33 Riverside Drive, Unit 5D

33 Riverside Drive, Unit 5D

upper west side, Manhattan

Asking $739,000

1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Welcome to 33 Riverside Drive—a rarely available, impeccably renovated prewar gem offering timeless elegance, grand proportions, and an unbeatable location directly across from Riverside Park.

Enter through a gracious foyer into a sprawling living room, where classic herringbone hardwood floors and soaring 9-foot beamed ceilings set a sophisticated tone. The fully renovated, windowed eat-in kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring brand-new white Shaker cabinetry, a sleek stone backsplash, and all-new stainless steel appliances. A delightful dining nook is perfectly positioned by the window—an ideal spot for morning coffee or casual meals.

A private hallway separates the living area from the serene sleeping quarters. The king-size bedroom enjoys coveted corner exposures, abundant natural light, and custom-built closets. The brand-new, windowed bathroom is outfitted with designer subway tiles and a spacious vanity for ample storage.

Located at the corner of 75th Street, 33 Riverside Drive is a full-service, pet-friendly cooperative offering a suite of desirable amenities, including a full-time doorman, live-in resident manager, laundry facilities, bike storage, and private storage. This distinguished building has long attracted discerning residents—musical legends George and Ira Gershwin once called its penthouses home, and composer Sergei Rachmaninoff previously resided on the same historic site.

Pied-à-terres, in-unit washer/dryers, co-purchasing, gifting, and guarantors are all considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Monthly Update - June 2024

High-End Heat: A Look at May's Luxury Market Data

Manhattan’s luxury real estate market is surging. During the week of May 19th, 55 contracts were signed for properties priced at $4 million and above—marking the busiest single week in the segment since November 15th, 2021, when 67 contracts were signed. For context, that 2021 figure was the highest since tracking began in 2006. The total dollar volume for the week of May 19th topped $400 million—an impressive showing for a seven-day stretch and a clear sign that confidence has returned to the top end of the market.

Looking at the full month, May 2025 stands out as the strongest May for luxury contracts signed since the post-COVID rebound in 2021 and 2022. This month, 155 luxury contracts were signed—well above the 118 recorded in May 2024 and the 129 in May 2023. The strong performance confirms that high-end buyers are returning in force, bringing renewed energy to the Manhattan luxury market.

So far this year, the upper tier is clearly leading the way. Listings priced at $2 million and above are up 18% year-over-year, while listings under $2 million have increased by just 2.6%. And it’s not just a matter of quantity—the quality of deals is improving as well. The average luxury property is now selling at just 7% below the original asking price, compared to the 15%+ discounts seen in 2021. Days on market have also dropped significantly—from 174 days to about 100—indicating a faster-moving, more competitive environment.

Several factors are fueling this momentum. Chief among them is the performance of the stock market. The S&P 500 is on pace for its best May since 1990, gaining around 6% this month alone. When markets are strong, affluent buyers tend to feel more confident—and more liquid—prompting them to move capital into real assets like real estate, especially in globally resilient markets such as New York City.

Meanwhile, the ultra-wealthy continue to accumulate capital. The U.S. now has over 6 million millionaires, nearly 11,000 centi-millionaires (with $100 million or more), and more than 850 billionaires. A substantial share of that wealth is based in New York, which remains the world’s wealth capital with more than 380,000 millionaires.

Given this backdrop, it’s no surprise that the luxury segment is moving faster and commanding stronger interest from the purchase market. Today’s high-end buyers aren’t just shopping for trophy homes—they’re making strategic financial decisions. They’re parking capital, hedging against inflation, and placing long-term bets on the strength and resilience of New York City.

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Local Happenings

The 43nd Annual Mermaid Parade

June 21st, 2025

Coney Island USA presents the 43rd Annual Mermaid Parade on. The parade begins at 1:00 PM, rain or shine. Known as the nation’s largest art parade, this vibrant celebration features imaginative costumes, hand-made floats, and an outpouring of creative expression. Spectators and marchers alike are welcome to join the post-parade festivities.

Click HERE for more information!

Free Movie at the Intrepid Museum

June 27th, 2025

Join the Intrepid Museum’s Summer Movie Series for a special screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest on the flight deck. Inspired by the museum’s new exhibition, Mysteries From the Deep. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with last entry at 8:30 PM.

Click HERE for more information!

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Listing Spotlight

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Tomorrow: The Met Reopens The Rockefeller Wing With Free, All-Day Festival

The Metropolitan Museum of Art will celebrate the long-awaited reopening of its Michael C. Rockefeller Wing this month with a free festival. Taking place on May 31, the all-day event will celebrate the unveiling of newly reimagined galleries for the Arts of Africa, ancient Americas, and Oceania following a four-year, $70 million renovation. Visitors can enjoy live music, interactive art-making, gallery chats, and more at the Met, all inspired by the stunning art and cultures showcased in the updated wing.

