From Renter to Owner: How to Break Into the NYC Housing Market in 2025
New York City’s real estate market can feel like an iron-clad fortress—impenetrable to anyone without a seven-figure bank account. But in 2025, the dream of going from renter to homeowner in NYC is more realistic than ever, thanks to evolving market trends, shifting buyer demographics, and increased accessibility to resources for first-time buyers.
The first key is understanding your finances. Before you even browse listings, it’s crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage and assess how much home you can realistically afford. NYC’s housing market is competitive, and knowing your financial limits upfront puts you in a stronger position to act fast when you find a property that fits.
Next, consider expanding your search beyond Manhattan. Boroughs like Brooklyn, Queens, and even parts of the Bronx and Staten Island are seeing an uptick in desirable, affordable properties. Neighborhoods like Bay Ridge, Ridgewood, and Forest Hills offer a mix of charm, amenities, and accessibility—without the price tag of SoHo or Tribeca.
Government programs are also helping ease the burden. First-time homebuyer incentives through NYC Housing Connect, SONYMA loans, and other state and city-run assistance initiatives can provide reduced interest rates, lower down payments, or even grants toward closing costs. These programs are especially helpful for moderate-income earners trying to plant roots in the city.
Working with the right real estate agent is another game-changer. Agents who specialize in first-time buyers understand the emotional and logistical challenges involved and can guide you through everything from navigating co-op board interviews to understanding mortgage contingencies. Their expertise can save you time, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars.
And don’t discount the long-term benefits. Owning property in NYC, despite the upfront costs, offers stability, equity growth, and a hedge against rising rents. While renting may feel more flexible, owning gives you control over your space and a tangible asset that builds value over time.
Breaking into NYC’s housing market isn’t easy—but it’s far from impossible. With the right preparation, resources, and mindset, you can make the leap from lifelong renter to proud New York homeowner in 2025.
The Secret Life of Brownstones: Why NYC’s Historic Homes Are Still Hot
In a city known for its gleaming skyscrapers and glassy penthouses, it’s easy to forget that New York’s charm also lies in its old bones—specifically, the classic brownstone. These elegant, stoop-front homes, often nestled in neighborhoods like Park Slope, Harlem, and the Upper West Side, continue to be some of the most coveted pieces of real estate in the city. But what makes these historic homes so enduringly popular, even as modern developments rise around them?
First, there’s the architecture. Brownstones, built primarily in the 19th and early 20th centuries, boast ornate moldings, grand staircases, high ceilings, and fireplaces that ooze character. No two are exactly alike, and for many buyers, owning one means owning a literal piece of New York history. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in these homes are nearly impossible to replicate with modern construction.
Then, there’s the neighborhood culture. Brownstones are typically found in tree-lined, residential blocks with strong community ties. These areas have retained a neighborhood feel that’s often missing in high-rise-heavy districts. Residents are likely to know their neighbors, shop at the same corner bodega, and chat on the stoop on summer evenings—offering a slice of small-town life within the urban grind.
Financially, brownstones are also proving to be smart investments. Despite NYC’s real estate market fluctuations, demand for these homes remains strong. Inventory is limited, and supply is fixed—there are only so many brownstones in existence, and that scarcity drives value. In recent years, some brownstones have fetched prices upwards of $5 million, depending on location and condition.
But there are challenges. Brownstones often require significant upkeep. Plumbing, roofing, and structural issues can be expensive to repair, and updating interiors while preserving historical features demands careful planning. For this reason, buyers often include renovation costs in their initial budget or look for turnkey brownstones that have already been restored.
In the end, the brownstone isn’t just a home—it’s a lifestyle. It speaks to a buyer who values history, community, and character over sleek minimalism. And in a city that’s constantly reinventing itself, there’s something magical about holding on to the timeless beauty of a bygone era.
From Brownstones to Billion-Dollar Views: What’s Hot in NYC Real Estate in 2025
New York City real estate has always been a blend of grit and glamor. And in 2025, that mix is more intriguing than ever. From historic brownstones to ultra-modern penthouses, the Big Apple is buzzing with opportunity—and surprise shifts in demand.
