Given the exorbitant costs and limited inventory of the city’s brownstones and townhouses, owning one is not in the cards for the average New Yorker. But despite the long odds, most of us still dream of landing that holy grail of NYC homes — and why not? Even in this city, a true rowhouse can be had for something close to a regular-person budget, especially with rental income factored in. Here are five townhouses in Brooklyn for under $2 million — many with rental units.
Although this Bed-Stuy townhouse is being used as a one-family, it can be converted back to a two-family for rental income. The 3 bedrooms are all spacious and bright, with multiple windows in each. The kitchen has plenty of room to spare for a full dining set and sideboard. Stainless-steel appliances and white cabinetry combine modern touches while retaining a cozy, classic feel. Taxes are super-low ($273)! Listed by Nichole Thompson-Adams and Anthony Mayne of Compass.
Here’s a two-family home in Gowanus, with an owner’s duplex and a top floor rental. There’s also an unfinished basement that holds the laundry room and could be great for storage, or for finishing out and adding more living space. Location-wise, this place is right near Park Slope and Red Hook, with plenty of options for dining and shopping nearby. The F, G, and R trains are just a few blocks away. Listed by Deborah Rieders of Corcoran.
This Stuyvesant Heights Victorian rowhome dates back to 1867, but has been recently updated and renovated. The open-parlor first floor creates one large space for the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Taking center stage is the kitchen with a 10-foot white marble island that serves as both cooking and dining space. Additionally, there’s a finished basement with laundry and plenty of potential. Listed by Daniel Kandinov of Corcoran.
This turn-of-the-century two-family home (owner’s duplex and garden rental) has been instilled with plenty of modern updates (central air, renovated kitchen and bath), while retaining many of its period features. From the cheery exterior to the private backyard with built-in benches and planters, this townhouse is certainly notable. Listing by Mark Martov and Michelle Moshe at Corcoran.
Here’s another interesting Bushwick townhome. This one contains two duplexes, great for owning and renting. And each one has been thoughtfully designed and renovated, with upscale kitchen appliances and laundry in each unit. There’s tons of space here; the master bedroom in the upper duplex has room for a king-size bed and a home office. Plus, the backyard has been updated and provides a perfect spot to entertain. Listed by Allison Dubuisson of Douglas Elliman.