Steals and Deals: Beautiful apartments under $2M in no-frills buildings

405 West 21st Street, #4F - Sotheby's International Realty

Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024 By CityRealty Staff, CityRealty contributor

At a time when amenity-rich supertalls are gaining ink and attention from luxury buyers, listings in lower-rise buildings without all the bells and whistles, or indeed any, run the risk of being overlooked. There are many reasons why that would be a mistake. Such listings are sometimes located in converted townhouses and low-rise boutique buildings that offer incredible privacy and charm. It is important to remember that maintenance fees and common charges cover building staff salaries and amenity upkeep; as such, buildings with few amenities and staff members result in lower monthly fees than their full-service counterparts.

Finally, buildings that don’t have elevators likely as not don’t offer in-building gyms either, but that may not matter: The simple act of taking out the garbage, getting the mail, or running an errand on one’s street leads to a free workout by having to walk up and down the stairs. Below, we look at apartments in low-key buildings located in highly coveted parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn priced under $2 million.

521 East 81st Street, #4C
$399,000

Yorkville | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

521 East 81st Street, #4C (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Sunny top-floor gem! With high ceilings, hardwood floors and picture moldings, the pre-war details of this home are alluring. But it's the abundance of sunlight streaming in all day long that truly sets this top-floor apartment apart. The renovated kitchen is equipped with modern cabinets, stainless steel appliances and elegant granite countertops. The kitchen effortlessly flows into the living room, which also benefits from the captivating sunlight. The cozy bedroom is a sanctuary of tranquility, overlooking treetops and is large enough to fit a queen-sized bed. See floor plan and full details here.

152 East 83rd Street, #3D
$450,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

152 East 83rd Street, #3D (Compass)

From the Listing: Nestled within a classic midrise brownstone, this walk-up unit offers a unique living experience in the heart of the Upper East Side. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence is a captivating blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Step inside to find exposed brick walls and gleaming hardwood floors, accentuated by the allure of high ceilings that create an inviting and spacious atmosphere. The convenience of a voice intercom system adds a modern touch to this timeless setting, ensuring both security and ease of access. See floor plan and full details here.

56 West 82nd Street, #13
$475,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

56 West 82nd Street, #13 (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome home to your private sanctuary in the city. Three short flights up to this pin-drop quiet, south-facing studio featuring 10 foot-high ceilings and original exposed brick. Highlights of this beautifully renovated and move-in ready home include a separate kitchen with stainless appliances and granite countertop, large closets with extra storage above, genuine Brazilian teak hardwood floors and a brand-new, modern bathroom. See floor plan and full details here.

622 West End Avenue, #4E
$555,555

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

622 West End Avenue, #4E (Compass)

From the Listing: Your delightful garden terrace oasis awaits in this beautiful one-bedroom, one-bathroom Upper West Side walk-up co-op featuring prewar details, private outdoor space, and incredibly low maintenance just one block from Riverside Park. Sky-high ceilings soar over beautiful inlaid floors, a stately decorative fireplace and oversized windows framing treetop views. Enjoy an expansive living room with plenty of space for seating, dining and home office areas, or step out to the spacious terrace for al fresco dining alongside historic rooftops and garden views. See floor plan and full details here.

333 4th Street, #1G
$595,000

Park Slope | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

333 4th Street, #1G (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This freshly painted charming Park Slope oversize one-bedroom coop is approximately 700 square feet with high ceilings, oversize windows, original details, ample closets, hardwood floors, and windowed bath and kitchen.This well-established coop has a live-in superintendent, elevator, laundry room, bicycle room and storage available. This building welcomes pets, has a liberal sublet policy and offers convenient purchase possibilities.This tree-lined brownstone block is near to N & F trains, culinary delights on Fifth Avenue and glorious Prospect Park. See floor plan and full details here.

111 East 36th Street, #5B
$599,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

111 East 36th Street, #5B (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Located just off Park Avenue, in the heart of Murray Hill, this top floor one bedroom, one bath unit exudes prewar charm with modern amenities. With over 9 Ft. high ceilings, the home features through the wall air conditioning, an updated kitchen, a lovely wood-burning fireplace, and plentiful storage space throughout.You’ll enjoy northern views of the Chrysler Building over the townhouse gardens through the unit’s oversized windows. See floor plan and full details here.

