New York: A Guide to Finding an Apartment in Manhattan

Written for: an interior design and real estate client from New York (2017)

First and foremost: Welcome to Manhattan!

Whether you’ve lived here forever, visited a few times, a foreigner, or a temporary resident, here is a quick guide to finding the perfect Manhattan apartment! Before we dive straight into Manhattan real estate realm, let’s start with the basics: you.

WHO: The Manhattan Resident

A quick game of twenty questions: Have you been living here all your life, so much that you’re familiar with every nook and cranny of the city, and simply want a new and more convenient residence? Are you only a temporary resident looking to find a home away from home? Are you a student – undergrad or grad school? A working professional – new to the work force or with a good amount of experienced? Do you plan on living with friends, family, maybe looking to find a roommate? Buy or rent? Save or splurge?

Regardless, there’s definitely a Manhattan apartment perfect for you!

WHAT: The Manhattan Real Estate Market

Figure out which type of apartment you need in terms of accommodation space, as well as the number of residents. There are more options than you think. Students, foreign ones especially, settle for studio apartments in Manhattan since these are the most convenient, not to mention within a student budget. Many professionals choose to live in one-bedroom apartments, while small families stay in two-bedroom apartments. There are a variety of available apartments in Manhattan.

The Manhattan real estate market is huge!

The next thing on your list is to ask yourself where exactly you want to stay.

WHERE: Manhattan Locations

It’s definitely hard to look for the ideal place amidst the hustle and bustle of Manhattan life. While exciting, it can also get draining. Manhattan is bigger than you think, and various locations cater to specific needs of its residents. To lessen such exhaustion, you need to figure out what you need the apartment for. Is it convenient for work? Is it closer to your school? Are you sensitive to noise? Or would you prefer to surround yourself with city sounds?

It’s not all about honking cars stuck in traffic, loud chattering, bumping shoulders, and people running to their next appointment. Rest assured that there are Manhattan real estate locations – yes, there are! –you can consider a safe haven from harsh city life. Gems, truly.

With that, there are people who can help you figure out your preferences, and make sure you get the apartment you so rightfully deserve.

HOW: The Real Estate Agent

Manhattan real estate may be as tricky as the city itself, so we’ll give you a quick rundown.

As of early 2017, there is a decline in Manhattan real estate sales, so many of the sellers have resorted to lowering the prices of certain residences. Some residences aren’t worth their price. Some are actual blessings in terms of quality. As per their job, Manhattan real estate agents will direct you to apartments in the city that definitely suit your budget and taste.

For your convenience, especially if you’re cities or even countries away, there are Manhattan real estate agents online that you can set up appointments with. Make sure to only consult with the best. This brings us to the final and most important item on your quick list.

DON’T SETTLE

Another important note: make sure to do your research! Check for Manhattan real estate rentals if you’re looking to stay for only a period of time, one that isn’t hard on your wallet and bank account, especially if you’re a student. There are always real estate sales as well, and a diligent agent will definitely keep you posted if ever anything comes up. Look through as many available residences until you find the one that’s perfect for you. Think things over – with your family, friends, and if you’re living alone, with your agent – before you make a final decision.

Remember: comfort is key, no matter which place you choose to live in!