Pre-war vs. Post-war: The pros and cons of buying in each + Great listings inside

By Cait Etherington | From Get To Know Friday, April 12, 2024

45 East 65th Street and 530 Park Avenue, two exceptional pre- and pos-war buildings on the Upper East Side

When you go on the housing market in New York City, building age will likely be one of your first considerations. After all, nearly all listing sites offer “pre-war” as a search option. While older buildings often deliver a ton of charm, that should never be your sole consideration when buying. After all, while older buildings may get top marks for aesthetics, they often come with other problems. This article surveys the pros and cons of buying in an older building. But first, it is important to clarify what “old” actually means in New York City.

The oldest standing building in New York City is Wyckoff House, which dates back to the 1650's. But it is not for sale and likely won’t be in the future. In fact, it has been a museum for decades. On the residential side, the oldest known residence is generally said to be 203 East 29th Street. The site, sometimes known as the “floating farmhouse”, allegedly dates back to the 1790's, though no one knows for sure. Some historians have dated the building as late as the 1870's. If the floating farmhouse is as new as some historians suspect, it is not much older than the city’s oldest standing apartment house. Gramercy’s 129 East 17th Street dates back to 1879.

Compared to many European cities, then, New York’s oldest buildings are actually relatively young. Indeed, nearly all buildings categorized as “pre-war” originated in a narrow 60-year period stretching from the 1880s to the mid-1940s. But despite the city’s continuous population growth since the 1940s, much of the city’s housing was erected prior to the end of World War II. Still, pre-war units are no longer the only “old” buildings on the market.

Following World War II, New York experienced a tremendous housing boom. Much of the new construction took place in the suburbs, but a few urban neighborhoods were also transformed during the post-war period. In Manhattan, for example, both the Upper East Side and Upper West Side saw the construction of dozens of high-rise buildings. In fact, the post-war housing boom was largely responsible for turning the Upper East Side and Yorkville into North America’s most densely populated neighborhoods. In New York City’s current housing market, “post-war” is generally refers to any building constructed between 1947 and 1990.

91 Central Park West, A pre-war building on the Upper West Side (CORE)

The Pros and Cons of Buying in a Pre-War Building

By and large, pre-war buildings remain a good investment. They also deliver a lot of value to buyers, especially those who plan to buy and hold for at least a decade. This largely reflects the fact that most pre-war buildings are co-ops, which are generally much less expensive than new condos. As an added bonus, most pre-war buildings also deliver on charm with high ceilings, ample built-ins, and original moldings. Pre-war buildings are also great for families. If you’re searching for an elusive three- to four-bedroom unit, narrowing your search to pre-war buildings is a great start.

In addition to value and space, pre-war buildings have a lot to offer when it comes to stability. These buildings have been around long enough to have established reputations and cultures. If a building has a reputation for being kid-friendly or dog-friendly (or, conversely, for being intolerant of noise), you’ll know long before you move in. Beyond offering an established culture, most pre-war buildings are also a safe investment. Just like buying shares in an established company, buying shares in an established co-op is usually a safe and sound investment.

Much of New York City's housing was erected prior to World War II (View from the roof of the Ansonia)

Pre-war buildings do, however, come with a few downsides. The most common complaints made about pre-war buildings are their relatively small kitchens designed with staff in mind, small bathrooms, loud radiators, and, of course, the fact that they rarely feature central air conditioning or in-unit washer/dryers. Some buy in pre-war buildings with a fixer-upper in mind, but this can come with its own set of challenges. Some pre-war listings note that in-unit washer/dryers are not permitted; this is often because the building's infrastructure can't support such an addition. It is also important to bear in mind that not all pre-war buildings are built alike. While luxury pre-war buildings were often constructed using the finest materials, if you buy in a pre-war walk-up, you may be purchasing in a building that would never meet modern building codes. This can put you at higher risk and cause hassles if and when you attempt to carry out renovations.

