The Inside Scoop on 2 5th Ave. in Greenwich Village

There are plenty of full-service co-ops in Manhattan, but 2 Fifth Avenue is hard to beat when it comes to location. Perched at the northwest corner of Washington Square Park, the building puts one of Greenwich Village’s most iconic settings literally outside your front door. Step outside, and the Washington Square Arch is right across the street.

But the location is only part of the story. What I particularly like about 2 Fifth is the level of service. It’s a highly staffed, full-service building with a doorman, concierge, live-in superintendent, garage, fitness center, library and other resident amenities. There’s even a private driveway—an underrated luxury when you’re arriving home with luggage, packages or a car service.

And despite all that service, maintenance has historically been surprisingly reasonable relative to what you’re getting. The building is also currently undergoing a substantial lobby renovation without an assessment, which is a meaningful plus for buyers looking at the building today.

Inside, the apartments tend to offer something that can be surprisingly difficult to find downtown: space. The building has a mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, along with combinations, and many homes have generously proportioned bedrooms and excellent closet space. Some floors also have an unusual construction quirk: 10-foot ceilings rather than the standard 9 feet, which can make an already spacious apartment feel even more impressive.

For a buyer who wants the energy and character of Greenwich Village—but also values white-glove service, amenities, space and the convenience of a true full-service building—2 Fifth Avenue deserves a very close look.

If you’re considering buying there, the real trick is understanding which line and which exposure give you the best combination of light, views, layout and value. That’s where the insider knowledge really matters. Please contact me at bill@compass.com and let’s discuss your options.