Twenty-two contracts were signed last week at $4 million and above in Manhattan, 20 fewer than the previous week. Condos outsold co-ops, 17-5.

Stat Geek Alert: Last week’s total marks the strongest start of a new year since we launched this report in 2006. The previous record was 15 contracts signed in 2017.

The No. 1 contract was PH16 at 109 East 79th Street, asking $29,985,000. It has 6,548 square feet including 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. A living room with a fireplace, library, and formal dining room open onto 2 terraces that total 640 square feet and overlook 79th Street. Ceiling heights are 11 feet. This new 20-story, 31-unit condo was designed by Steven Harris Architects and completion is expected later this year. Amenities include doormen, a regulation-size squash court that converts to a basketball court, a gym, golf simulator, game room, and a spa treatment center. Twenty out of 31 units have sold with asking prices averaging $3,913/sq.ft.

The No. 2 contract was the 9th floor at 1165 Madison Avenue, asking $21.5 million, raised from the original offering-plan price of $18.65 million. This full-floor unit has 6,132 square feet including 5 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms. It features 13-foot ceilings and huge arched windows overlooking Madison and 86th Street. It is in a new 12-unit, 14-story condo called The Bellemont, designed by architect Robert A.M Stern. Amenities include a concierge, fitness center, squash court, roof terrace, children’s playroom, and screening room. Marketing started in the fall of 2021 and 8 contracts have been signed on 12 units with asking prices averaging $3,869/sq.ft.

Happy New Year and Stay Safe!!!