The Agency Times, New York, Spring 2024

The Agency represents a portfolio of luxury real estate, homes and properties for sale across the world’s prime markets and celebrated destinations.

THE AGENCY TIMES NEW YORK EDITION

115+ OFFICES | 12+ COUNTRIES

By Sarah Jansen-Mount

New York, you’re looking healthy. According to UrbanDigs data, new listings were up 48% from the last quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Yearover-year, Q1 was similar to that of 2023, hovering right around 4,300 new listings on the market.

Days on market have also held steady to Q1 2023, coming in nearly the same as this time last year. Compared to the last quarter of 2023, days on market are trending longer, with an average of 110 days per listing. Top agents have also reported the return of multiple bids and sales over asking price. Buyers are back in action, having come to terms with interest rates, and as a result, well-priced properties are highly sought after.

“In the first quarter of 2024, the median sale price for luxury properties in Manhattan was $5.8 million,” said The Agency New York City’s own Michael Biryla. “That is up from $5.7M last year, marking the fourth consecutive increase. We also saw a larger number of bidding wars in the luxury market than in all of the other sub-markets in the first quarter, with 9% of homes trading above the asking price.”

When it comes to trending amenities, Michael noted that buyers are “leaning into more full-service buildings.” Properties that require massive renovations are swaying less attractive as the construction costs and contractor quotes still remain on the higher end. Renovated, move-in ready apartments that offer stateof-the-art kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and high-end finishes are garnering the most attention.

Mansion Global noted an uptick in luxury home sales this April—especially in the world of new development. The publication cited Donna Olshan, president of Olshan Realty: “New-development contracts ruled the week with 14 deals inked by developers.”

“The Manhattan market has been quite robust regarding the most attractive neighborhoods right now, and this is mostly due to the lack of inventory,” said Michael Biryla. “Buyer attraction and traffic persistently focus on the West Village, TriBeCa, and parts of SoHo and NoHo. Downtown Manhattan has always been one of the most sought-after parts of New York City, but after the pandemic, we saw a huge surge in buyers seeking smaller, less-occupied buildings and townhouses. Postpandemic, we’re seeing a return of people seeking fullservice buildings with a wide range of amenities such as gyms, pools, saunas, and staff.”

Michael’s advice for buyers seeking a home in Manhattan? “The most important advice I have been giving to my buyers in this market with low inventory is one key thing: preparedness,” he said. “It’s imperative that all of our ducks are in a row, meaning we have our pre-approvals in hand, our offer forms (in Manhattan, there are several nuances that need to be addressed when dealing with co-ops), and introduction letters to the seller. So, when we find the right property, we can pursue it immediately. The market is active, and the most prepared buyers are the ones getting deals done.”

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Peek Into the Current Manhattan Real Estate

From soaring skyscraper aeries to heritage townhomes, the cosmopolitan allure of Manhattan real estate remains undiminished for those seeking the ultimate confluence of culture, cuisine, and commerce. These listings showcase the city’s lasting cachet—from billionaire-lined park perches to iconic village enclaves. Whether coveting a sleek designer condo or a pedigreed pre-war gem, NYC’s property pinnacles are still fiercely coveted by savvy luxury investors worldwide.

24 Leonard Street #PH, Tribeca, Manhattan

Unparalleled indoor-outdoor living defines this breathtaking 7,300 squarefoot Tribeca penthouse. The sprawling 6-bed, 6.5-bath residence spans an entire floor, showcasing iconic city views through walls of glass opening to not one but three private balconies and an expansive rooftop terrace with an outdoor kitchen. Exquisite finishes like herringbone floors, custom wall coverings, and unique lighting elevate the contemporary yet warmly inviting living spaces. From the sunlit living room and formal dining room to the chef’s kitchen and lavish primary suite, no luxury has been spared in this thoroughly customized downtown showplace near world-class dining and galleries.

Positioned along the iconic curve of Commerce St., amidst picturesque tree-lined streets and upscale amenities, this property epitomizes the essence of West Village living. Delivered vacant, it presents an unparalleled opportunity for a discerning buyer to fashion a singular single-family retreat from a blank canvas.

