Manhattan: convenience and choice

Manhattan offers short commutes, an enormous range of buildings and strong amenities. Space usually costs more here, so buyers often compare layout and light carefully, as well as total square footage.

Brooklyn: more room, more variety

Brooklyn ranges from brownstone streets to new waterfront towers. Many buyers find they can get an extra bedroom or some outdoor space here, in exchange for a slightly longer trip into Midtown.

Questions to ask at every viewing

Ask about monthly charges, recent building repairs and any planned assessments. It’s also worth visiting at a different time of day, because noise and light can change a home’s character completely.