With $30 billion in sales, 2021 was Manhattan’s best-ever year for real estate. According to reports, more than 16,000 contracts were signed last year. Inevitably some of those NYC apartments for sale were scooped up by celebrities. 

After all, the borough is renowned for attracting the rich and famous. If you’re considering renting or even buying a Manhattan apartment for sale, you might be inspired by some of the massive New York City celebrity property purchases and rentals of recent years. You could end up having a star or two as neighbors. 

Take a closer look:

What Celebrities Look For In Real Estate

Last year, Forbes reported that celebrities and other public figures look for privacy, comfort, and good design when searching for a home. Beyond that, they, like anyone else, want a home in which they feel happy and safe.

Some stars prefer modern buildings with an array of amenities and cutting-edge facilities that take luxury living to new heights. Others prefer the old-world charm and a more homely feel. 

Whatever they – or you – are looking for in New York apartments for rent or for sale, you’re sure to find it, even if it takes a little time. That said, let’s delve into some truly impressive celebrity real estate transactions and find out which buildings are known for attracting the stars.

Meryl Streep

In January 2021, Oscar winner Meryl Streep sold her almost-4,000 square-foot Manhattan penthouse for a whopping $15.8 million. The actress didn’t get her initial asking price, as the apartment was first listed in August 2018 for $24.6 million. Streep and her husband Don Gummer bought the River Lofts condo in 2006 for $10.3 million.

The penthouse has four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows with breath-taking views of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings, the Statue of Liberty, and the Hudson River.

Jennifer Lawrence

In August 2020, Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence sold her apartment on the top floor of the Upper East Side condominium tower the Laurel for $9.9 million. She initially listed it for $15.45 million in 2019.

The apartment of more than 4,000 square feet has a gas fireplace, three bedrooms, and four-and-a-half bathrooms. There’s also a pergola, an outdoor kitchen, and a built-in ping pong table. The apartment also boasts split-level outdoor terraces. Some of the amenities at the Laurel include an infinity lap pool, a library, and a concierge. We can help you find Upper East Side apartments and condos for sale NYC with similar amenities.

Susan Sarandon

In October 2020, Thelma & Louise star Susan Sarandon sold her pre-war Chelsea duplex for $7.9 million after calling the 6,061-square-foot space on the seventh and eighth floors home for 30 years. The home has six bedrooms and five-and-a-half bathrooms.

Sarandon purchased the duplex with her then-partner Tim Robbins in 1991. She took full ownership of the home after the couple split in 2011. Jack, Miles, and Eva, her three children, all grew up in the home. The actress told WSJ that the duplex was too big for her needs after her children moved out.

Carmelo Anthony

NBA star Carmelo Anthony listed his five-bedroom, four-bathroom Chelsea condo for $12.85 million in February 2020. The stunning property overlooks High Line Park.

The 4,556 square foot condo has white oak floors, oversized casement windows, and 10-foot ceilings, making it light and airy. The unit’s dimensions also make it the largest residence in the building. In addition to boasting a private balcony and 360-degree views, the condo is accessible via a private elevator landing. There’s no doubt that celebrities know a thing or two about luxurious NYC apartments for sale.

A Peek At Other Celebrity Real Estate

When Rihanna needed a New York apartment for rent a few years ago, she found a four-bedroom duplex penthouse on Lafayette and Howard Streets. She rented it for $50,000 per month. The sales price on the unit was $17 million.

DJ and entrepreneur Hannah Bronfman sold her customized East Village home for $2.65 million in July 2020. She purchased the 214 E. Ninth St. apartment for $1.6 million in 2014.

If you’re looking for NYC apartments for sale or Manhattan apartments for rent in neighborhoods that celebrities love, check out Tribeca and Battery Park. 

443 Greenwich St. is one of Tribeca’s famous properties. Stars such as Jake Gyllenhaal, Harry Styles, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Meg Ryan, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel are among those who’ve made their home in the building. Beyonce and Jay Z bought a penthouse at 195 Hudson St. for $6.85 million.

Battery Park’s Riverhouse is home to celebrities such as Tyra Banks, Oliver Stone, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Finding NYC apartments for sale can be tricky, but our team is here to help. Contact Platinum Properties today.