We just got back from our NY trip and we stayed at this 3rd Ave. apt. We were six women in for a long weekend and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. From the beginning, my dealings with the staff at City Lights was nothing but professional. The girl that checked us in was so helpful. They were also very easy to get in touch with while we were there too. The inside of the apt. we stayed in (second floor) was completely remodeled with brand new furniture, two baths and a full kitchen if needed. There are two subway lines nearby, the 6 line (which is about a 5 minute walk) and the NRW line (which is about a 9 minute walk). There were many restaurants, bars and businesses right along 3rd Ave. which made it very convenient. There were only a few things that I think should be brought up. This was brought up in a previous review and that is if you are staying in the bedroom that has it's windows along 3rd ave. there can be a lot of traffic noise during certain periods and for a city that doesn't sleep, neither does the traffic. Secondly, the first floor is no longer vacant, it is now occupied by a small little bar called "The Exchange". If you are staying on the second floor apt. BEWARE of the "BOOM BOOM" that the base from the music creates. Once you fall asleep then it's not a problem, but trying to fall asleep with that base going is kind of hard. So, make sure you request a 3rd or 4th floor apt. Lastly, make sure that you request a unique code for your door leading into the apt. Currently, they use your checkout date for your code, but the problem with that is, that if anyone else in the bldg is checking out the same day they have the same code. One of the other tenants walked right into our apt. I immediately called them and they are very aware of the situation and said they would find a way to remedy that situation immediately. Just be sure to ask them when checking in. If I go back to NY I would have no problem staying with them again.

Date of Posting: 18 May 2010
Posted By: Florida Gator
256

Appartamento davvero gradevole, spazioso e pulito. Nessun problema con il proprietario che è sempre stato disponibile. Cucina completa di tutto, macchina del caffè, lavastoviglie e microonde. Metropolitana a soli 2 blocchi. Ci siamo trovati davvero bene e ci siamo davvero divertiti un sacco anche grazie a questo appartamento. Really a nice apartment, very big and cleaned.The owner is very helpful and gives all info about grocery, pharmacy and everything you need are around you. Subway is 2 blocks from apartment. Our holidays were wonderful thanks also to the apartment, that gives the feeling of a really "New Yorker" life!!!

Date of Posting: 09 March 2010
Posted By: Andrea P.
2153

Appartement spacieux et propre, nous étions à 7 et nous n'avons pas eu l'impression de vivre les uns sur les autres. C'est vrai que la chambre qui donne sur la 2nde avenue est un peu bruyante mais la seconde chambre est vraiment très calme. Grand réfrigérateur, grande cuisinière et lave-vaiselle (très utiles lorsque l'on est nombreux). Seul petit hic, la douche fixe(pas de tuyaux) pas très pratique pour laver la baignoire. Très bon rapport qualité/prix. Les gestionnaires de l'appartement sont vraiment sympas et répondent très rapidement à toutes les questions.

Date of Posting: 17 December 2009
Posted By: Maeva D.
2153

Everything was exactly as described, the apartment was practically new and very clean and spacious enough for 6 people (two bathrooms made it easy in mornings), the kitchen would be handy if wanting to cook, the building is a four storey walk up with good security above a small vacant shop, each apartment in on a floor to its own, the location was great to experience a different non touristy side of NY, lots of little local bars within 2 minutes walk (recommend the black bear lodge on one block up on third), plenty of options for breakfast with lots of NY diners within a couple of blocks and a fully serviced laundromat across the road ($11 for bag of clothes washed, dried and folded), there is a small convenience store next door with atm and everything one could need (even at 4am). The area was completely safe and I would definitely recommend this apartment for small groups (and families with children) who want to visit NY without paying a fortune in hotel rooms. The guys at City Lights Real Estate were most helpful from the day I approached them about the apartment to the day we left. I will stay here again. Perfect home away from home!

Date of Posting: 08 November 2009
Posted By: O.C. W.

