The NYC real estate market can be a confusing place, whether you’re looking for a smart rental, a starter apartment, or a longtime family home.
If you’re hoping to navigate it smoothly this year and secure a city home, the insight found in The New York Design Guide 2025 could be more than helpful. Experts have answered many helpful questions within it, including these three.
When is the best time to make an offer?
“The best time to make an offer is as soon as you know you’re serious. Interest rates are high, inventory is low, and if you know you love something, it probably won’t be on the market for long. You can’t wait too long in today’s market and can’t be deterred by sticker shock.” – Ryan Serhant, SERHANT.
“The best time to make an offer on a property is when you have thoroughly researched the market, are pre-approved for a mortgage. and have a clear understanding of your budget and priorities. It’s important to act quickly and decisively in a competitive market.” – Cathy Taub, Sotheby’s International Realty
What is your top pointer for buyers right now?
“With current mortgage rates higher, the math often favors buying now and refinancing later rather than waiting for a slight dip in rates and potentially paying a higher price. Don’t pass up on your dream home. It’s a cliche, but it’s true date the rate, marry the house.” – Ryan Serhant, SERHANT.
What are the components for a successful flip?
“Having the eye to identifying a good property with exceptional qualities that cannot be changed like pre-war bones, great layout, location, natural light and ceiling heights. Old paint, oversized furniture, musty smells can all be tweaked with a budget for improvements. With some elbow grease and vision, you can prepare many mediocre homes to be incredible investment properties. It is about seeing the value through the chaos.” – Vickey Barron, Compass
“Buying the product for the right price and renovating with a budget geared towards a successful exit. With that in mind, a flip can be a small studio or a large estate. Location is not even necessarily as important as the price the buyer pays.” – Noble Black, Douglas Elliman
“Buy low. Sell high.” – Cathy Taub, Sotheby’s International Realty
