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January 2026 Entry-Level Opportunities: Long Island City, NY Real Estate

Published on Thursday, January 8, 2026
Lissette Abreu
RE/MAX Team
Focus areas include Astoria, Bayside, Cambria Heights, Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, Far Rockaway, Flushing, Hillside, Jackson Heights, Jamaica, Long Island City, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ozone park, Queens Village, Sunnyside and Whitestone, along with surrounding towns, communities and neighborhoods.
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If you are aiming to open doors for first time buyers or value seekers, January 2026 brings great news in Long Island City, NY. Market entry is no longer out of reach—has the climate shifted to favor new buyers? Data signals strong options at every stage of the homeownership journey.

Across Long Island City, NY, 245 active listings set the scene for broad choice. Most importantly, 26 percent of closed sales have been below $900,000—a crucial signal for buyers eyeing affordable homes in Long Island City, NY this January 2026. By tracking 51 new listings and 32 closed transactions, agents sharpen their ability to connect buyers to matching price points and streamline the journey from tour to contract.

Spotlighting Affordable Options in Long Island City, NY

The median sales price sits at $1,125,000, yet a material share of activity happens below that point. This dynamic range means agents can guide buyers to untapped opportunities. With an average $1,285 per square foot price, careful negotiations benefit buyers focused on stretching their budgets. Properties stay available for about 41 days, affording clients time to make just the right move.

Opportunity Count: List, Negotiate, Win

Entry level homes in this market are sought by young professionals, relocators, and investors who recognize the value of acting early in January 2026. The right agent not only spots these deals but navigates carrying costs, which average $1.10 per square foot for common charges and $0.58 for taxes—details that clarify monthly commitments for newer buyers.

Diverse Financing in a Balanced Market

Successful transactions rely on astute guidance: 74 percent of buyers leveraged conventional financing, while 18 percent capitalized on all-cash terms. The current 6.2 months of supply offers more choices and less urgent bidding than in past cycles, giving first time buyers confidence to proceed.

Smart Steps for Entry Level Success

  • Act quickly on homes priced under $900,000.
  • Benchmark options using the median and average per square foot data.
  • Clarify all monthly costs with clients early.
  • Guide buyers through loan pre approval for negotiation leverage.
  • Match buyers to properties using up to date listings and closed sale trends.

Your Next Address Starts Here

First time buyers and entry seekers: January 2026 is full of choices in Long Island City, NY. Work with Lissette Abreu to unlock the local market and move forward with confidence.

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If you are asking, "is it a good time to buy in Long Island City, NY?" the answer lies in this window of possibility. Lissette Abreu offers guidance and support every step of the way in January 2026 to ensure new buyers are empowered and informed for lasting success.

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