Très bel appartement, spacieux, bien meublé. Les lits sont confortables. Contrairement à ce qui est indiqué dans l'annonce, il n'y a pas de machine à laver. L'appartement est très bien situé, à 5 minutes à pied du métro, magasins, delis, restaurants à proximité. Nous avons eu un très bon accueil des propriétaires. Seul bémol : le bruit... La chambre qui donne côté rue est très bruyante. L'autre en revanche est calme et très spacieuse ! C'était très agréable de retrouver l'appartement le soir après les journées de balade, et de pouvoir profiter de la cuisine pour se préparer à manger !

Date of Posting: 03 November 2009
Posted By: Perrine C.
2153

This appartment was absolutely fantastic, it was really spacious and very clean. There were six of us staying and there was plenty of room for all of us. The location was perfect, and the food emporium just around the corner was amazing. We would certainly recommend this appartment to anyone wishing to visit New York. Taxi fare from JFK was a flat rate of $45. What a great way to spend a birthday break.

Date of Posting: 22 October 2009
Posted By: Lucky L.

We were 5 people travelling from Denmark, Europe to experience New York. Besides me and my wife were 3 youngsters aged 16,18 and 19. The apt. was just as we wanted. We were able to be together with lot of space and the 3 bedrooms made the nights comfortable. Everything was arranged acc. to agreement and when needing a little help the owners were available on mobile. We really appreciated the neighbourhood. Cosy and secure and few minutes away from everything by using the busses on 3rd Ave. The Met and Guggenheim took maybe 15 minutes, Times Square, Chinatown and Financial District app. 10 minutes. A much better location than staying just in the middle of the Theatre District. The only little negative issue re. the apt. is that one migth experience some noise doing the night from 3 Ave for those staying in the bedroom with windows on that side. But anyway - we will certainly stay there next time.

Date of Posting: 21 October 2009
Posted By: R. E.

Wir haben unseren Aufenthalt sehr genossen. Die Wohnung war ein angenehmer Rückzugsort in der doch lauten und hektischen Metropole. Neben der Versorgung mit Supermarket, etc. in unmittelbarer Nachbarschaft war die schnelle Erreichbarkeit der für Touristen besonders attraktiven Subway 6 vorteilhaft.

Date of Posting: 15 October 2009
Posted By: Sylvia K.
181_1

+ :great sized apartment...good to have facilities (i.e. kitchen,laundry) - :area does not have a good quality supermarket

Date of Posting: 10 October 2009
Posted By: Wayne T.
2153

The apartment was in a very good condition and most of all the location was perfect. Though it was 8 of us in the apartment, we fit in well (although I wouldn’t recommended the apartment for 8 person if they were not really close, we were a group of mothers and daughters, all grown-up, so we managed well). The apartment was clean and light and both bathrooms were also in good condition. The beds were comfortable too. The near-by shops (a wonderful food-market, a liquer store) and restaurants (lovely Japanese restaurant in the next building) were really good. Since we were 8 ladies' staying, we would have loved to see some posters or paintings on the wall (maybe they are coming?) and bedside-lamps besides all beds. They would bring an extra warmth to the apartment. The location is a real bonus, we walked easily to Moma, Bloomingdales and Times Square, among other places. We only wish we could have spent a few more extra days!

Date of Posting: 25 September 2009
Posted By: Karina S.

L'appartamento è molto grazioso, pulito e moderno.La zona di New York (East Harlem) è ben collegata tramite metro a tutte le principali attrazioni turistiche

Date of Posting: 17 September 2009
Posted By: Maurella D.
207

First off the guys at City Lights Real Estate are very nice and professional. They answer all our questions in a timely manner. The apartment is quite spacious for 4 people. It was very clean and modern. Probably the best thing for us was the air conditioner! One in each bedroom and also the living room. It feels so awesome after be out in new york heat and humidity. The location is very convenience to the subway which is a block away and also there is a RIte Aid around the corner for any of your needs. Try out the Mexican restaurant next to the apartment pretty good food.

Date of Posting: 09 September 2009
Posted By: Amy L.

We found this apartment very spacious, well equipped and pleasant to live. Just a small room flat situated alongside street is a little noisy. In addition it is very well positioned with the metro nearby, shops, restaurants. While we were in Harlem we felt safe which allowed us to move even late at night. So we spent an excellent 2 week stay with family!