The celebration begins with a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and festivities across the museum from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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Arts of Africa collection. Photo by Brigit Beyer

From 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., vendors and independent chefs from the Queens Night Market will serve pre-colonial menus inspired by the galleries’ collections. Featuring chefs with Indigenous ancestry and deep local ties, the offerings will include carefully researched dishes from Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Hawaii, New Zealand, Peru, and more.

Visual artist Manny Vega will lead a mosaic workshop on David H. Koch Plaza, presented in partnership with The Clemente. Participants will respond to works from the Met’s collection by creating personal emblems in mosaic, contributing to a large-scale communal artwork designed by Vega that reflects the diverse and personal “diasporic pathways” converging in New York City.

Additionally, artists Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez and Teokotā’i Paitai will demonstrate weaving techniques from Peru and Oceania, guiding visitors as they craft their own. Other festival activities include drum-making workshops and a collaborative community mural.

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Arts of Africa collection. Photo by Brigit Beyer

On the plaza, visitors can connect with the city’s diverse communities through the work of community-based organizations that celebrate cultural heritage and creativity. Participants include Artistic Noise, Asian/Pacific/American Institute at NYU, Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI), Cetiliztli Nauhcampa, Hālāwai NYC, FORGOTTEN LANDS, Pachamama Peruvian Arts, and Pacific Island Film Festival of NYC.

The festival will also feature music and dance from across Africa, the Americas, and Oceania, including traditional Hawaiian and Tahitian performances by Te Ao Mana, Senegalese drumming by MAX Percussion, West African dances by the Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation’s Youth Ensemble, and the soulful melodies of Mariachi Real de México.

Curators, artists, and scholars from the Met will be on hand throughout the afternoon to offer insights into the newly renovated galleries and share their expertise on the museum’s collections from Africa, the ancient Americas, and Oceania. Ethiopian-American filmmaker Sosena Solomon will also present a film series she directed in partnership with the World Monuments Fund, highlighting Africa’s cultural landmarks.

The celebration will conclude with a talk by architect Kulapat Yantrasast, founder of WHY Architecture, joined by Met Director and CEO Max Hollein. Together, they’ll discuss the vision behind the wing’s reimagining, share behind-the-scenes insights, and reflect on the evolving role of architecture in today’s museums.

“This celebration for the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing reflects the extraordinary spirit of creativity and community that is so essential to The Met and New York City itself,” Hollein said.

“After four years of transformation, we are delighted to welcome everyone to celebrate this reopening with a festival that will offer opportunities for art lovers of all ages to experience the historic reimagining of these collections through the objects, ideas, music, and dance of the cultures represented in the galleries.”

The multi-year renovation, led by WHY Architecture in collaboration with Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and the Met’s Design Department, modernized the galleries and transformed the visitor experience by incorporating innovative technologies that present the collections in new ways.

Comprising more than 11,000 artworks made from a wide range of materials, the Arts of Africa, Ancient Americas, and Oceania galleries highlight the distinct cultural traditions of these regions, spanning from as early as 3000 BCE to the present day.

Highlights include decorative and ceremonial objects from the Court of Benin in Nigeria, sculpture from West and Central Africa, religious and spiritual imagery from New Guinea, Island Melanesia, and Polynesia, and gold artifacts from the pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico and Central and South America.

Learn more about the festival here.

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The Met to reopen Rockefeller Wing with free, all-day festival

By Aaron Ginsburg

May 23, 2025

Cover Photo: Arts of the Ancient Americas collection. Photo by Brigit Beyer

162 16th Street, Unit 7C

162 16th Street, Unit 7C

park slope, brooklyn

Asking $1,250,000

2 Bed  |  2 Bath | Condo | Private Parking

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Experience great views, a spacious layout, and a full suite of modern comforts in this stunning 2BD/2BA South Slope condo — the one you've been waiting for.

The expansive living room features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the city's skyline and open onto a private balcony, perfect for morning coffee, evening cocktails, or al fresco dining. The thoughtfully designed U-shaped kitchen boasts abundant cabinetry and counter space, sleek walnut finishes, Caesarstone countertops, and upgraded stainless steel appliances.

Retreat to the king-size corner primary suite, where dual exposures offer open Brooklyn views. This serene sanctuary also includes a custom walk-in closet and a spa-like en-suite bath with a cherry wood vanity and limestone flooring. The second bedroom is ideal as a guest room, nursery, or home office. A second full bath and in-unit washer/dryer add to the home’s convenience.

This pet-friendly elevator building offers a range of resident amenities, including a renovated fitness center with a Peloton bike, bike storage, a modern playroom, a package room, and a live-in super. A tax abatement is in effect through 2033.

Perfectly located just off vibrant 5th Avenue, you’re moments from an array of shops, restaurants, the R train, and major highways — blending comfort, style, and convenience in one exceptional South Slope address.

There is a monthly assessment of $92.29/mo (unit and parking)

NYC Wants to Turn Vacant Lots Into Public Parks

Vacant lots across New York City could soon become lush green spaces. Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday announced plans to transform underutilized and abandoned lots into parks, playgrounds, and green space in neighborhoods lacking open public space. The $30 million proposal includes going through the city’s uniform land use review procedure (ULURP) to allow for multiple locations in a neighborhood to be reviewed in one application. Earlier this month, the Parks Department submitted applications for 44 sites in the first two community districts identified, Brooklyn Community District 5 and Queens Community District 3.

Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office on Flickr

“Access to high-quality parks is not a luxury, it is a necessity for the health and wellness of our communities. Expanding our green spaces is just one of the ways we’re making New York City the best place to raise a family,” NYC Parks Commissioner Donoghue said. 

“We’re committed to supporting creative efforts to add more open space in the city so that every New Yorker — regardless of your zip code — has room to play, grow, and gather outside.”

The city’s Parks Department would also acquire vacant lots by transferring them from other city agencies. Most new land acquired by Parks over the past three years has come from such transfers at no cost.

Parks has identified 19 community districts that lack sufficient green space and has begun submitting one ULURP application per district. Each application covers multiple small sites within these areas. While not every site will be acquired, successful applications will allow Parks to purchase the included properties.

Parks recently submitted applications for 44 sites in Brooklyn Community District 5, which includes East New York and Cypress Hills, and Queens Community District 3, home to Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, and Corona.

Made possible by Adams’ “Get Stuff Built” initiative, these neighborhood-scale ULURPs streamline the zoning process by allowing multiple sites to be reviewed at once, cutting red tape and accelerating approvals.

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Brooklyn Community District 5 sites. Credit: NYC Parks

Parks collaborated with the Departments of City Planning and Housing Preservation and Development to identify sites best suited for parkland, based on factors such as size, location, and the status of neighboring properties.

The proposal is part of the city’s “Vital Parks for All” initiative, unveiled in June 2024. The $3.2 billion plan focuses on preserving existing park facilities, expanding accessibility in underserved neighborhoods, and improving New Yorkers’ understanding of the health of their local parks.

The announcement falls under Adams’ “We Outside Summer” initiative, which includes events, investments, and programs to “ensure New Yorkers have a safe, enjoyable summer,” according to the city.

“Today, we’re announcing a new effort to turn vacant, abandoned lots into parks — bringing more green spaces to neighborhoods across New York City that don’t currently have access to them. This initiative builds on our administration’s commitment to put a park within walking distance of a park because access to parks is critical, and as summer arrives, we’re working hard to deliver green spaces to the areas most in need across the five boroughs.”

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NYC wants to turn vacant lots into public parks and playgrounds

By Aaron Ginsburg

May 28, 2025

Cover Photo by Jim.henderson on Wikimedia

247 West 46th Street, Unit 2305

247 West 46th Street, Unit 2305

theater district, Manhattan

Asking $1,099,000

1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Condo

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Your perfect urban retreat awaits in this flawless one-bedroom, one-bathroom home featuring modern interiors, wide-open views and an ideal location in a full-service, amenity-rich condominium in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Inside this nearly 750-square-foot contemporary home, ceilings rise 9.5 feet tall over hardwood floors and walls of windows capturing Eastern sunlight and high-floor skyline views. The large living room provides a generous footprint for seating, dining and home office areas, while the separate kitchen pairs lacquer and wood cabinetry with sleek quartzite countertops and lava stone tile backsplashes. The elite Thermador appliance package includes a vented gas cooktop, oven, French door refrigerator, dishwasher and wine refrigerator.

Rise with the sun in the spacious king-size bedroom featuring a roomy closet and Eastern exposures. The spa bathroom impresses with a frameless glass rain shower and freestanding soaking tub surrounded by floor-to-ceiling tile and river rock details. Two additional closets and an in-unit Bosch washer-dryer complete this exceptional city sanctuary.

Built in 2007, Platinum is a luxury condominium that greets residents with a dramatic lobby featuring a 26-foot-long fireplace and 24/7 doorman/concierge service. Indulge in world-class amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor-outdoor yoga studio, spa treatment rooms, a sauna, a golf simulator, a resident lounge, and a stunning landscaped terrace with a stone fireplace and glorious views. The pet-friendly building also offers a dog run, card-access security, private storage, and a two-level on-site parking garage.

Perfectly positioned where Hell's Kitchen meets the Theater District, this Midtown home is surrounded by an endless array of fantastic shopping, dining, nightlife, entertainment and iconic outdoor space. Enjoy endless theaters and performance venues right outside your door, while 500-acre Hudson River Park, Central Park and The High Line provide acres of outdoor recreation minutes away. Hudson Yards, Manhattan West and the Shops at Columbus Circle deliver outstanding retail therapy and upscale dining, and you can travel the city with ease thanks to A/C/E, 1, N/R/W and B/D trains, excellent bus service and CitiBike stations all nearby.

1065 Park Avenue, Unit 11A

1065 Park Avenue, Unit 11A

upper east side, Manhattan

Asking $2,000,000

2 Bed  |  2.5 Bath | Co-op

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Enjoy elegant Upper East Side living in this coveted A-line two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home featuring an expansive open layout, wonderful natural light, and dramatic Park Avenue views in a full-service Carnegie Hill cooperative.

