Photo of Harlem townhouses. Harlem has an increasing number of renovated apartments available in its neighborhoods and, in conjunction, many of its classical landmark buildings are being restored as well.

On February 18th, 2007 Christopher Gray of The New York Times wrote an article titled “A Harlem Landmark in All but Name” that detailed the reconstruction of the Renaissance Theater and Casino. New York Habitat works with several building owners in that area to offer their newly restored  Harlem apartments and rooms for rent.

Reasons to choose a Harlem accommodation:

New York Habitat’s clients increasingly have been looking for furnished apartments in the Harlem area because of its easy commute times to midtown via the 1,2,3,A,B,C,D,4,5 and 6 trains, its location near Columbia University and its more reasonably priced, larger apartment offerings. Commutes to midtown range from 10 minutes via express trains to 30 minutes via some local trains. For more information on the neighborhood, see some of our other blog entries, including Harlem Bed and Breakfasts and New York In Song – “Uptown – The New Harlem”.

The furnished rental market in Harlem:

Typical prices in the neighborhood for furnished rentals are $1,300 to $1,400 a month for studios, $1,600 to $2,000 for one-bedroom apartments and $2,400 to $3,000 for two-bedroom apartments. Roommate share accommodations are typically in the range of $550 to $950. Vacation rentals in Harlem offer a unique opportunity because unlike other neighborhoods there is a higher proportion of large, family-sized apartments and even entire townhouses. The typical price for a studio or a one-bedroom apartment is between $150 and $200 a night while prices for larger apartments are typically between $200 and $400 per night depending on the size.

Some of the choices to consider include this two-bedroom apartment (NY-11895) at 150th Street just a short walk from the A/D express trains, or this studio vacation rental (NY-12220) in a renovated townhouse on a landmark block near the Renaissance Theater.

The Renaissance Theater:

The Renaissance Theater is located at 137th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. (Seventh Avenue). The current owners are looking into converting the building — which is presently unused — into a new apartment building and retaining and restoring the casino section. The restored casino will likely be used as a community meeting place if the plans are approved.

It is a good idea to consider the apartment offerings in the area of the Renaissance Theater as the neighborhood continues to develop. Remember the apartments and roommate shares in Harlem for their value, convenience, location and unique properties during your search for the perfect accommodation.