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Can foreigners buy property in New York? 

New York City is one of the most attractive cities in the world, and millions look to call it home. Can a foreigner buy property in New York City? Our guide tells you yes and teaches what you need to know if you are making this big step. 

New York City is one of the most exciting and promising cities in the entire world. There are quite literally millions of people who move to New York from all over the world. There are a number of reasons that entice people to this major metropolis, from its cultural pulse, to its location on the East Coast, to its place at the center of commerce and entertainment. 

New York is so appealing, in fact, that many foreign-born people want to plant their flags in New York City and buy property there. But some people aren’t sure if there are taxes and rules related to that or if it’s even possible at all. Did you know that there are some countries and cities that don’t allow foreigners to buy real estate?

Many people wonder if foreigners can buy property in New York and the correct answer is, yes, they can. However, if you are someone not born in the United States, there are a few things you should know when you are buying an apartment in New York City. You should be well aware of the requirements you’ll need to meet, the documents you will need to have, and the sort of property that you can invest in.

Buying a property in New York City is possible if you’re a foreigner but you should be sure you know what you’re doing and what steps you need to take. Thankfully, our guide will teach you everything you need to know if you’re a foreign-born investor looking to break into the New York City real estate market.  

What does a foreigner need to buy a property in New York City? 

Not only can a foreigner buy property in New York City but many already have. In fact, there are countless foreign-born residents and foreign corporations that own much of the land and property in the Big Apple. However, there will be tax implications. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) requires foreigners to pay US income taxes on any income in/from the United States.

If you wish to be one of the many foreigners who have invested in the New York City real estate market and buy property in the city that never sleeps, there are a few things you need to have access to before you can start the process. 

Depending on your type of investment (primary residence or rental investment), you will first need to determine the best legal structure for your real estate investment. You will also need a valid passport or proof of identity, a social security number or ITIN, bank statements and other financial documents from your foreign bank, and any evidence of fund, reserves, check stubs, tax returns, and/or a US credit score.

The higher that your credit rating is, the lower your initial down payment will be. Of course, some foreign-born residents might have a low or no credit score at all with no history in the US. If that is the case, there are still properties that you will be able to buy but you will have to consult with your real estate agent. Obtaining US financing is also possible, but you will need to get advice from our agents or a real estate attorney.

Everyone, foreign-born or not, will have to place a down payment on any property they are intending to buy with financing. The amount you will need to spend varies depending on the type of loan you are granted but it is usually around 20% of the home’s final purchase price. Keep in mind that if you make a larger down payment initially, you will have less money to pay off on the property over time. Because of this, some people look to have a larger down payment so they are not tied to their mortgage payments for so much longer.

If you are getting a mortgage, you might be requested to show a consistent, reliable form of income that is coming into your bank. Any lender will want to make sure that you can afford the property you are buying and that you can make your monthly mortgage payment too. Of course, buying cash is also a faster and easier option.

Foreigners can own the property under their own name or through a company. There are pros and cons for each option, depending on whether there is a mortgage involved, or the existence of a tax treaty between the United States and the foreigner’s country.

How does a foreigner buy property in New York City? 

If a foreigner decides that they want to purchase New York City property, there are several steps that they will need to follow in order to make that happen.  

Firstly, they should find the neighborhood they are most attracted to. They should have their goals in mind. Do they want to settle down with a family? Are they looking to start a business? Do they need to be close to public transportation, schools, or other businesses? All of this needs to be put into consideration. Additionally, any potential buyer needs to think about the sort of housing they want to reside in and the amenities that they require with it.  

Finding the right real estate agent is yet another step that needs to be finished when a foreigner is looking to buy real estate in New York City. This agent will be able to tell the foreigner about trends in the industry, the best places to live depending on their needs, and all the documentation that is needed to purchase property.

Once the right property is found, an offer can be made. That entire part of the process will be handled by the real estate agent and an attorney, who will make sure that all the paperwork is done. 

Why should you buy New York City real estate? 

The reasons why a foreigner would want to buy property in New York City are numerous. For generations now, NYC has been one of the most exciting places to live in the entire world. 