The Agency NYC is pleased to exclusively offer the sale of 53 West 94th Street located on the Upper West Side. Situated on 94th Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue, this 20-footwide building contains seven (7) renovated, free market, rental apartments that are 100% leased. The building has been maintained by the same owner for the past 20 years. 53 West 94th Street offers a unique opportunity to acquire a free market property with multiple ways to add value. A particularly interesting opportunity is to convert the ground and 2nd floors into an owner-occupant unit, and use the remaining units to cover expenses. If that opportunity is not of interest, it should be noted that the rental rate for each of the seven units has a fair amount of room to grow.

This distinguished 25-foot wide mansion in Greenwich Village’s Gold Coast offers luxury living with its prime location, spacious rooms flooded with natural light, and elegant design. Originally built in 1910, the residence features green terraces, a garden, and plans by architect Steven Harris for a Penthouse Level with a roof terrace and optional amenities like a wine room and gym. Inside, a sleek Boffi chef’s kitchen, formal dining room with a fireplace, and double living room with French doors highlight the Parlor Level, while the Guest Level offers three suites and the Master Level includes a South-facing bedroom with garden views. Plans for the Penthouse Level and Basement Level expansion complete this exceptional opportunity in one of Greenwich Village’s most sought-after locations.

Welcome to this impeccably renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence at The Harrison, a full-service condominium designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects on Upper West Side. The spacious living/dining area is bathed in natural light, featuring French windowed doors and an ideal layout for hosting. The kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances and convenient amenities like a washer/dryer. Both bedrooms offer oversized windows and high ceilings, while the primary includes a Juliette balcony and spa-like marble bath. With only four units per floor, residents enjoy privacy complemented by a full-time doorman, a lounge, rooftop terrace, and access to Equinox West 76th Street.

Madison Ave #22-A, Murray Hill, Manhattan

22 East 10th Street, Greenwich Village, Manhattan 53 West 94th Street, Upper West Side, Manhattan 205 West 76th Street #1101, Upper West Side, Manhattan

Experience the epitome of luxury living in this unique 2,321-square-foot Manhattan condominium boasting breathtaking panoramic views from every angle. A sun-soaked great room reminiscent of a TriBeCa loft, a chef’s dream kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, and two spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms offer unparalleled comfort. Ascend the ar-

SPRING IN THE CITY

STAY IN STYLE

HOTEL RECS FROM THE AGENCY’S ELINA & SEAN BREWER.

Fifth Avenue Hotel

This hotel mixes old-fashioned luxury with a modern flair. It also has an amazing restaurant, Café Carmellini, courtesy of Andrew Carmellini, the chef behind Downtown favorites like Locanda Verde, Lafayette, and the Dutch.

Chelsea Hotel

We love the Chelsea Hotel for its rich history as a hub of creativity and counterculture, where the spirit of legendary artists like Andy Warhol and Patti Smith still lingers in its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic décor.

ELENA SMIRNOVA HAS THE BEST FITNESS SPOT ON LOCK.

54D

It’s a very fun, high-intensity BootCamp-type program designed to push your limits and transform not just your body but your mind. They also have an in-house nutritionist who designs a diet to fit each person’s individual needs and two recovery rooms featuring a massage chair and compression boots. Several celebrities, including A-Rod, have been known to swear by it.

BY ERIN RAMIREZ

TAMI KURTZ HAS HER PULSE ON THE ART SCENE.

Fotografiska New York

If photography is your passion, then Fotografiska is always a good idea. Located at 281 Park Ave South, Fotografiska has a series of ongoing events and exhibits to delight the culturally curious who seek art, discourse, and time spent with kindred spirits. Guided tours are available, and their three dining spots, including the Chapel Bar, are not to be missed.

R & Company, Four Rooms

As a real estate professional, I particularly enjoy visiting R & Company, which features furniture, lighting and often architecture alongside what we traditionally think of as art. Now through August 9th they have a show called Four Rooms, focused on doors and the art of doors. I can’t wait to go see this one!

Francesca Mollett at Grimm Gallery

If abstract is your thing, the London-based artist Francesca Mollett has a show coming to the NYC location of Grimm Gallery from May 10th through June 22nd. She does beautiful work marrying architecture and nature. The pieces are fluid and seem to be in motion. Find it at 54 White Street in TriBeCa. make it a day and visit both these White Street galleries this Spring and then walk over to the Odeon for lunch or dinner.

