Real Estate Blogs - New York

How Much House Can I Afford? NYC & NJ Buyer Calculator 2025

In 2025, the median Manhattan condo costs $872,000 and New Jersey property taxes average a U.S.–high 2.23 percent, so the national “28/36” affordability rule can feel like trying to fit a jumbo sofa through a Brooklyn brownstone doorway. You’ll need to balance your debt-to-income ratios with down-payment reality, sky-high common charges, and closing fees that dwarf most markets—see our Staten Island closing-costs guide for a local snapshot. This introduction explains why generic calculators fall short, previews the NYC- and NJ-specific variables you’ll learn to master, and sets the stage for the tailored affordability calculator and strategies that follow.

How Lenders Decide What You Can Afford

Lenders don’t pull a dollar figure out of thin air when…

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10 First-Time Buyer Mistakes in NYC │ Robert DeFalco Realty

Buying your first home in New York City means navigating one of the world’s tightest markets, where first-timers now make up a rising share of purchase mortgages even as affordability shrinks. Median Manhattan condos cost roughly 15 – 25 % more than comparable co-ops, bidding wars push 27 % of new leases and many sales above ask, and accepted offers average a 3.7 % premium in high-demand segments. Factor in closing costs that run 2 – 5 % of the loan amount plus New York’s mansion tax at $1 million+, and it’s easy to see why 47 % of recent owners report at least one regret—most often surprise maintenance and hidden fees. Add strict board approvals, 20–50 % down-payment norms for co-ops , and rapidly changing commission rules that shift more costs onto…

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How to Find Liens on a Property in Staten Island: A Quick Search Guide [NY Property Records]

A hidden lien could force you to cancel your property sale and lose thousands of dollars. Did you know that?

Learning how to put a lien on a property in NY - or better yet, how to check for one - is vital for anyone buying or selling real estate. New York law allows liens to stay attached to a property for up to 10 years, even after ownership changes. This makes liens a serious concern for Staten Island's homeowners.

Mortgage liens, IRS tax liens, mechanic's liens, and HOA liens can deter potential buyers and make selling your property much harder. The good news? You have several ways to check for liens on your property. You can work with title companies or visit the Richmond County Clerk's office.

This piece will show you the exact steps to find…

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First-Time Home Buyer Guide for New York: Programs & Mortgage Tips 2025

Your Path to NYC Homeownership: What to Know Before You Begin

Definition of First-Time Homebuyer in New York Context

A first-time homebuyer in New York is defined as someone who hasn't owned a primary residence in the last three years, aligning with SONYMA and HUD guidelines. This definition also includes single parents who previously owned with an ex-spouse and displaced homemakers, which expands eligibility for various assistance programs.

Overview of the Current Market (with Data from Local Sources)

As of early 2025, the New York City real estate market shows stabilization with slight growth, driven by low inventory and steady demand. Median home prices by borough are:

• Manhattan: $1,235,000
• Brooklyn: $995,000
• Queens: $717,589
…

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2536 E 1st St, Brooklyn, NY - Elegant 3BR Condo in Gravesend

Click for the listing page for 2536 E 1st St →

Welcome to 2536 E 1st St, a stunning condo nestled in the heart of Brooklyn's Gravesend neighborhood. This elegant 3-bedroom unit offers the perfect blend of modern amenities, historic charm, and an unbeatable location. With easy access to transportation, top-rated schools, and a vibrant community, this property is an exceptional opportunity for homebuyers and investors alike.

Interior Features That Impress

Step inside this beautifully designed condo and be greeted by an open-concept layout that maximizes space and functionality. The living area features gleaming hardwood floors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The gourmet kitchen is a…

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25 Essential Questions to Ask When Buying a House in New York | 2025 Expert Guide

In New York's dynamic real estate market, asking the right questions before purchasing a home is critical for protecting your investment. Here are the essential questions to ask when buying a house in New York, based on insights from experienced local realtors and recent market data. According to StreetEasy, 34% of homebuyers reporting purchase regrets, these carefully curated questions will help you avoid common pitfalls in the NYC market.

This comprehensive guide covers the most important questions to ask when buying a house in New York's five boroughs, organized into five crucial categories:

1. Property Condition & History Questions: Essential for New York's aging housing stock (75% pre-war buildings)
2. Financial & Cost Questions: Covering…

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Is a Buyer Agency Agreement Required in New York? What you Should Know

The process of buying or selling a home can sometimes feel like a confusing labyrinth. When it comes to buyer agency agreements, questions often arise: Is a buyer agency agreement required?

Although not legally required in every state, the benefits of having one are apparent. It guarantees your interests will be protected by a committed professional, offering expert guidance through negotiations and paperwork.

This agreement provides tremendous peace of mind, assuring you that you have expert support working on your behalf.

Ready to Find Your Dream Home? Schedule a Free Consultation with a Robert DeFalco Realty Agent Today!

Table of Contents

Buyer Agency Agreements in New York: What You Should Know

• Key Takeaways
• What Is a…

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Is it a good time to buy a house? Market trends and expert insights for 2025

Is it a good time to buy a house now? With median home prices in the U.S. reaching $400,000 in 2024, and mortgage rates fluctuating between 6.5% and 7%, prospective buyers must weigh market conditions and personal finances carefully before making a decision.

Whether it's a good time to buy a house depends on your finances, goals, and local market conditions. Right now, home prices are high and interest rates have gone up. This makes buying harder for some people. But there are still good reasons to consider buying if you're ready.

If you have steady income and savings for a down payment, buying now could be smart. Home values often go up over time. Owning can build wealth and give you a place that's truly yours. Think about your long-term plans and…

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a House in New York: 2025 Price Guide

Building a house in New York can be exciting and costly. The average cost to build a house in New York ranges from $201,000 to $1,000,000, with a state average of $524,000. This price can change based on where you build and what kind of house you want. In New York City, costs can be higher, reaching up to $300 per square foot.

Your location in New York plays a big role in the cost. Building in NYC is often more expensive than in other parts of the state. The type of house, materials used, and size all affect the final price. Knowing these factors can help you plan your budget better.

Key Takeaways

• Building costs in New York vary widely by location and house type

• NYC construction tends to be more expensive than other areas in…

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What is an Estate Sale: A Comprehensive Guide

Estate sales offer a unique way to find hidden treasures in Staten Island, NY. These events happen when someone needs to sell items for sale from their personal belongings, often due to a move or after a loved one passes away. An estate sale is a big sale where you can buy everyday items from someone's home, including furniture, jewelry, and collectibles.

Estate sale services are available throughout Staten Island to help manage these events.

At an estate sale, you might find rare items or great deals on everyday household items. It's like a giant yard sale, but with more valuable stuff. In Staten Island, estate sales are a fun way to spend a weekend and maybe pick up something special for your home.

If you're curious about estate sales,…

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