Date of Posting: 04 September 2009
Posted By: Marie S.
181_1

Functional and clean apartment, excellent location (metro 2 blocks, Central Park and 5th Ave at 15 min. Walk, supermarket wonderful just around the corner), quiet area. 8 beds divided into 3 rooms and a double sofa bed in the living room. Apartments equipped with all the useful for cooking. Good value for money and customer service.

Date of Posting: 25 August 2009
Posted By: Merro M.

appartement very well situated to visit manhattan by foot, owner very pleasant and helpfull, fantastic stay in the big apple !we lived during few days just like new yorkers!

Date of Posting: 17 August 2009
Posted By: Virginie H.
3S

10 Nights in EAST Harlem!! Only THREE problems with property...1) like MANY NYC apartments...this unit a "walk-up"...only two flights of stairs...but NOT good for the infirmed....2) the matress is NOT comfortable at all....but then again....my back has probs with the matresses at 5star hotels...3) its not available for longterm rentals....say like....a year!! This place was so GREAT....I want to rent it when I move back to NYC! Only two blocks from the subway....barely a half a block from taxi's and bus line. GREAT mexican at Tua Casa...and EXCELLENT sushi at Lemon Life...both just around the corner. I will try the Cuban resturants on my next trip. The manager, Erik, was VERY personable, professional, and attentive...(thanks for the iron). Excellent communication and customer service. The property looks like something from a magazine.....completely renovated. I only have 3 regrets ..1) I never got a chance to take a bath in that huge tub...as a shower person...I guess I was always on the run....2) overnight guests would have made for a great memory....too many lonely nights :-( and 3) I wish I could have had more time in the Big Apple!! It was REALLY like living in the city again. My family was in NYC for the first time. 5 adults, 3 children. They shared two rooms at the Sheraton Times Square....for 10 days. Even though we went through Hotwire...the price was still considerable. Needless to say....they were probably a tad bit envious when they saw my place...lol. I will never ever pay for a NYC hotel again!! Vacation rentals. The only way to go.

Date of Posting: 23 July 2009
Posted By: Darnell I.

The apartment was ok, very clean, near to the underground and the supermarket. Very good equiped. The owner is very kindly. The back garden was in a little mess. The apartment is appeared on a road and the zone is not very quiet. But we was felt very good.

Date of Posting: 12 July 2009
Posted By: Monica P.
181_1

Nous avons passé un excellent séjour dans cet appartement, et nous reviendrons sans aucune hésitation dans le même pour nos prochaines vacances à NYC!! :-) Il est vraiment conforme à la description faite sur ce site,calme et très confortable ; les propriétaires sont vraiment très gentils et généreux, ça a été un plaisir! Il est à seulement 2 blocks du Subway, et le quartier en lui même est sécurisé , aucun problème si vous rentrez tard, même en bus.. Vous ne regretterez pas vos vacances

Date of Posting: 01 July 2009
Posted By: Celine L.
248_2A

This is an excellent base, easy to get around New York from easy walking distance to Grand Central, Times Square, Empire State to name but a few.Subway station just a couple of blocks away which is great for getting to places like Central Park and Statue of Liberty if you don't fancy the walk. The apartment its self is quite small but well equipped and does what it needs to do. It was clean and well maintained and wouldn't hesitate in recommending it to anyone visiting New York. There's a supermarket 2 minute walk away and pubs nearby too, The area itself is nice more of a residential area of New York with a safe feel about it. We were met at the apartment by the owner who gave us a few tips and directions and answered the questioned we had. All in all a really enjoyable stay!!!!

Date of Posting: 26 June 2009
Posted By: Q. E.
Lex

This apartment was perfect for our girls reunion weekend in New York. It’s fabulously furnished and decorated and amazingly spacious, and it looks exactly as depicted in the photographs on the website. The appliances and fixtures are brand new, everything was clean and fresh. The apartment is newly remodeled and needed some finishing touches. My only criticism of the layout is that it lacks usable closet space. The building has an elevator which we were warned was unreliable, but we didn’t have any problems with it. The grand piano was a classy feature that we enjoyed very much. Murray Hill is a gem of a neighborhood with an abundance of ethnic restaurants for every taste and budget. On Sundays, the avenue outside the apartment is blocked to traffic for an all-day street market … you can mingle with New Yorkers walking with their dogs and families and soon feel like a local. This apartment is centrally located for getting around all of Manhattan by subway, cab, or on foot. The rental process was very easy and the owners were accommodating and always accessible. The only downside for some might be the noise and loud music from the bar below the street-end of the apartment, which went on into the early hours. The rear of the apartment overlooks a green area and is very quiet. I would recommend this apartment to anyone for a comfortable stay in New York City. Overall, it was a very positive experience. Thank you Peter, Erik and Damion!

Date of Posting: 18 June 2009
Posted By: Sue S.

Great location, Peter and Damon are excellent to work with. Using it as our base we navigated thru the city via the subway , never having to take a very long ride to get anywhere. We will certainly be using it again in the future. The unit was very clean and well appointed.

Date of Posting: 16 June 2009
Posted By: Row M.
3A

A group of four of us stayed in this apartment for 4 days in May 2009. The apartment was excellent. Spacious and clean and well-located. The 4/5/6 line is only a 5-10 minutes walk away, there's a Food Emporium a couple of minutes from the apartment and the usual selection of fast and slow food restaurants. Absolutely no problems at all and I would thoroughly recommend.

Date of Posting: 02 June 2009
Posted By: Russ L.
3A

The location was great - central but with nice local restaurants and individual shops. The apartment was smart, comfortable and well-equipped. It would definitely be my first choice of accommodation in New York on my next trip.

Date of Posting: 31 May 2009
Posted By: Neale B.
Lex

Just back from a 5 day stay and am very happy to recommend this apartment. The location is great - only a couple of hundred yards from Gramercy Park, with very close access to the subway and within walking distance of most places. It is on a busy junction but we did not find the traffic noise to be a problem. Also has very efficient a/c (it was 80F+ this weekend so that was important). The apartment was very clean and there was fresh linen and towels in both of the spacious bedrooms. It also has a very decent-sized lounge, which is ideal for people- watching. Our only gripes were that the furnishings are pretty spare and it is lacking some basic equipment - there are not many glasses, no ironing board (although there is an iron) and the toaster is broken. Not big things but it is probably worth the owners / renters (who are very friendly and efficient) investing a small amount of time and money to sort them out. Overall, this is a perfect property for a small group of friends, one or two couples or a small family to use as a base for short stay.

Date of Posting: 26 May 2009
Posted By: Jim P.

cet appartement propre et confortable est trés bien situé proche du metro et d'un supermarche.il est très facile de se rendre dans les differents quartier de NY. le lieu est calme. Nous etions 2 couples et avons passé un agréable séjour.

Date of Posting: 25 May 2009
Posted By: Geraldine L.
207

A very charming apartment with all amenities. Perfect location for walking the City. Great for grocery shopping and some good little restaurants right outside the front door. Subway access was fantastic, as was Broadway and Central Park. Quick and easy to the art galleries and a lovely walk to 5th avenue and Grand Central Station. We had a wonderful time and are looking forward to visiting New York again in the near future. There is way too much to see in one visit. It was great having an apartment instead of a hotel, as we could cook when we felt like it our go out and sample the wonderful restaurant. The only draw back for the apartment is that it is a walk-up which was great for us but not necessarily good for everyone. The plus side is it felt like we were really experiencing living in New York which was fun. Eric was great and met us at the apartment, gave us information about the apartment and New York and it was an all around good experience. We would look forward to using this service again.

