Gone are the days when Staten Island was referred to as the “forgotten borough.” Much needed revitalization and change is currently underway, and with the Renaissance of the North Shore in full swing, Staten Island is poised to become New York City’s next “it” neighborhood. In the center of it all lies St. George, an up-and-coming neighborhood that offers the best of city life in an otherwise suburban borough. If you’re looking to buy a home on Staten Island or already reside here, read on to find out why so many people are drawn to this community.

Located on the northeastern tip of Staten Island, St. George is the most densely developed and diverse neighborhood in the borough. Positioned where the Kill Van Kull enters the New York Bay, this neighborhood is known for being the administrative center of the borough, the central hub for transportation, and Staten Island’s downtown area. The area provides the perfect balance of culture, arts and history that cant’ be found anywhere else on the island; making for a truly dynamic place.

Perfectly Located

There are so many reasons why people who are looking to move to the Staten Island are attracted to this area. Known for being the island’s central hub for transportation, it provides quick access to Manhattan via the Staten Island Ferry, as well as the other areas of the borough by means of the Staten Island Rapid Transit or bus service. For commuters who drive, a quick ride over the Verrazano Bridge will take you to Brooklyn or Manhattan. In fact, more and more New Yorkers are taking advantage of the fact that rent here is far more affordable than the other boroughs, while still providing close access to Manhattan.

One of my favorite things about this area is that the housing options here are just as diverse as the rest of the neighborhood. I love being able to show potential homebuyers a variety of options: historic Victorian, Tudor and Colonial homes, condos, co-ops and even newly constructed homes. There really is something for everyone in St. George, no matter what their needs are, and the price and location couldn’t be more perfect.

Positively Entertaining

St. George may be known for its long stretch of waterfront and dramatic views of lower Manhattan, but there is so much more to the neighborhood than just that. Just a short walk around the area and you’ll experience one of the most ethnically diverse and eclectic areas on Staten Island. From the sights of storefront artwork, the sounds of an emerging musician playing at a local coffee shop, and the tastes of authentic cuisine, there is no doubt you’ll be drawn back for more.

Visitors and residents love the variety of restaurants here, providing a unique experience and taste for any occasion. You can find authentic-themed restaurants with unique cuisines, classic steakhouses, wine bars and tapas bars only blocks away from one another. For those looking for a lively night life, St. George contains a variety of different pubs, bars and coffee shops, some which also serve as venues for local musicians and emerging talent. You won’t have to travel far to find an open mic or a local band playing.

Attracting Tourists and Residents Alike

The Staten Island Ferry isn’t the only attraction St. George has to offer. Richmond County Bank Ballpark is known for sponsoring community events when it is not holding a Staten Island Yankees game. Other residents enjoy viewing Staten Island’s history through the artwork at Borough Hall, or watching a show at the St. George Theatre. One of my favorite things to do is explore the Staten Island Museum, where there are always new exhibits on display.

Other points of interests include the September 11 Postcards Memorial, the St. George Esplanade, and the United States Lighthouse Museum. St. George was also designated a historic district in 1994, which consists of 78 houses and one church. A tour of this neighborhood is truly a full day’s worth of art, history and culture!

For those who are looking to do a little shopping, the area has a variety of vintage and consignment shops, as well as antique furniture stores- all at bargain prices. A much-needed grocery store was recently added to the neighborhood, complimenting the St. George Greenmarket, which provides residents with locally grown, fresh produce, seafood and authentic meats on Saturday’s throughout the spring, summer and fall.

A Bright Future

I would be remised if I didn’t mention the promising and exciting future of St. George. Over the next few years, this area will undergo a major transformation, giving residents and tourists even more to look forward to in terms of shopping and entertainment. The New York Wheel, Empire Outlets, and Lighthouse Pointe are all examples of additions to the North Shore, and are sure to make St. George one of the most visited areas of New York City.

If you’re looking to buy a home on Staten Island, now would be a great time to start your research.  I would love to show you some beautiful real estate properties, and discuss the many advantages to buying a home in this up-and-coming area. Please feel free to check out my website for valuable information on Staten Island’s North Shore neighborhoods as well as the other happenings in the area.

There are two kinds of Real Estate professionals… those who understand the emotional and financial complexity of selling or buying a home… and those who don’t.

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