mind when thinking of those dreamy places include Beverly Hills, Miami Beach, Manhattan and most definitely the Hamptons in New York State. When one thinks of expensive oceanfront homes, places like South Florida and California come to mind but make no mistake, the Hamptons can live up to the highest expectations for offering some of the most breathtaking beachfront properties that the East Coast has to offer. The Hamptons real estate market is worth exploring for your choice of a primary or second home.

Luxury properties in the Hamptons

Real estate prices in the Hamptons rank among the most expensive zip codes in the United States. Buyers can expect to find houses for sale in the Hampton Bays that range from 40 to 100 million dollars. The high value of these homes can be attributed to their proximity to Manhattan, one of the most sought out places to live in the world, and the desirable beachfront location. The Business Week magazine cites Sagaponack, Water Mill and Bridgehampton as being the first, sixth and eighth most expensive zip codes in the U.S. The southern tip of Long Island is comprised of the different neighborhoods of the Hamptons that can be accessed easily from New York City. The population of the Hamptons increases greatly during the summer as well as during many weekends throughout the year. Theatres, golf courses, and shopping in the area are considered exclusive and highly regarded. Most people in the country have heard of the Hamptons but due to its exclusive nature, many have not yet even visited the region. There are more affordable homes in the Hamptons, but it is very common to find residences there in the higher price ranges.

A favorite vacation spot for New Yorkers

Many New Yorkers who are looking to buy a second home often consider the Hamptons as a close-by and first choice peaceful escape from the big city life. It is refreshing for people who live in the densely populated metropolis to view oceanfront homes that are spacious, quiet and incomparable in size to residential properties in the Big Apple. Even with a budget for investment in the millions of dollars, homes in New York City are bound by the limited space that is available and one cannot even dream to have a home in Manhattan as large as can be found in the Hamptons. Houses for sale in Southampton are particularly desirable because they are part of the commercial center of the region. It also includes the largest communities in this part of the Long Island strip. Hard working New Yorkers who have the budget to purchase a second home in places like Florida don’t always have the luxury of time to travel often to those places. Those other locations may require a flight or longer vacations and time off to be accessible. On the other hand, the Hamptons is just a drive away for New Yorkers and they can enjoy going there even for weekends if they cannot take a lot of time off to travel to more far away vacation destinations. It is truly a great choice for people all across the New England area who are looking for a private and upscale setting for their second home.

The Hamptons are no longer known just for vacation homes

During the Covid Pandemic, many people across the United States and especially in big overcrowded cities like Manhattan started to head out temporarily to more quiet regions where they didn’t have to be concerned with densely populated buildings and big crowds. Now, many of those big city residents are starting to find a new appreciation for regions that are more livable yet still quite close to the attractions of a metropolitan area. For many New Yorkers, their second home in the Hamptons have now become their first choice of residence throughout the year. Those who appreciate luxury and a more extravagant yet quiet lifestyle flock to places like the Hamptons that have so much to offer. Some wealthy residents of places like Manhattan still find themselves investing a lot of funds into tiny condos or apartments that are highly priced solely because of their location near Wall Street or Times Square. In the Hamptons, buyers can obtain more amenities and living space in return for their investment. The prices that are high reflect more value in the actual property itself. A two bedroom apartment in Manhattan can have the same asking price as a home in the Hamptons that is many times the size. Private beaches, celebrity sighting, peaceful and less crowded streets, picturesque views, proximity to the big city for work, are all part of the reasons why the communities in the Hamptons are becoming increasingly popular. The architecture in the Hamptons is pleasant to the eye and many homes built across the country even describe themselves as being built with a ‘Hampton Style.’ That style includes natural looks, wide spaces, sunlight, color, and relaxed living styles. The Hamptons include historic and charming buildings, old farming communities as well as the most modern and up to date architecture and decor. This coastal area has some of the most stylish and grandiose homes one can find in any beachfront community in the nation. It is most likely that sales in the area post-pandemic will only increase in the near future.  

BARNES New York is at your disposal to help you choose your dream property in the Hamptons due to a strong team of experts that are available to guide you in your search for your perfect residence.

