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Tag: 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

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

SIGN UP FOR FREE

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

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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Is investing in Brooklyn real estate a good choice?

By Annie Newman

Is Brooklyn the next Manhattan? When you hear of Brooklyn, you may think it’s only one neighborhood but Brooklyn comprises of many different neighborhoods with various cultures, lifestyles and architecture for you to choose from.  Some areas have become very exclusive and expensive. Brooklyn is geographically larger than Manhattan and many areas have wonderful water views and sceneries. Even though some parts of Brooklyn include post war buildings, there are many new developments and high rises that are newly built and offer all the modern facilities that you may need. Brooklyn is a short drive from Manhattan and many people work and commute every day between those two boroughs. One can live in Brooklyn and have an apartment that faces the Manhattan Skyline without the prices of living directly in Manhattan itself. Some Brooklyn apartments for sale may actually be as expensive as some Manhattan condos and some houses for sale in Brooklyn may be even more expensive than some found in Manhattan. Brooklyn is becoming more popular and trendy amongst young people, investors and those who desire to work in Manhattan but prefer the more quiet or affordable neighborhoods of Brooklyn.

Luxury condos in Brooklyn

One Brooklyn neighborhood that is developing quite quickly and is becoming popular among investors and residents is Williamsburg. Some people may not realize that Brooklyn also offers luxury real estate but some homes and apartments are priced and sold reflecting a true luxury market. There are luxury condos in Williamsburg that face the water and have beautiful views of the city and nicely built boardwalks and parks with access to ferries at all times of the day. Some other communities also offer single family homes or semi-detached houses that are surrounded by beautiful nature and peaceful settings. Some apartments in Brooklyn are very spacious and you can choose a brand new construction or a completely renovated historical structure. One historic Brooklyn mansion in Prospect Park went on the market for $30 million. Not many suburbs of big cities offer such exclusive properties.

The future of Brooklyn Real Estate

A view of buildings of different styles in Brooklyn, with historic style, red-brick low-rise building in front, and modern, glass buildings in the background.

During the Covid pandemic, some investors realized that due to certain business closures, some of the Manhattan real estate had temporarily dropped in value or prices but the Brooklyn real estate market maintained a more balanced and stable demand during that challenging period. Over time, Brooklyn homes and townhouses increased in value and the last couple of years have seen an even bigger increase in the value of real estate in Brooklyn. Many millennials keep moving from the densely populated and expensive Manhattan districts to the nearby neighborhoods in Brooklyn that are up-and-coming. Brooklyn has just as much access to public transport and subway systems as Manhattan and it is therefore very easy to reach Manhattan from there. It encourages more people to live in Brooklyn and go to Manhattan for business or entertainment. Brooklyn itself though has enough public places and entertainment venues that are attractive enough to compete with the Big Apple.

How to choose a property and neighborhood in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is one of the 5 boroughs of New York City and is an area in demand when it comes to real estate and purchasing land or residences. Brooklyn is the fastest growing borough in terms of population. There are so many condos in Brooklyn as well large homes and even mansions that offer great views, exciting lifestyles and proximity to the glamor of Manhattan. There are dozens of Brooklyn neighborhoods and choosing the right place to live is an important decision. One has to decide if they prefer to be as close as possible for work purposes to the big City, or if they prefer more quiet areas. They need to decide if they prefer certain cultural aspects of the different regions or if they prefer a certain type of architecture. Brooklyn has many respected and visited museums. Some parts of Brooklyn are definitely older and have typical post war buildings but many are renovated and quite expensive. If you prefer brand new constructions, there are many new buildings that are constantly being built. Just like Manhattan, many buildings are constructed as high rises due to the large population and the desirable real estate market. It is worth taking the time to explore the different areas of this large borough as each neighborhood has a lot to offer to its population.  

Brooklyn luxury condos are now competition to homes and townhouses

The number of luxury contracts for properties is increasing steadily in Brooklyn and many buyers are choosing to purchase luxury condos over traditional houses or townhouses in the borough. The reason for this phenomenon is that these residences are more likely to be newer constructions; they offer more special views due to their high rise nature and don’t need the renovations necessary for many of the Brooklyn homes that were built quite a few decades ago. Some of these condos have more than one floor and can offer a similar or better lifestyle than a house and includes more modern amenities. Some older houses are even included in the luxury real estate market in Brooklyn because many buyers choose to renovate them to a great extent after purchasing them. The median asking price for Brooklyn luxury apartments and condos are often in the millions. Being so close to Manhattan and even having direct views of the city contributes to the value and price range of these homes. Many other big cities in the world can offer exclusive properties and have prices to reflect them, but usually the direct suburbs are significantly less expensive. Not in Brooklyn though because being close to a city such as Manhattan is truly special as it is one of the most popular places in the world.

BARNES New York is at your disposal to guide you and help you choose the right Brooklyn apartment or residence of your dreams thanks to a strong team of experts to assist you in all aspects of your real estate goals and expectations. We look forward to presenting you with the most prestigious and exclusive properties that Brooklyn has to offer.

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Should you invest in Manhattan real estate now?

By Annie Newman

Manhattan is often described as the financial and cultural center of the United States, and even considered by some as a world capital. Historically, it has been a constant attraction for tourists and immigrants from all over the globe and it is now recognized as one of the most desirable and exciting places to live and work. It is not surprising that the value of Manhattan real estate exceeds the sale prices of most metropolitan cities in the United States and around the world.

