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The Pinpointe Post
May 2025 Edition
Rachel Fiegler
May 13, 2025
Welcome Message from Josh & Rachel
Hello from the Pinpointe team!
As we head into the busiest season for NYC real estate, this month’s newsletter is packed with updates to help you stay ahead. We’re breaking down April market trends, highlighting the East Village as our featured neighborhood, and offering smart advice for first-time buyers navigating today’s market.
You’ll also find our latest video hits, a no-fluff podcast episode on property types, and a spotlight on one of our most trusted rental experts. Whether you're renewing, relocating, or ready to buy, this one’s for you.
Happy reading!
Rachel & Josh
Cofounders, Pinpointe Group
Recent Highlights
📝 From our blog
🎙️ Podcast Feature
Condos, co-ops, and brownstones are everywhere in NYC—but what are the real differences, and which one fits your life (and budget)? In this episode of Pinpointe Unfiltered, Rachel and Josh get real about the costs, restrictions, and lifestyle factors behind each property type. Whether you're buying your first place or looking to invest, this guide helps you cut through the confusion and figure out what actually makes sense for you.
Our most-watched Instagram video gives a quick glimpse into the type of people living in Hudson Yards—hint: they’re stepping out of Uber Black XLs, not regular Ubers. It’s a lighthearted look at the luxury vibe of the neighborhood, all in one short clip.
🌟 Agent Spotlight
We're excited to introduce a new segment in the newsletter: Agent Spotlight! Each month, we’ll highlight one of our expert agents who is making an impact in the NYC market.
First up is Alan Bundonis, a NYC rental expert with over 20 years of experience helping clients find the perfect apartments. Al started May strong with 3 successful deals, assisting everyone from college students to families in securing apartments within their budget in neighborhoods they love. Looking to rent in Manhattan? Reach out to Al at [email protected]!
🏙️ Neighborhood Highlight: East Village, Manhattan
This month, we’re zooming in on the East Village—an iconic downtown neighborhood where creative energy meets classic New York charm.
What we love: The East Village blends historic grit with creative energy—it’s walkable, packed with character, and full of late-night eats, indie boutiques, and community gardens. It's also surprisingly central, with easy access to Union Square and the rest of downtown.
Median 1-bedroom purchase price: $850,000
Median 1-bedroom rent: $5,000
Hidden gem: Seek out Tompkins Square Bagels for one of the best breakfast sandwiches in the city—or swing by St. Mark’s Church for outdoor performances and local art events that feel like classic downtown NYC.
💡 First-Time Buyer Tip
Looking for your first home in NYC? This tip highlights affordable neighborhoods where more inventory is giving you better options. Don’t miss your chance to explore neighborhoods with rising opportunities!
Understand the differences between condos, co-ops, and brownstones, as each has its own set of rules, costs, and lifestyle fit.
Focus on neighborhoods like Kips Bay, Brooklyn Heights, and Astoria for more affordable options.
With rising inventory, it's a great time to explore different areas for better deals.
Pro tip: Co-ops generally have a lower price point, and their maintenance fees often include taxes, making them a more affordable choice for first-time buyers.
📊 Market Pulse: April 2025
Rents Climb, Sales Surge — NYC Market Stays Hot
💸 Rental Rundown:
Manhattan rents hit a new average of $4,908, with non-doorman units seeing the biggest year-over-year gains.
Brooklyn rents climbed to $3,802, led by a 3.6% monthly jump in one-bedroom prices.
Queens continues steady growth, averaging $2,960 with Long Island City at the top and Flushing/Jackson Heights offering better value.
🧾 Sales Snapshot:
Manhattan saw a major boost in activity — signed contracts for co-ops and condos are up 45%+ from last year.
The luxury market is on fire, with $5M–$20M contracts skyrocketing (some segments up 300%+).
Brooklyn is booming in the $1M–$2M range, with co-op contracts up 61.8% and strong growth in single-family homes.
Inventory is rising, giving buyers more options across all property types.
🔑 What It Means for You:
If you're thinking of buying, there’s more inventory — but prices and demand are rising, especially in the luxury and mid-market tiers. For renters, expect continued pressure on pricing as we head into peak season. Renew early if you can — or be ready to act fast if you're apartment hunting.
📰 News You Can Use
Private listings: What NYC sellers and buyers need to know about the off-market controversy
Private listings, or off-market exclusives, allow NYC sellers to market properties privately before public MLS listing, often to test pricing or maintain privacy. Both buyers and sellers are advised to ask brokers detailed questions about private listings and consider legal counsel to navigate exclusivity agreements. Read more here.
NYC's Rent Guidelines Board votes to propose hikes for rent-stabilized apartments
New York City's Rent Guidelines Board voted 5-4 to propose rent hikes of 1.75-4.75% for one-year leases and 4.75-7.75% for two-year leases on rent-stabilized apartments, sparking tenant protests amid affordability concerns. Landlords argue rising costs necessitate increases, while tenant advocates and mayoral candidates call for a rent freeze, making this a politically charged issue ahead of the 2025 mayoral election. Read more here.
🤝 Connect With Us
Have questions about buying or renting in NYC? We're here to help!
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 917-633-6935
What topics would you like to see in our next newsletter? Reply to this email with your suggestions!
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