New York Living Solutions

Once a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, Midwood’s serene middle-class appeal now attracts a mix-bag of new immigrants, including Russian, Jamaican, Haitian, Guyanese, Greek, Israeli, Pakistani, Indian, Chinese and Korean transplants. Residents enjoy the tranquil suburban appeal of many of the area’s one and two-story Victorian homes, charming gardens and expansive yards, alongside dignified apartment complexes. When not enjoying their beautiful homes, residents visit the commercial strip, which includes kosher delis, cafés, bakeries and shops, or enjoy the public library and athletic facilities available at nearby Brooklyn College.

The West Village is undoubtedly among the most artistically vibrant and intellectually engaging neighborhoods in New York City. The neighborhood that once served as the home base for those enamored by the bohemian lifestyles popularized during 1960s and 1970s is now peppered with ethnic restaurants, trendy boutiques, and animated nightlife. Although the walk-ups remain a residential staple for artists, intellectuals and students, families have also begun to also flock to the spacious renovated lofts and residential towers that now populate the area.

Much like neighboring DUMBO, Vinegar Hill is a former manufacturing and warehouse sector that has sparked the interest of real estate and commercial developers. Brownstone buildings, 19th century wood frame houses and cobble streets add to Vinegar Hill’s underrated charm. Despite some initial concerns from residents regarding the recent development of luxury condos, many of the area’s beautiful architectural jewels remain intact. The small, quiet and isolated area is home to artists, architects and other creative types

Although no longer a city, Long Island City still retains a vibrancy all its own. Until 1898, the city encompassed what is now known as Astoria, Ravenswood, Hunter’s Point, Blissville, Sunnyside, Dutch Kill, Steinway, Middleton and Bowery Bay. Once singularly known for its industrial zones, Long Island City has revamped itself as a creative community, where the arts, culture and small businesses flourish; Silvercup Studios, the Naguchi Museum, Sculpture Center and P.S 1 Contemporary Art Center all call Long Island City home. The area’s affordable apartment housing, easy access into Manhattan and character is a perfect match for those with an independent Bohemian spirit.

Fort Green is home to the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA), the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Urban Glass, and the prestigious Brooklyn Technical High School. Although brownstones are prevalent throughout the area, potential residents are often charmed by 19th century mint-condition Italianate, Greek Revival, Romanesque and Renaissance row houses that remain. Residents enjoy weekend flea market excursions, purchasing produce from the local farmer’s market, or going for a peaceful stroll in Fort Greene Park. Designed by the same team responsible for Manhattan’s famed Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park’s blossoming chestnut trees and spacious grassy areas have become a local staple.