452 West 50th Street, #3E
$599,000 (-7.8%)

Midtown West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

452 West 50th Street, #3E (Compass)

From the Listing: Situated two flights up, this expansive, sunny, and peaceful one-bedroom unit, which can easily be transformed into a two-bedroom (see alternative floorplan), boasts exceptional features with three exposures facing north, south, and east. The apartment's key features include charming exposed brick, two ornamental fireplaces, big windows, spacious closets, lofty 9.5-foot ceilings, and beautiful hardwood floors throughout. The windowed kitchen is equipped with a brand new stainless steel refrigerator, ample counter space, cabinet storage, and a convenient pantry. See floor plan and full details here.

79 Hamilton Place, #23
$635,000 (-2.3%)

Hamilton Heights | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

79 Hamilton Place, #23 (Bizzarro Agency LLC)

From the Listing: This amazing two-bedroom co-op apartment feels like a house. Located at the corner of Hamilton Place and West 140th Street, the storied Beau-Arts brownstone with its curvilinear corner was built in 1910 and sits across from Alexander Park and Playground. This uptown residence in Hamilton Heights has been completely renovated and is move-in ready. There is also a roof deck for the shareholders. See floor plan and full details here.

18 West 90th Street, #C
$675,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 550 ft²

18 West 90th Street, #C (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Introducing a stunning one-bedroom, one-bath apartment located right next door to Central Park on a park block. This apartment is in perfect condition and boasts remarkable features. With 11ft+ ceilings, it offers a spacious and airy atmosphere. Situated on a picturesque U.W.S. brownstone block, this apartment is truly a gem. See floor plan and full details here.

299 Henry Street, #D1
$680,000 (-1.4%)

Brooklyn Heights | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

299 Henry Street, #D1 (Keller Williams NYC)

From the Listing: Welcome home to unit D1: a large, bright one-bedroom in a 9-unit boutique co-op in beautiful Brooklyn Heights. Sunny and spacious, the apartment retains plenty of original details, including lovely casement windows, high ceilings, and hardwood flooring throughout; the location on the 4th floor, facing the courtyard of the building, ensures both abundant natural light and peaceful quiet. See floor plan and full details here.

62 West 87th Street, #4F
$715,000

Central Park West | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

62 West 87th Street, #4F (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This sponsor unit is a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in a walk-up brownstone building on the Upper West Side of New York City. It boasts original details with a fully renovated kitchen and bathroom. There's a washer and dryer in unit along with a fireplace, adding character and warmth to the space. No board approval required. See floor plan and full details here.

Congress Gardens, #4D
$720,000

Cobble Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Congress Gardens, #4D (Bond New York Properties LLC)

From the Listing: Coveted Corner One Bedroom apt on a quiet tree-lined street in Prime Cobble Hill! Great open layout, with expansive front Foyer that could also support a WFH Office. The Dining Room flows into a Spacious Living Room that displays breathtaking views of neighboring brownstones, treetops, the NYC Skyline, and Freedom Tower. Charming details like hardwood floors throughout and original raised pocket panel shutters allow sunlight to stream through a sizable bedroom. See floor plan and full details here.

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190 Lefferts Place, #5
$725,000

Clinton Hill | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 696 ft²

190 Lefferts Place, #5 (Compass)

From the Listing: This sunny residence at 190 Lefferts Place is a 1-bed, 1-bath located on the top floor of a quintessential townhouse-condo conversion in Bedstuy. Having undergone a total renovation, the home provides the ultimate blend of original pre-war details and modern amenities like central air, a gut renovated kitchen and bathroom, and a brand new in-unit combo washer/dryer. With a north-facing living room featuring a skylight overhead and south-facing bedroom with two oversized windows, this unit boasts an abundance of natural light throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

23 East 37th Street, #5B
$725,000

Murray Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

23 East 37th Street, #5B (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Renovated Top Floor 1 Bed in Beautifully Restored Townhouse Co-op Wonderfully renovated, this charming one bedroom has beautiful moldings, an exposed brick wall in the living room, and charming views over townhouse gardens. There is a wood-burning fireplace, hardwood floors, two skylights (one in the kitchen & one in the bathroom), and thru-wall air conditioning. A washer/dryer could likely be added with board approval. Pets are allowed. See floor plan and full details here.

152 East 94th Street, #9D
$745,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 850 ft²

152 East 94th Street, #9D (Compass)

From the Listing: With approximately 850 square feet of living space and 9’ ceilings, this unusually large alcove studio has been beautifully renovated and reconfigured to include a comfortable and private sleeping area more spacious than many bedrooms. Enclosed with paned, beveled glass pocket doors hidden within the custom-designed and handcrafted built-ins surrounding its entrance, this quiet oasis blends seamlessly with the exquisitely restored pre-war details throughout this gorgeous home. See floor plan and full details here.

