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If you want to buy Manhattan real estate, one of the first things we will do as your real estate agent is to determine by talking with you what type of house you want to purchase.
 
Just as important as the type of house is the type of community you want to live in. Knowing your preferences will save you time and streamline the home buying process. In every community there will be different neighborhoods, each with their own characteristics.
 
The key factors you’ll use to identify the right Manhattan community for you are generally price and location, but there are many other factors to consider as well. To expedite the home buying process, start by making a list of your dream home factors that are most important to you and your family’s lifestyle.
 

Critical Questions to Ask Yourself

• Do you dream of a quaint and charming older home or do you something new and modern?
• Are you willing to sacrifice room size and space for architectural detailing?
• How far are you willing to commute from your home to the office or schools?
• Are you willing to exchange the number of bedrooms and a big yard for proximity to the park, water or other recreational area?
• Do you like city living, where you can be close to the action and easily walk to places? Or do you want a quiet, open space?
 

Other Homebuying Considerations

• School systems: Whether you have children or not, buying a home in a community with good schools is important. It not only adds value to your property, but also is an attractive feature if you decide to sell. You can learn about special programs that schools offer by looking at their websites. In addition, you can talk to people in the area or take a tour of the school.
• Distance to amenities: Distance to recreational activities, shopping, restaurants, and other specific family needs is an important factor to consider. Do you want to be within walking distance or are you ok with taking the bus or a cab where you want to go?
• Safety: Look up local crime rates and city services such as police and fire.
• 55+ housing: If you are like many midlife folks—over the age of 55 with still plenty to do and see—you may want to consider an age-restricted community for those 55 and over. There, you are surrounded by people your own age who tend to have similar interests.
• Properties geared toward your specific interests: Do you dream of being able to walk out the door and step into nature? Do you want to have easy access to water? With all the natural beauty Manhattan has to offer, having a home specifically suited to your interests is possible.
 
When you’ve narrowed down your must-haves, we can sit down and discuss your options. Give Manhattan Real Estate a call at 212-728-5600 and we’ll set up a time to meet. This will provide us with the information we need to help you find the right property listings. Remember, a targeted approach to house buying is most efficient.
 
Wishing everyone a very happy and healthy New Year!