A budget of $200,000 is lean by NYC standards, but you'll still find a range of options across the boroughs—and not just studios. Here's what's on the market right now:
CENTRAL HARLEM, MANHATTAN: A two-bedroom co-op in an HDFC building (which means income caps are in place) that was renovated in 2012 and still looks fresh. There's ample storage and counter space in the kitchen, multiple exposures, hardwood floors, and recessed lighting. $200,000 plus $371/month maintenance.
SOUTH HARLEM, MANHATTAN: Just a few short blocks north of Central Park, this studio—also in an income-restricted property—feels a bit more spacious than usual, thanks to its separate kitchen. It's well lit by east-facing windows, and the building has a live-in super. $199,999 plus $385/month maintenance.
MIDWOOD, BROOKLYN: A one-bedroom co-op close to the Avenue M subway station that comes with a recently updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and plenty of storage space, plus a washer and dryer in the unit. $199,000, plus $526/month maintenance.
FLATBUSH, BROOKLYN: A sunny co-op studio close to the center of the action in this Brooklyn neighborhood; the kitchen and dining areas are separate from the living area, and you'll also find a breakfast nook. There's a part-time doorman in the building, as well as a community garden. $179,000; maintenance fees are not mentioned in the listing.
KEW GARDENS, QUEENS: This co-op also offers more than the average studio: Its L-shaped layout allows for a separate dining area, and the recently renovated kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher. Even better, there's a terrace off the living room boasting some impressive views. The building includes a gym and garage parking; there's a live-in super, too. $179,000 plus $743/month maintenance.
JACKSON HEIGHTS, QUEENS: This one-bedroom co-op has separate living and dining areas, as well as a long galley kitchen, and a bright, spacious bedroom with generous closet space. Note, though, that the building is over half a mile from the nearest subway station, which likely makes for peace and quiet but also lengthy commutes. $160,000 plus $530/month maintenance.
RIVERDALE, BRONX: This one-bedroom co-op comes with some appealing updates, like a renovated bathroom and a sleek, spacious kitchen with some designer appliances, including a dishwasher and a washer and dryer. The doorman building has its own playground and private courtyard. $189,000 plus $706/month maintenance; note that the buyer is also responsible for paying the seller's real estate transfer taxes.
NORWOOD, BRONX: We like the look of the kitchen in this fully renovated one-bedroom co-op—note, a sponsor unit—which boasts cherry wood cabinetry, granite countertops, and a dishwasher. The building has a live-in super and a private courtyard, and is close to Montefiore Hospital, making it a good spot for medical residents. $139,000 plus $600/month maintenance.