Date of Posting: 25 May 2009
Posted By: Lione S.
4N

El Departamento es muy bueno, todo impecable. Teniamos un poco de temor respecto la ubicación, Harlem, pero realmente nos hemos sentido bien, no hemos tenido ningun problema, el metro está a 3 cuadras, muy cerca y volviamos de noche sin problemas. nos manejamos en subte y bus todo el tiempo, acortando las distancias. El edificio es antiguo y deteriorado pero el departamento esta muy bien, totalmente remodelado, cómodo para 2 o 3 personas aunque podrían quedarse hasta 4 porque tiene un dormitorio matrimonial y un sofa cama doble. El unico tema a tener en cuenta es que las escaleras son muy altas y no cuentan con ascensor. El pago se realizo sin problemas y nos gestionaron la devolución de la fianza al irnos del departamento dejando todo en condiciones. Caundo llegamos al aeropuerto llamamos a nuestro contacto quien nos espero en el departamento y nos entrego la llave. Muy amable. No recomendaría el lugar para matrimonios con chicos pequeños, y para gente grande o con problemas porque se suben dos pisos por escaleras y por otro lado en esos casos no resulta optimo estar alejados del centro de manhattan si es que se viaja por turismo. Tal vez viajando mujeres solas sugeriría trasladarse en taxi por la noche como en cualquier ciudad del mundo. Harlem es un lugar lindo para visitar, hay mucha gente puertorriqueña que habla español y muy amigable. Estamos conformes con nuestra estadía.

Date of Posting: 18 May 2009
Posted By: Nat A.

Très bel appartement de grande surface. L'inconvénient majeur concerne le bruit : 1 chambre donne sur la 2nde avenue, elle est donc très bruyante. Le plancher de l'appartement du dessus est mal insonorisé, nous entendons donc la personne qui habite au-dessus. Meubles neufs et impeccables, canapés, TV et linge de lit neufs : un vrai bonheur ! Contrairement à ce qui est précisé dans l'annonce, il n'y a pas de lave-linge. Dans la cuisine , il manque certaines choses comme un micro-onde, mais aussi plusieurs petits objets bien utiles (une passoire, un tire-bouchons, un décapsuleur). Bon accueil et disponibilité au moment de la réception (nous sommes arrivés très tard...) et au moment du départ. Proximité du métro et des commerces alimentaires. Excellent souvenir de ce séjour !!

Date of Posting: 04 May 2009
Posted By: Regine C.
2153

La casa è ottima e presente di tutti i confort, comoda come linea metropolitana e quartiere tranquillo, distante il giusto dal centro per vivere aspetti diversi di new york city. Il proprietario Damon, gentilissimo dal primo contatto all'accoglienza a casa. Consigliatissimo!

Date of Posting: 28 April 2009
Posted By: Andrea B.
248_2A

We where greeted by 2 of the guys from smartstay who had arranged that the apartments be decorated as a surprise for me as it was my bacholorette party. The apartments where a fantastic standard, comparable to a 4/5 star hotel but with the addded benefit of 2 kitchens and four bathrooms. These could be seperated into 2 smaller apartments. The location was great, 15 min walk to central park, 10 min walk to bloomingdales and all the other sites where no more than 25 min cab or subway ride from the apartment. The guys from smartstay where a great help with our luggage and there was everything we needed from teatowels to bottle openers and crockery, pans and glasses. the age range of the ladies was 15 - 60 years and we where all very impressed with the apartments. Thanks again to all the guys, it was a pleasure dealing with you all.

Date of Posting: 28 April 2009
Posted By: Vicki U.
3A

l'appartement était conforme à la description, confort, situation, bonne relation avec le responsable et bons renseignements quant aux alentours lors de l'arrivée et lors du départ, le ménage est assuré, aucun souci particulier, très bonne adresse pour permettre une visite de new york. merci

Date of Posting: 19 April 2009
Posted By: Sylvie A.
3S

Un appartement trés agréable, tout neuf et propre, les propriétaires sont trés sympas et trés disponible!! il se situe au sud d'Harlem et contrairement à ce que l'on pourrait penser, trés en sécurité, ne risquez rien, ns on était avec une petite de 4ans et aucune crainte! la seule chose c'est que la fenêtre donnant sur la rue, le matin trés tôt, elle est bruyante et comme il n'ya pas de volets c'est des persiennes le jour rentre un peu dans la chambre mais à new york c'est un peu normal le bruit yen a partout! vraiment excellent appart à conseiller!!!!

