About NYC: Hot Neighborhoods: Harlem

One only has to spend an afternoon walking in the area of Harlem to realize that this area is the architectural jewel of Manhattan. Harlem over the past decade has undergone immense revitalization in certain areas, and like a gemstone being rubbed to a high shine, these areas reveal the intense aesthetic and historical beauty of Harlem.

Harlem has a grand history span that began with its establishment by the Dutch in 1658 to develop its rich farmlands. An economic decline in 1830 brought about the abandonment of many of its great estates. This led to revitalization in the 1870s and the construction of many new homes, tenement buildings and luxury apartment houses. Then, a real estate collapse occurred in 1904, followed by the business savvy of a black entrepreneur who sought property in the deflated area and was responsible for creating Harlem as home to a predominantly African-American community.

Not known to many new Harlem residents is the fact that Harlem was once home to the distinguished Harlem Opera House on 125th Street. An investment today in a Harlem home is truly a hot investment. As Post real estate guru Braden Keil puts it, 'Real Estate prices all over Manhattan are through the roof - but nowhere is the condo and co-op market hotter than in Harlem.'

Search Harlem apartment rentals here and sales here.