CHELSEA PICKEN CAIN HAS THE SCOOP ON THEATRICAL AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCES IN THE CITY.

Oh, Mary!

After several extensions at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in the West Village, Cole Escola’s hilarious play is making its Broadway transfer in June. It tells the story of Mary Todd Lincoln (played by Escola) leading up to the assassination of her husband- whose name is “Mary’s Husband” in the play. It’s Grade-A stupidity, but also completely nails it with contemporary humor, physical comedy and absurdity. And we love a one-act play. Everyone who has seen this loves it and accepts it for exactly what it is- a dumb play. You will laugh for 80 minutes straight.

New York Botanical Gardens. Wonderland: Curious Nature

Up in the Bronx, 250 acres of beauty are being transformed into Alice’s Wonderland. Gorgeous in its own right, this park’s trippy makeover is a great way to spend a summer afternoon, and there are special events centered around Alice’s adventures. Adults only, boozy evenings, too.

ISN’T NEW YORK DELICIOUS?

LESLEY STERN, THE AGENCY’S DIRECTOR OF AGENT MARKETING, SHARES HER FRESH NEW RECS.

Penny in the East Village

Sister restaurant to one of my favorite restaurants, Claud, and located right upstairs, Penny is the place to go for an exquisite raw bar and seafood counter.

San Sabino in the West Village

Created by the same team as Don Angie (which is incredible)—wife & husband team Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli—San Sabino serves Italian-American seafood, handmade pasta, and raw dishes. Plus, picture-perfect and utterly delicious cocktails.

JOHN ANTRETTER HAS A GREAT BAR SPOT FOR YOU.

The Portrait Bar in Nomad

The atmosphere is incredible, it is old school. The bartenders wear white jackets. They offer an incredible array of cocktails and snacks. It brings an uptown upscale vibe to downtown, a good cross between the Polo Bar and Bemelmans. You can’t go wrong with their “St. James” cocktail or a classic martini.

Scalloped edges, soft corners, wavy lines—we’re here for it all.

TO REFRESH YOUR VIBE

There’s comfort to be found in the years of yore, and we’re leaning into it.

Our obsession with curved forms in design has been lingering, and we’re not complaining. From sinuous furniture silhouettes to undulating patterns in textiles and wallpapers, there’s a special sense of movement and dynamism in our living spaces. Think curved sofas, rippling wall murals, and organic-shaped décor accents that effortlessly evoke a sense of harmony and flow.

This spring, design takes a nostalgic turn as we pay homage to the past with a contemporary twist. Think mid-century modern accents, floral wallpapers reminiscent of grandma’s house, and cherished heirlooms given a new lease on life.

From rich textures to eclectic patterns, we’re reveling in the joy of excess.

When it comes to maximalism, layering is key. Think lush velvet sofas, ornate tapestries, and gallery walls adorned with an eclectic mix of art and artifacts.

Throw caution to the wind and be yourself.

This spring, spontaneity and creativity take center stage, even leaning into fantastical and surrealist vibes. Mix and match styles with abandon, combine unexpected colors and textures and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.

...and usher in the spirit of spring.

Need more inspiration? Read more on

The Agency Journal. THEAGENCYRE.COM

We’re always aiming to minimize our carbon footprint without compromising on style.

From upcycled furniture to energy-efficient lighting solutions, design takes a conscious turn as we prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices.

This can look like embracing natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and cork, and seeking out brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency in their manufacturing processes.

Expert Insight on Today’s New Jersey Real Estate Market

BY CAROLYN MEERS

The New Jersey real estate market is thriving—and our experts are here to explain why. Topproducing local agents from The Agency New Jersey, Paul Witte and Jason Prifold, share why the Garden State attracts a diverse pool of buyers and investors.

WHAT DRAWS BUYERS TO NEW JERSEY?

“The location is one of the biggest perks,” says Jason. “New Jersey borders New York City, Pennsylvania, and Delaware plus it’s home to the vibrant Jersey Shore. Buyers can enjoy the suburbs— or a Shore house—with a manageable commute.”

