Bedford Stuyvesant, NY Real Estate — Homes For Sale in Bedford Stuyvesant, NY

Twenty-five years after Spike Lee memorably depicted a day in the life of the neighborhood in Do the Right Thing, Bed-Stuy has shed its volatile reputation and emerged as a must-visit destination. First, there's the food, including the whimsical creations at Do or Dine, the pizzas at Saraghina, the unique doughnuts at Dough and the flavorful doubles (a classic West Indian snack) at A&A Bake and Doubles Shop. Then there is the beautiful architecture: just about every tree-lined block reveals a treasure or two in the form of an Italianate brownstone or landmark row house. Let's not forget about the neighborhood's illustrious inhabitants: only in Bed-Stuy can you get a drink at a bar owned by actor Anthony Mackie or walk past stoops where the Notorious B.I.G. (who, contrary to myth, actually grew up in adjacent Clinton Hill, near the border of the two neighborhoods) and Jay Z got their starts. When the sun goes down, you can see an Off-Broadway show by an up-and-coming African-American performer or hang out in the parlor of a townhouse built in the 1880s, listening to jazz. The streets hum with an energy as distinctive as its residents, many of whom can trace their Brooklyn roots back to the first wave of the Great Migration in the early 20th century. By all means, be prepared to say hello to those you pass kibitzing in their gardens or tidying their steps. Most of all, be prepared to be welcomed to a neighborhood bursting with pride, culture and community. less

Though not exactly the quietest neighborhood in Brooklyn, there are a lot of great perks living here. As a resident for the last decade, I have seen a lot of changes. This is where a lot of young families and the newly-graduated move for their first apartment in New York City. It is still relatively affordable -- compared to Park Slope or WIlliamsburg, for example, but rents are rising each year as the district becomes more popular. The century-old brownstones are stunning, with many tree-lines streets and public parks. And with its proximity to Manhattan, diverse eateries, art galleries, cafes and boutiques, it is no wonder this area is booming. There are still some good investment opportunities here, as the older population cashes out on their decades-long homes. Bottom line: If you don't mind a lot of street activity and occasional (very loud) block parties during the warm months, Bed Stuy is an awesome neighborhood... Especially for the younger generation. less