When, why, and how to hire a home inspector + Great new listings with upcoming open houses to see tomorrow

By CityRealty Staff | From Get To Know Friday, February 14, 2025

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D (Douglas Elliman)

Outside New York City, if you're buying a home, you'll almost certainly undergo a home inspection prior to closing the deal. In New York City, unless you're buying a townhouse or any other type of single-family home, duplex, or triplex, home inspections are often skipped. Still, this doesn't mean you should rule out a home inspection. Even when buying a coop or condo, a home inspection can be a smart and even necessary step in the process.

When to Complete a Home Inspection

Whether you’re buying a multi-million-dollar brownstone or a duplex on Staten Island, you’ll definitely want to have a home inspection prior to closing. In fact, you’ll likely want to insist that the sale is contingent on the completion of a home inspection.

When buying a unit in a multi-unit dwelling such as a coop or condo, completing a home inspection is generally unnecessary for a simple reason. When you buy a home, you're buying the entire property, including the foundation, the roof, and everything inside the walls. When you buy a coop or condo, you're simply buying your unit. As a result, if the building's roof needs to be repaired or the heating system needs to be upgraded, you're not directly responsible, though any major repairs will likely impact your fees.

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D (Douglas Elliman)

Why Undertake a House Inspection

If you’re purchasing a single-family house, a home inspection is your only chance to ensure that the seller hasn’t failed to disclose any major problems with the property. Typically, inspectors focus on the following areas of the home:

Heating and cooling systems (e.g., what is the age of these systems, and are they compliant with current laws)
Plumbing system (e.g., is the plumbing system in good repair and compliant)
Electrical system (e.g., is the electronic work in good repair and compliant)
Roof (e.g., how recently has the roof been retiled)
Walls, ceilings, and floors (e.g., are there any signs of damage, including water damage or mold; is lead paint present, etc.)
Windows and doors (e.g., what is their age and will they need to be replaced)
Foundation (e.g., are there any signs of cracks or structural damage)
Pests (e.g., are there signs of rodent or cockroach infestations)

In addition to helping you avoid purchasing a home that may require ongoing or major upgrades, there is another reason to carry out a home inspection, and that concerns insurance. If a property's wiring or plumbing systems are decades old or were slapped together by a home handyman, the home may not be insurable. This is something that is definitely preferable to discover before you close the deal.

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D (Douglas Elliman)

Why Undertake a Coop or Condo Inspection

In the case of a coop or condo, home inspectors have a lot less to inspect since many of the elements they inspect aren't part of the unit per se (e.g., the foundation, roof, and in many coops, even the windows). However, a home inspection may still be advisable under some circumstances.

Buying a renovated unit
It is common for owners to do renovations prior to putting their units on the market, especially bathroom and kitchen renovations. Unfortunately, sometimes apartment renovations, especially those carried out simply to raise the value of a home about to go on the market, cut corners since the aim isn’t to create a bathroom or kitchen that will age well over time but to achieve a high return on investment. If you suspect that the shiny white kitchen or bathroom you're about to purchase may have problems lurking beneath the surface, an inspection may be a good idea.

Buying in small, self-managed buildings
While many self-managed buildings are well managed and keep excellent records, in some smaller buildings (e.g., those with a dozen units or less), it can be difficult for real estate attorneys to do their due diligence. In this case, an inspection may be the safest way to ensure the building doesn't have any major problems. Of course, if the inspection will focus on the entire building and not simply on the unit you hope to purchase, the request will need to be clearly spelled out in the inspection contingency written into your home-purchase agreement.

Buying in a new condo
Somewhat surprisingly, new construction condos are often plagued with problems. From uneven water pressure to faulty wiring to vermin, new doesn't necessarily mean problem-free. As a result, home inspections are often also recommended when buying new condo units.

How to How to Hire a Home Inspector

If you're looking for a home inspector, the best place to start is with your real estate agent. In many cases, your agent will already have a list of trusted inspectors to refer you to. Another option is to do a search on the homepage for the International Certified Home Inspectors Association. If you type in the property in question, a list of nearby inspectors will appear. With over eight pages of inspectors working in the New York City area, the choice is yours.