“Buyers are also drawn to New Jersey for the stellar schools and charming historic towns, “ notes Paul. “Many local communities have downtowns, parks and kid-friendly activities. Families living in New York City looking for more space and a better quality of life are moving to towns in New Jersey’s suburbs.”

HOW IS THE MARKET RIGHT NOW?

“The market for single-family homes is very, very competitive,” says Paul, who recently submitted an offer on a single-family home where the seller received 23 offers. “There is far too little supply and a bevy of buyers looking for a home. Many owners feel ‘stuck’ in their current home because if you own with a 3% mortgage rate, why would you sell unless you absolutely had to? The prevalence of people trading up/down—which is generally a large part of the resale market—has stagnated.”

“The New Jersey market continues to be very strong. Every county saw home values increase from the year prior,” says Jason. “This trend will continue in 2024 due to little inventory and redevelopment projects taking place all over the state.”

“I

WHAT NEIGHBORHOODS ARE ATTRACTING BUYERS RIGHT NOW?

“Jersey City and particularly Hoboken are very popular options,” says Paul. he also notes that homes in towns with a commute of less than two hours and a direct train line into Penn Station are also highly desirable. “For example, just last year I had a home in Montclair sell for 188% of the asking price.”

“Monmouth County is growing and changing dramatically,” says Jason. “It is home to some of the most desirable shoreline neighborhoods like Rumson, Fair Haven, Little Silver, Red Bank, Oceanport, Long Branch and Asbury. One particular community to watch is Oceanport. We expect home sales to jump in and around this area. The recent sale of Fort Monmouth is bringing an $850M production studio from Netflix along with many other redevelopment projects. Maybe The Agency will soon have a spin-off of ‘Buying Beverly Hills’ and create ‘Selling The Jersey Shore!’”

NOTABLE LOCAL LISTING

mean, there’s so much that I love about New York City. It’s the energy. It’s such a resilient city… It’s the land of opportunity where it all started. The American dream… One of the things I love about The Agency is that we are willing to take chances. We are willing to be innovative. We’re willing to step outside the box and think differently. We’re willing to take that risk.”

Mauricio Umansky CEO & FOUNDER | THE AGENCY

185 MORRIS AVENUE, LONG BRANCH REPRESENTED BY JASON PRIFOLD

The Details: The View Long Branch is a boutique development with 36 one and two-bedroom condos. The new development is just two blocks from Pier Village, Long Branch Beach, the boardwalk, restaurants and shopping. Jason Prifold is exclusively representing sales for the community.

The View Long Branch

The Agency New York is the East Coast headquarters of The Agency—and the team there perfectly exemplifies what makes The Agency different than all the rest: Our talented people. Each brings their own flavor and specialty, sharing the commonalities of passion, poise and incredible expertise. Our New York agents have a deep connection to the city, plus access to the world.

It’s fun to see what happens when you combine extraordinary agents with the power of an in-house marketing team and creative agency. The truth is, making our agents look good is our favorite thing to do. Shoutout to David Doobinin, the artful and acclaimed photographer who shot these beautiful images.

The Agency’s Creative Director, Shane Gazzo, and copywriters Sarah Jansen-Mount and Carolyn Meers led the vision for the campaign. Shane directed the photo shoot on site, and Sarah and Carolyn crafted the stories.

“We wanted to take the brand’s L.A. lens and revive it in a very New York-specific way,”

“Yes,” chimed in Sarah.

“The visuals—and the unique personality of each agent—were our jumping-off point for the words. In our usual fashion, we wanted bold, emotional stories that really showcase who our agents are and the unique perspectives they bring to the table.” said Shane.

Erin Ramirez is a New York-based marketing expert who facilitated the campaign’s execution. “We usually work with our agents to showcase their listings and help them market on behalf of their clients, so getting creative with them and understanding their love for our city was such an exciting moment for the members of the local marketing team,” she said.

Take a peek at our latest campaign, reintroducing some of our top New York agents to the world on The Agency red carpet. From the New York Original to the Real Estate Natural, meet the next generation of New York real estate. Let them show you what’s been here all along. See iconic places through fresh eyes.

Because more of the same is never an option.