Brooklyn is on Fire!
For the national audience of this newsletter, if you didn’t know, Brooklyn is hot! I mean really, really hot, especially when it comes to its performance as part of the New York City real estate market.
Of course, Brooklyn is no secret to local market watchers. But the larger audience interested in New York real estate — including brokers who have referrals looking in the city — has to understand that Brooklyn has been the hottest of the five boroughs on many fronts throughout the pandemic and recovery period. My team and I have had listings that received multiple bids within hours of being released. We have buyers win and lose on multiple bid situations in Brooklyn that are as competitive as any other markets in Florida, Las Vegas or anywhere in Texas.
Brooklyn has been growing in popularity for about two decades now and has really come into its own since the COVID crisis emerged and buyers began seeking bigger homes with outdoor space. Add in its close proximity to Manhattan business centers, its city/suburban appeal and large inventory of townhouses and brownstones, and you’ve got a winning combination. Within the borough, Park Slope is by far the most in-demand neighborhood. There, townhouses will routinely list starting at roughly $3 million and go into contract within 3 to 5 business days, generally for all cash offers anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 over asking price! I’ve routinely had buyers bid on townhouses, forfeiting all contingencies, appraisals and inspections and placing offers 10 to 20 percent over the asking price, just to be competitive in the bidding process! Not unlike ultra-competitive Houston, Miami or Bergen County, New Jersey. But why?
Brooklyn’s proximity to Manhattan for one. Also the fact that you can get outdoor space and have Prospect Park close by all make Brooklyn extremely desirable. A little quieter, a bit more small-town feel. Manhattan light, if you will. Buyers are gravitating toward Brooklyn in droves. So much so that you can often find better deals in Manhattan. That’s right — Some segments of Brooklyn’s growing luxury condo market are transacting at higher prices per square foot than Manhattan! And even with interest rates hovering around 5 percent, buyers have not taken their feet off the accelerator even a little bit. It probably has even gotten more competitive as buyers try to lock in their townhouse or brownstone before rates climb even higher (as they’re expected to do).
But don’t be discouraged. You can buy in Brooklyn. It's a vast, diverse and beautiful borough with great parks, river and ocean waterfronts, tons of recreation and a deep and rich history. That makes it a wonderful area to explore before purchasing. You just need the right agent who is knowledgeable and able to point you in the right direction. Feel free to reach out if you want more information on the Brooklyn market. We’re always here to help as your New York City informational and educational brokers.
Local Happenings
Photography Show
From May 20-22, come see Center415's 41st edition of the incredible Photography Show. This photo exhibition will bring 49 galleries and exhibitors from nine countries and 23 cities around the world! The featured exhibitors are all recognized as the world's leading galleries in fine art photography and are all active members of the Association of International Photography Art Dealers (AIPAD). Click HERE to learn more about this fantastic show and to purchase tickets for the event.
Japan Parade in Central Park
Japan Day in New York City is a joyous celebration of the Japanese culture, with a parade that will take place in Central Park West on May 14th at 1 PM EST. Come and experience this historical event that commemorates the 160th anniversary of the first Japanese delegates’ visit to the U.S. in 1860. Click HERE to learn more about how you can support, march, and absorb the beautiful culture of Japan.
Lifestyle Tips & Tricks
Easy Annual Plants That Bloom All Summer Long
Whether your garden is a large country plot or a group of containers on a city balcony, easy-to-grow annuals can add a burst of color wherever you need it. Why not give yourself the joy of endless summer color?
How to Mix Bold Colors in Your Home
Designers say that color has the ability to transform a house into a home. And yet, so many people still feel a bit hesitant to use vivacious shades in their interiors, fearing it will make the space feel overwhelming. Consider this a colorful playbook for your home refresh!
How Mother's Day Became a National Holiday and How to Celebrate in 2022
Moms truly are superheroes, so it's only fair that we have a whole day dedicated to them. Mother's Day is all about celebrating moms and mother figures everywhere. These days, the holiday is often celebrated with cards, gifts, and breakfast in bed, but it wasn't always that way. The holiday has a fascinating history filled with inspiring women that's worth learning about.
Stay Connected
