News
Oct
20
Brooklyn Brownstone Rentals, Apartments, and Condos: Which is Best for You?
written by Warren Lewis Realty Team
What do the Cosby’s, Big Bird and Lucy of “I Love Lucy” all have in common? They lived in Brooklyn brownstone rentals. In fact, these iconic homes are one of the most popular residences for characters in novels, movies and television shows. Something in the brownstone row house makes it the perfect home for an idyllic life, and so even outside of the world of fiction, the brownstone serves as an anchor for a New Yorker’s identity.
However, when it comes to living in Brooklyn, people often have to worry more about the cost of living than their sense of identity. Rental brownstone row houses are virtually nonexistent at or below two thousand dollars monthly rent. The high cost makes these dwellings somewhat less accessible for most people. Apartments and condos tend to let for significantly less each month, though New York is a tough place to negotiate housing for less than $1200 a month.
Condos are the wildcard in the rental industry. At times, they can be the priciest option—this usually depends on where they are built. Other times, the condo is the most affordable option available to renters. By contrast, the apartment is a force of stability in real estate.
Apts in Brooklyn NY are easy to find anywhere between $1200-$2000 per month. New builds are significantly cheaper than older establishments. In addition, newer buildings around Brooklyn tend to have better insulation, making utilities more affordable, but the tradeoff tends to be the sacrifice of a good view, or an immediacy to the best parts of town, a problem that residents of Brooklyn brownstone rentals never have.
Coming full circle, the brownstone has earned its right to carry a hefty price tag. The buildings are always in the heart of the city, nearest to the best nightlife and community. They have the Hollywood feel that attracts the young professionals, and the community of successful established elites. So it is no surprise that they continue to woo people. Prospective renters might even find that their choice is made easier by the unavailability of a brownstone. Usually, the lucky leaser of one of these iconic houses has been on a wait list for years, or inherited it through family.
