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While the constant hustle and bustle of New York City can be exciting, even invigorating, many New Yorkers recognize the importance of having their homes serve as a sanctuary. In a town where privacy, calm, and solitude can be hard to come by, it is imperative that city dwellers have a tranquil space outfitted specifically for their individual needs and comfort. In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, many New Yorkers have begun to exit the city for the suburbs, providing a premier opportunity for others looking to upgrade and expand their square footage.
That’s where Karen Davidson, Co-founder of the Davidson Martin Team at Compass real estate, can provide her support and expertise. A veteran Upper West Sider, Davidson has been living in the neighborhood for 25 years and has witnessed the many changes that have taken place in that time. After receiving her MBA from Duke University, Davidson worked at Morgan Stanley and Mizuho Securities before segueing into real estate. “I had always wanted to go into real estate, mainly because it’s real, tangible and I can actually help people in an often stressful, sometimes disruptive time of their lives,” Davidson said. “Particularly in NYC where a home can oftentimes be one’s largest asset. I like to think that I normalize the process and provide a level of certainty to an uncertain process.”
Davidson’s success stems from her transparency, familiarity with the neighborhood, and her roll-up-your-sleeves approach to ensuring a client’s needs are met. “My clients appreciate my knowledge of the market, coupled with my genuine honesty and unassuming manner,” she said. “I will not tell them what they want to hear. I will always tell the truth. I don’t want to waste their time and mislead them. That is truly the underpinning of any successful relationship, right?”
When it comes to honesty and transparency in New York real estate, apartment hunters know how difficult it can be to place your trust in the unknown – a new apartment, a new neighborhood, an untested landlord. New Yorkers tend to hedge their bets on a new home by adhering to specific requirements: modern renovations, quiet neighbors, convenience to the subway, and a high floor. But Davidson says the negative assumptions about first floor apartments are often misguided and lead buyers and renters to overlook genuinely beautiful spaces.
“First floor apartments are often overlooked and sometimes are truly hidden gems,” Davidson said. “For example, many first floor apartments can have their own separate entrance, providing the feeling of a true home and a level of charm. First floor apartments can often have higher ceilings than the other units in the building and more options for renovation.”
One such space is her listing at 50 Morningside Drive, a stunning prewar 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment housed in La Touraine, one of the oldest and most elegant co-operative buildings in Manhattan. Bathed in Southern and Eastern sunlight, the unit includes many modern upgrades and is elevated half a floor from the street level and set back in the building, offering serenity and privacy while still allowing residents to walk out the door and immediately step into Morningside Park. Large windows, modern kitchen appliances, and built-in bookshelves add to the appeal of this airy and dignified space. Those interested in learning more and scheduling a time to view the apartment should feel free to contact Davidson directly at karen.davidson@compass.com