A final potential problem of buying in an older building is the ever-looming possibility of an assessment. From time to time, co-op buildings need to carry out major repairs (e.g., brickwork on the building’s façade). Depending on the scale of the project, this can mean being slapped with a large assessment—one that may raise your monthly fees several thousand dollars for an extended period. For this reason, when shopping for a unit in a pre-war building, it is always important to ensure an assessment isn’t on the horizon.

The Ansonia is one of NYC's most storied pre-war buildings (Ondel)

The pros and cons of buying in a post-war building

Some of New York City’s ugliest buildings were built in the post-war period. These buildings are usually uninspiring red-brick boxes, but sometimes, these buildings are equally uninspiring white-brick boxes. Inside, most post-war units are just blasé with their predictable layouts, parquet flooring, and low ceilings. Despite the fact that many post-war units don’t offer much charm, they certainly shouldn’t be written off by prospective buyers.

First, because many of New York City’s post-war buildings prioritized functionality over beauty, they are highly livable. Most post-war units include air conditioning, large windows, and generous closets and storage spaces. Compared to their pre-war counterparts, they are also surprisingly affordable. For example, it is still possible to find a one-bedroom in a post-war full-service co-op building on the Upper East Side for under $700,000. Similar units in pre-war co-op or condo buildings are generally twice the price or higher.

The John Adams at 101 West 12th Street was finished in 1963 in white brick (Corcoran)

As an added bonus, many post-war buildings also offer layouts that can be easily converted. This reflects two common features. First, many post-war units were built as “junior fours.” Essentially, this means the unit has a small dining room that can be easily turned into an office, nursery, or additional bedroom if desired. Second, many post-war units were built with large living rooms that run anywhere from 20 to 30 feet in length. Again, this makes it easy to carve out an extra room on one end of the apartment by adding a standing or sliding wall. In other words, if you’re looking for a way to buy a two-bedroom apartment for the price of a one-bedroom apartment, a post-war unit is likely your best bet.

Finally, despite the fact that post-war buildings are slightly newer than their pre-war counterparts, they offer similar benefits. When you buy into a post-war co-op (and most post-war units are co-ops not condos), you’re still buying a home in an established community. With a bit of digging, you’ll likely be able to learn everything you need to know about the building’s legal and financial history and culture. Likewise, if you plan to buy and hold, most post-war units will ultimately offer just as good a return on investment over time.

Pre-war listings for sale

"From former tenements to townhouses, pre-war buildings are not all built alike."

Beekman Hill, #9C
$365,000

Midtown East | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

Beekman Hill, #9C (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to this sun-filled, charming studio in the heart of Midtown East. Upon entering, guests are greeted by an entryway with a large closet, and bespoke custom mantle-piece for decoration and storage. The living area is large enough for at least a queen-sized bed, living area, breakfast table, and desk.The kitchen is outfitted with custom-made functional, and stylish hooks for extra storage. There is a gas stove, new refrigerator, and the microwave functions as a convection oven. In addition to the entry closet, there is another large closet and a dressing area separate from the living space adjacent to the bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.

The Remsen, #5J
$385,000

Brooklyn Heights | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

The Remsen, #5J (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: This modern turnkey studio in historic Brooklyn Heights is ready for its new owner! This extra large studio with ample storage space was recently renovated with a brand new kitchen, updated bathroom, and fully repainted. The floors were also redone with cherry-engineered hardwood flooring. Enter through a proper foyer with full reach in the coat closet and floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves. The spacious main living area features two oversized eastern-facing windows and a large walk-in closet. See floor plan and full details here.

The Sussex, #5E
$539,000

Broadway Corridor | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Sussex, #5E (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Do not miss a golden opportunity to live in this beautiful, newly gut-renovated one-bedroom co-op in the heart of a most sought-after Upper West Side/Lincoln Square location. Apartment 5E is a light-filled home with large windows facing south and west and boasts brand new long plank white oak hardwood floors throughout, 9'2" high beamed ceilings, and ample closet space. The living room is a most welcoming spot to relax, entertain, and work from home. See floor plan and full details here.

