Brooklyn Condos, Co-ops and Brownstones for Sale

Brooklyn is a patchwork of distinct districts.

• Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO have skyline views, historic streets and premium prices.
• Williamsburg and Greenpoint are young, creative and full of new condo towers on the waterfront.
• Park Slope and Prospect Heights are family-oriented, with brownstones beside the park.
• Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights have large stocks of townhouses at lower prices but rising fast.
• Bay Ridge and Sunset Park offer more affordable homes and a strong local community.

Subway lines link most districts to Manhattan in 20 to 40 minutes, and the Brooklyn waterfront ferry adds another route. JFK airport lies in neighbouring Queens.

There is no nationality-based ban on buying in New York. A purchase usually involves a signed contract, 10% deposit into an attorney's escrow account, a title search and a closing a month or two later. Closing costs include mortgage recording tax if you borrow, title insurance, attorney fees and, for condos, a buyer's transfer-related charges; sellers pay most transfer taxes. Co-op boards often reject non-resident buyers or those who plan to sublet, so condos and new-build units are easier for foreigners.

Property tax rates in New York City are lower than much of the US, especially for one- to three-family homes, but some building charges are high. Our US buying guide, US mortgage guide and US market analysis explain more.

New York State and city taxes bite harder than in many US states. Buyers of condos and new builds pay transfer-related charges that sellers usually cover on resales, and purchases over $1 million trigger the state's mansion tax at 1% and above, paid by the buyer. Annual property tax on a brownstone is usually modest relative to its value, thanks to the city's assessment caps, while condo owners pay monthly common charges plus a separate tax bill. A typical closing takes 30 to 60 days after contract signing.

Before bidding, order a building inspection and check for open permits, which can delay a sale. Flood maps matter in Red Hook, Gowanus and parts of Coney Island after recent storms, and lenders may require flood insurance.

Brooklyn offers more space per euro, with the same subway access. For investors, rent growth has been strong in gentrifying areas, but rent regulation can limit increases in older buildings, so ask whether apartments are rent-stabilised. Browse the main New York listings for Manhattan and compare. Other US options include Las Vegas, San Diego, Henderson, Naples and Jacksonville. The United States page has more.