The Brownstone Renaissance
Brooklyn brownstones are back in the spotlight, and not just in Park Slope. Areas like Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights are seeing a revival. Buyers are drawn to the character, the history, and—let’s be real—the Instagram-worthy aesthetics. With remote and hybrid work still going strong, more people are willing to invest in homes that offer charm and home-office potential.
Manhattan: Still a Powerhouse
Despite ongoing debates about whether Manhattan is “past its prime,” the numbers tell a different story. Luxury condos in Hudson Yards, Tribeca, and the Upper West Side are seeing record interest, particularly among international buyers and tech executives relocating from the West Coast.
Hot Neighborhoods to Watch
- Gowanus, Brooklyn – Thanks to rezoning and infrastructure investment, this once-industrial area is transforming fast. Think waterfront parks, new condos, and a creative, youthful energy.
- Forest Hills, Queens – Quiet, green, and surprisingly accessible. This neighborhood is attracting families who want space without suburbia.
- South Bronx – Affordable prices, increasing amenities, and a major cultural push make this one to keep on your radar.
NYC’s Rental Revival
Let’s not forget the rental market. After a post-pandemic dip, rents have bounced back—and then some. New Yorkers are paying a premium again, especially for pet-friendly buildings with amenities like coworking spaces, gyms, and rooftop lounges.
Final Thoughts
NYC real estate is not a one-size-fits-all market. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem of trends, tastes, and transformations. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply watching from the sidelines—now’s the time to pay attention. Because in this city, the only constant is change—and every change brings a new kind of opportunity.
About Avraham Glattman
Avraham Glattman is the owner of First American Properties Group, a real estate business based in New York City, New York.
Avraham brings over 26 years of experience working as a real estate agent in the city, where he continues to work today. He graduated from Newport University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management and remained at the university to attain his Masters of Business Administration (M.B.A.). After graduation, he jumped straight into the real estate field in 1992 in the greater New York City area. Throughout his career, Avraham has explored listings across the New York area, keeping a detailed account of the locations, pricing and comparable properties in the housing market.
After gaining a wealth of knowledge about the real estate marketing in New York, Avraham Glattman decided to take it a step further by creating First American Properties Group with his longtime business partner, Pete Jacov in 2008. First American Properties is a real estate and development company that services the five boroughs of New York. The company currently owns residential and commercial properties in Queens, Downtown Brooklyn, Harlem, and Manhattan. The company focuses on monitoring the growth and development in different areas of the city, so they can work to establish more patterns of growth and help revitalize the area.
While monitoring the different areas of New York City, Avraham Glattman consistently keeps an eye out on up-and-coming neighborhoods that he could potentially invest in. For example, after seeing Harlem, Avraham was immediately impressed by the neighborhood’s charm, leading him to invest in properties in the area. With a convenient location next to the subway and charming business like music venues in the area, it was not hard to see what attracted Avraham to the area.
Today, Avraham Glattman continues to find new investments with First American Properties Group, alongside his business partner, Pete Jacov. Together, they are working towards the goals that they set for First American Properties Group. The goals include acquiring property in the Harlem area to renovate and sell, as well as acquiring properties in all five boroughs.
Avraham Glattman is also the proud owner of 1927 Café Bar Popularr. Located in Harlem, the café serves a variety of open-faced Mediterranean sandwiches, called ‘Toastics’, and many types of coffee. Café Bar Popularr is proud of the rich artistic traditions of Harlem, and invites local musicians, authors, and comedians to visit and share their talents with friends.
Avraham was born and raised in Israel, where he went graduated high school. Not long after, he served in the Israeli army for three years, before he was sent to the United States to work with an Israeli newspaper in Brooklyn, NY. Not long after making the move to New York, Avraham met the woman that would become his wife in 1991. Together, they have three children.
In his spare time, Avraham Glattman enjoys spending his time with his wife and three children and loves to explore new parts of New York City. Avraham’s incredible dedication to both his work and family brings him immense happiness and purpose each day.
To learn more about who Avraham Glattman is, visit AvrahamGlattmanNewYork.com.
