Manhattan Real Estate: Types and Features

1:53 pm  |  13.11.2023

Dormant real estate in Manhattan offers a diverse range in price and style. Comprising approximately 25% condos, 65% co-ops (cooperatives), and 5% townhouses, there are few single-family real estate for sale on the island due to the dense population of Manhattan and its metropolitan style. Whether you’re an investor seeking income from your property purchase or a new resident aspiring to find a permanent home, it’s crucial to understand the types of properties accessible to you.


There are three main types of real estate in Manhattan: co-ops, apartments, and townhomes/brownstones. Co-ops make up 65% of Manhattan’s residential real estate, but their strict ownership and subletting rules often make them not the most attractive option for foreign buyers and investors. Condominiums provide more freedom and makeup about 25% of residential real estate on the Manhattan market. There is also the option of a condominium, which is real estate in a mixed-use building that is managed similarly to a co-op. Townhouses are rare on the market, accounting for approximately 5% at any given time, and are quite expensive.

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If you’re looking for residential properties in Manhattan, you’ll find a variety of prices and styles to choose from. Condos make up approximately 25% of the market, while co-ops comprise 65% and townhomes 5%.

Co-Op Apartments

The process of buying a cooperative apartment is significantly different from other types of real estate.

Co-op apartments in New York City are widespread and mostly consist of older buildings built before 1985. Some of these buildings have prestige and historical value but often lack modern amenities. They are intended for permanent residence, and in the process of purchasing an apartment in a cooperative, the buyer is faced with unique features.

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The buyer purchases shares of the company that owns the building, and in return receives the right to lease a specific apartment. Co-ops have strict rules, including:

  • A ban on subletting an apartment or using it as rental housing.
  • Mandatory high taxes, a percentage of the unit’s price, are paid to the Condominium Board when the unit is sold.

Condominiums

Condominiums are large tracts of land that are subdivided and offered for sale. Owning a condominium is similar to owning a single-family home in that the owner has many rights and full ownership of the property. All apartment owners jointly own a piece of land and common areas (such as elevators, lobby, fitness center, living room, etc.).

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Although there is a condominium management board, its primary purpose is to effectively manage the building rather than to impose unnecessarily restrictive rules, as is the case in co-ops. Condominiums in New York are modern building complexes in the city and are the primary choice for foreign buyers, investors, parents buying property for their children, and anyone who wants to live in modern buildings.

Townhouses

Townhomes may have few amenities inside but often have outdoor space in the form of a backyard.

Townhouses in New York are buildings similar to detached houses. Unlike apartments and co-ops, the term “townhouse” is not associated with a management style, but rather defines the type of structure. Townhouses occupy a small footprint in the city, but with multiple floors (sometimes six or more), they provide spacious living space.

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Creating a realistic list of requirements when purchasing a property is an important step, regardless of whether the purchase is an investment, a place to live, or an investment in the future. Sit down and determine exactly what you expect from your new home. Consider also the integral functions. Whether you need a certain amount of square footage, have a desire for a particular architecture or character in your home, or want amenities right on your doorstep, look for properties that meet your criteria.

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First, take the time to divide your ideal list into wants and necessities.  It’s easy to get confused about closing costs, cosmetic issues with the property, and other aspects. Focus on important information. Will the property pass inspection? Is it free from structural problems? Is the price right? Take a closer look at the big picture. Does the property have qualities such as good structural integrity, reasonable ceiling heights, and proper lighting? Cosmetic imperfections can be easily corrected, but a property without quality features will never be perfect.

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