Date of Posting: 11 April 2009
Posted By: Christelle B.
181_1

This apartment worked out fabulously well for our party of eight – two families; four adults and four “tweens”. We had more than enough space – in fact for New York City it was a huge amount of space. The unit was clean and kept up well. There were plenty of extra pillows, sheets, towels and blankets. The location is perfect – plenty of restaurants, bakeries, a coffee shop, liquor store, grocery store close by, etc. . . everything you need within walking distance. The subway is a block and half away making this location very convenient to anything and everything in NYC. Everyone with the rental staff was great to work with – very professional. We will definitely rent from these folks again when traveling to the Big Apple.

Date of Posting: 11 April 2009
Posted By: Tere B.

We really enjoyed our stay in this spacious apartment. It is in a good locality - 5 minutes from Maceys (and the Metro/Tube/Subway) and within walking distance of Central Park and the other midtown sights. It also has a couple of very good cafes and the excellent Food Emporium all within a couple of hundred yards.

Date of Posting: 07 April 2009
Posted By: Pete E.
353_3B

This was an excellent experience starting with Erik's responsiveness during my email communication prior to booking the apartment. All arrangements were perfectly met, financial transactions through PayPal, the apartment is spacious, newly renovated, very clean, wireless Internet access. We arrived from Newark airport, Taxi is ~$75, lots of restaurants and a great coffee shop directly across on 1st Ave. Central Park, Rockefeller Center, MoMa are all in walking distance, subway on Lexington is only a short walk (5 min.).

Date of Posting: 02 April 2009
Posted By: Paul E.

I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who is visiting NYC. No where else will you find an apartment at this price with two bathrooms. The apartment is in a safe neighborhood, and it was clean and fairly well appointed. It feels a little like living in IKEA-World. The property manager couldn't have been more accommodating or professional. He met us at the apartment and made himself available by phone should we have any questions or concerns. Within one block, there is a lovely grocery, a fabulous bagel shop and a good wine store (what else would one need?) If you choose this apartment, be prepared for three flights up to the apartment and a good number of blocks to the subway...not a problem for us, but it could be for others. In the neighborhood, we enjoyed these restaurants on 2nd: Sip Sak (Turkish) & Mimi's (Italian). Be sure to visit Conran's next door to the grocery.

Date of Posting: 14 March 2009
Posted By: Raleigh T.
4N

I would have no hesitation in recommending this property to anyone seeking a 2 bedroom apartment close to all facilities and attractions that New York has to offer.The apartment was clean and secure and with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms easily accommodated 4 adults.Shops are close by as well as numerous restaurants or you could eat in using the self contained kitchen facilities. The Citylights staff(Damon and Peter) were extremely courteous, efficient and went out of their way to make our stay hassle free and memorable.This was greatly appreciated since we were traveling from overseas and arriving in NY late at night. Any request was handled promptly and without an issue. The property and amenities was accurately described and represented extremely good value for the cost.

The only drawback would be the flight of stairs to reach the apartment on the 4 th floor which would not be suitable for people with a disability or maybe elderly couples. We would certainly book this property without hesitation next time we visit New York and have recommended it to all our friends if they also require a property to rent.

Date of Posting: 22 February 2009
Posted By: Peter E.

Excellent apartment - just what we wanted. bright and clean with good facilities. Close to supermarket, subway and a nice Mexican restaurant.

Good value for New York.

Recommend this apartment very highly and when we return to New York would hope to stay here again.

Date of Posting: 19 February 2009
Posted By: Andrew M.

We enjoyed the apartment very much, newly renovated and good location to stay in NYC.

Very comfortable for families.

Date of Posting: 17 February 2009
Posted By: Cynthia F.

The 4 of us came to NY on holiday and needed a place to stay. We were on a tight budget, and so we decided to take this apartment even though it was in East Harlem. When we got to the apartment, we were a little put off by the outside of the building, as it looked a bit run down. However, to our surprise, the apartment inside looked fabulous! The apartment was very clean, well laid out, and spacious. The manager met us at the apartment to let us in and gave us some nice pointers about the neighborhood. Being from out of town, we had some concerns about Harlem, as we heard it was dangerous or unsafe and far from the city center. We were wrong on all counts. The neighborhood is great, lively, and you can find fantastic little eateries at great prices. Also, the apartment is about 2 blocks to the subway and we were in midtown in minutes! If you are looking for a super nice apartment in a good safe area that gets you really great bang for your buck, this apartment is a great find! We ended up spending less than what we would have spent in a hostel!