Inside this beautifully arranged layout, oversized rooms boast tall ceilings, hardwood floors, and triple exposures facing north, west, and south. A gracious entry with a coat closet opens to a large living room and dining alcove, perfect for relaxing and entertaining alongside views of the surrounding historic architecture and landscaped Park Avenue Mall below. The windowed kitchen offers rows of custom wood cabinetry and a breakfast counter topped with black granite, while the full-size appliances include a glass cooktop, oven and dishwasher. A chic powder room adds convenience to the living areas.

Head to the sprawling owner's suite to find a king-size corner bedroom with three roomy closets and plenty of space for a sitting or home office area. The windowed en suite bathroom features a large tub/rain shower with a glass partition, a sizeable vanity and medicine cabinet, all surrounded by floor-to-ceiling tile. The secondary bedroom offers a generous layout, big closets, and easy access to a second full bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with multiple body sprayers. A linen closet and PTAC heating/cooling complete this spacious and bright Park Avenue retreat.

Located within the Park Avenue Historic District, Carlton Park is a postwar co-op designed by architect-builder Stephen C. Lyras in 1969 with handsome travertine marble and buff brick. Here, residents enjoy full-time doorman, concierge and live-in resident manager service, plus a landscaped, recessed entry plaza, an updated lobby, laundry, storage (at an additional cost), bike storage, and on-site parking (at a discounted rate). Pets, pieds-à-terre, in-unit washer-dryers and up to 75% financing are allowed with board approval. The 2% flip tax is split by the buyer and seller. Showings by appointment, Monday – Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

From its commanding position at the corner of Park Avenue and 87th Street, this home embraces both residential serenity and easy accessibility to the coveted Upper East Side lifestyle. Wonderful boutiques, cafés and services line nearby 86th Street and Madison Avenue. Central Park and the Reservoir unfold less than two blocks away, and revered Museum Mile institutions, including the Guggenheim and the Met, put world-class art just inches from your door. Foodies will love the proximity to Butterfield Market, Morton Williams, Whole Foods and Fairway. Transportation is effortless with 4/5/6 and Q trains, excellent bus service and CitiBikes all within reach.
There is currently a monthly assessment of $358.48 in place.

Macy’s Flower Show Is Open and Turns 50!

The 50th annual Macy’s Flower Show opened in Herald Square on Sunday, transforming the iconic department store into a breathtaking garden filled with thousands of lush plants and flowers. In honor of its semicentennial, this year’s event has been extended to three weeks of festivities, running through May 18. The show also features a partnership with YSL Beauty, offering an immersive experience that encourages guests to embrace freedom and celebrate the transformative power of nature.

For five decades, the cherished event has given visitors a chance to witness thousands of vibrant flowers blooming together across the store’s famed window displays, balconies, and main floor.

The show debuted in California in 1946 to promote fragrances in the cosmetics department before coming to Herald Square in 1975 and quickly becoming a beloved yearly tradition, as 6sqft previously reported.

Hours of careful work go into producing the spectacle, which features 8,000 plants and 50,000 stems that blend together in banana-yellow blooms, pink swirls, and purple necklaces, according to the New York Times. Each night, watering the display takes approximately six to nine hours, as workers carefully climb ladders to reach plants tucked into high and hard-to-access corners of the department store.

The installation is designed to conform to the building’s unique interior—”defined generations ago” by architects and engineers—with each pillar encased in “column surrounds” that are first wrapped in cloud-printed blue vinyl and then adorned with layers of vibrant flowers, according to Will Coss, the Macy’s executive who oversees events like the Flower Show, in an interview with Times.

This year’s show features an immersive installation from YSL Beauty, “Beauty Art of Flowers.” The exhibition invites visitors into a world where natural beauty reigns and challenges the norm. The experience begins outside, where guests are greeted by colorful floral decorations adorning Macy’s 34th Street facade.

Inside, the journey continues with a bold landscape showcasing the main olfactive notes in YSL Beauty’s new Libre L’eau Nue line—the brand’s first alcohol-free citrus floral scent. According to a press release, the scent uses unique oil-in-water “fragrance proprietary technology.”

Next, visitors encounter a captivating display inspired by the powerful scent of Libre, with fresh lavender and golden orange blossoms decorating the space. The Flower Show then evolves into a dazzling experience, adorned with ferns and geraniums, channeling the energy of YSL Beauty’s “MYSLF” line

Guests then move through an engaging blue space inspired by Y, where fresh sage and stunning blue geranium flowers surround and excite onlookers. The journey culminates in a pop-up boutique, where guests can try YSL’s new Loveshine Plumping Lip Oil Gloss.

Visitors will also receive gifted lily-filled bouquets, couture personalization exclusive to Macy’s Flower Show, on-site bottle engraving and watercolor art, and limited-edition flower charms.

“YSL Beauty US is thrilled to be partnering with Macy’s for their 2025 Flower Show, a true retail statement from an iconic retailer. Flowers, in their daring and raw beauty, are at the heart of our products, but also our brand—and have served as a constant source of inspiration for M. Saint Laurent,” Juliette Ferret, U.S. general manager at YSL Beauty, said.

“They represent the vulnerability, beauty, and possibility in our world, which we try to always amplify. The YSL Beauty Art of Flowers experience epitomizes the spirit and vision of the brand and we’re honored to bring this to life.”

Other exciting partnerships for this year’s show include Lego Bloom and Beyond, an intricate, floral-themed display, a mosaic wall, and flower carts showcasing Lego Botanicals. Visitors can also participate in a “brick in hand” build experience called “Build-a-Bloom” on select days.

Additionally, Holland American Line will celebrate over 150 years of its history with a wave-inspired tulip garden that flows throughout the store, inspired by vibrant spring tulip fields.

This year’s event also includes a dedicated Macy’s Flower Show and Surrealist Garden product collection, celebrating the vibrant color experiences featured throughout the display. The collection offers exclusive items such as home goods, jewelry, and sleepwear, along with special collaborations with brands like Kendra Scott, MarieBelle, and Lovery.

“We believe in bringing events to life in our stores and this year’s 50th Macy’s Flower Show is a breathtaking example of that commitment. We create spectacular experiences throughout the year and transform our iconic Herald Square flagship into an immersive destination that inspires and delight,” Sharon Otterman, chief marketing officer at Macy’s, said.

“This spring we will welcome more than one million customers to Macy’s Flower Show to experience wonder and joy that only we can deliver.”

This year’s Flower Show comes as Macy’s continues its “Bold New Chapter” strategy, which includes closing roughly 150 underperforming stores by 2026, including five locations in New York City. In January, Macy’s sold its location at 422 Fulton Street in Downtown Brooklyn for just $23 million.

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Macy’s Flower Show turns 50 with surrealist gardens and thousands of blooms in Herald Square

By Aaron Ginsburg

May 1, 2025

All photos courtesy of Macy’s, Inc.

24 East 7th Street, Unit 9B

24 East 7th Street, Unit 9B

East Village, Manhattan

Asking $850,000

1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Don't miss an extraordinary opportunity to create your downtown dream home in this expansive one-bedroom, one-bathroom home featuring a private balcony and wide-open views in an amenity-rich, postwar East Village co-op.

A gracious foyer flanked by a coat closet welcomes you inside this incredibly spacious apartment filled with tall ceilings, parquet wood floors and plenty of wall space for artwork. Ahead, the sprawling 331-square-foot living room provides a generous footprint for seating and dining areas alongside oversized north-facing windows. The windowed kitchen accommodates abundant cabinet space and full-size appliances, while the wide balcony tempts you outside to take in unimpeded views that stretch all the way to the Chrysler building and beyond.

Past the living room, a wide hallway could easily accommodate a dressing area or home office space on the way to a king-size bedroom featuring roomy closets and south-facing views of One World Trade. A full bathroom with a large tub/shower completes the desirable layout. Bring your contractor and start planning the perfect East Village sanctuary today.

Built in 1991, 24 East 7th Street is a modern elevator building offering part-time superintendent service, virtual doorman entry, a central laundry room, resident storage, and a landscaped 7th-floor terrace with glorious views. Pieds-à-terre, parents buying for children and subletting after three years are allowed with board approval. Sorry, no dogs.

Positioned where the East Village meets NoHo and the Lower East Side, this home's vibrant neighborhood is filled with Michelin-starred restaurants, hip cocktail bars and long-time New York institutions like McSorley's, Veselka, Russ & Daughters, Katz Deli and Webster Hall. Enjoy easy access to Target, Wegmans and Whole Foods, or head to Tompkins Square Park, Washington Square Park, Union Square and Roosevelt Park for outdoor space and recreation. Transportation is effortless with 4/5/6, N/Q/R/W and L trains, excellent bus service and CitiBikes nearby.

The Monthly Update - May 2025

Are We Seeing a Seasonal Lull — or a Market Shift?

The Manhattan real estate market entered Q2 with solid momentum. Rolling 30-day contract activity crossed 1,100 — a benchmark not seen during any of the past three spring seasons. But by late April, that momentum began to slow, aligning with seasonal expectations and possible emerging economic uncertainties.

Spring breaks, religious holidays, and travel typically lead to a dip in activity this time of year. That’s part of the current story. But a few broader market signals suggest it may not be just seasonality at play.

Contract Activity: Seasonal Dip or Something More?

Only 206 contracts were signed in the final week of April, a roughly 16% drop from the prior week. While that figure is still above historical lows, it’s lighter than what’s typically needed to sustain a strong spring market.

This slowdown overlaps with Passover and Easter, which likely muted activity. Still, comparisons to 2023 — when regional banking stress pulled weekly contract signings down to 140 — suggest it’s worth watching whether this is a brief pause or a signal of a more cautious market.

Looking Ahead: Questions Remain

Heading into May, the key question is whether contract activity can rebound back well above 200 deals per week in a stable way. So far, there’s no sharp drop, but there's also no clear sign of acceleration.

