She Strengthens

The Elusive Dream of Homeownership

Growing up in Brooklyn, I never fantasized about my wedding day, but I did have a clear vision of myself as a homeowner. I dreamed of owning a quintessential brownstone, complete with flower pots lining the stairs and seasonal decorations. However, a quick glance at New York City’s housing listings is enough to shatter that dream. The prices are staggering, and it’s clear that homeownership is a far-fetched reality for many.

A Harsh Reality

As a writer, I’ve come to realize that affording a home in Brooklyn is highly unlikely. The average selling price for a home in Brooklyn is a whopping $770,000, making it the fifth most expensive city for homeownership in the country. Meanwhile, the median income in the city is around $60,000. Unless you’re independently wealthy or win the lottery, homeownership in New York is simply out of reach for the average person.

Gentrification and Its Consequences

The past two decades have seen an influx of affluent people moving into previously low-income Brooklyn neighborhoods, driving up housing prices and pricing out native Brooklynites like myself. My grandparents were able to afford a home in Brooklyn 14 years ago, but today, that’s no longer the case. The city government has attempted to level the playing field with affordable housing lotteries, but even those are highly competitive.

A Shift in Priorities

As I’ve come to terms with the reality of homeownership in NYC, I’ve had to adjust my expectations. I’ve abandoned my dreams of owning a brownstone and instead focused on more attainable goals, like traveling and experiencing the world. While it’s been difficult to let go of lifelong dreams, I’ve realized that there are other ways to live a fulfilling life.

Exploring Alternative Options

I’ve started looking into places in Europe, like Northampton, England, where the average home costs around $328,706. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s a more affordable alternative to Brooklyn. As I look to the future, I’m excited to explore new possibilities and create a life that’s true to who I am.

Embracing Reality

We can’t always have it all, and that’s okay. I’ve learned to accept that homeownership in Brooklyn may not be in my future, and that’s a liberating feeling. Sometimes, it takes letting go of our dreams to discover new possibilities and create a life that’s truly fulfilling.