Tudor Tower, #14191420
$875,000

Turtle Bay/United Nations | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

Tudor Tower, #14191420 (The Agency Brokerage)

From the Listing: Rare opportunity to combine two high floor one-bedroom corner units into a massive two or three-bedroom, 2-bath residence in Tudor City. Most properties in this iconic enclave are one-bedroom or studio units, making this offering truly exceptional. Perfect for those looking to create their dream residence with endless possibilities! Both units are flooded with natural light and boast breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and Tudor City Greens Park. All pre-war charm, including casement windows, French doors, beamed ceilings and wood floors in excellent condition. Windowed bathrooms. Apartments 1419 and 1420 are also available separately. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

Just complete the info below.

334 West 85th Street, #4B
$895,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

334 West 85th Street, #4B (Hauseit LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom oasis in the Upper West Side! Situated in a pre-war elevator building, this 4th-floor apartment features 10-ft ceilings and sunny south-facing windows, providing ample natural light throughout. Recently renovated kitchen and bathroom offer modern comforts.Enjoy tranquility in this quiet building just a half block away from Riverside Park and right near the 86 street subway station. Plus, take advantage of the private locker for storage, convenient laundry room in the basement, and a furnished backyard. Perfect for city living with convenience and charm. See floor plan and full details here.

323 East 8th Street, #G
$975,000

East Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 2 Baths

323 East 8th Street, #G (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: This TWO FULL BATH, 1-2 BEDROOM DUPLEX WITH EXPANSIVE TERRACE is a rare gem that won't last. Listed for the first time in more than a decade, this charming, utterly unique duplex apartment is situated on a quiet, tree-lined block right off of historic Tompkins Square Park, in a well-maintained pre-war building. Upstairs, one is welcomed to an inviting living room featuring exposed brick and oversized, custom wood-framed windows overlooking your 300-square-foot private terrace. W See floor plan and full details here.

138 East 36th Street, #9C
$1,099,000 (-4.4%)

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

138 East 36th Street, #9C (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to 9C, a pre-war classic 6-room home of approximately 1500 Square Feet and 3 exposures awaiting renewal by a new owner. Pre-war details abound in this 3 bedroom/ 3 bath, including a wood-burning fireplace, 9’ beamed ceilings, original hardwood floors, and ample closets. The gracious entrance foyer leads to a spacious living room with a fireplace and French doors opening to an adjacent Formal Dining Room offering South and West exposures. See floor plan and full details here.

260 West End Avenue, #7A
$1,325,000

Broadway Corridor | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,250 ft²

260 West End Avenue, #7A (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: LARGE CORNER APARTMENT with WATER & PARK VIEWS. Classic style, history, and luxury come together in apartment 7A at 260 West End Avenue. This beautiful and spacious two-bedroom apartment is currently home to the legendary, Lucine Amara, a Metropolitan Opera diva, known for being 'one of the greatest lyric sopranos of all time.' Perfectly located 1 block from a lovely section of Riverside Park, and in an elegant full-service prewar co-op, apartment 7A has much to offer. See floor plan and full details here.

The Umbria, #11A
$1,975,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,640 ft²

The Umbria, #11A (Hopkinson Associates LLC)

From the Listing: Perched high on the 11th floor of the 12-story Umbria Building, completed in 1911 and designed by world-renowned architect, D. Everett Waid, apartment 11A is a sprawling, corner split 2 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home that awaits your arrival. This sun-drenched, approximately 1,640-square-foot apartment contains soaring 10-foot ceilings and hardwood floors throughout, numerous oversized windows, ample closet space, and many original prewar details. See floor plan and full details here.

325 West End Avenue, #3C
$2,000,000 (-15.8%)

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,900 ft²

325 West End Avenue, #3C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Introducing 3C at 325 West End Avenue - An unparalleled opportunity to acquire a 3-bed, 3-bath UWS classic-six showcasing a remarkable upside of over $1m, exemplified by the recent transaction of Residence 2C at $3.3 million. Immerse yourself in tranquility within this elegant residence, flooded with natural light and offering triple exposures overlooking picturesque tree-lined streets. With 10-foot high ceilings and hardwood flooring throughout, each corner exudes a timeless charm. Privacy reigns supreme with the split bedroom layouts ensuring no shared walls among the sleeping quarters and every bathroom is windowed. See floor plan and full details here.

