5 Insider Tips to Know Before Renting in Harlem

Nothing captures New Yorkers’ attention like Harlem. And the neighborhood that gave birth to the Harlem Renaissance is having its own revival. Investment is flooding into the neighborhood, as well as top end restaurants and boutique shops. Harlem hasn’t lost its heart, however. Modern hot spots blend seamlessly with the historic venues that make the neighborhood world famous. A melting pot of cultures and experiences await if you decide to jump into Harlem life. But before you make the leap, check out these five insider tips about renting in Harlem.

 

 

Also See - Renting in New York: Tips for Renters Moving from Out of State

 

You probably won’t want to leave, but it’s easy if you do

There’s so much to capture your attention in Harlem that we doubt you’ll want to leave for a few weeks after moving in. Should you wish to escape for the day, however, getting around couldn’t be easier. The 145th Street Station is slap bang in the middle of Harlem Heights and has stops for the express A and D lines and the B and C lines. That’s right, you could be in midtown in two stops!

 

Music is massive here

Seriously, if you’re a fan of live music, there are few better places to live than Harlem. Since the Harlem Renaissance way back in 1920, the neighborhood has moved to the beat. Today, you’ll find live music in one form or another on almost every corner of the city on every night of the week. Hit up Red Rooster, Apollo Theater or Harlem Nights to get your fix.

 

Discover the history to appreciate the neighborhood

To get the most out of living in Harlem you need to appreciate your new neighborhood. We recommend diving head first into the area’s history by signing yourself up for one of the many walking tours available. Follow that up with a visit to the National Jazz Museum in Harlem and The Studio Museum. From there you can explore Harlem by yourself. Just make sure to drop by iconic venues such as the Apollo Theater, Minton’s Playhouse and Sylvia’s restaurant.

 

Also See: Our 5 Favorite Harlem Restaurants … Right Now

 

Find your home in Striver’s Row

Striver’s Row is home to a collection of beautiful buildings designed by leading 18th Century architects. The homes were way ahead of their time, boasting private alleyways, secluded courtyards, and amenities that the rest of the population could only dream of. Unfortunately, very few of the houses were sold as white New Yorkers left the neighborhood and the depression hit. The homes sat vacant for years until leaders in the black community and high-ranking professionals, or “strivers”, moved in. The buildings are still stunning today, and if you find a home here you’ll be following in the footsteps of Harlem royalty such as Vertner Tandy, Harry Willis and Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.

 

You’ll get so much more than you pay for

Renters in Harlem benefit from some of the best value apartments in the city. Unlike neighborhoods in Brooklyn, you aren’t paying for the location. You’re just paying for the apartments (which are often incredibly high quality), and that means you get a whole lot more bang for your buck. Throw in amazing nightlife, great restaurants, and live music and you’ve got one heck of a deal. Yep, there’s a whole lot to love about Harlem.

 

Does Harlem sound like your new home? Find out even more about in our Harlem neighborhood guide before checking out our available properties.

 

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