Guide to Moving to New York
New York City, also formerly known as The Big Apple, is home to more than 8 million residents. The city itself is not all that expansive, coming in at only 300 square miles altogether. Whether you have always had dreams of moving to the city that never sleeps or if you have recently been offered a new position for work, there are a few things to know and to keep in mind before taking the plunge and moving to New York City.
Before Moving to New York
Before moving to New York City, consider the various boroughs that you are interested in along with their central locations, atmosphere, and overall layout. Consider your budget as well as the amount you can afford for rent or for your mortgage payment before utilities as well as other living expenses. Not all areas of New York are the same, which is why it is highly advisable to familiarize yourself with various locations and boroughs, as well as with various price ranges available for different amounts of space currently for sale and for rent.
Renting or Buying?
Another element involved in moving to New York includes whether you intend to buy or to rent your home or apartment. In New York, it is not uncommon for the average resident to invest in purchasing an apartment space rather than renting it. However, ensure you are making a wise decision if you choose to invest in purchasing an apartment or a home by working together with a real estate broker.
Review Your Contractual Agreement in Full
Before signing a lease or solidifying moving plans to new your new home or apartment, it is imperative to review your contractual agreement thoroughly and in full. In some cases, rental agreements may use tricky language that may cause prospective renters to believe the rental price of a property is much less than in actuality due to a marketing campaign or current promotion. Always read the fine print of any contractual or rental agreement you sign when moving to New York, especially as some landlords and property owners no longer abide by rental control laws or regulations.
If you have never moved on your own or if you do not feel comfortable working with a contractual agreement or rental agreement on your own, it is highly recommended to work alongside a real estate broker or attorney who specializes in rental and owned properties in the state of New York and the city of New York.
Amenities
Many apartments and properties in New York may provide amenities to renters as well as buyers. Before choosing a property or rental location that is optimal for you and your household, be sure to consider the type of amenities that are important to you. Some of the most popular amenities that may be provided with rental apartments and properties in New York include:
- ●Doorman
- ●Increased building security
- ●Parking
- ●Access to nearby public transportation
- ●Pet-friendly units
- ●Long-term rental agreements
- ●On-site laundry
- ●On-site business center
- ●On-site fitness center
Property Taxes
Another aspect to keep in mind when seeking a new home or rental apartment in New York is the property taxes that you will be responsible for, especially if you choose to purchase and invest in the property yourself. Property taxes may vary based on the borough of New York City you choose to move to as well as on the overall value of your chosen property. Be sure to inquire about any property taxes for both summer as well as winter with your real estate broker, lawyer, or the property owner.
Transportation
Transportation is a key element of living in New York whether you prefer to drive your own vehicle or rely on public transportation. When you are thinking of moving to New York, you may consider alternative transportation options depending on your budget as well as your ability to park or store a vehicle long term in your chosen borough or location. Some of the most common ways to get around in New York include:
- ●Walking
- ●Biking
- ●Public transportation
- ●Taxis/Ubers/Lyfts
If you are moving to New York on a budget or without the ability to park a vehicle, seek out an apartment or rental property near public transportation bus routes as well as subway lines.
Location, Location, Location
Choosing the right location in New York can make or break your experience. For those who prefer the nightlife, tourism, and plenty of people, living in Manhattan and midtown may work for you. For those interested in a calmer, niche, fashion-driven way of life, Chelsea may be the spot.
From Soho to Central Park to the Upper West Side, familiarizing yourself with various locations in New York can help you to feel confident in any decision you make once you make the move to the city that never sleeps.