New York City has a bunch of different cultures all living in one place. There are people who were born in many various parts of the world who now call New York City their home. That means that you will be able to meet new types of people, experience their ways of life, their food, and their customs.

Buying property in New York can also be a very smart investment because of the resale value of New York apartments, townhouses, condos, co-ops, and more. Buying an investment property in a resilient market like New York is a good option to diversify a real estate portfolio.  

New York is seen as the center of the world when it comes to entertainment, fashion, and business. If you or your family are interested in these things or tied to them in any way, New York will make you even more connected to the pulse of the nation and the latest trends. 

What type of New York City property can you buy?

The median price of a home in New York City is about $715,000, according to PropertyShark. That is a decrease of about 7.7% from last year. You have plenty of options when you are looking to invest in the city:

Condo: Any foreigner looking to buy property in New York should think about a condo. While they are built like very large, modern apartments, you actually have full ownership over a condo when you buy it and share certain common areas, such as parking and the gym.

Co-op: A co-op is perfect for people who want to invest long-term in a home and who know they will be located in NYC for a few years. With one of these types of properties, owners are able to share in the co-op association, and the shareholders own the building and all the units. Owning a co-op requires that you participate in the co-op board, which decides who is able to buy space, and renting out is usually not allowed.

Townhouse: A New York City townhouse is usually a two or three-story building that is very spacious and situated right next door to adjacent buildings. To many, it feels like an ultra-large, multi-story apartment that is tall and narrow. Townhouses are great investments and a wonderful choice for a foreigner but they also often come with a heftier price point.

Summary

New York City is one of the most beloved cities in the entire world and that is why so many people from all over Earth want to live there. The good news is that no matter where you were born, you can buy property in New York. But you just need to be aware of a few things and remember them as you start your hunt for your new place. Contact us at BARNES New York if you are a foreign-born resident looking to make the big move to the Big Apple. 

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In the Media – Williamsburg by LePetitJournal

Want to know more about Williamsburg, the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood?

Read this article by LePetitJournal, presenting the advantages of living in Williamsburg as well as a real estate overview of the neighborhood. This vibrant area offers a unique ambiance, proximity to Manhattan, green spaces, and numerous points of interest and amenities.

Read the article on LePetitJournal:

In the Media – Westchester County by LePetitJournal

Want to know more about the beautiful, green county of Westchester?

Read this article by LePetitJournal, presenting the advantages of living in Westchester County as well as a real estate overview of the different cities. This vibrant area offers various villages and small cities with different living environments, a quieter suburban feeling with lush green sceneries and more space than in the city.

Read the article on LePetitJournal:

Why should you buy an apartment in the Upper East Side?

There are a number of reasons why someone may want to buy an apartment in the Upper East Side. This guide will take you through these reasons as well as some considerations to take into account.

If you’re looking to live in a neighborhood with a vibrant culture and authentic New York City vibes, you truly can’t go wrong with moving to the Upper East Side in Manhattan. This iconic neighborhood features historic buildings, elegant dining and shopping experiences, stunning views, and more.

Those who are new to New York City might be wondering what it’s like to live in the Upper East Side. We can confidently say that the Upper East Side is a fantastic neighborhood that has plenty to offer in terms of art, culture, food, and amenities. Whether you decide to buy an apartment in Yorkville or a luxury condo in Lenox Hill, you’ll be making the right choice.

If you’re thinking about buying an apartment in this area, there are a few things you should take into consideration — namely the cost of living, the general atmosphere, the neighborhood you want to live in, and the access to certain amenities. Let’s go over some of the main reasons why you should buy an apartment in the Upper East Side.

How much does it cost to live in the Upper East Side? 

There are plenty of beautiful apartments for sale on the Upper East Side — from small studios to large multi-bedroom units. These properties offer lots of exciting features and amenities, including modern kitchens and bathrooms, and outstanding views of the Manhattan skyline. With endless options to choose from, you should have no problem finding your dream apartment!

However, it’s important to note that the cost of living is higher in the Upper East Side than it is in most places. The average Upper East Side condo might cost around $2.15 million (As of August 2023*), but if you’re looking to buy a co-op, you should be able to get away with paying around $922,000. It’s definitely an investment, but the benefits of homeownership (as well as the benefits of having the bustling city right outside your window) make it well worth it.