As Noah Black of UrbanDigs recently noted, “We are in the midst of a shifting market. It’s too early to tell how far, how deep, or how severe the shift will be — but you can see the early stages of it developing in the data.”

Pricing data remains solid for now. Condo resale prices in March averaged $1,493 per square foot — likely reflecting contracts signed during a stronger stretch in late winter. As April closings are finalized, we expect that trend to continue in the short term, though there’s a risk that data will soften if activity remains muted.

Conclusion: A Transitional Moment

The Manhattan market appears to be in a transitional phase — not accelerating, but not sharply declining either. The coming weeks will help clarify whether April’s slowdown was a short-term seasonal pause or an early indication of broader market hesitation. For now, the data suggests a market that’s still active but more cautious as it digests new economic variables.

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Bryant Park Spring Makers Market

Every Friday - Sunday in May

Shop local at the Makers Market by Urbanspace. More than 175 vendors will showcase art, jewelry, food, and handcrafted goods at Bryant Park from April 18 through June 1.

Click HERE for more details!

Kite Festival at Brooklyn Bridge Park

May 17th, 2025

Celebrate spring at the annual Kite Festival on Saturday, May 17th! Bring your own kite, purchase one, or craft your own on-site, and enjoy a day filled with hands-on activities, classic lawn games, and family-friendly fun. Free and open to all ages.

Click HERE for more details!

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As Reported by Yahoo! Finance

As Reported by Yahoo! Finance

Babe Ruth's $1.6 Million Upper West Side Apartment Is Back on the Market

201 East 21st Street, Unit 12M

201 East 21st Street, Unit 12M

Gramercy Park, Manhattan

Asking $649,000

Studio/1 Bed  |  1 Bath | Co-op

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Urban accessibility meets pin-drop quiet in this bright and airy home featuring gorgeous updates, excellent storage space, and an ideal location in a revered Gramercy cooperative.

Located on the 12th floor, this spacious home enjoys taller-than-average 9-foot-high ceilings, northern and eastern exposures, and an extremely quiet position at the rear of the building. A gracious foyer welcomes you inside to discover brand-new white oak floors and a roomy coat closet. The beautifully renovated and expanded open kitchen impresses with custom cabinetry, honed black granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a dining counter that’s perfect for casual dining. Ahead, the main living space flows to a wall of gorgeous built-ins with a TV niche, cabinets and shelving. From the sleeping area, two huge closets, including a walk-in, lead to a renovated full bathroom. Currently configured as an open alcove studio, this generous layout easily converts to a true one-bedroom layout, as many other M-line residents have done.

Welcome to Quaker Ridge, a classic white brick postwar co-op known for its excellent financials, low monthly maintenance and prime location just steps from Gramercy Park. Residents enjoy full-time doorman service, a live-in superintendent, laundry, bike storage and a residents-only parking garage with direct access to the building. Quaker Ridge allows co-purchasing and pets but does not permit guarantors or pieds-à-terre. Please note, there is a monthly energy charge of $84.74 included in the maintenance which adjusts quarterly.

Located minutes from Union Square, the Flatiron District and NoMad, this home is at the epicenter of exciting Manhattan living with abundant shops, restaurants, services and outdoor space at every turn. Union Square and Madison Square Park put a dog park, greenmarkets and year-round events mere blocks away, and foodies will love the proximity to Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Eataly and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Access to transportation is fantastic with 4/5/6, N/Q/R/W and L trains, excellent bus service and CitiBikes nearby.

55 Berry Street, Unit 4B

55 Berry Street, Unit 4B

Williamsburg, brooklyn

Asking $1,695,000

2 Bed  |  2 Bath | Condo

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Step into this spectacular 1,068 SF true loft condo with storage included in the heart of North Williamsburg, located in the coveted Berry Street Lofts. Apartment 4B seamlessly blends industrial charm with modern luxury, offering soaring 13-foot beamed and concrete ceilings, and expansive oversized windows that frame breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

This converted 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom loft boasts high-quality finishes throughout. The spacious high-end custom chef’s kitchen is a culinary dream, equipped with a Marvel wine cooler, Bosch dishwasher, Sub Zero refrigerator, jumbo-sized center island, extra-thick granite countertops, and a stainless steel pantry. The master suite is a sanctuary, featuring an architecturally designed limestone walk-in rain shower, custom vanity, Toto toilet, and a generous walk-in closet. Additional standout features include custom solid wood and glass sliding doors, stainless steel recessed lighting, and elegant maple floors.

The building offers impressive amenities such as a full-time doorman, bike room, a recently renovated upscale gym, and a fully furnished, landscaped common garden. The facade, systems, and windows of the building have also been upgraded to enhance your living experience.

Berry Street Lofts is a boutique 45-unit condo conversion nestled in Williamsburg’s premier historic district, just a few blocks from the Bedford L train and waterfront park/ferry. This location offers a vibrant neighborhood feel with convenient access to local shops and amenities, including Equinox, The Bath House, Whole Foods, Vital Climbing gym, McCarren Park Tennis center, the Apple Store, the William Vale, Lilia, and more.

