Manhattan -“The Big Apple” – New York, New York… the city so nice they named it twice, is one of the most unique, culturally diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world. The New York Metropolitan Area is, after Tokyo, Seoul and Mexico City, the largest urban area in the world, and will always be one of the hottest real estate markets. From Uptown to Midtown to Downtown, its many neighborhoods represent the diversity Manhattan is know for, and offer an abundance of condos, lofts and townhouses in a myriad of styles. New York City is an international center for business, finance, fashion, medicine, entertainment, media, and culture, with an extraordinary collection of museums, galleries, performance venues, media outlets, international corporations, and financial markets. The city is also home to many of the world’s most famous skyscrapers, providing office spaces, as well as apartments and condos for many of the 8.1 million people that live in Manhattan today, and the many more seeking to move there.

Originally inhabited by the Manahatan Indians, the island was purchased by the Dutch in 1629 for $24 (about $700 today). What was then a vast and uninhibited island, soon began to evolve into one of the most densely populated areas in the world. Settlers from around the world found opportunity and a chance for a new beginning in New York City. The motto continues to hold true: “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere,” however, the cost of the land has substantially gone up. In the late 1800’s, Manhattan was home to some of the wealthiest families in the United States and thus to a booming real estate market. The Vanderbilts, Rockefellers and Astors are only a few of the names associated with the development of important real estate, and some of New York City’s most notable buildings. Today the Manhattan skyline consists of a see of skyscrapers, historic mid-rises, classic townhouses, trendy warehouse lofts and newly developed condominiums.

Many new developer names have joined those of the old days and “The city that never sleeps” continues to grow. Since the devastation of 9/11 New York City has become even stronger in both spirit and economy. Real Estate is more desirable than ever and the city continues to expand and up-date.