Date of Posting: 17 January 2009
Posted By: Sue Z.

This was the first time i stayed at a vacation rental - i usually stay in hotels. And now I'll never go back. I got a WHOLE apartment instead of a dingy room with a bathroom, for LESS than what I was paying at hotels. I come to New York often because of work and so it was such a relief to find someplace to stay that actually felt like home. When I got to the apartment both Damon and Erik were there to check me in and they were able to fill me in on all the best places to eat in the area. I was close to a supermarket, the trains, and pretty much everything i needed. When I arrived I was thoroughly impressed by the cleanliness and the warmth of the apartment - i was never once cold. All in all a great apartment and a great company - I will definitely be staying with them again.

Date of Posting: 12 January 2009
Posted By: JD M.

Our overall experience at this vacation rental was good. The property was clean and well maintained, although the building itself was under some construction (in the stairwell). The manager was quite pleasant and provided hospitable service. He was flexible and helpful when it came to allowing us to keep our luggage in the apartment, since our departure flight was later than check out. I would recommend this property to others...if they are willing to do without the amenities of a hotel (i.e. room service and elevators). The location is great and the subway is only two blocks north. There is a great cafe right across the street for morning coffee and breakfast....Orchard Cafe

Date of Posting: 09 January 2009
Posted By: Heather J.

Every year we go into the city for a family and extended family trip to see the tree. We were very lucky to have found this Murray Hill location. The kids were amazed and felt like they were staying in a palace. Very clean and neat with tons and tons of space. Great kitchen. Lots of restaurants and a great walking area. We had a great time and would definitely go back. Our contacts were extremely professional and met us there to let us in. We felt very taken care of and felt as though we were home.

Date of Posting: 07 January 2009
Posted By: Mazie S.

all was perfect ! the reality was better than we expeted... so clean, all accomodations and amenities (and more !!!), situation in town, person's reception and disponibility... (Erik, Peter ) on place. Our stay was amazing. Thanks for all

Date of Posting: 06 January 2009
Posted By: Beatrice R.

Hi Everybody, We booked this apartment for Dec 26th and 27th, we had the time of our lives, the owner Damon personally met us upon arrival with his agent Erik, they were extremely professional,and Erik went out of his way to accommodate our needs, we were with young children, this place is very good on location, we walked everywhere, the restaurants and bars downstairs were also great, the apartment itself was beautiful, and we left it the way we got it, and received our deposit back promptly. we for sure are going to be return customers.... Thanks to Damon and Erik

Date of Posting: 05 January 2009
Posted By: Kumar M.

I stayed here during a business trip - so i was out almost the entire day. Coming back to the apartment just felt so much better than going back to a hotel. Hotels almost reinforce the fact that I'm away from my family - but this apartment felt like I was at home. So even though my family wasn't with me, it was almost like they were.

Check in was a breeze and Damon was able to tell us everything we needed to know about the local shops, food joints, etc. And no matter what question we had Damon or his associates were very quick in answering.

Will definitely be coming back.

Date of Posting: 01 January 2009
Posted By: Wendy C.

Hi, just an email to say thank you very much for everything. the apartment was perfect and we all had an amazing time in new york. Hopefully we'll be able to come back and stay at gramercy park again in the near future.

Date of Posting: 29 December 2008
Posted By: Natasha H.

The 4th floor apartment has bedrooms at opposite ends and is well laid out for a family or 2 couples. The owner helped us carry our luggage up the stairs and made suggestions about amenities in the neighborhood. It's clean, newly renovated and secure. The midtown location is convenient to all amenities - about 3 blocks from Bloomingdale's and the 4-5-6 Lexington Line Subway. Pizza, restaurants, groceries, pubs and great coffee (Orchard House Cafe) within a block. The owner is planning to install a new thermostat for the building's radiators - during our winter visit we opened the screened windows when it got too hot. We stored our luggage at the dry cleaners since our flight left in the evening. It was a great place to stay!

