2022 Q1 Market Report

2022 Q1 New York City Real Estate Market Report

Overview:
The first quarter of 2022 in New York City’s real estate market exhibited a robust recovery from the pandemic’s effects, characterized by strong demand across various segments. With the easing of restrictions and a return to normalcy, both the sales and rental markets saw significant activity. However, rising interest rates and inflation concerns began to influence buyer sentiment toward the end of the quarter.

Sales Market Highlights:

1. Price Trends:

• Manhattan:
  • The median sale price for condos in Manhattan reached $1.18 million, reflecting a 5% increase compared to Q1 2021. This increase was driven by demand for luxury properties and new developments.
  • The average price per square foot for condos hit $1,700, marking a 4% increase year-over-year.
  • Co-op prices in Manhattan also rose, with a median sale price of $825,000, up 3% compared to the previous year.
• Brooklyn:
  • The median condo price in Brooklyn stood at $880,000, marking a 6% increase from Q1 2021.
  • Co-op prices in Brooklyn saw a notable increase, with a median sale price of $675,000.

1. Sales Volume:

• Manhattan:
  • Sales volume surged by 30% year-over-year, with 3,300 transactions recorded in Q1 2022. The luxury market played a significant role in driving this growth.
• Brooklyn:
  • Brooklyn experienced a 20% increase in sales volume, totaling 2,700 transactions. The borough continued to attract buyers seeking more affordable alternatives to Manhattan.

1. Inventory Trends:

• Manhattan:
  • Inventory levels declined by 10%, resulting in 4,300 active listings by the end of Q1. The decrease in inventory indicated a competitive market, particularly for desirable properties.
• Brooklyn:
  • Brooklyn’s inventory saw a 5% decrease, reaching 4,100 active listings. The tight inventory contributed to upward pressure on prices.

1. Luxury Market Performance:

• The luxury market (properties priced above $5 million) saw a strong resurgence, with an average sale price of $6.8 million, up 6% year-over-year.
• Cash buyers accounted for 40% of luxury transactions, indicating ongoing interest from affluent buyers.

1. Buyer Demographics:

• First-time buyers comprised approximately 15% of transactions, as many sought to take advantage of the competitive market before rising rates impacted affordability.
• All-cash buyers represented a significant portion of sales, particularly in the luxury segment, making up 35% of overall transactions.

Rental Market Highlights:

1. Rent Growth:

• The median rent in Manhattan reached $4,100/month, a 5% increase year-over-year. Demand for rentals remained strong as many opted to rent instead of buying amid rising interest rates.
• Brooklyn’s median rent increased to $3,000/month, marking a 6% increase from Q1 2021.

1. Demand for Larger Units:

• The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Manhattan reached $5,200/month, while in Brooklyn, it was $3,800/month. The trend of renters seeking more space continued as hybrid work models persisted.

1. Low Vacancy Rates:

• Manhattan’s vacancy rate fell to 2.7%, while Brooklyn’s vacancy rate stood at 3.1%, indicating a tight rental market with limited supply.

1. Landlord Concessions:

• Landlord concessions were offered in 50% of new leases, down from 60% in Q4 2021, reflecting improving demand and competition among renters.

New Developments and Construction:

1. New Condo and Rental Units:

• Approximately 1,200 new units were delivered in neighborhoods such as Hudson Yards, Long Island City, and Downtown Brooklyn during Q1 2022, catering to the ongoing demand for both luxury and affordable housing.

1. Construction Delays:

• Ongoing supply chain disruptions and labor shortages continued to affect construction timelines, leading to delays in several major projects.

Future Forecast:

1. Sales Market Outlook (Q2 2022):

• Sales prices are expected to stabilize, with potential minor declines in entry-level segments as rising interest rates begin to impact buyer sentiment.
• Sales volume may experience slight fluctuations as buyers adjust to changing economic conditions.

1. Rental Market Outlook (Q2 2022):

• Rents are projected to continue rising by 2-3% in Q2, driven by strong demand and limited availability of rental units.
• Vacancy rates are likely to remain low, as competition for rental units continues to be strong.

1. Key Market Drivers:

• Interest rates will remain a significant factor affecting buyer behavior, potentially pushing more buyers to the rental market as affordability challenges increase.
• New developments are expected to help alleviate some inventory shortages, although construction delays may persist.

Key Numbers Recap:

• Median sale price (Manhattan condos): $1.18 million (+5% YoY)
• Manhattan median rent: $4,100/month (+5% YoY)
• Brooklyn median rent: $3,000/month (+6% YoY)
• Vacancy rate (Manhattan): 2.7%
• Sales volume (Manhattan): 3,300 transactions (+30% YoY)
• Luxury market average sale price: $6.8 million (+6% YoY)

Conclusion:

Q1 2022 showcased a resilient recovery in New York City’s real estate market, with significant growth in both sales and rental segments. The luxury market thrived, while inventory challenges began to surface. As the quarter progressed, rising interest rates started to influence buyer sentiment, particularly among first-time homebuyers. The rental market remained strong, characterized by increasing rents and low vacancy rates, driven by sustained demand. Looking ahead, the market may face challenges related to affordability and interest rates, which could impact buyer behavior in the coming months.