As agents who live and work across New York City, Debbie Zolan and Jacquelynn Rossiter are constantly in conversations with buyers while walking them through a condo in Fort Greene, a loft in DUMBO, or a pre-war co-op in the West Village.
Some buyer priorities stay steady year after year – outdoor space, in-unit laundry, and functional layouts rarely go out of style. But others shift in ways even they didn’t expect. Below are four emerging amenity trends they’re seeing more of in 2025, along with why private outdoor space continues to stand out.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor access remains at the top of the list. Whether it’s a terrace, balcony, or shared roof deck, having fresh air at home is something buyers increasingly prioritize. The demand became especially clear during COVID, when time outside became essential to daily life. Private outdoor space, in particular, is a huge bonus especially for those looking for more flexibility in how they live and entertain. Debbie and Jackie have seen how thoughtfully designed outdoor areas, like the private garden at 271 West 122nd St, #1, can elevate a home’s appeal and expand the way people imagine using the space.
Built‑In Content & Recording Studios
Some cutting-edge new developments (in NYC and globally) now include soundproof podcast and video studios, catering to creators and remote professionals. Buildings like The Reserve, a rental building, have embraced this trend, turning creative expression into a building amenity. Developments like 378 West End Avenue now include features like fully equipped music recording studios and practice rooms, offering a glimpse at how lifestyle-forward amenities are evolving.
Green & Mindful Living
Wellness features now span everything from spa-like lounges to green rooftops with bee-friendly plantings and rainwater collection systems. For instance, The Solaire in Battery Park City captures rainwater to irrigate its rooftop garden and runs a 3,400+ solar‑panel system alongside advanced fresh-air filtration, appealing to buyers drawn to environments that foster a connection to nature and health-conscious living.
Pet-Friendly Living
Pet-focused amenities are becoming increasingly common, particularly among buyers who consider their pets part of the household. From dog runs with skyline views to in-building grooming stations, these thoughtful additions cater to everyday routines. 51 Jay Street, 5D is a DUMBO loft where the dedicated pet spa on the lower level amenity floor is a well-appreciated benefit for those living there.
Wellness-Oriented Social Spaces
Buyers are thinking differently about how they live, and where they live. These days, it’s not just about having a fitness center, but about spaces that support daily life in a more balanced way. Rooftop yoga terraces, serene lounges, and communal kitchens are showing up in a handful of thoughtfully designed buildings. Debbie and Jackie have seen more interest in these features, especially when they offer a place to unwind or connect without leaving home.
Are Buyers Paying for What They Don’t Use?
Interestingly, some buyers now bypass buildings with excessive, unused amenities.One of Debbie’s buyers recently said, “From the beginning of my search, I made it clear I wasn’t interested in buildings with gyms or rooftops. I’d rather keep my monthly costs down than pay for amenities I won’t use.” This shift is especially common among pied-à-terre buyers, who value smart design and simpler carrying costs over amenity-rich extras.
Whether practical or standout, building features are shaping how buyers connect with a home and helping them picture themselves living there. Debbie and Jackie believe they’ll continue to influence how homes are designed, lived in, and sold across New York City.
To explore their current listings or get in touch, visit The Zolan Rossiter Team.