46 Commerce Street, #5
$775,000 (-22.4%)

West Village | Cooperative | Studio, 1 Bath

46 Commerce Street, #5 (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: The top-floor studio at 46 Commerce Street is on the prettiest block in the West Village. The perfect setting of the atelier perched in tree-house fashion is housed in an early 1800’s 3-unit townhouse walk-up. The space commands notice with beautiful light streaming in from three exposures; north, east and west, overlooking the parade of leafy sun-lit treetops and collage-like array of West Village facades and rooftops. The space includes two skylights, a north-facing windowed pantry, an all-in-one new washer/dryer, and a newly renovated windowed bathroom. Other features include wide plank oak floors, 12’ angled beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls, and an amazing huge enclosed storage area. See floor plan and full details here.

317 West 87th Street, #9E
$850,000

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

317 West 87th Street, #9E (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Welcome to 9E at The Brentwood - a mint condition, quintessential UWS prewar gem. This immaculate and expansive one bedroom, one bathroom is a rare discovery that is zen-like quiet.Entering the foyer, you are welcomed by the spacious living room with gorgeous beamed ceilings, oversized windows providing bright and peaceful southeastern views with open sky. Exploring the generous plan you will notice its flexibility with enough room to accommodate a formal dining area. See floor plan and full details here.

373 Bleecker Street, #3C
$850,000

West Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

373 Bleecker Street, #3C (Compass)

From the Listing: Located two flights up along a quiet tree-lined street, this charming one-bedroom, one-bath is the quintessential West Village home. Enhanced by its original details, including exposed brick and intricate window moldings, the home bathes in natural light streaming through its east-facing windows that offer scenic views of lush gardens, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and charm. The well-proportioned rooms have lofted high ceilings, creating a sense of spaciousness throughout. See floor plan and full details here.

458 West 20th Street, #4D
$899,000 (-2.8%)

Chelsea | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

458 West 20th Street, #4D (Coldwell Banker Warburg)

From the Listing: Sponsor Unit - No Board Approval. Introducing Residence 4D, the final Sponsor unit available at 458 W 20th, a newly reimagined boutique co-op featuring a collection of studios and one bedrooms with luxurious interiors. Located on one of Chelsea’s most beautiful blocks, this stunning unit has been superbly gut-renovated with high ceilings and large windows overlooking the picturesque gardens of the W 20th Street townhouses. See floor plan and full details here.

405 West 21st Street, #4F
$995,000

Chelsea | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

405 West 21st Street, #4F (Daniel Gale Sotheby's International Realty)

From the Listing: Designed by acclaimed architect Steven Holl, and preserved in its original architectural detail, this top-floor one-bedroom home features an innovative, “secret” revolving Poetry and Art bookshelf wall, maximizing perspective and privacy. The harmonious, Yin and Yang, black and white design integrates solid oak floors with white brick walls. The dramatic skylight illuminates the space from above while three sun-drenched windows overlook the General Theological Seminary, one of the oldest seminaries in North America. See floor plan and full details here.

The Creston, #2A
$999,000

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

The Creston, #2A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This is a sponsor sale, with no board approval. Discover this flexible 3-bedroom, 1-bath property at 839 West End Avenue, 2A, where comfort meets style effortlessly. Upon entering the unit, you'll be captivated by the spacious dining area, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance with its open concept. T See floor plan and full details here.

209 Smith Street, #3A
$1,150,000

Boerum Hill | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

209 Smith Street, #3A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This beautiful and sun-flooded two-bedroom home features an oversized living room with a dining area and a private terrace. The newly updated kitchen has full-size stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, quartz countertops, and custom backsplash. The primary bedroom can fit a king-size bed and it comes appointed with a large double-width closet and a newly updated en-suite bathroom with a stall shower. The apartment is two flights up (no elevator). See floor plan and full details here.

162 East 91st Street, #4D/5D
$1,225,000

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

162 East 91st Street, #4D/5D (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Perfectly proportioned, quiet and sunny home with a feeling of your own private townhouse. Exposed brick wall and hardwood floors add to the pre-war charm and character. Comfortable home office space with a cozy storage / reading nook. Lots of storage and closet space and your own private laundry room with a full size Miele washer and dryer. Updated baths on every level. The approximately 250-square-foot terrace is ideal for dinner parties and family meals overlooking Manhattan skyline. See floor plan and full details here.