*Data from UrbanDigs

Why buy in the Upper East Side? 

There are plenty of great reasons to buy an apartment in the Upper East Side. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re bound to find something that meets your expectations. This particular area is known for its elegant architecture and world-class museums. The Upper East Side offers top-notch restaurants and gorgeous parks.

It’s also home to some of the best shopping in the city, so if you’ve been itching to go on a spree, the Upper East Side is definitely the right place for you. Whether you’re a young professional looking to live in a vibrant neighborhood, a family, or a retired couple seeking a peaceful oasis in the heart of the best city in the world — the Upper East Side truly has something to offer everyone who lives there. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main reasons people buy apartments in the Upper East Side below.

Dining

On the Upper East Side, there’s cuisine to suit every taste. No matter what you’re craving, this district’s plethora of fine dining choices guarantees that you won’t be let down. Are you looking for an eating experience that will truly blow your mind? The Upper East Side is sure to exceed your expectations. Many upscale restaurants with exquisite dishes and white-glove service can be found in this affluent neighborhood, so come on down!

Shopping

Your inner shopaholic is sure to thrive in the Upper East Side. It goes without saying that the Upper East Side offers an abundance of rich, top-notch shopping centers and specialty grocery stores. This neighborhood is an absolute retail hotspot, and it’s especially known for its luxury boutiques and stylish department stores. The Upper East Side is an absolute godsend if you’re looking to find the most up-to-date styles and brands. Whether you’re shopping for shoes, dresses, purses, sports gear, cosmetics, or food, you’re destined to find something you love alongside Fifth Avenue shops.

Museums and Culture 

If you’re an art fanatic, look no further than the Upper East Side to get your art fix. Living in this part of the city means having easy access to world-class, renowned museums — such as the Goethe Institute and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Make a day trip out of traversing the Upper East Side’s many museums, and enjoy the rich culture New York City has to offer.

Enjoy the outdoors 

Just because you live in a big city doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoors once in a while. The Upper East Side’s renowned Central Park is a major draw for people wanting to invest in an apartment there. Hiking trails, bicycle routes, birdwatching, and playgrounds are all widely available in Central Park. The calmer, more serene center and northern parts of the park are typically preferred by the locals over the busier, more tourist-friendly southern areas of the park.

While all Upper East Side residents have easy access to Central Park, there are many other beautiful parks you can visit if you want to enjoy the outdoors and fresh air. The Upper East Side is filled to the brim with parks, sports venues, waterway paths, and gardens that are ideal for unwinding after a long day’s work.

Summary

As you can see, living in the Upper East Side is an absolute dream come true! If you’re ready to start your search for the perfect apartment on the Upper East Side, you should consider working with BARNES New York. Our experienced agents will be more than happy to help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market — from finding the right property to negotiating the best deal. There are plenty of apartments, condos, and co-ops for sale, and we would love to have a consultation with you when you’re ready to find your dream home. Contact us today to learn more!

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Real Estate Market Update NY, Westchester and Connecticut – Q2 2023 – Free Webinar

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, Westchester & Connecticut, will present the latest real estate market update for New York City and its region (Westchester and Connecticut) in 2 webinars in the coming weeks:

  • Tuesday, July 18th at 12pm EST (NEW YORK) / 18h (FRANCE) in French
  • Friday, July 28th at 12pm EST (NEW YORK) / 5pm (LONDON – UK) in English

Free registration! Click on the link below:

In the Media – 2023 Real Estate Opportunities by BARNES

The New York real estate market is one of the most dynamic and exciting markets in the world. It is characterized by its uniqueness and its capacity to overcome all crises that come in its way. In this article, Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, draws up a report of 2022 and presents opportunities for 2023. Discover BARNES’ article for the French American Chamber of Commerce.

“Invest in New York” conferences in Europe

In May, BARNES New York was pleased to host conferences in Europe on real estate investment in New York. These conferences “Invest in New York” in Bordeaux, Brussels and London were a great success.

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, and Myriam Benhamou, Associate Real Estate Broker, presented the New York real estate market, the acquisition and financing process, and the current opportunities for new developments in one of the most attractive cities in the United States. The conferences were followed by a cocktail reception.