Why is it special to buy an apartment or home in Manhattan?

Those who call Manhattan their home feel a sense of tremendous pride and even though it is densely populated, people are willing to go the extra length to find their place in the city that never sleeps. The skyline of Manhattan is unmistakably recognized by people all over the world, including those who have never even visited New York. Songs, movies, television and theatre shows have been produced about Manhattan as it captivates the minds of all those who have heard of its bustling business and entertainment life.  This massive metropolitan area has a record number of skyscrapers that offer some of the most incredible views in the world.

Owning a property in Manhattan is a prestigious advantage.  Almost any apartment there can offer views that even penthouses in other cities don’t offer. Due to the large population, the buildings in the city are known to be built as high rises and skyscrapers and many apartments offer spectacular sceneries since the structures are built with such elevation. Some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers are found in Manhattan.

Manhattan real estate is in high demand

Manhattan not only has a large population, but it has an influx of workers from other boroughs or even states that commute there on a daily basis, creating a landscape that requires constant building and expansion. Every centimeter of land is precious and many in the construction industry have to win over bids to build more properties over those who want to try to maintain green spaces. This is the reason why one may find beautiful and spacious homes or townhouses for sale in Manhattan, but the main landscape can be seen from far as a city with tall buildings and limited space to build large private properties. Owning a home in Manhattan is truly glamorous.

View over Manhattan at night, with the lights from the city.

The city is known for its industrial past and some of the historical factories have been transformed into luxury and spacious lofts that can be found in many districts of Manhattan. The condos for sale reflect the prices of some of the most desired pieces of real estate in the world. Some apartments for sale in Manhattan can actually comprise of multiple floors and have as many rooms as a suburban house elsewhere in the United States. Unlike the suburban homes, these multi-floor condos offer breathtaking views at all times of a city whose lights shine and light up the sky from miles away.

Choosing a neighborhood or district to live in Manhattan is a wonderful experience as almost every corner of the city has special attractions for the local residents. Some people may prefer areas where the entertainment and theatres are world renown, others like the more quiet areas of the city. The city has mass transit subway and buses systems that create efficient and quick access to all areas of interest.

Local and International investment in Manhattan properties

Foreign investment in Manhattan real estate has been desirable for many people around the world who are looking to invest in valuable properties that are always in demand. Aside from investments, some people who reside in other cities who are looking to own a second home often choose Manhattan as their preference. Home owners in places such as Miami, Los Angeles, Paris, London and other big cities pride themselves to own a place to call their home in New York. Manhattan will always be on the top of the list of the world’s most famous and attractive cities.

Manhattan’s luxury real estate market

During the Covid pandemic, prices did fall to a certain degree but the real estate market in Manhattan is now bouncing back and is especially growing in the high end luxury property market. Some of the world’s most expensive homes and apartments have been sold right in Manhattan and it is no wonder that the buyers chose this city as their residence. Not many people would accept to invest over 100 million dollars for properties in other cities but Manhattan is able to attract such great investment due to its special character. A Manhattan penthouse was sold for $238 million in 2019, making it one of the most expensive homes ever sold in the United States. It would be challenging to sell a property of that price range in most other cities across the continent! Real estate professionals know that living in a Manhattan home can be priceless. Having a presence in New York City by purchasing real estate there is exciting, profitable and unique. Every square foot of land and real estate has tremendous value and worth.

Manhattan is not only multicultural in regards to its population, but the actual architecture and buildings that comprise this city can vary greatly in style. Some residents and buyers prefer the more historical look of the typical New York apartment buildings while others are more impressed by the shine and glamor of the new constructions that offer more modern styles of living. Both types are charming because they either represent the long history of a city of opportunities or the new shine of a constantly growing and fast paced world superpower.

The real estate market in Manhattan is booming and experts are predicting that the trend of record sales and contracts will continue in the coming years. BARNES New York has the exceptional resources to provide you with all your luxury real estate interests and can guide you in your search for your dream Manhattan home or project. Our properties are unparalleled in prestige and luxury and we are looking forward to present you with the most exclusive places.

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BARNES International brings the French “Art of Living” to the US

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BARNES International is expanding, after being present in the U.S. for more than a decade. With offices in New York and Miami, BARNES is on its way to open a brand new agency in Larchmont, north of New York City.

BARNES, a major player in high-end residential real estate and an ambassador of ‘Art of Living’, supports its clients with all aspects of their lifestyle ambitions. Discover one of the world’s most recognized and trusted International Luxury Real Estate Group, established in the entire New York area, with a prominent presence in Westchester and the Hamptons, as well as Miami. Eventually, BARNES goal will be to expand in the Hamptons and Greenwich, Connecticut.

Established with over 100 offices in about 20 countries, including major international cities and top holiday destinations, BARNES offers an exclusive selection of premium properties in Europe, the US, the Middle-East, the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. From high-end hotels worldwide, landmarked castles, equestrian properties, vineyards in France’s top winemaking districts and art collections, BARNES offers a wide range of custom services that will suit the client’s specific need. With a truly international team, we welcome all clients and accommodate them in their native language as much as possible.

The brand provides its clients with global expertise through both consulting services in investment arbitration for international real estate and tailored local support, assisting you in any of your endeavors.

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