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The Pinpointe Post
February 2026 Edition
Rachel Fiegler
February 17, 2026
Welcome Message from Josh & Rachel
Hello from the Pinpointe team!
We’re two months into 2026 and NYC’s housing scene is working hard to make us remember why we all chose to live here. Whether you’re navigating your first apartment lease or weighing buying your first home, we’ll help you cut through the noise each month with insights that actually matter.
January rentals stayed stubbornly high to start the year, while sales activity showed mixed signals with weather and seasonality playing a role in contract counts.
Rachel was quoted in a recent article from Brick Underground, talking about the current rent trends and what to expect as peak season nears - check it out below.
As always, we want this newsletter to work for you. Are you enjoying this? Anything you want us to add or remove? Hit reply and let us know.
Referral reminder: send someone our way and you’ll get a $100 gift card when they close with us.
Happy reading!
Rachel & Josh
Cofounders, Pinpointe Group
Recent Highlights
📝 FroDo You Really Need a Real Estate Attorney when buying in NYC?
🎙️ Podcast Feature
If you’re thinking about moving to NYC or just landed here, this episode is for you. In the style of a live agent training session - a new format on Pinpointe Unfiltered - it breaks down the real expectations vs. reality when it comes to city housing.
You’ll hear from our own agents on what catches people off guard: from rent costs to closets that barely fit a coat. Practical, no-nonsense tips you can use before your next tour.
This quick clip breaks down the top 5 things people don’t expect before moving to NYC, straight from Pinpointe’s industry experts. What surprised you most when you first moved here - or what are you nervous about now? You can share your experience or thoughts by replying to this newsletter or on our socials.
🏙️ Neighborhood Highlight: West Village, Manhattan
The West Village remains one of Manhattan’s most charming corners - tree-lined streets, classic low-rise buildings, and coffee shops on seemingly every corner. It’s a favorite for people who want walkable, historic NYC with quick access to transit and nightlife.
What we love: cobblestone streets, boutique shops, intimate restaurants, and a neighborhood feel that’s rare in Manhattan.
Median 1-bedroom purchase price: $1,737,500
Median 1-bedroom rent: $5,495
Hidden gem: Try Caffe Reggio for an espresso with old-school NYC vibes — locals swear it’s one of the best spots for people-watching and slow mornings.
💡 Renter’s Corner/First-Time Buyer Tip
If you’re moving to NYC, there are a few things you should be prepared for. Here’s what most people don’t expect:
Rent is shockingly expensive across the board.
Apartments are often way smaller than pictures make them look.
In-unit laundry and dishwashers aren’t guaranteed.
Closet and storage space can be nonexistent.
One block can feel amazing; two blocks over… totally different vibe.
Pro tip: Budget for bigger surprises than you think - and tour multiple layouts to really understand space. If you need help finding layouts that fit your needs and budget, let us know.
📊 Market Pulse: January 2026
NYC rents aren’t taking winter off - and neither is the sales market.
💸 Rental Rundown:
Manhattan rents climbed to a median of $4,695 - near records for winter. If this trend holds, Summer median rents will easily be above $5k.
Brooklyn rents sat near $4,000/month and have been relatively steady, with some modest year-over-year growth.
Queens continues to be the budget-friendly borough with median rents at $3,754.
🧾 Sales Snapshot:
Manhattan’s condo market has remained steady compared to the same period last year for new contract signings.
Brooklyn contract signings are down significantly year-over-year, particularly in co-ops seeing a 55% decline.
Inventory shifts and weather challenges likely led to fewer sales contracts signed year-over-year in many segments suggests caution entering spring.
🔑 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.
Renters should expect rents to stay high - winter’s usual cool-off isn’t offering much relief. Buyers: Lower contract activity doesn’t mean demand is gone — it means strategy and pricing matter more than ever as competition still exists.
📰 News You Can Use
NYC rents surged in January, a likely sign of record highs to come
Manhattan, Brooklyn & Queens rental trends show uneven patterns.
NYC’s rental market in January saw Manhattan near top levels and Brooklyn hovering around $4,000, with listing and vacancy shifts affecting leasing dynamics; Queens details are less clear in the current report. Read more here.
I had to hire an exterminator. Can I deduct the cost from my rent?
Renters learn how to handle repairs and abatements. Expert advice on withholding rent and navigating landlord repair obligations can save stress and money. 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
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