Rooftop swimming pools with views, ice baths and hot tubs are the water-centric amenities home buyers have come to expect today in many of New York luxury buildings—but a handful now possess a perk that may be the most covetable of them all: beach access.
Yes, in the heart of the concrete jungle, it really is possible to find beachside housing thanks to a collection of new developments built on or near the water, whether it’s man-made or natural.
Take The Keller at 150 Barrow, a residential condominium slated to be completed by the end of this year in the West Village. The building, with homes starting at $2.59 million, is situated along the new Gansevoort Peninsula, a 5.5-acre riverfront park that will be home to a stretch of sandy beach where residents can bask in the sun and enjoy the water views. Playing volleyball on the sand and renting kayaks will also be options. North of the beach, the park will have a lawn and seating area as well as a large sports field and salt marsh habitat.
The 5.5-acre river park at The Keller, a West Village condominium.
Binyon Studios
“We knew that this park was in the works, and it was a motivation for us to build The Keller here,” said Jared Epstein, a principal at Aurora Capital, the building’s developer. “The views and access to the water and the beach has been a huge selling point and a primary marketing tool for us.”
Astoria West, a new 534-unit rental development in Queens that’s alongside the East River’s Cove Beach, is another example. Residents, who pay anywhere from $3,600 to $7,000 a month, can walk out of the building’s rear entrance directly onto the sandy beach and often spend the entirety of their day there during warmer months, according to Craig Wood, the founder of Cape Advisors, the building’s developer.
Exterior view and beach at Astoria West, a new 534-unit rental development in Queens.
Binyon Studios
“They park themselves with umbrellas, beach chairs and towels, and read. Some even take picnic lunches,” he said. “Virtually every resident appreciates the beach—it’s why they live here.”
That’s the case for Katie Seaman, a tenant at Astoria West who is a doctor at Mt. Sinai and rents a one-bedroom apartment with her husband Tom Metzger and their German Shepard, Jake.
“The view of the beach from our apartment is a big draw,” she said. “Jake loves running around on the sand, and we love sitting on the beach and drinking a bottle of wine. Living in New York, it’s cool to be able to say that we have access to a beach, and it’s not common for sure.”
This kind of outdoor access is among the most highly desirable features in a New York apartment today, according to Corcoran real estate agent Mark Martov.
“On a nice summer day, you feel like you’re in Miami. It’s this idyllic life,” he said. “Who needs a fancy cold plunge pool when you have the real thing right there in your backyard?” Man-built beaches like the one at Gansevoort Peninsula aside, Mr. Martov added that natural versions of these shorelines have long existed in New York. “Developers are finally starting to take advantage of these beaches by building their projects on or near them,” he said.
On the flip side, buyers and renters should be aware that beachside living raises a slew of questions, especially about the water itself, according to Coldwell Banker Warburg agent Gerard Splendore.
“You need to consider if the water is clean, if there are concession stands that may lead to trash, if there are rules and how they will be enforced, plus who pays for the upkeep,” he said.
For many, however, the pros outweigh the cons, Mr. Splendore said. “It’s like you’re always on vacation and never have a need to leave where you live,” he said.
Ben Katzenstein, who works in finance and rents at One South First, located in Williamsburg next to Domino Park, knows the feeling. The frequent beachgoer said that the forthcoming River Ring development next to his building, where a 500-foot-long public sandy beach will be the showpiece, is an incentive for him to continue living where he is.
“I love the beach and am so excited that one is coming to my neighborhood,” he said. “It makes my wife and me want to establish roots here and maybe rent an apartment at River Ring.”
One South First’s developer, Two Trees, is behind the 4-acre waterfront project, slated to debut its first building and the beach in 2028. In addition to the beach, it will feature a park and two towers designed by the architect Bjarke Ingels. Pricing for River Ring hasn’t been made public, but studio apartments at One South First for around $3,300 a month.
David Lombino, a managing director at Two Trees, said that River Ring will provide renters with beach chairs and umbrellas; they will also be able to rent paddleboards and kayaks, and the sand will be lined with concession stands. “We wanted to offer New Yorkers a chance to get really up close with the water, and only a beach can do that,” he said.
While not in New York City, The Beach, an aptly named luxury rental building in Newport, New Jersey, is just a PATH ride away and does have Manhattan views. More fittingly, it features access to Newport Green, a 4-acre landscaped park with the only sandy urban beach on the Hudson River, according to the park’s website. Newport Green’s other amenities include outdoor ping-pong tables, a carousel, walking paths and several playgrounds.
Shawn Murphy, a sales manager for a technology company, lives in a one-bedroom in the building with his wife, Colleen, and said that the beach is an amenity that they fully take advantage of. “There are permanent umbrellas here, and during nicer weather, they bring out lounge chairs. Colleen and I go at least once a week during the summer and unwind with wine and a picnic meal,” he said. “The beach was the selling point when we were deciding where to rent and now that we have it, I am not sure how we could ever do without it.”
Balcony view at The Keller, a West Village waterfront condominium.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
