I spied 27 Quincy from streeteasy.com, it looked like they were offering some pretty attractive units at pretty affordable prices. Duplex 2 BD / 2BA at $499k in a new development, very tempting. It did have some initial red flags – it’s not that close to the subway, and the subway that is within walking distance is the G. It’s also right on the cusp between Clinton Hill and Bed Stuy, which might not be a big deal depending on the surrounding area. But the building has some nice amenities: super high ceilings (in duplexes), bike storage, FIOS hook-up, custom cabinetry, oak flooring, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. And did I mention they’ve made it very affordable, 15 year tax abatement and FHA loans that let you put down as little as 3.5%.
The lobby is well lit and nicely decorated, video intercom — but no doorman. The model unit that I visited was aesthetically pleasant and gave you a good feel for what you could do with the space. I’m always creeped out when I see the silent owner in the corner “observing”. In this case since these units were new, I’m not sure who the silent man was in the living room area looking out the balcony. But he didn’t seem that friendly and so I skirted around him — missing out on some details of the unit. But there was no denying the expansiveness of the ceilings in the living /dining room or the enormous windows that made the downstairs alone feel like the 1,000+ sqft. And the juliet balcony is a nice touch. I liked that the bedrooms are separated, one downstairs and one upstairs, so the downstairs could easily operate as a home office. I liked the downstairs bathroom fixtures especially since upstairs one with its small tiling, and unimaginative white –( which was already looking off white-ish) — left something to be desired.
Now, while the downstairs had everything going for it, the upstairs did not. It really just has medium sized master bedroom with the white-ish bathroom, and a rather obstructive air unit. I’m also not a huge fan of the precarious stairs. While it does have a dramatic look, it’s rather steep and it’s floating so children will be able to crawl through the steps.
Finally, the neighborhood … not great. Certainly not one of Clinton Hill’s most charming areas. It has an industrial surrounding, followed by the Salvation Army across the street — and little else in terms or residence. I also didn’t spy any convenient stores or nice restaurants nearby — though I suppose they could exist since I didn’t look too hard. It would feel like a long and lonely walk back from the subway. Best check out the neighborhood in the evening to make sure it’s something you want to traverse.
really nice article – gives a great realistic facts about 27 quincy st.
thank you!
Thank you!