The Carlyle, #815
$2,200,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

The Carlyle, #815 (Elegran LLC)

From the Listing: Enjoy the white-glove services and amenities of the legendary Carlyle Hotel combined with the privacy of a home on the prestigious Upper East Side of Manhattan. The apartment is a fully renovated and spacious corner 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom with Eastern and Southern exposure. This elegant apartment can come fully furnished with top-of-the-line designer furnishings throughout. A split bedroom layout offers the ultimate privacy and the home has generous closet space throughout. Also available as a short-term furnished rental for $40K. See floor plan and full details here.

The Cass Gilbert, #11C
$2,650,000

Chelsea | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 2,055 ft²

The Cass Gilbert, #11C (The Agency Brokerage)

From the Listing: 11-foot ceilings and pre-war charm make this meticulously renovated three-bedroom, three-bathroom, home the conversation piece you have been looking for. The entrance foyer is open and welcoming, bringing in great southern light and directing you into the expansive loft living space - rare for a NoMad condo. The living space has symmetry and ideal proportions for entertaining as the guests flow through the space without interrupting one another. See floor plan and full details here.

1070 Park Avenue, #15E
$2,950,000 (-9.2%)

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

1070 Park Avenue, #15E (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: State-of-the-art renovation in a classically elegant home. This stunning classic 6-room easily converts to a three-bedroom. There are two extra large bedrooms with en suite baths. The third bedroom also has an en suite bath suitable as a bedroom, staff room or office. Gut renovated with the most beautiful finishes. The windowed kitchen includes top-notch Bosch appliances and spectacular countertops. Three brand new bathrooms have Toto washlet toilets and heated floors. There is also a washer-dryer. Wonderful open south-facing views bring abundant sunlight to this incredible pre-war home. See floor plan and full details here.

325 West 52nd Street, #PHG
$3,000,000

Midtown West | Cooperative | 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 2,700 ft²

325 West 52nd Street, #PHG (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Stunning four-bedroom penthouse in the heart of one of the city's most dynamic locations. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the private roof deck to the generous bedrooms, this residence redefines urban elegance, offering a lifestyle that blends sophistication with comfort. As you enter, you'll be greeted by the expansive south-facing living room, adorned with high ceilings, bathed in incredible natural light, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere. The exposed brick walls and beautiful hardwood floors seamlessly blend the classic with the contemporary, setting the tone for a home that exudes character. See floor plan and full details here.

79 White Street, #4E
$3,400,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,000 ft²

79 White Street, #4E (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This sprawling 2,000 full-floor loft is located in a restored 19th-century warehouse and features grand proportions, superb finishes, and a spacious convertible 3 -3-bedroom layout. Enter to a dramatic Living/Dining room with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, beautiful hardwood floors, and open views of the surrounding historic district through a wall of rounded arched windows. The enormous chef's kitchen with a center island is open to the entertaining space and features deep granite countertops, endless custom cabinetry and top-of-the-line Miele, Viking and Bosch appliances. See floor plan and full details here.

123 Prince Street, #1
$4,250,000

SoHo | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,400 ft²

123 Prince Street, #1 (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Truly one-of-a-kind! This unique and dramatic triplex loft feels like a private house with grand proportions, beautiful custom finishes, and a sense of peace and tranquility like no other! A wide entrance gallery with floor-to-ceiling closets leads to a breathtaking Living/Dining room with soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, elegant white oak floors, and abundant light from a wall of glass overlooking a private vertical garden. See floor plan and full details here.

