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«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

How can New York real estate agents be helpful in guiding you through the real estate market?

By: Annie Newman

New York City is one of the largest and most populated cities in the United States and consists of a thriving and growing real estate market. Some people who are looking to buy or rent properties in and around the city choose to inquire about its available listings online or through visiting the different areas. Others prefer to use a real estate agent to guide them in the process of investing in this great city.

What are the roles and responsibilities of the real estate agents in New York?

Anyone who has explored the New York real estate market is aware that the prices of properties in the Big Apple are higher than many cities across the nation due to the popularity and economic power of the city. Due to the large territory that New York covers, one can find a tremendous variety of properties in Manhattan and the surrounding suburbs and boroughs who are quite large and diverse in lifestyle, architecture and landscapes. Even if a buyer is certain about the type of building or property that they are searching for, navigating the market without an agent can be quite challenging as there is truly a sea of choice. Also, due to the higher than average prices found across the city, buyers want to ensure that their investment is worthwhile and done properly.

Real estate agents are key to helping potential clients in searching for their dream house or investment in this glamorous and world renowned metropolis. They can guide you to investigate which areas match your ideal social, cultural or business setting and can present you with listings that are not always available online or well described on search sites. They can narrow down the possibilities for you and give you details about the residences and properties that would not necessarily be accessible or explained in the brief online descriptions. They are experts regarding the history of the different locations, prices, quality of the buildings, local construction laws, and true value of the properties. They can help you make the appropriate comparisons.

Many real estate agents can also connect you to the right mortgage specialists, home improvement or construction businesses. They can also be available to communicate with potential sellers and other real estate agents or property managers on your behalf and save you a lot of time by inquiring about your questions and concerns with those other parties directly. They can certainly be a great asset in planning and organizing your search for the perfect real estate investment in New York. Due to the high demand for housing and commercial properties in the City, some agents may offer better service than others. Some real estate brokers are very busy and some are more interested in those willing to invest greater funds for more major transactions, but with the right patience, buyers can do their research to find the best real estate agents in the city for their needs and goals. Some brokers around the city are more motivated than others by commissions but the top real estate agents are those who truly care about their client’s needs. People who are looking to buy or rent don’t want to be pressured into signing a contract on any property that is pushed specifically by an agent, they want to find the home that matches their needs and budget and want to have all the true information about the quality and pricing of their investment. That is why it is important to search for the right real estate broker that will represent you and have your full interest in mind. When you find the appropriate real estate agent for you, they can help you with gathering the proper documentations for your investment, answer your questions, put you in touch with lenders, home inspectors, lawyers and all the parties involved from the beginning of your search to the finalization of your transaction. Sometimes, the process can take a longer time and can require more attention or communications, and this is why it is crucial to choose the brokers with the best organizational and collaborative skills to be there for you along the different steps to complete your acquisitions.

BARNES New York and its influence in the luxury real estate market

BARNES New York is proud to excel in its service in the New York luxury real estate market and has a great team of experts available for consultations regarding all your real estate goals. We offer some of the most sought after properties in and around the City, from high end apartments and condos to luxury homes, townhouses and penthouses. Our team is familiar with the real estate market in this wondrous city and has access to an international network of experts in local and foreign investments and property management. Our exclusive properties, whether available to buy or rent, are presented to you with the highest degree of professionalism and we take pleasure in your satisfaction and long term success. For more than a decade, BARNES New York has helped its international and local clientele in their real estate acquisitions in the City. From our real estate agents and brokers to our managing partners, real estate consultants, and business associates, we are all committed to give you the best experience in planning, buying or renting the right property for you. We look forward to working with you on all your real estate goals and projects.

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

What should you know about luxury real estate in New York?

By Annie Newman

New York City is one of the most unique places in the world. The bustling economy, the award winning theatres, the big city lights and skyline, the top rated fashion industry and the luxury real estate market are all part of the exciting glamor of the Big Apple. Every big city in the world can include luxury real estate but New York takes it to a whole new level. It boasts apartments and condos that are so elevated within the skyscrapers, that some of them can feel like one is living in the clouds. The high value pricing for New York residences is above the national average, and for good reason, since owning or renting a luxury home there is considered quite prestigious.

Why is the cost of living in New York higher than average?

Buyers can own a home in cities across the United States for reasonable prices but a few American cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami and New York can dazzle its residents and tourists with a magic touch as these cities offer a lifestyle that cannot be found just anywhere. It’s not every day in smaller towns that one can experience the lively financial, social and cultural way of life that a big metropolis like New York has to offer. It is no wonder that luxury apartments in NYC are in high demand and their incredible views of Manhattan are even priceless. In New York, there is such a variety of neighborhoods and lifestyle options that choosing a place to call one’s home can be a fascinating journey. One has to choose the right neighborhood, the right location and the type of housing that is appropriate. Luxury apartments in NYC are surrounded by charm, history, and a sense of liveliness that is rare to find in most towns nationwide. For example, a New York penthouse can be so much more alluring for buyers that a penthouse in other cities, because they usually offer views that are breathtaking of the big city and are usually found in very high towers that offer far reaching views. Many celebrities or business owners who own homes in other American cities often choose to purchase a second home in New York as it is a source of pride to own a piece of real estate in one of the most attractive places in the world. Those who live there year round feel a great sense of fulfillment to be able to enjoy on a daily basis the bustling life that New York has to offer.