A successful home inspection can help you sleep better at night.

Brooklyn

134 Weirfield Street, #1
$1,675,000

Bushwick | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,571 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

134 Weirfield Street, #1 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to 134 Weirfield Street - an unrivaled, townhome-style boutique condominium that sets a neighborhood standard for composition and functionality. Residence #1 is a 3-bedroom triplex including a massive private yard, an uncommonly featured private sauna, and a brand-new 7x7-foot Jacuzzi in the backyard, designed to accommodate up to seven people. As you enter Residence One, the space commands an overwhelming, yet affirming sense of scale, boasting nearly 20 feet wide of living and dining space. See floor plan and full details here.

78S3, #3
$3,250,000

Williamsburg | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,692 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

78S3, #3 (Compass)

From the Listing: This exceptional home features double-height ceilings, an architecturally designed floating staircase, and automated Hardoor wardrobes. The spacious layout includes two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and a study. The chef’s kitchen by Marelli Interiors of Milan is equipped with Sub-Zero and Miele appliances. This residence offers two private outdoor spaces, including a private roof deck with spectacular Manhattan views. See floor plan and full details here.

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D
$3,495,000

Clinton Hill | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,896 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Now offering private tours of our new model residence. Please contact our sales team to schedule an appointment. Revealing our first duplex: Residence 4D, a 1,896 SF, three-bed, three-bath home with an expansive 534 SF private rooftop garden and North, East and South exposures. The arrival experience starts outside of your front door, with a separate entry landing. See floor plan and full details here.

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Downtown

Hudson Tower, #2E
$648,000

Battery Park City | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 685 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

Hudson Tower, #2E (Compass)

From the Listing: Come see this renovated one-bedroom residence in the luxurious Hudson Tower condominium, positioned along the Hudson River in Battery Park City. The open-concept living and dining area is an inviting space for relaxation. The open kitchen features Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, granite countertops, a copper farmhouse sink, and custom cabinetry with plenty of built-in storage. See floor plan and full details here.

250 Mercer Street, #B907
$699,000

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

250 Mercer Street, #B907 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: This expansive loft, with two oversized windows and eastern light streaming in throughout the day, has plenty of space to comfortably live, sleep, and entertain. The large kitchen, with room for a small dining table, was recently renovated from top to bottom with white quartz countertops and all new appliances. A separate dressing room is off the foyer, providing ample storage. See floor plan and full details here.

The Wernert, #6RE
$1,299,000 (-3.7%)

Chelsea | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Wernert, #6RE (Compass)

From the Listing: As you enter this special home, filled with light and pre-war charm, you’re greeted by a dramatic and expansive gallery. The gallery leads you to a living / dining room with four south facing windows. There is a stunning decorative fireplace, gorgeous moldings, 9’6" ceilings and hardwood floors throughout. Conveniently located to the side of your dining area is a renovated windowed kitchen. See floor plan and full details here.

Hillman Coop, #F8H
$1,395,000

Lower East Side | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

Open House: Sunday, February 16

Hillman Coop, #F8H (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This expansive turn key three-bedroom/two-bath has been thoughtfully renovated throughout. Custom details include solid oak strip floors in rich walnut stain, sleek soffit lighting controlled via the Phillips Hue app for dimming, color temperature control, ELFA closet systems, base moldings, solid core doors and more! Enter via the foyer to a spacious and airy main living/dining with 8'7" ceilings, a five window banquette, and triple exposures. See floor plan and full details here.

The Madison Parq, #1A
$1,575,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,350 ft²

Open House: Tuesday, February 18

The Madison Parq, #1A (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New York Properties)

From the Listing: Located one block north of Madison Square Park, this gut-renovated sunny 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment has an abundance of storage, 10-foot high ceilings, custom built-ins, a separate windowed home office, and in-unit washer and dryer. The kitchen has marble countertops and backsplash, a breakfast bar with wine refrigerator, vented-hooded cooktop, dual-drawer dishwasher, high-end appliances and custom cabinetry with top-of-the-line finishes. See floor plan and full details here.