The American Express Carriage House, #1B
$4,999,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 3,202 ft²

The American Express Carriage House, #1B (Compass)

From the Listing: Situated on a quiet cobblestone street, this rare, massive 3 bedroom feels like a house in the middle of Tribeca. As you enter the home, you are immediately greeted by soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, wood beams, oversized windows, and a large open floor plan. The kitchen features a Subzero fridge, 6-burner Wolf vented gas range, dishwasher, marble countertops, and pantry.A separate dining room is perfect for anyone who loves to entertain. See floor plan and full details here.

500 West End Avenue, #8C
$6,995,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 3,718 ft²

500 West End Avenue, #8C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Apartment 8C at 500 West End Avenue is a spectacular, light-filled 4-bed (flex-5) 4.5-bath pre-war condominium perfectly situated in the heart of the dynamic Upper West Side. At 3,718 square feet, the home boasts 3 exposures (south, east, and west), generously proportioned rooms, a beautifully designed chef's kitchen, high ceilings, herringbone floors, central air conditioning, and a full-sized LG washer and vented dryer. See floor plan and full details here.

331 West 20th Street, #TH
$9,900,000

Chelsea | Rental | 6+ Bedrooms, 6+ Baths

331 West 20th Street, # (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to 331 West 20th Street, a 25-foot wide, 5-story Greek Revival townhouse with the rare and coveted amenity of a rear carriage house. Located in the heart of Chelsea, this home is currently configured with two large duplexes, each with 4 bedrooms, plus a finished garden level, and cellar. The magical carriage house is a 2-story building and has a full bath and kitchenette and can be reached through a private 'horse walk' from the street. See floor plan and full details here.

Post-war apartments for sale

"Because many of New York City’s post-war buildings privileged functionality over beauty, they are highly livable."

311 East 71st Street, #9F
$400,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 900 ft²

311 East 71st Street, #9F (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: The best price per foot you will likely ever find in this area, the F line has been advertised as approximately 900 sq. ft. Light, location, and an opportunity to make your own perfect new home, ask us about our existing estimates to streamline the renovation process. This stunning junior 4 apartment in a prestigious doorman building offers a rare opportunity to own a convertible 2-bed gem at the lowest price available in NYC. See floor plan and full details here.

420 East 72nd Street, #4D
$550,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

420 East 72nd Street, #4D (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: As you enter this immaculate home, you will immediately be amazed by the smartly designed open chef's kitchen complete with a large marble peninsula that comfortably seats four; designed to maximize storage, you will love the plethora of cabinets, including a pantry. The spacious living room faces north, looking over the gardens of the residences below, and is an ideal space for quiet nights in or for entertaining; working from home is also ideal, with space for a desk. See floor plan and full details here.

435 East 65th Street, #9A
$575,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 825 ft²

435 East 65th Street, #9A (Compass)

From the Listing: Expansive and extremely bright one-bedroom in a doorman building on the Upper East Side. This apartment is completely renovated with large windows facing north in the living room and bedroom. See floor plan and full details here.

The Fontaine, #34C
$685,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Fontaine, #34C (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: That glorious south-facing skyline views you have been waiting for! Take in the Iconic Views from East to West from the wall of windows in this 34th-floor loft like one one-bedroom, one-bath home. Flooded with an abundance of natural light by day and take in the city lights by night! See floor plan and full details here.

The Wilshire, #8A
$699,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

The Wilshire, #8A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Calling all savvy buyers! Make this spacious, renovated 1-bedroom with LOW Maintenance your new home! This elegant, extra-large 1-bedroom 1-bathroom home is generously proportioned with an oversized living room with bright western exposures and ample room for a separate dining area. See floor plan and full details here.

2 Tudor City Place, #7FS
$720,000

Turtle Bay/United Nations | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 800 ft²

2 Tudor City Place, #7FS (Compass)

From the Listing: A gem in the heart of Tudor City! Expansive one-bedroom apartment with four large closets. The unit feels very spacious due to an open floor plan that allows for multiple furniture configurations.The newly renovated kitchen has a large breakfast bar, incredible (granite) counter space, a 48-bottle wine refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, convection oven, and Liebherr refrigerator. Complete with King-sized bedroom (with plenty of room for two desks and a dresser) and a freshly renovated bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.

