New York City has been in Phase One of reopening and there is cautious optimism in the air as we approach Phase 2. Many retail stores are open now for curbside pickup, and some small shops are allowing two customers at a time to enter and browse and purchase. More restaurants have reopened and are offering pick up or delivery and are arranging lovely bistro seating outside for dining. With masks on, city dwellers are out and about on the streets and in the park.

One area that has not reopened yet is real estate. We are still not allowed to show apartments, but expect that will happen in the coming weeks. The way this will happen will certainly be different (with limits on the number of people allowed to enter; masks, gloves, booties and sanitizer required; and more), but the Manhattan real estate market will slowly return to life. Yes, and the cars have come back!

Of course the big question is, “what will the market be like?” Is everyone selling and moving to the suburbs? I honestly cannot tell you anything for sure. We’ve been hearing about people leaving the city, and of course some people who are no longer required to work in an office may find that their money buys them more space outside the city.

But in general, I have several clients starting to say, “this could be a good time to buy and get MORE space.” Many city dwellers plan to look for larger apartments (especially if they expect to work from home for the foreseeable future). Outdoor space is now highly desirable, more light, and a washer/dryer seem to be sought after considerations for many. Proximity to the office is also something some people may want. Lower floors are now in favor.

The search always begins online (even before the pandemic). However, the online information is more important than ever: exact floorplans, recent professional photos, a 3D plan or a video. We will shop at home for our initial look and see, but of course nothing will replace walking into a building, getting a feel for the lobby, the hallways, and the actual home, and the use of all our senses: to see it, feel it, touch it and smell it. I will help YOU, my customers, embrace the entire feel of a space, whether it be renovated or not. We will have new forms to sign and showings will be planned in advance. We are all learning the new real estate normal.

I cannot really predict pricing except to say, there will be negotiations for this buyers’ market. I cannot be certain, however, until properties start going back on the market. Only time will tell.

It will take a while for our beloved city to return to “normal,” but we know it will. And we will certainly relish the return of museums, theaters, restaurants, bars, and all the things we love about New York when they do reopen. I’m watching our city slowly reopen and look forward to speaking to you all with your questions, comments, and yes, reservations and concerns. Stay safe, wear your mask, and keep healthy.