Conference in Bordeaux on May 25th, 2023 (Hôtel de Sèze, 23 Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux)
Conference in Brussels on May 30th, 2023 (“The Merode”, Place Poelaert 6, 1000 Brussels)
Conference in London on May 31st, 2023 (BARNES International London, 113-115 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3LE)

Events that made a splash

The conferences were followed by question/answer sessions and cocktails that allowed all participants to interact on the New York real estate market in a laid-back and chic atmosphere.

What kind of housing is available in New Jersey? 

When most people talk about the state of New Jersey, they usually refer to it as New York’s sibling, a small state that mostly has value because it is so close to the Empire State. But that couldn’t be further from the truth, especially when it comes to housing in New Jersey.

The truth is that New Jersey has a slew of great features, locations, businesses, and stunning vistas that can only be found there. It’s so much more than a state that is just close to New York, it is a great location to start a company, settle down, create a family, and enjoy your golden years of retirement. 

Since its admittance to the union back in the 1700s, New Jersey has actually been one of the most popular states. Millions of people move there every single year, looking to make a new start in a state that has brought success to so many others. That means that the real estate market in Jersey is always bustling and offers excellent business opportunities.  

Because of all that attention and the way that people seek out New Jersey, it is sometimes hard to find a good place to live when making the move. That is why you should know a few things about the state before you pack up and plant your flag there. You should be aware of what housing and properties are available for you and your family, and you should also be aware of the prices for them. 

Let’s take a deeper look at all that New Jersey has to offer and give you a good idea of where you will be living when you make the move to the Garden State.  

Why move to New Jersey? 

There are in fact so many reasons to move to New Jersey. Beyond its premiere location on the eastern seaboard of the United States, Jersey is also a wonderful place to raise a family. It is home to a great number of employers and businesses, and also offers a lot of ways for people to start their own businesses.  

New Jersey is also gorgeous with many great state parks, offering greenery and many outdoor activities.

But if you are planning to move to Jersey, you need to know what sort of residence you will buy. And when it comes to that, there are quite a few options.  

What Housing & Properties can you buy in New Jersey? 

You will have quite a selection to choose from when you are looking for housing in New Jersey depending on the sort of homes you’ll be living in. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most popular places that people buy when they are making the move to New Jersey. 

Condos 

Many New Jersey residents make their homes in condos. For years now, this has been one of the most ideal ways to live a more urban lifestyle. According to Redfin, there are many condos in the state that are selling for upwards of $2 million, although you can also find a condo that will sell lower than that, with a median sales price of $639,500. 

Condos are a great choice for smaller families or up-and-coming single people. New Jersey’s condos are also very attractive for those in various business sectors, including the blossoming tech industry that is high-paying and often requires a commute into the city. Because of that, you will find that many of the best condos in the state are in the biggest cities, such as Union City, Jersey City, Hoboken, and others.  

Townhouses 

A townhouse is a good choice for any family that is looking for housing in New Jersey. Much like an apartment, they are usually built within a complex filled with other townhouses. But they are high quality and large and many people spend decades living in a townhouse. 

Townhouses are more expensive than apartments. You can find a good number of townhouses in New Jersey that are selling for close to $300,000. The average price for most listed New Jersey townhouses are typically about $320,000. This is a sizable investment but it’s also the sort of residence that you can spend years and years in. 

Gated Communities 

Why would you want to live in a gated community in New Jersey? For a number of reasons but mostly because the homes in these communities are expertly made, gorgeous to look at, and offer a quality living environment. Gated communities are just that: communities that remain behind stable walls. For that sort of security and stunning workmanship, you will usually be paying over $1 million for a spot inside a gated community. But with that price, you will get a lot of great value and very modern properties.

Single Family House 

According to 24/7 Wall Street, the value of a typical single-family home in New Jersey is about $500,000, which is towards the high end when compared to other states in the union.  

With a real estate market that is on the grow and always busy, you will have plenty of homes to choose from when moving to New Jersey. While the price might be higher than it is in other parts of the country, it’s a very smart investment because New Jersey is such a popular and promising state for anyone wanting to stay close to the city while enjoying a less dense environement.