Sherman Square, #11A
$850,000

Broadway Corridor | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Sherman Square, #11A (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Wake up to the gentle reflective light off the buildings far away. Watch the sunset from the balcony. Have a 24/7 gym and laundry that are spotless. Escape to the roof garden or the courtyard garden. Get to the garage without going outside. Use the circular driveway for drop off and pick up. Have the 1,2,3 trains and 66 and 72 crosstown busses right outside your door. Live 4 blocks from Lincoln Center in one direction, the Beacon Theater in the other and 2 blocks from either Central Park or Riverside Park.All this and more in a quiet, lovely, updated 1 bedroom 1 bath apartment with private balcony, spacious closets and wood floors. See floor plan and full details here.

The Regatta, #226
$999,000

Battery Park City | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths | 1,007 ft²

The Regatta, #226 (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: A serene duplex with outdoor space, washer/dryer, and 1.5 baths! Simply put, 226 has it all. At over 1,000 sqft, when the door opens, space abounds. The living room area fits all of your furniture with ease and a large dining table. The massive, windowed kitchen features abundant counter space and storage. Right off the living room, you'll enjoy an "L" shaped terrace with WTC, and depending on the season, River views. A half bath and massive Electrolux W/D finish off the first floor. See floor plan and full details here.

The Bromley, #5A
$1,050,000

Broadway Corridor | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 900 ft²

The Bromley, #5A (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Own an exclusive piece of Upper West Side charm with this exquisite 1-bedroom apartment located in the esteemed Bromley condominium at 225 West 83rd Street. Situated between Central Park and Riverside Park on a lovely tree-lined street, this home is not just an address but a lifestyle choice for those seeking the quintessence of upscale Manhattan living.

This 900 square foot home boasts a well-designed layout, which includes a large great room with extra space for home office, perfect for gracious living and entertaining, a separate dining area ideal for hosting intimate dinners, and a spacious king-sized bedroom and full marble bath. See floor plan and full details here.

The Belgravia, #5B
$1,065,000

Park/Fifth Ave. to 79th St. | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 822 ft²

The Belgravia, #5B (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: New York Charm, Under the Tuscan Sun! Apt. 5B at 124 East 79th Street is a glamorous mint condition, renovated one bedroom, one and a half bath condominium with a charming Tuscan-inspired, south facing canopied heated terrace over looking tree-lined townhouses.The large, bright bedroom, grand walk-in fitted closet (a clothes horse's dream), sophisticated bar and chef's kitchen make this glamorous apartment with its Tuscan flare, a rare find, not to be missed. See floor plan and full details here.

The Larrimore, #11GH
$1,225,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

The Larrimore, #11GH (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: NEW Reduced Price! $1,200,000. WOW! Not to be missed! Sunny and in excellent condition, convertible 3 bedroom, 2 bath in a Luxury Upper East Side Residential Co-op.Sunrise and Sunset light and views. Beautiful open kitchen with abundant cabinets and counter space.Stainless appliances, wonderful quartz counter with mirrored backsplash.X-tra large primary bedroom with 2 closets, one a walk in. See floor plan and full details here.

Sutton Manor, #12L
$1,400,000

Beekman/Sutton Place | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,355 ft²

Sutton Manor, #12L (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Sweeping Space, Sunlight and Sensational Value ! This enormous two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment boasts a 40' long great room and features a wall of windows with sparkling open city views. The sunshine pours in all day and the lights of the city glitter at night. This is a fantastic space for entertaining guests. The dining area is spacious with an artful niche, perfect for a buffet table and adjacent to a long windowed galley kitchen with colorful granite countertops and modern appliances. See floor plan and full details here.

The Galleria, #25H
$1,750,000

Midtown East | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,208 ft²

The Galleria, #25H (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: MOTIVATED SELLER! Spacious, split bedroom layout with panoramic OPEN SKYLINE views. Sliding glass door to second bedroom which can also function as home office or leave open for massive L-shaped living room. The designer chef's kitchen has been outfitted with custom Snaidero cabinets, mica granite counter tops, a Subzero fridge, separate Subzero wine fridge, Miele stove, oven, dishwasher and built-in Nespresso machine. See floor plan and full details here.

