While the temperatures will soon start to cool in New York City with the arrival of fall, that doesn’t mean the market follows suit. In fact, September and October can be peak months for real estate in the city that never sleeps as buyers and sellers look to achieve their goals before year-end. Some, with great urgency.
With this in mind, we recent picked the brains of two expert NYC agents, Peter Zaitzeff of SERHANT. (who stars in Netflix’s Owning Manhattan) and Mike Fabbri of The Agency. Discover the tips and predictions they had to share for the fall 2026 market.
Going into fall, what is the state of the luxury New York City market and what do you expect for the rest of the year?
Zaitzeff: The luxury market remains strong, but buyers are highly selective. There is real demand for exceptional properties, particularly residences offering quality, privacy, views, and a high level of service. At the same time, aspirational pricing is being challenged. Buyers will act decisively when a home feels special and appropriately valued, but they will pass on compromised inventory. For the remainder of the year, I expect a healthy, active market rather than a speculative one. Turnkey residences such as Mandarin Oriental Residences, Fifth Avenue are well positioned because buyers increasingly value convenience, hospitality and an effortless ownership experience.
Fabbri: The luxury market is strong, but it hasn’t been given its full potential because inventory is so tight, especially for turnkey renovated properties in prime locations. I’m hopeful for a busy fall with more listings coming on, but it will be competitive. I know personally I have a few properties in the $4M+ range we are waiting to list until after Labor Day.
How can buyers and sellers make the most of the fall market? What are your top tips for them?
Zaitzeff: Buyers should be prepared to move quickly when the right property appears. The best homes are still attracting strong interest, so having financing, attorneys and advisers organized in advance is essential. At the same time, buyers should understand that opportunities exist in listings that have been overlooked because of pricing or presentation. For sellers, the first few weeks on the market are critical. Price accurately from the outset, present the home impeccably and make showings as seamless as possible. The fall market is concentrated and competitive; properties that create urgency will perform, while those testing an unrealistic price may lose valuable momentum.
Fabbri: For sellers, price it correctly and remember the first showing is online, so make sure the photos, videos, and all the marketing materials are top-notch. Properties that present the best move quickly. For buyers, be ready to move quickly and have all your ducks in a row, all your financials in place, so you can submit the strongest offer possible. It’s not just price; it’s your entire package, including your qualifications and your commitment to close.
What kind of NYC homes are in high demand right now, and which homes or price points have been lingering on the market longer?
Zaitzeff: Turnkey condominiums with strong views, outdoor space, privacy and exceptional amenities are seeing the greatest demand. Buyers also place a premium on flexible layouts, home offices and full-service living. Branded residences such as Mandarin Oriental Residences are particularly compelling because they combine private ownership with hospitality-level service. Larger, well-priced family apartments in prime neighborhoods are also performing well. Homes tend to linger when they require extensive renovation, have compromised light or layouts, or are priced according to a seller’s expectations rather than current comparable sales. At the very top of the market, trophy properties can command extraordinary prices, but only when the quality truly justifies the number.
Fabbri: Unique, turnkey properties are in demand. Nothing too cookie-cutter or in need of too much work. Buyers want a home that has something special to offer, whether that’s outdoor space, exposed beams, views, or a beautiful renovation and design. And, apartments with low or reasonable carrying costs are outperforming those with high monthlies.