As Reported by 6sqft.com

As Reported by 6sqft.com

Babe Ruth’s Upper West Side apartment asks $1.6M

339 East 58th Street, Unit 9F

339 East 58th Street, Unit 9F

Sutton Place, Manhattan

Asking $339,000

Studio  |  1 Bath | Co-op

 

Enjoy stunning skyline views and the Roosevelt Island Tram gliding by from this high-floor, bright, and spacious studio. Featuring new appliances, a dramatic entry hallway, and classic pre-war details, this home is set in a full-service elevator building with a doorman.

With rich wood floors, the studio offers an open, windowed kitchen with stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher. Additional highlights include a removable built-in closet, custom lights with dimmers, a ceiling fan, beamed ceilings, an open north-facing view, and a large windowed bathroom with a classic soaking tub.

The building offers a beautifully landscaped and furnished courtyard, a laundry room, and bike storage. Conveniently located near Trader Joe’s just a block away and Whole Foods on 57th St., Sutton Place parks, the East River Greenway, Citi Bike stations, top-tier restaurants, and world-class shopping along 5th Ave., including Bergdorf Goodman. Easy access to multiple transportation options, the 59th St. Bridge, Roosevelt Island via the tram, and the FDR.

As Reported by The New York Post: Babe Ruth’s longtime NYC home can be yours for $1.59M

As Reported by The New York Post:

Babe Ruth’s longtime NYC home can be yours for $1.59M

The Monthly Update - April 2025

No Fooling! The Manhattan Real Estate Market is Gaining Strength

Before we dive into the Q1 highlights, let’s rewind to understand how we got here.

After Covid, Manhattan experienced one of its busiest markets — not because prices skyrocketed, but because deal volume surged. Fast forward to June 2022: The Fed’s actions to slow the economy sent mortgage rates from 3% to 6% and even touched 8% seemingly overnight. This shift instantly stalled momentum in Manhattan’s real estate market, which was already facing challenges pre-Covid. Since then, we've seen persistently low listing inventory and weak transaction volume. There have been occasional bursts of buyer activity, but Q1 2025 is showing the strongest recovery signs we’ve seen since mid-2022. To be clear: this is not a full-blown comeback, but it's the best market activity we’ve had in about three years.

The Volume Trap

For the past three years, Manhattan has been stuck in a low-volume market. Many sellers who bought in 2015/2016 have seen little to no price appreciation — property values and median price per square foot have been flat for nearly a decade. Naturally, sellers have been reluctant to list if it means losing money. Rising interest rates didn’t help either.

But here’s the good news: In the past month, more listings have hit the market, offering buyers more choices. At the same time, mortgage rates have been gradually falling and now sit around 6.25%. Many buyers can even secure rates below 6% through relationship banking or lender incentives.

A Notable Shift

For the first time in over a year, we’ve surpassed 1,000 contracts signed in a 30-day window. The big question now is: can this momentum last? Many experts are optimistic about Q2 2025 thanks to three key factors:

• Increased inventory

• Lower interest rates

• Strong local economic indicators — including record-setting Wall Street bonuses. This year alone, $47 billion will be paid out to executives, with the lowest bonus coming in at $244,000 — enough for a healthy down payment on a Manhattan one-bedroom. Bonuses are up over 31% compared to last year, giving buyers additional purchasing power.

Pricing is Critical

Despite the encouraging signs, this isn’t a market where sellers can price aggressively. Buyers remain highly sensitive to pricing. If a property is overpriced and lingers on the market for more than 120 days, sellers typically end up accepting about 9% less than the reduced asking price. However, if a property goes into contract within the first 60 days, that discount shrinks to just 2%.

In short, correctly pricing your property is more important than ever. While we’re finally seeing promising signs — more listings, more contracts, and a stronger buyer presence — it’s still a delicate recovery. Sellers who price smartly are the ones who will secure strong offers and close with confidence.

So yes, it may be the best spring market we've had in years, but it’s still not the market to get greedy.

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Local Happenings & News

Compass says its Data Shows Benefits of 'Pre-Marketing' Listings

Compass is providing an early look at research into the impact of "pre-marketing" listings through the brokerage's Private Exclusives and/or Coming Soon channels.

Courtesy of Real Estate News

Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival

April 20, 2025

Every Easter from 10 AM to 4 PM, Fifth Avenue transforms into a vibrant spectacle as revelers don extravagant bonnets and festive attire for a tradition dating back to the 1870s. The best views are near St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but why just watch? Grab a bonnet and join the fun!

Click HERE to Learn More!

Macy's Flower Show

APRIL 27, 2025 - MAY 11, 2025

Macy’s 2025 Flower Show transforms imagination into a floral wonderland. Visitors will explore surreal gardens, drifting cloudscapes, and vibrant vistas, all bursting with dazzling installations and thousands of breathtaking blooms.

Click HERE to Learn More!

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Featured Listings

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221 East 50th Street, Unit 6D/7D

221 East 50th Street, Unit 6D/7D

Midtown East

Asking $1,250,000

3 Bed  |  3 Bath | Co-op

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Step into this impeccably designed, sunlit duplex nestled in the vibrant Midtown East/Turtle Bay neighborhood.