Date of Posting: 26 December 2008
Posted By: Rachel J.

This is a very nice appartment in Harlem. Recently redecorated and refurnished. Only a few metro stations away from the center of Manhattan. Safe and friendly neighbourhood even though not flashy like 5th avenue. Overall excellent stay. Recommended for: Adventure Seekers, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car

Date of Posting: 17 December 2008
Posted By: Jordi G.

This was our first trip to New York. We rented the apartment for four adults. The flat was great and very comfortable. The apartment descriptions and pictures are accurate. The owners are very friendly and do everything easier for you. The location is brilliant and very safe. We never used a taxi, the subway stations are close to the apartment. The apartment is a nice place to be, if you don't want to be among crowds of tourists. The neighborhood is quiet and very close animated places.

Date of Posting: 09 December 2008
Posted By: Ramon P.

When I arrived the owner and his assistant were there to help us with our luggage and to check us in. They were really knowledgeable and provided us with a wealth of information - where to eat, where to shop, where to visit. Even though we had an itinerary we visited their recommendations and were not disappointed - how could you be? it's new york! All in all the apartment was terrific. My son plays piano and it was great to hear him play for us while we were lounging. The jacuzzi felt great and the kitchen was perfect for our needs - I was cooking for 8! I would definitely recommend this apartment to anyone looking for a relaxed and luxurious stay while they're in New York. If you were to get this type of room in a hotel you'd be paying triple the nightly rate we paid.

Date of Posting: 06 December 2008
Posted By: Phil D.
382

The apartment I rented from City Lights Real Estate could not have been nicer: newly-renovated, nicely-furnished, great location. From start to finish the experience was very pleasant and hassle-free. City Lights agents were very professional and tried hard to accommodate my particular needs. I cannot recommend them enough, and will definitely be back!

Date of Posting: 22 November 2008
Posted By: Emily F.

The Harlem location was perfect for me with great food and services in every direction. Access to all of Manhattan was easy with subway stops nearby. The apartment itself was super clean; well beyond what I had expected for the price. It certainly beats a hotel with two large rooms, a kitchen and high-speed Internet.

Date of Posting: 19 November 2008
Posted By: Robert B.

When I entered the apartment, I truly felt like a true New Yorker. I found their ad through Homeaway and saw the pictures provided, but none of the pictures did it any justice. The exposed brick wall in 1071 Apt. 4N really hit the mark for me. I don't think you can find a place like this anywhere else. Also, Damon helped me out in getting me a good deal that fit my budget. He was very kind about it and was a pleasure doing business with.

Date of Posting: 12 November 2008
Posted By: Elizabeth V.

Anyone thinking about renting from City Lights Real Estate, should have no reservations. Since my first inquiry in renting a short term apartment, their response was immediate, and all of my many questions later were answered quickly, accurately, and with courtesy. I had some hesitation, and doubts about the apartment I was to rent for me and my friend in East Harlem. But Peter very patiently explained the neighborhood, the legitimacy of the business he works for, and happily gave me a reference from the previous tenant.

There was also some confusion in meeting up for payment, and the arrival time at the apartment. But once again both Peter and Damon assisted both me and my friend, by leaving the keys with the very helpful landlord of the apartment building. The landlord then also went beyond her normal duties, assisting me with keeping in touch with my friend before my arrival, and telling about the best shops to use, laundromats, how to use the subway and bus, and best restaurants.

City Lights, made a small town girl from Iowa feel very comfortable within the big city of New York, or as Peter would say the, "Concrete Jungle".

I thank both Peter and Damon for being ever the professional, but with great personal flair.

Date of Posting: 04 November 2008
Posted By: Tamara W.

City Lights Real Estate, Damon, and Peter helped me with my first experience in NYC. They were very courteous and was very generous in their services. Their process in booking the apartment was quick and convenient and safe. Throughout the whole process of booking, they explained every step to ensure my trust. I will definitely consider City Lights again when I return to NYC.

Date of Posting: 12 October 2008
Posted By: Samuel S.