Five of New York City's Quirkiest Starter Apartments
The trouble with starter apartments is that they're usually just lacking in that "wow" factor, the sort of features that would drive someone to give up renting for a reason other than wealth creation. Those apartments are out there, though—they just require some digging, and sometimes, some compromise on practicality. This recently-renovated studio in West Chelsea's landmarkLondon Terrace doesn't seem to compromise on anything except the murphy bed, which is stashed away during the day behind closet doors. Thanks to a separate dressing room, the living area isn't cluttered with storage, making for a better entertaining space than most apartments its size and price, $375K.The location, near the High Line and amid some of the city's more expensive new construction, is prime, and while maintenance is on the high side, at $1,100 per month, at least that includes access to the building's stunning original swimming pool.
↑ Manhattan-based buyers in the sub-$500K range would be hard pressed to find much in the way of outdoor space, but this one-bedroom Battery Park condo runs just $439K and includes a 10' by 23' private terrace. While that space looks to be sectioned off from a larger public area and doesn't enjoy much in the way of views, there's still plenty of space for grilling and outdoor dining and a potted hedge provides some privacy.
↑ This near-East Village loft provides the feel of a classic artist's garrett with a mezzanine bedroom and an updated kitchen. Granted the space looks a bit cramped and the views are nothing to rave about, but the prime location just south of Union Square helps explain the $550K price tag. Storage is also at a premium, but the low maintenance of $756 per month should leave a little left over for a storage unit if need be.
↑ This next place isn't much to look at, in fact, it's one of the worst looking studios we've come across at this price. But, and this is a big caveat, it sits on Gramercy Park North, meaning it's currently the cheapest way to score a coveted key to the private park. Spending $425K to walk between some flower beds—and not walk your dog, mind you—seems a little unhinged, but it sure beats dropping multi-millions for the same privilege elsewhere in the neighborhood. Plus, the price for this studio used to be much lower. In 2011, it was asking just $299K, so maybe the sellers are ready to negotiate the current ask.
↑ Located in the up-and-coming Brooklyn neighborhood of Fort Greene, this small one-bedroom might not impress buyers with a bargain basement asking price, but the stately building and architecturally-interesting bay window are big draws, as is the maintenance bill, at just $410 per month. There's also a private storage unit in the basement, so buyers don't have to worry about cramming all their stuff into the co-op's 485 square feet. The ceilings also seem tall enough to accommodate a loft bed, should the buyer want to cram a guest into their$319K purchase.
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