Manhattan Buyers Ditch Condos, Co-Ops Roar Back
Should You Buy a Manhattan Co-Op in 2026? As 2026 unfolds, the case for buying a Manhattan co-op rests on a market that is stabilizing, but still punishing for buyers without strong liquidity. Co-op sales rose 3% in the first quarter, marking the sixth straight gain. The median co-op price held at $850,000. Overall listings fell 16.7% year-over-year, signaling a tighter supply backdrop for buyers. That stability contrasts with the broader Manhattan median of $1,225,000, which is up 5.2%. It suggests co-ops remain relatively grounded. Liquidity Pressure and Strategic Entry The market still favors cash. All-cash purchases made up 64% of 2025 sales. That leaves mortgage-reliant buyers exposed unless financing strategies are disciplined and realistic. More listings and a better supply-demand balance may improve conditions later in 2026, especially in the fall. Smaller buildings and less-central neighborhoods may offer openings. Buyers also need to weigh board approval risk, co-buying tren...