84 Green Street, #4
$1,250,000

Greenpoint | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths | 900 ft²

84 Green Street, #4 (Compass)

From the Listing: This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom gem is perched on the entire fourth floor of a Greenpoint corner building, offering northern, eastern, and southern exposures that flood the living room with natural light from five windows. The open kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with granite countertops, ample cabinet space, stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, and a stove that vents to the outside. Owner has converted the half-bath into a laundry room with stacked washer and dryer. A large private roof terrace with breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and stunning sunsets is perfect for summer BBQs and al fresco dining. See floor plan and full details here.

72 East 93rd Street, #5AB
$1,495,000 (-6.6%)

Carnegie Hill | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,450 ft²

72 East 93rd Street, #5AB (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Newly renovated, full-floor, turn-key apartment on the top floor of a boutique landmarked coop, located on one of the loveliest blocks in Carnegie Hill. An entry foyer leads to the sunny living room with one of two wood-burning fireplace and separate den/home office which could also function as a formal dining room. Adjacent is the windowed galley kitchen with custom cabinetry, granite countertops, a farmhouse sink, and Viking stainless-steel appliances including a built-in wine cooler. The primary bedroom, large enough for king size bed with ample room for a separate seating area, has 3 windows facing north, a wood-burning fireplace, walk-in closet and an ensuite bath. See floor plan and full details here.

93 Lexington Avenue, #4
$1,699,000

Clinton Hill | Cooperative | Studio, 1.5 Baths | 2,200 ft²

93 Lexington Avenue, #4 (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Currently set up as an open layout, this spacious and versatile unit can be turned into a one-of-a-kind home with up to three bedrooms. In addition to endless possibilities for this space, this unit showcases exposed brick walls, north, south and west-facing oversized windows, 9-foot ceilings, an original keyed freight elevator that opens to the apartment all of which highlights its historical charm. Building amenities feature free laundry in the building, a common roof deck, 16' x 8' storage unit in the basement, and a communal basement woodshop. See floor plan and full details here.

180 South 4th Street, #4S
$1,899,000

Williamsburg | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 1,486 ft²

180 South 4th Street, #4S (Compass)

From the Listing: This impeccable, sun-filled corner loft's 1,486 square feet is centered around a spacious open-plan living space and features high ceilings, exposed brick, white-washed oak flooring, and energy efficient split-system AC units. The entry foyer flows into a huge and sun-flooded corner living/dining room, with eight massive windows facing east and south to open sky views overlooking Continental Army Plaza. With ample space for multiple seating areas, the room also features a bioethanol fireplace. The open chef’s kitchen has a large center island with a Caesarstone countertop, Dacor range, Verona wall oven, as well as a stainless countertop with a deep integrated sink, and a Miele stainless steel dishwasher and Kitchen Aid refrigerator. See floor plan and full details here.

Would you like to tour any of these properties?

In this article:

521 East 81st Street, #4C
$399,000

152 East 83rd Street, #3D
$450,000

56 West 82nd Street, #13
$475,000

622 West End Avenue, #4E
$555,555

333 4th Street, #1G
$595,000

111 East 36th Street, #5B
$599,000

452 West 50th Street, #3E
$599,000 (-7.8%)

79 Hamilton Place, #23
$635,000 (-2.3%)

18 West 90th Street, #C
$675,000

299 Henry Street, #D1
$680,000 (-1.4%)

62 West 87th Street, #4F
$715,000

Congress Gardens, #4D
$720,000

Select which properties are of interest to you:

190 Lefferts Place, #5
$725,000

23 East 37th Street, #5B
$725,000

152 East 94th Street, #9D
$745,000

46 Commerce Street, #5
$775,000 (-22.4%)

317 West 87th Street, #9E
$850,000

373 Bleecker Street, #3C
$850,000

458 West 20th Street, #4D
$899,000 (-2.8%)

405 West 21st Street, #4F
$995,000

The Creston, #2A
$999,000

209 Smith Street, #3A
$1,150,000

162 East 91st Street, #4D/5D
$1,225,000

84 Green Street, #4
$1,250,000

72 East 93rd Street, #5AB
$1,495,000 (-6.6%)

93 Lexington Avenue, #4
$1,699,000

180 South 4th Street, #4S
$1,899,000

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Select which properties are of interest to you:

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Seven tips for getting past NYC's toughest co-op boards + Prewar gems with open houses