Midtown

155 East 49th Street, #5C
$250,000

Midtown East | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

155 East 49th Street, #5C (PRESTIGE PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL)

From the Listing: Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this delightful alcove studio located in the heart of Turtle Bay. The spacious layout is thoughtfully designed, providing ample room for living, dining, and sleeping areas. Large windows flood the apartment with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. See floor plan and full details here.

The Geneva, #7I
$735,000

Midtown West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 900 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Geneva, #7I (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This 860+ square feet junior 4 (one-bedroom plus den) is so warm and homey! The sunlit home office, with its elegant French doors, doubles as a guest room, and looks out to old classic architecture across 57 Street as well as the Midtown skyscrapers. The living area, stretching a generous 22 feet, offers ample room for relaxation and entertainment, complete with a separate dining area. See floor plan and full details here.

200 Central Park South, #19J
$1,625,000

Midtown West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 1,185 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

200 Central Park South, #19J (Compass)

From the Listing: Sun-filled corner unit features glorious south and east exposures, with exciting city and indirect Central Park views from its walls of windows. The living room and dining area are bathed in sunlight throughout the day. Two entire walls of dual-pane windows and a new HVAC central air conditioning and heating system keep the unit comfortable throughout the year. See floor plan and full details here.

264 Lexington Avenue, #6A
$1,650,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

264 Lexington Avenue, #6A (CORE Group Marketing LLC)

From the Listing: Meticulously renovated and designed by Robert Passal, Residence 6A is a stunning contemporary home that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication. A grand foyer with hand-lacquered walls and elegant gallery lighting leads into a spacious living room, where intricate design details and a wood-burning fireplace accentuate the space. See floor plan and full details here.

The Alwyn Court, #5A
$2,125,000

Midtown West | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Alwyn Court, #5A (Compass)

From the Listing: Nestled in one of Manhattan’s most prestigious buildings, this meticulously renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment in the iconic Alwyn Court offers a blend of classic charm and modern sophistication. Entering the home, you're welcomed by an elegant foyer that leads to a formal dining room — ideal for hosting intimate dinners or large gatherings. The expansive living room features 11-foot ceilings, oversized windows, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace, creating a perfect space for both relaxation and entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

Minuet, #5B
$2,749,000

Turtle Bay/United Nations | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,465 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

Minuet, #5B (Brown Harris Stevens Development Marketing LLC)

From the Listing: Residence 5B is a captivating half-floor home featuring three bedrooms, three baths, and two private balconies, covering 1,465 square feet. Upon entering, you are greeted by a spacious foyer and storage closet. The living and dining area, with its open layout and large south facing windows, is flooded with natural light, offering stunning skyline views. See floor plan and full details here.

505 W 43, #10B
$2,750,000

Midtown West | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 1,902 ft²

Open House: Sunday, February 16

505 W 43, #10B (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to Residence #10B, where contemporary design meets urban sophistication! This stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence boasts 1,902 square feet of interior space and an impressive 287 square feet of outdoor living, including a private 28-foot terrace and an intimate balcony off the primary suite. Now offering 2 years common charges and 2 years real estate tax credit on remaining inventory. Contracts must be signed within 30 days of first visit. See floor plan and full details here.

Upper East Side

206 East 90th Street, #2E
$450,000

Yorkville | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

206 East 90th Street, #2E (Compass)

From the Listing: Own your own piece of the city with this beautifully located, pre-war co-op with soaring, loft-like ceilings on the Upper East Side. The spacious living room features a decorative fireplace, crown molding, and oversized windows with northern exposure, offering a view of a quiet, tree-lined street. The eat-in kitchen, with southern exposure, overlooks a serene, immaculately tended common garden with wrought iron seating. See floor plan and full details here.

