BrickUnderground

So much of the new construction we see these days is beautiful, no question, but is it interesting? Not always. But no one can accuse this two-bedroom, two-bath co-op on Pacific Street in Cobble Hill of being run-of-the-mill. Situated in a converted school, it's as far from rote as can be, with notable architectural features such as exposed beams and brick, arched ceilings, skylights, and more.

1. Your commute may get cheaper in 2016 -- here's how

2. These apartments don't need 20 percent downpayments

3. Here's a disturbing new map of your neighborhood's gang activity

While most everyone else is distracted by all the holiday-ing, savvy buyers know now's a good time to find an apartment since there's less competition around, especially at the under-half-a-million price point, where the choices are few and far between in Manhattan. Here are properties open for visits this weekend:

Townhouse envy isn't a new phenomenon in NYC. In this eternally space-challenged city, the thought of owning your own plot of land, handsome house proudly perched on it, seems like the ultimate real estate dream. Add to that the fact that there are only so many houses in this co-op and rental-heavy city.

You've got to wonder what possesses people to try to sell their apartments with photos like these.

As always, this week's batch of questionable listings photos comes courtesy of Andy Donaldson, the man behind the Terrible Real Estate Agent Photographs blog and book, complete with Donaldson's own commentary.

There's something decidedly charming about this two-bedroom, two-bath duplex on West 80th Street a half-block from Central Park. Start with the touches that come with being tucked into the third and fourth floors of a townhouse: a period facade; a customized, non-cookie-cutter floorplan; slanted ceilings.