Key Takeaways
- Buy on fundamentals: location, condition, and income.
- Know the regulations before you buy, especially for rent-stabilized buildings.
- Keep reserves for repairs and vacancies.
Mendy's Original Take
From the Mendy Realty archive, first published by Mendy Lipsker.
It is easy to follow the crowd and do what everyone else is doing. The good investor makes his/her own way.
The real estate business is often very fast paced and high energy. The good investor is grounded and focused with a clearly defined plan or strategy.
Knowledge is power. The good investor does his/her due diligence and looks at the facts of the situation:
What makes this property the right fit? the wrong fit?
Indecision on the part of the investor can kill a deal very quickly. The good investor makes a well thought-out move now rather than later.
Rule No.1: Don't lose money. Rule No. 2: See Rule No 1.
Don’t be afraid of or avoid making smaller profits. The good investor doesn’t ignore a profit in hand, looking for a bigger payoff. Small profits add up into big income.
Find a niche, whether it is residential or commercial properties. Break it down even farther and specialize in:
By knowing themselves and the property that suits their plan, good investors can’t help but be successful.
In real estate you can borrow up to ten times the amount that you own, but too many loans, and too much debt can be a major problem if something goes wrong.
No matter how long you have been doing business, there is always something new to do, try or learn. A good mentor can not only help you toward the things that will work best for you, but can help you see, understand and avoid potential problems with your investment.
Live, love and breathe what you do! A good investor is passionate about his/her investments and gives them all they’ve got.
2026 NYC Investment Snapshot
Investor demand stayed strong in 2026. New York City investment sales reached $23.69 billion through Q3, with multifamily and development sites leading the market.
NYC sales by asset class, Q1 to Q3 2026
Figures through Q3 2026 include projected closings.
Practical Rules For Investors
Do your homework
Research comparable sales, rents, and building records.
Keep reserves
Plan for repairs, vacancies, and higher costs.
Work with locals
Local brokers and attorneys know the details that matter.
Common Questions
What is the best advice for new NYC investors?
Start with a property you understand, underwrite conservatively, and keep cash reserves.
What should I check before buying a building?
Rent rolls, regulation status, violations, zoning, and condition.
Related Reading
Talk To A Brooklyn Broker
Buying, selling, or investing in New York real estate? Start with a direct conversation.
718.751.0738Market figures compiled from public records and published market data. Information is believed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