Summary 

New Jersey has remained one of the most beloved and popular states in America for decades now – and for good reason. If you and your family are ready to make a home for yourself in the Garden State, you should contact the experts at BARNES New York. We have long studied real estate markets all over the tri-state area and we are ready and eager to help find a place in New Jersey that is gorgeous, comfortable, and completely yours.  

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BARNES New York’s Conference Tour in Europe – May 2023

BARNES New York is pleased to invite you to London, Brussels and Bordeaux in May 2023 for conferences on real estate investment in the United States. The conferences are scheduled as follows:

  • Bordeaux – May 25th, 2023, 6 pm to 8:30 pm (Hôtel de Sèze, 23 Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux)
  • Brussels – May 30th, 2023, 6 pm to 9 pm (« The Merode », Place Poelaert 6, 1000 Bruxelles)
  • London – May 31st, 2023, 6 pm to 8:30 pm (BARNES International London, 113-115 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3LE) – In English

Yann Rousseau, Managing Partner of BARNES New York, and Myriam Benhamou, Associate Real Estate Broker, will present the New York real estate market, the acquisition and financing process, and the current opportunities for new developments in one of the most attractive cities in the United States. The conferences will be followed by a cocktail reception. Please register for the conferences by clicking on the links below:

What are the best real estate brokerages in New York ?

New York City, the most populous city in the United States, is famous all over the world. With endearing nicknames like “The Big Apple” and “The City That Never Sleeps,” NYC is a location that will never go out of style when it comes to buying and selling real estate. As a result, the demand for properties is perpetually high—among some of the highest worldwide. One the best real estate brokerages, BARNES New York, is here to assist in navigating the complexities of this unique city.  

During the earlier stages of the Pandemic, real estate agents were unable to work as effectively, if at all, and sales dropped by 54.1% in Manhattan; however, toward the end of the year, New York came back to life, and buyers have come back strong. However, this poses a challenge for individuals searching for the right place for them, as the demand may be higher than the supply. 

The BARNES New York branch is prepared to provide services for buyers looking to invest in NYC both locally and from afar. This branch has over 10 years of experience and is dedicated to providing reliable services to clients without breaking the bank, hence its reputation as one of the best real estate brokerages. In addition, our multilingual team is ready to assist you with your real estate needs, regardless of your current location. 

Why should I buy in NYC?  

Individuals looking to invest in luxury properties should consider New York City as a strong option, as the “City so Nice They Named it Twice” will also never go out of style. Countless attractions are easy to get to via subway, such as Broadway shows, sporting events, and world-famous restaurants.  

While the pandemic may have negatively impacted the market, prices are now back to their baseline, which allows wealthy individuals to invest by purchasing a home in the city that could be used as a rental property for extra income or even as a vacation home! The real estate companies of New York know the value of the city, as it continues to increase in population, despite its relatively small size. 

One of the unique features of NYC is that it is a popular destination for vacationing at all times of the year. Summers are mild, and there are plenty of opportunities to travel on foot and visit beautiful parks and restaurants. New York is also popular in the winter, especially around the holiday season, as it is known for its vibrant decorations and traditions. As a result, a buyer looking to invest in a luxury property will likely have an excellent return on investment, regardless of how the property is utilized. 

There are two images, the one on the left shows an overhead view of New York with the magnificent Empire State Building on a sunny day, and the one on the right shows a wide avenue with trees.

Why should I hire a Broker in New York? 

Real estate companies in New York are basically a dime a dozen. While real estate agents can be extremely useful to those looking to purchase luxury homes, we recommend utilizing a brokerage company, as brokers tend to have more experience compared to real estate agents alone. While both brokers and real estate agents are licensed to assist with the buying and selling of property, brokers receive additional training to earn a broker license. 

More specifically, a broker can help you find the type of place you’re dreaming of in NYC. The buyer provides information on the type of space they are looking for and any stipulations regarding amenities, location, number of rooms, etc.  

Although New York is extremely popular, real estate can be challenging to navigate, especially with all of the different neighborhoods the city has to offer. As the value of properties in NYC increases, the number of places available for purchase decreases. Our agents at BARNES are familiar with the differences among the city boroughs and can help guide you to places that fall within your parameters of interest. This is the reason why the agency is one of the best real estate brokerages.