80 Central Park West, #8D
$1,750,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 950 ft²

80 Central Park West, #8D (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Prepare to be dazzled by this gorgeous apartment with fabulous park views. What makes this Junior 4 so desirable is the gracious layout, the exceptional amount of space, and the wall of south and west-facing windows that bring light into the home all throughout the day. This designer's showcase, which was meticulously renovated, features a large entry foyer with 2 well-proportioned closets, an extra wide corner living room and a separate area for dining. The open-concept kitchen has been completely redone with light-colored custom cabinetry, marble countertops, stainless appliances, a wine fridge and plenty of counter space. See floor plan and full details here.

40 East 80th Street, #1516B
$1,850,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths

40 East 80th Street, #1516B (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Townhouse Living with a view on Madison Avenue! The Most Terrific Trifecta; Location, Size, and Two Balconies on Madison and 80th! This oversized, 7-room, duplex home, boasts 4 large bedrooms and 4 FULL bathrooms - all just one block from Central Park! See floor plan and full details here.

The John Adams, #11R
$3,500,000

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

The John Adams, #11R (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This over-sized corner 3 bedroom has spectacular open views south and east over Greenwich Village, from the lovely Jefferson Market Library to the iconic World Trade Center. It also has anin-unit washer/dryer and is in a full-service doorman building with a fantastic roof deck inprime Greenwich Village. You enter this palatial home into a welcoming foyer perfectly configured with an extra-large closet, powder room, and in-unit washer/dryer. See floor plan and full details here.

Mayfair Towers, #29C
$3,600,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

Mayfair Towers, #29C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Rare Opportunity to Own Unsurpassed and Unobstructed Views of Central Park and Across the City! This incredibly spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence perched on the 29th floor of Mayfair Towers, boasts unparalleled vistas overlooking The Dakota with a sweeping panorama of Central Park. With its prime East and North facing location, this corner unit floods with natural light through multiple expansive windows, offering breathtaking views of the park and the iconic cityscape beyond. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

Tags:

From Future New York New developments with private dining rooms to host holiday gatherings and celebrations all year Monday, April 22, 2024
From Get To Know Luxury in green living: Explore NYC's eco-friendly homes under $2.7M Monday, April 22, 2024
From Great Listings From $599K: Freshly-listed parkside homes available around NYC Saturday, April 20, 2024
From Great Listings Radiant NYC apartments with curvaceous window walls and open views Wednesday, April 17, 2024
From Great Listings These were NYC's top-selling buildings in Q1 2024 by contracts signed Wednesday, April 17, 2024
From Great Listings What $1.2 million can buy on the Upper East Side Tuesday, April 16, 2024
From Great Listings Luminous NYC apartments with sun rooms and solariums Monday, April 8, 2024
From Great Listings Matchless Elegance: Homes in buildings designed by Emery Roth, NYC's greatest residential architect Thursday, April 4, 2024

Contributing Writer Cait Etherington Cait Etherington has over twenty years of experience working as a journalist and communications consultant. Her articles and reviews have been published in newspapers and magazines across the United States and internationally. An experienced financial writer, Cait is committed to exposing the human side of stories about contemporary business, banking and workplace relations. She also enjoys writing about trends, lifestyles and real estate in New York City where she lives with her family in a cozy apartment on the twentieth floor of a Manhattan high rise.

Read Full Bio | Contact Cait Etherington

This is your member's center

In this article:

Pre-War Versus Post-War Buildings

The Pros and Cons of Buying in a Pre-War Building

The pros and cons of buying in a post-war building

"From former tenements to townhouses, pre-war buildings are not all built alike."

Select which properties are of interest to you:

"Because many of New York City’s post-war buildings privileged functionality over beauty, they are highly livable."

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Listings in this article

Tags:

Related Articles

Buy & Sell

Rent

Buildings

Insights

Company