Luxury real estate outside of Manhattan

For those who want to be close to Manhattan but prefer a more serene and suburban lifestyle, there are many boroughs outside of New York City that offer exclusive luxury homes and townhouses for sale across a wide area surrounding the big city. The New York real estate prices vary depending on the areas but usually the condos for sale outside of Manhattan are less expensive than in the City itself. Yet, bigger houses in the suburbs can actually be more expensive than apartments in Manhattan because they are quite large and have more land. New York is a very populated city and therefore choosing a home outside the region can offer more of a spacious and comfortable lifestyle.

Types of luxury real estate in New York

New York is a city that has a long history and therefore many buildings and homes were built quite a long time ago. The people who invest in those types of constructions can be surprised to see them listed as luxury properties because of the date in which they were built, but a lot of them have been completely renovated and revived. They are considered luxurious due to the location in NYC as well as the fact that they are built with more space than newer condos or apartments in the City. The other type of luxury residences in New York are the brand new constructions, or new developments, often found in high rises that offer spectacular views and modern amenities. They are well located and are prestigious to live in. They usually have a 24 hour doorman and maybe even a gym or pool. Yet, they are often built much smaller since developers or sponsors want to maximize the expensive land they purchased in New York. Every square foot of space in a city like New York is very precious and often has many people bidding for the same properties. It is one of the reasons why Manhattan is known as a ‘concrete jungle.’ Whenever new land becomes available for building, investors prefer to build high rise buildings instead of parks or green areas to increase revenue. Renting or owning a luxury home in New York is not to be taken for granted as it is a very special opportunity.

Expensive neighborhoods in New York

Hudson Yards, TriBeCa, SoHo, Upper East Side, Central Park, Cobble Hill, DUMBO, Park Slope, Williamsburg and Carroll Gardens, to mention a few, are some of the most expensive neighborhoods in New York City. Some of these are in Brooklyn, while others are in Manhattan. Manhattan is the most expensive of all as it is the heart of New York City and State for economic, cultural and social development. Other boroughs can also be expensive due to their proximity to New York City but can be more affordable than Manhattan itself. They can also include larger properties. Whether you are looking to buy or rent in the New York area, you will be spoiled with a wide variety of luxury properties to choose from in and around the big city.

BARNES New York is the quintessence of luxury real estate in the City and offers its services related to sales, rentals and property management for your real estate projects. Its international clientele and worldwide reputation brings you the most exclusive properties and our team of experts is at your disposal to accompany you in reaching your investment goals in New York.

Market update and webinar series announcement

Borders are reopening! Finally … Many of you were just waiting for this signal to come and join the Big Apple and realize your big real estate project, which has been dormant for almost two years. You will then have chosen the right time, in a market context which is still tense on one side but reassuring on the other. And it is precisely this reassuring, stable and resilient aspect of the New York market that makes it an essential real estate market.

Indeed, and as was the case in the past during other “crises”, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic (from a strictly real estate point of view means) was only felt here in a limited way (drop in prices in resale of 10 to 15% during 2020), and temporary (concentrated on Q2 and Q3 2020). The major impacts were felt above all on new development projects, rentals and commercial real estate.

Today, residential real estate has returned to its pre-pandemic level and negotiating margins are now tight in resale; we are clearly in a “seller’s market” with limited inventory and strong demand.

Regarding new developments, the “sales” that we promoted in 2020 are rather over. As the inventory is still large, there is still some interesting leeway, as long as one chooses the right partner for their project. This is precisely the goal of the establishment by BARNES New York of a monthly, French-speaking webinar, on the first Tuesday of each month, presenting various New York new development programs, highlighting our expertise in the field. Rendezvous for the first opus next Tuesday, on October 5 at 12pm EST (6pm FR) to discover the following programs:

  • 300 West (West Harlem)
  • The Ritz-Carlton Residences (NoMad)
  • St Marks Place (Boerum Hill, Brooklyn)

Please contact us to register for free!

The rental sector has fully recovered with a market that is very much to the advantage of owners. As for commercial real estate, it continues to suffer to some extent, with a full recovery, at least a stabilized correction, expected by at least 2023.

Our team of experts, multilingual, continues to expand, including a new office in upscale and multicultural Westchester County; and, as always, remains at your entire disposal to assist you in the realization of your New York real estate project.