This exceptional home seamlessly combines two units to create a spacious three-bedroom, three-bathroom residence that makes the most of its expansive layout. Whitewashed oak floors welcome you inside, where a full-width southern exposure reveals bright city views above neighboring rooftops. Custom lighting highlights the open-concept great room's airy ambiance, while the adjacent windowed kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances from Bosch, Bertazzoni, and Fisher & Paykel. Toward the rear of this level, a sizable bedroom with a generous walk-in closet sits beside a sleek, modern full bathroom.

A striking custom staircase anchors the home, featuring blackened steel supports, white oak treads, and stylish vertical slats. Ascend to the upper level, where the luxurious primary suite offers another walk-in closet, a spacious windowed en-suite bathroom, and innovative full-height electrolytic glass panels that shift from transparent to opaque with the flip of a switch. The third bedroom, located at the rear of this floor, is complemented by another full bathroom and a convenient in-unit washer-dryer. Thoughtfully designed details include custom closets, recessed lighting, HVAC units enclosed in sleek cabinetry, under-cabinet lighting, premium hardware, and custom millwork, reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship throughout the home.

Located at 221 East 50th Street, this well-maintained postwar co-op features a live-in superintendent, central laundry facilities, bike storage, and a private garden. Set on a charming tree-lined block near Third Avenue, this exceptional home is surrounded by a wealth of dining options and convenient transit choices, with the 6, E, and M trains just three blocks away and Grand Central Terminal’s 4/5, S, and 7 trains close by.
Sorry, no pets allowed.

11-35 45th Avenue, Unit 2H

11-35 45th Avenue, Unit 2H

Long Island City

Asking $700,000

Studio  |  1 Bath | Condo

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-Condo
-Private terrace
-In-unit washer/dryer
-Easy access to the E/M/G, and 7 subway lines.

Move right into this stunning studio featuring a spacious 312 sq. ft. private terrace. On-site private parking is available for purchase separately.

Located in the highly sought-after Murray Park North, this mint-condition studio boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek hardwood floors, and an in-unit Bosch washer/dryer. The modern kitchen is equipped with Liebherr, Bosch, and Bertazzoni stainless steel appliances, while the spa-like bath offers radiant heated floors for ultimate comfort. With central AC/heat and a large private terrace, this home is a true urban retreat.

Perfectly positioned across from Murray Playground, you’re just minutes from LIC’s top attractions, including MOMA PS1, boutique restaurants, and Court Square, with easy access to the E, M, G, and 7 subway lines.

LIV @ Murray Park North is a full-service elevator condominium offering premium amenities such as a fitness center, landscaped roof deck with BBQs, an on-site resident manager, a video intercom system with remote access, and garage parking.

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Coney Island’s Luna Park Opens For Its 2025 Season This Weekend

Luna Park, Coney Island’s iconic beachfront amusement park, will open for the 2025 season this weekend. The historic park will reopen on Saturday, March 29 at 11 a.m. with a three-day celebration, including its annual opening ceremonies featuring the first ride and egg cream christening of the world-famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster. In celebration of its 98th birthday, the first 98 visitors will enjoy a free ride on the Cyclone and a complimentary egg cream.

Credit: Luna Park

“Our entire team is filled with gratitude and enthusiasm as we open our doors for the 2025 season,” Alessandro Zamperla, president and CEO of Central Amusement International, said. “It is an honor to continue the incomparable Amusement legacy in Coney Island as we preserve, revitalize, and provide an incredible family-oriented experience in NYC.”

The park will kick off the 2025 season with its annual charity initiative, offering discounted pricing for All Day Extraordinary Wristbands. A portion of the proceeds from opening weekend sales will be donated to local charities, including the Coney Island Sharks, Operation H.O.O.D., Children of Promise NYC, Urban Neighborhood Services, and the Coney Island Public Library.

This season, the park will unveil new arcade games, renovated retail vendors, and a new patio at the Salt & Sizzle restaurant.

Last year, the park opened a brand-new attraction, the Electric Eden Raceway, making history with New York City’s first-ever sustainable electric-powered Go-Karts, and “video mapping gamification.”

Photo by Wabi Sabi on Unsplash

Luna Park will be open daily during spring break (April 11 through 20) and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Memorial Day weekend. After Memorial Day weekend, the park will be open daily. Admission to Luna Park is free; rides start at $4.

Next door, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park reopens for its 105th season on Palm Sunday, April 13 at 10 a.m. for the annual “Blessing of the Rides” ceremony.

The season will kick off with a ribbon-cutting on the boardwalk in front of the iconic attraction, and the first 105 guests will receive a free ride on Deno’s Wonder Wheel. The park will be open weekends through May 18 and then daily from May 23 through September 3.

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Coney Island’s Luna Park to open for 2025 season this weekend

By Aaron Ginsburg

March 24, 2025

Cover Photo Credit: Anthony G. Reyes on Flickr