New York City Building Types

Need help finding the perfect home? Contact Us

Brownstones: Brownstone Search

These townhouses were constructed in the 19th Century, made from brown sandstone. They have below-level entrances, which are sometimes called English basements, and many have a garden at the back. These homes have many charming features of the times, and maintain that old-fashioned feel.

Condominium Buildings:

Individual units are owned privately, whereas common areas offer shared ownership. Condominium buildings often include amenities such as laundry facilities and fitness areas, and some luxury buildings include pools and other additional offerings. Some condo owners will sublet their units to renters; however, all new residents must apply to the Board of Directors for that particular condominium development in order to move in.

Learn More: Condos - Condo Search - Green Buildings - New Developments - Condo Closing Costs

Cooperative Buildings:

A building that is owned by a corporation and managed by a coop association. This special type of arrangement allows apartment owners to share in the ownership of the corporation. People who own these apartments are called proprietary lessees. In some cases, the owner may sublet their apartment to a renter, but the application process is so lengthy and acceptance so difficult that it doesn't happen often.

Learn More: Co-ops - Co-op Search - Co-op Closing Costs

Pre War Buildings:

If a building was built before 1945, it is considered pre-war. At 10-20 stories tall, they are mid-size as far as apartment buildings go. Some buildings might have a doorman. The advantages of living in a pre-war apartment often include hardwood floors, spacious rooms and higher ceilings. Many also have a fireplace.

Post War Buildings:

Apartment houses that were constructed between 1945 and 1980 are considered “post-war.” They have a brick facade, whether red, brown or white. Like the age in which they were built, the apartments in these high-rise buildings emphasize convenience and freedom. Superintendents usually live in-building, and a laundry room allows residents to finish domestic chores without leaving the building. 

Loft Buildings:

Very popular for the artistic type, loft buildings were originally used as warehouses, factories or manufacturing centers. Converted into residences, the staples of these apartments are high ceilings (sometimes up to twenty feet) and wide open floor plans. Some even have columns or other ornate decor. Greenwich Village, Chelsea, SoHo and Tribeca are popular areas for loft buildings.

Learn More: New York City Lofts

Townhouses: Townhouse Search

Townhouses are usually single-family homes, up to four stories high. They can be freestanding or in a building of between 4-6 stories. People who move into town homes are afforded a privacy that is rare in New York City, and as such, these homes can be quite pricey. However, many people say the price is worth it, since a townhouse exudes a charm that other dwellings just cannot compare with. Many townhouses have "extras", including a private back yard, eat-in kitchen, fireplace, expanded living space and classic decor. Best of all, residents purchase townhouses without the need to go through a co-op and its lengthy application process. Most townhouses were built in the late 19th century through the early 20th century.

Walk-Ups

The basic of the basic in terms of residences. They don’t have any elevators, doormen, or luxury amenities, and some are not of the best quality. Their original function was multi-family housing and they keep the same function today. Most are pre-war buildings of five or fewer floors.