While some properties can be researched online, it can be both challenging and time-consuming to find what you’re looking for independently. The BARNES New York team has over 10 years of experience in the city and is ready to assist you with your real estate needs so that you can find the perfect purchase for you.  

Why choose BARNES over other real estate companies? 

BARNES is an international company dedicated to helping you find luxury properties all over the world. While other real estate companies are often limited to particular regions, BARNES manages luxury real estate in 15 different countries.  

Although BARNES has numerous agency locations, we are strongly based in France and pride ourselves on assisting customers with multilingual services. In addition to our Paris location, we have plenty of offices in other major cities, such as New York, Barcelona, Geneva, and London. As a result, individuals who are interested in purchasing or selling properties across the world can feel confident utilizing our services, regardless of their location at the time of the transaction. It is this internationalization that makes Barnes a very good brokerage.

BARNES offers a variety of services for our French clients as well as clients of other nationalities. This standard is upheld in our NYC office for any buyer looking to expand his or her real estate to The Big Apple. 

What kinds of services does BARNES have to offer?  

Clients looking to buy, sell, or rent properties can utilize the expertise of BARNES agents to help with a variety of needs. Whether you want to manage your property for renters, invest in a commercial property, or sell your vacation home to relocate to another country, we provide services to help you feel comfortable and confident with your decisions. 

In addition, BARNES is here to help you manage your property. We provide advice for charging rental fees that will make you the most money and are even able to advertise your property to help you acquire tenants as soon as possible. BARNES is also available to collect rent, begin eviction processes (as needed), and manage the property’s day-to-day maintenance and financial needs. 

Are there any other special services?  

Our services are unique compared to other real estate agencies in New York. For example, BARNES Yachting can assist clients with making informed decisions and plans for chartering a yacht. Clients looking to buy, sell, manage, or even create a yacht of their own would benefit from having BARNES on board. 

Another interesting perk of choosing BARNES is the ability to have your air travel needs, or even your aircraft, managed as well. BARNES Private Aviation department allows for truly luxurious travel, with options for flying within your own time constraints to the location of your choice. In addition, we offer our clients’ transportation to and from the aircraft before and after reaching the desired destination.  

Additionally, we offer support for individuals interested in purchasing a vineyard. While the wine industry can be complex, our agents will help you find the right vineyard for you and provide support for navigating vendors and brands within the field so that you can build your business effectively. Purchasing a vineyard is a large investment; our agents are here to help you feel confident in your decision-making. 

Many patrons who visit or live in New York City also have a passion for the arts. BARNES Art Advisory offers support for individuals looking to buy or sell works of art. We can even assist with the transport and installation of works of art. We are passionate about the art industry and even have a showcase in our New York office.

There are four pictures which represent the extra-activities proposed by BARNES : yatching, iXAir, Art Advisory...

What makes BARNES different from other NYC real estate companies in New York? 

BARNES has been working in the United States for over 10 years and is commissioned to offer specialized services for properties across NYC. Our team of experts is truly multilingual and consists of brokers and agents who can speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Greek, Serbian, Croatian, and Mandarin.  

That means you can feel comfortable managing your New York City property from the comfort of your home in France (or anywhere else in the world) with no need to worry about language barriers. We combine the knowledge and skills of international agents and local agents to meet our clients’ needs. This is what contributes to the reputation of our agency as being one of the best real estate brokerages.

In addition, we are available to help you effectively manage your investment from abroad. Our agents can represent you from afar through our customized services so that you can manage your property without leaving home. 

For those looking to sell property in NYC, BARNES will help you find your buyer without any stress. Given our wide range of offices, BARNES has connections worldwide and the ability to showcase your property both domestically and internationally. Additionally, we provide rental management services for those looking to make a commission off of their luxury investment.  

Overall, BARNES New York is an excellent choice for individuals looking to invest. Whether you are trying to buy or sell a home, invest in a field you are passionate about, or explore the world, BARNES is here to assist and can be utilized for multiple real estate needs. Luxury property can still be affordable, and we are ready to help you find your dream home in NYC and abroad. 

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