The Manhattan real estate market has entered a new era — fast-paced, competitive, and filled with shifting buyer priorities. Post-pandemic life has reshaped what people want in a home, and according to Lisa Lippman, the #1 agent at Brown Harris Stevens, the key to success in this new environment is simple: focus on timing, pricing, and purpose.
With over $1 billion in sales in just the last three years, Lisa Lippman is not just a name — she’s a trusted guide in New York City’s complex housing landscape. From uptown condos to downtown luxury co-ops, her advice helps both buyers and sellers make smart, future-proof decisions.
Living in a Post-Covid World: What Buyers Want
“The biggest change I’ve seen is how people view space,” says Lippman. “Buyers now ask about home offices, private outdoor areas, and even room for at-home workouts.”
This shift isn’t just temporary. According to Lisa, buyers are thinking long-term, imagining life in their homes beyond just sleeping and eating — they’re thinking about flexibility and comfort.
In fact, even as New York City rents climb higher than San Francisco’s, buyers remain active, often sparking bidding wars in neighborhoods that were once overlooked.
Sellers: Highlight the Right Features
For sellers, Lisa Lippman emphasizes one word: “functionality.”
“Highlight private nooks, extra storage, and anything that can be converted — like turning a closet into a desk nook or gym corner,” she advises. “Those small extras now carry big value.”
In this new real estate reality, staging and marketing are more important than ever. Lisa encourages sellers to focus on light, air, and layout rather than just square footage.
Why New York Is Still a Prime Market
Despite the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic, Lippman believes in NYC’s comeback.
“I’ve seen a huge return of pied-à-terre buyers and even empty nesters moving back from the suburbs,” she says. “People miss the energy, the culture, the convenience — and it’s all coming back stronger.”
From Michelin-starred dining to vibrant street life, NYC’s heartbeat is attracting both old and new residents. And as Lisa points out, “New York is resilient. It always bounces back.”
Lippman’s Golden Advice: Think Long-Term
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just browsing, Lisa Lippman’s #1 tip is to stay focused on your long-term vision.
“Don’t get lost in the emotions of a deal,” she says. “Ask yourself — where do you want to be in five years? If the property fits that vision, it’s probably the right move.”
Final Thoughts
In today’s market, it’s not just about price — it’s about purpose and potential. With guidance from seasoned experts like Lisa Lippman of Brown Harris Stevens, navigating NYC real estate doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
If you’re thinking about making a move in Manhattan or simply want advice from one of the city’s top agents, you can contact Lisa directly or view her exclusive listings: