Harlem Building Offers 3 'Affordable' Units For $66K Earners

HARLEM, NY — A lottery for 3 Harlem apartments offered at below-market rents requires tenants to earn at least $66,000 to qualify for the homes.

The below-market units at 229 W. 136th St., a low-rise development between Frederick Douglass and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. boulevards, are reserved for tenants earning 130% of the area median income, which the city classifies as "middle income." Applicants for the units must earn an annual salary of at least $66,858 to be eligible for one of the building's one-bedroom units, which rent for $1,950 per month, according to the city Housing Connect website.

Apartments are being offered at below-market rates because the building's developer is taking out a 421a tax exemption on the building, according to the city. The units are built in a renovated row house in a historic part of Harlem near the famed "Strivers' Row" — which is home to some of Harlem's most in-demand real estate.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the units and eligibility requirements:

Prospective tenants may apply for the lottery through the city's Housing Connect website. A mail-in application can be requested by sending a self-addressed envelope to: 229 West 136th Street Apartments, C/O Reside New York LLC. 381 South 5th St, #1, Brooklyn, NY 11211. Applications must be sent or postmarked by Aug. 7.

No preference will be given for current Harlem residents, but a small percentage of the units will be set aside for people with vision, hearing and mobility disabilities.