Lucy Cohen Blatter

New York may be a city of renters, but I, for one, wouldn't mind setting down roots and becoming an owner. I've done the math; buying an apartment wouldn't necessarily mean higher monthly costs — remember, the rent is too damn high here after all — and there would be some major tax benefits involved. But there's one hurdle I can't seem to get past: the down payment.

Even once your offer's been accepted, there are several things that can still cause a mortgage deal to fall through. 

Here are the top culprits, according to the New York Times.

If the idea of Brooklyn Heights conjures up images of charming apartments, this $2,800 studio located at 89 Hicks Street (between Orange and Pineapple!) shouldn't disappoint.

Among the pros: There's a separate, well renovated kitchen (complete with a built-in microwave, a dishwasher and a washer/dryer under the counter), plus a dining alcove well-suited for a small table.

We've now reached the muggy, lazy point in the summer where desire to hang out/live by the beach has probably hit its peak. Why not spend your Hamptons-less weekends checking out homes that would have you living within walking distance of the shore? We suggest you bring along your bathing suit in case you have the urge to stay.

This $3,000/month Carroll Gardens walk-up, at 32 Garnet Street, was obviously renovated recently -- the kitchen has stainless appliances (including a dishwasher) and there's marble in the bathroom. The apartment's also got exposed brick and French doors. But to call it a true two-bedroom is a stretch, considering it appears as though those aforementioned French doors are separating a window-less living room/kitchen area from the "bedroom."