Why should you use a real estate agency to guide you through the New York real estate market?

By Annie Newman

The New York real estate market consists of a vast sea of choice of luxury condos, apartments, homes and townhouses that can be found across New York City and its suburbs. One of the most populated and attractive cities on earth offers so much choice for buyers and real estate investors that it would be hard to imagine navigating through this real estate market without the guidance of knowledgeable experts in the field. Not only is it important to choose the right type of residence, but the location of the home can affect daily life in a profound way when living in such a big metropolitan area. The process of buying or renting a home in New York City and its surroundings can be exciting and real estate agencies can guide you to make the process much more pleasant and effective.

The New York City real estate market

New York City has 5 boroughs that expand through large territories and include all types of landscapes. Those consist of the densely populated Manhattan, as well as many areas surrounded by water, farmlands, suburbs, towns and villages. Real estate companies can be found in most of these areas and often specialize in different types of properties, including luxury homes and modern constructions. Some parts of NYC are older due to its long and rich history but the properties are charming and retain their authenticity. There are many restored buildings that offer large and modern living spaces, while other areas have brand new constructions that are valued at very high prices due to their incredible location in and around the city that never sleeps. Those who are looking for a more quiet and suburban type of lifestyle can turn to one of the many boroughs that surround Manhattan that are less densely populated and offer more of a communal or family life that is not as busy as the big city. Luxury real estate companies can be found throughout the area because even a home that is a one hour drive from Manhattan can be quite expensive when considering how easily accessible it is to reach the city that is undoubtedly one of the most important financial and cultural centers in the world. In many cities around the United States, once a buyer starts searching for a home that is located within a sizeable distance of a big city, usually the prices can be expected to be lower but when one is searching for a home within any borough of New York City, they can expect high value properties because it is incredibly desirable to be near such a special metropolis. Choosing the right borough and the right type of property is quite a big task and while investing a lot of funds into a NYC home is always worthwhile, it is crucial to have the right broker and agency to help buyers make the right choice.

Why choose a real estate agency in buying or renting a home?

Some buyers turn to the internet to search for available properties in and around New York City to rent or buy, but they might not necessarily find out a lot of important information in the online postings of properties. Sometimes, a real estate broker might have insights that buyers don’t have access to regarding the history of repairs, appropriate pricing for the area, advantages and disadvantages of certain properties, why some homes have been on the market for longer periods of time, and myriads of other details that cannot be accessible on typical search engines for the real estate market. Some people who are looking to buy or rent a home in NYC are concerned about how to choose the right agent or broker because they don’t want to be pressured into any major decisions and therefore the best way to choose the right person to represent you in your search is to have them offer a few properties that meet your criteria and discover if they are truly trying to satisfy your real estate needs or are more concerned about sales and commission. Even though real estate brokers are available to help and are looking to close sales, some agents are more understanding of your needs than others and have your best interest in mind as they want their clients to be happy with the purchase and are not simply there to gain a sold property. Here, at BARNES New York, we have a long history of offering some of the most exclusive and special properties that NYC has to offer and our team of experts are proud to give a personalized service to its customers. With offices all over the world that represent luxurious and highly desirable homes, we are proud to include this great city as one of our top locations in the real estate market. In Europe, we present homes that show a true French art de vivre style and we choose our properties very carefully to meet the highest standards. Even in a city like New York that is quite populated and can include smaller living quarters, we still offer some of the best located, modern, luxurious and prestigious homes of all sizes to meet your needs. There are many real estate companies in the area that can be efficient to guide you in the process of making the right purchase or investment, but they may not offer such high end properties like BARNES has in its coveted listings.

Whether you are currently living and working in New York City or are living abroad and are looking to invest in a home in this area, you can count on BARNES to be at your disposal thanks to a strong team of experts available at your convenience.

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.

Buying real estate in New York: expert advice

Bien Vivre aux États-Unis:
the 1st digital show for French people in the United States

BARNES New York & Westchester invites you to the conference dedicated to the New York real estate market, “Buying real estate in New York”, on the occasion of its participation in the online exhibition “Bien Vivre aux Etats-Unis”.

This digital event will take place on Monday, September 13 at 12.00 pm (EST time zone). The fair will then run throughout the week until September 17, presenting a series of conferences with expert speakers to support expats in the United States, whether you have been settled there for a long time or still dreaming of living there.

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York & Westchester, will join the discussion with Betty Benzakein of HSBC and Amélie Deschênes of OFX, addressing in particular:

  • The New York Acquisition and Leasing Process
  • Update on the state of the real estate market in New York & Westchester for Q3 2021
  • Settlement or “relocation” formalities
  • Preferred neighborhoods
  • The different real estate products available
  • The role of the real estate agent

Monday September 13 at 12.00 pm EST / 6.00 pm CEST

This event is sponsored by USAFrance Financials and organized by French Morning.

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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