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Why is the real estate market in Queens worthwhile to explore?

By Annie Newman

When buyers and investors think of New York City and its boroughs, they often imagine or assume that the homes or apartments for sale are small and lack the quiet qualities of suburbs. Houses for sale in Queens may just be a great surprise for anyone involved in the real estate market in New York. One of the special qualities of this New York City borough is that it includes many regions that have quiet towns with single family homes that are incredibly spacious and spread out in comparison to the big city life or to the overly urbanized landscapes of other boroughs in the area. Long Island is an area that is adjacent to Queens and offers this small town lifestyle that is rare to find in a populous metropolitan area. If the borough of Queens would be a city, it would be considered the 4th most populated city in the United States. It offers a high quality of life, big backyards, shopping and entertainment, as well a bustling economy. Amazon considered Queens among its top choices for headquarters in the borough. The two main airports of New York City are located in Queens, it is a great convenience to live next to the John F. Kennedy and La Guardia airports that are located there. Massive properties and mansions in Queens can be found scattered around the borough in popular towns or in more hidden and peaceful neighborhoods. One is more likely to find large homes and a suburban lifestyle in this huge borough.  It offers high end and luxurious settings for those who want to live near New York City without the pressures of big city daily life.

Homes for sale in Queens

Just like all New York City boroughs, Queens is located next to Manhattan, one of the most desirable and popular locations on earth and therefore it is common to find homes that vary in the higher price ranges. Unlike other boroughs though, Queens and Long Island offer spectacular homes for sale that are either brand new constructions or much more recently built compared to areas like Brooklyn that have buildings that often date from the post-war period. The apartments for sale in Queens as well as the houses there can offer a suburban type of life that cannot be found in Manhattan or in the busy districts of many New York City boroughs. The real estate in Queens is characterized by a much bigger variety of choices of home sizes and styles than other places around the Big Apple. The condos in Queens can be found on the market for lower prices than those in the more metropolitan districts but can be as beautiful and modern. Queens is so big and offers such varied types of cultural and economic facets that it is definitely worth being explored for your choice of a dream location.

Astoria is one typical neighborhood of Queens that offers the less intimidating types of buildings and architecture compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn. It includes less skyscrapers and high rise buildings and has a more familiar and warm environment to live in. The area is trendy and multicultural and offers different types of restaurants and entertainment venues. There are museums and other attractions for the local residents and tourists. It is the third most expensive neighborhood in the borough as it is becoming increasingly popular.

Houses for sale in Long Island

Even longtime residents of Manhattan and Brooklyn can be taken by surprise by the lush green and quiet homes that can be found in the Long Island region. Long Island homes for sale can range in the millions of dollars but are worth the investment especially for residents who want to raise a family in a region like New York that can be sometimes considered too densely populated or overwhelming as an environment to bring up children. Yet, it is not just families who can appreciate this area adjacent to Queens and close to Manhattan. The Long Island real estate market offers homes that are spacious in peaceful settings. The condos for sale are often situated in upscale settings. In Long Island, buyers and investors can find mansions for sale that would not even exist in Manhattan even with the available budget due to lack of space in the big city. The townhouses and homes in Long Island are especially large, luxurious and modern in comparison to many houses or apartment buildings inside the metropolis. Many residents who invest large amounts of money into homes in New York City complain about the lack of space for parking and recreation, while in Long Island, one can have a two or three car garage that fit comfortably in the design of the homes there. Even though it can be exciting to live in Manhattan or right across in downtown Brooklyn, there are many reasons to believe that it is advantageous to invest in a home in a place like Long Island that has all the suburban qualities of life yet so close to the great things that New York City has to offer and can be accessed so easily.

During the Covid Pandemic, areas such as Long Island and Queens saw less of an exodus of residents as its spacious towns offered less crowded buildings and a strong diversified economy. Many new contracts for properties were signed in Queens during and after the pandemic and it did not lose its attractive character. The future of the real estate market there is promising.

BARNES New York is here to help you choose the right neighborhood in Queens for your real estate project to buy your dream home, thanks to a great team of knowledgeable experts that are present to assist you in your investment goals.

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