Buying a home can be one of the most stressful and expensive things in life. But with all of its idiosyncrasies, buying in New York City presents a unique set of challenges. Enter StreetEasy Buyers Week: Five days filled with articles, guides and advice that will help you navigate the buying process in the NYC real estate market.
Each day we tackle a different topic and unveil new articles from StreetEasy Experts as well as New York City real estate professionals. So if you’re thinking about becoming a homeowner in 2017, bookmark and come back to this page every day this week to study up and boost your confidence about finding the home of your dreams in New York City.
Day 1: Buying in NYC? See If You’re Ready
Buyer’s Agent Wisdom:
Day 2: Rent or Buy? Check Your Finances First
Today, we’re focused on all things pertaining to your budget and financial means. Finding out how much home you can afford is the most important first step for any home buyer.
Buyer’s Agent Wisdom
Buy vs. Rent
Credit Scores
Home Loans, Preapproval, and Down Payments
- Types of Home Loans
- Getting a Mortgage for a Condo or Co-op
- How to Get Preapproved for a Mortgage
- Estimating Your Down Payment in NYC
- Tips to Save for a Down Payment
Common Charges and Maintenance Fees
Affordable Housing Options
Day 3: Should You Use a Buyer’s Agent?
Today, we’re myth-busting what we know about buyer’s agents in NYC, providing tips for choosing the right agent and more.
Buyer’s Agent Wisdom
Quiz
Buyer’s Agents (aka Buyer’s Brokers)
Finding the Right Agent
Day 4 – Decoding NYC Apartment Types and Neighborhoods
New York City is a tapestry of different neighborhood vibes and home types that any buyer could get lost exploring. Explore the articles and insights below that will help you navigate the spectrum of real estate you’ll experience during your home hunt.
Buyer’s Agent Wisdom
Decoding Apartment Types
- Guides to Types of Apartments in NYC
- Why Floor Plans Are Important
- Pros and Cons Between Condo, Co-op and Condop
- Want a Brownstone? Here’s What You Need to Know
- Should You Buy in a New Development?
- What is a Classic Six?
- What is a Maisonette?
- What is a Garden Apartment in NYC?
- What is a Prewar Apartment Building?
Exploring NYC Neighborhoods
- Top Buyers’ Markets in NYC
- Best Neighborhoods for First-time Home Buyers
- Best Bargain Neighborhoods in NYC Right Now
- How to Pick a Neighborhood in NYC
- 6 Things to Know if You’re Moving From Manhattan to Brooklyn
- Neighborhood Guides
Day 5: How to Win the Bid and Seal the Deal
Finding your dream apartment is only half the battle. Today is dedicated to learning the in’s and outs of placing a winning bid, preparing for a co-op board interview and more.
Making an Offer, Winning the Bid
- How Much Should You Bid on an Apartment?
- 6 Tips to Offering the Winning Bid
- Why You Need a Real Estate Attorney to Close a Deal
Co-op Board Approval, the Ins and Outs
- Buying a Co-op? Ins and Outs of Board Approval
- Top Reasons for Co-op Board Rejections
- Tips for Buyers: Co-op Financial Disclosure Statement
Prepare for Closing Costs and Fees
- All About Closing and Closing Costs
- NYC Real Estate Oddity: Tipping the Title Closer
- What is NYC’s Mansion Tax?
That’s a Wrap – More Resources
If there’s something not listed above that you’re curious about, let us know in the comments below!