NYC’s Emerging Neighborhoods: Where to Invest in 2025
New York City’s real estate landscape is ever-evolving, with new neighborhoods gaining traction as attractive investment hubs. While Manhattan has long been considered the pinnacle of property prestige, buyers and investors in 2025 are increasingly turning their attention to the outer boroughs and under-the-radar neighborhoods offering more space, better value, and long-term potential.
- Ridgewood, Queens
Nestled on the border of Brooklyn and Queens, Ridgewood has seen a quiet but steady rise in popularity over the past five years. With its charming pre-war buildings, tree-lined streets, and eclectic mix of cultures, Ridgewood is now drawing in young professionals, artists, and families priced out of Williamsburg and Bushwick. New developments are respecting the neighborhood’s historic charm while introducing modern amenities, making Ridgewood a balanced option for investors seeking growth without compromising on character. - Mott Haven, The Bronx
Often referred to as “the next Williamsburg,” Mott Haven is undergoing a massive transformation. With improved transportation options, a growing number of art galleries, breweries, and coffee shops, the South Bronx is gaining serious traction. Developers are introducing luxury rental units and condos, while still keeping affordability in focus. Its proximity to Manhattan and views of the Harlem River are additional draws that make it a solid pick for forward-thinking investors. - Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Greenpoint has shaken off its industrial past to become one of Brooklyn’s most desirable neighborhoods. With an influx of waterfront developments, elevated dining scenes, and the much-anticipated completion of the NYC Ferry expansion, Greenpoint offers a unique blend of serenity and access. Though prices have risen, the neighborhood remains more accessible than neighboring Williamsburg, making it a smart choice for buyers looking for luxury with potential appreciation. - East Harlem, Manhattan
East Harlem—once overlooked—is seeing a renaissance thanks to rezoning initiatives and increased developer interest. The neighborhood is rich in history and culture, and the introduction of new condo buildings, mixed-use developments, and retail spaces is making it more attractive to young professionals and families. Its relatively lower price point compared to the rest of Manhattan presents a rare opportunity for investors to buy into Manhattan real estate at a discount.
Why Emerging Neighborhoods Matter
Investing in emerging neighborhoods is not just about price—it’s about future growth, community development, and value creation. Savvy investors are prioritizing areas with access to public transportation, local initiatives supporting small businesses, and infrastructure upgrades.
As NYC continues to grow and diversify, these emerging neighborhoods provide an ideal entry point into one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets. With patience, research, and the right guidance, buyers in 2025 have a unique chance to get in ahead of the curve.
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.
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.
