Types of Properties Available in New York City

Luxury doorman buildings
There are two different types of luxury doorman buildings in New York. The post war buildings, erected between 1950's and 70's which are mostly 10-20 stories high, with decorative facades and elaborate lobbies.

These buildings are great for those that love old architecture and the conveniences of modern living. The biggest draw back is that most don't offer extra amenities such as a health club, swimming pool or parking.

The other type are the modern and sophisticated hi-rises, for which this city is famous. They are anywhere form 20-60 stories high, offering all of the conveniences of modern day living. If you enjoy having everything from in house restaurants to door to door dry cleaning, than this is the place for you.

Lofts
New York has many styles and sizes of lofts to choose from. True lofts are former commercial or industrial buildings that have been converted into apartments. Generally, these are large open spaces with high ceilings, leaving room for you to exercise all your creative re-decorating talents . Lofts are a perfect place for those who like space, hardwood floors and who don't mind foregoing the services of a doorman or a laundry facility in the building.

However, some of the trendy new developments in Soho, Tribeca and Chelsea now offer full-service quality living, including full-time doorman, laundry and maid service as well as gyms and recreation rooms. 

Semi-luxury and post-war
This description is usually reserved for tall, non-full-time doorman buildings build between late 19040's through the 1970's. They are generally six to twenty stories high, and have an intercom security system, some may even have video security.

They are usually constructed of white, red or brown brick and most offer sizable lobbies with elevators. The units are not as large as their luxury counterparts and the buildings don't have any of the extra amenities, but the prices are considerably less making them the number one choice of those who like the modernity and convenience of extra appliances. 

Pre-war
Prewar buildings are those built before World War II. They are usually ten to twenty stories and are not known for views, except of course those along the Park or River.

They are recognized for architectural interests with features such as larger rooms, fireplaces, hardwood floors and higher ceilings. They can be doorman or non-doorman buildings. Most of them have also been updated and offer all of the modern appliances and amenities.

Brownstones and townhouses
The only true home you can buy or rent in the city. They are usually 4 to 6 story buildings built in the 1800's through the early 1900's. They can be either single family houses or conversions into multiple apartment units. Most offer have grand living spaces and, therefore, will be quite expensive.

Generally, these buildings afford more charm with features such as gardens, fireplaces, beautiful floors and ornamental wood moldings. In almost all cases these buildings will not have a doorman. 

Walk-ups
These are by far the most numerous apartment buildings in New York. They come in different styles and sizes, from pre-war classics to more recent 60's and 70's constructions.

They are usually 3-5 stories high and are called walk-ups because they do not have elevators. Most units are considerably smaller than in other types of properties but come at much cheaper prices. The condition and features vary from building to building. 

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