Choosing a Place to Live in New York City

As the owner of Quantum Management in Elmsford, New York, Joseph Kanner is responsible for all day-to-day operations of the property management company. Joseph Kanner and his staff at Quantum Management oversee properties in New York City as well as in nearby Westchester County. When relocating to New York City, it can be difficult to choose a neighborhood. However, there are some practical steps renters can take to find a place that will be right for them.

Sprinkled throughout the five boroughs of New York City are hundreds of neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive personality and flair. When searching for a place to rent in this city of over eight million residents, it is important to consider several different factors.

First, renters should assess their lifestyle and what is most important to them. If they have children, they will probably want an apartment that is in close proximity to parks and has a good school system. If they are single and enjoy an active night life, they might want to consider the local entertainment and bar scene. Or, if renters are simply looking for a place to sleep at night and an easy commute to work, they will need ready access to public transportation. 

Budget is also a major consideration when searching for an apartment in New York City, a place where the cost of rent can vary dramatically. Apartment search websites can help narrow down neighborhoods that will fit into a renter’s budget. Once the list of neighborhoods with affordable rent is determined, renters can begin more earnest research.

As part of their research, it is essential for renters to visit prospective neighborhoods, both during the day and at night. Roaming the sidewalks will give them a good idea of the personality of the community as well as potential crime risks and noise levels. If possible, they should even walk the route they would take to access the subway or bus and then experience that commute from start to finish. It is also a good idea to talk to people who live in the neighborhood to find out what life in the community is really like.