The Sandgate, #4K
$615,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Sandgate, #4K (Compass)

From the Listing: Upon entering this Upper East Side home, you are welcomed by an entry hallway — flanked by a closet and a storage nook — that flows into the main room. Three large windows in the living space provide northern exposures and great light throughout the day. The beautifully designed and thoughtfully renovated open kitchen offers a breakfast bar for dining, abundant cabinetry, generous counter space, and the convenience of a dishwasher. See floor plan and full details here.

166 East 61st Street, #4E
$875,000

Lenox Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

166 East 61st Street, #4E (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Residence #4E is a sophisticated one-bedroom, one-bathroom home complemented by an extraordinary 120-foot private terrace, a true outdoor oasis complete with an awning for shade and privacy. The well-proportioned layout offers gracious living and dining areas, perfect for entertaining or quiet relaxation. The oversized windows invite an abundance of natural light, while the seamless flow to the expansive terrace creates a unique indoor-outdoor living experience rarely found in the city. See floor plan and full details here.

The Thornley, #12B
$895,000 (+8.5%)

Yorkville | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Thornley, #12B (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This is a perfect opportunity to create your dream apartment on this high floor and expansive 925 square home with a beautiful open southern view. The generous entry foyer opens to a sprawling and beautifully appointed sunken living room with wonderful sunlight throughout the day. An adjacent open dining area leads to a lovely large picture windowed galley kitchen, making it perfect for entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

124 East 84th Street, #8D
$999,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths

Open House: Sunday, February 16

124 East 84th Street, #8D (Compass)

From the Listing: This south-facing home gets amazing light all day and has city views from every room. The apartment features high beamed ceilings and hardwood plank floors throughout. The spacious living room easily accommodates separate living and dining areas. The bright windowed kitchen is open to the living area with a large breakfast bar which is great for entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

Upper West Side

The Arbutus, #7CD
$2,750,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

Open House: Sunday, February 16

The Arbutus, #7CD (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: This rare corner residence boasts spacious bedrooms for all, high ceilings, wonderful natural light, abundant storage, a brand new designer kitchen, custom home office and incredible laundry room. The home has just had its floors redone, windows washed, and was completely painted in a clean palette of colors. Facing south and west, the living and dining room have been opened to one another and provide for an expansive airy space in which to entertain. See floor plan and full details here.

173 Riverside Drive, #13N
$3,200,000

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

Open House: Monday, February 17

173 Riverside Drive, #13N (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: With a unique 'un-classic' 6-room layout, this is a true 3-bedroom apartment. The elegant prewar design and scale are accentuated by high ceilings and abundant natural light pouring in through oversized windows. Recently renovated, this immaculate home is move-in ready, featuring newly finished hardwood floors, double-paned Pella windows, custom built-ins, and a beautiful, brand-new, bespoke eat-in kitchen. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

This is your member's center

In this article:

When to Complete a Home Inspection

Why Undertake a House Inspection

Why Undertake a Coop or Condo Inspection

How to How to Hire a Home Inspector

134 Weirfield Street, #1
$1,675,000

78S3, #3
$3,250,000

144 Vanderbilt Avenue, #4D
$3,495,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Hudson Tower, #2E
$648,000

250 Mercer Street, #B907
$699,000

The Wernert, #6RE
$1,299,000 (-3.7%)

Hillman Coop, #F8H
$1,395,000

The Madison Parq, #1A
$1,575,000

155 East 49th Street, #5C
$250,000

The Geneva, #7I
$735,000

200 Central Park South, #19J
$1,625,000

264 Lexington Avenue, #6A
$1,650,000

The Alwyn Court, #5A
$2,125,000

Minuet, #5B
$2,749,000

505 W 43, #10B
$2,750,000

206 East 90th Street, #2E
$450,000

The Sandgate, #4K
$615,000

166 East 61st Street, #4E
$875,000

The Thornley, #12B
$895,000 (+8.5%)

124 East 84th Street, #8D
$999,000

The Arbutus, #7CD
$2,750,000

173 Riverside Drive, #13N
$3,200,000

This is your member's center

In this article:

When to Complete a Home Inspection

Why Undertake a House Inspection

Why Undertake a Coop or Condo Inspection

How to How to Hire a Home Inspector

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

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