Unique opportunity to live in a furnished Harlem townhouse on a beautiful historic block, shared with a friendly community of graduate students and working professionals who rent individual bedrooms while sharing common spaces.

This home was previously owned by my mother, a Columbia professor and physician, who passed away unexpectedly several years ago. I’ve continued living here with housemates for the past five years (along with my fiancé and our cavapoo, Rufus), and it has remained a warm, communal home rather than a typical rental property. Most roommates have come through friends, friends-of-friends, or Listings Project, and the average stay has been about two years, with several people remaining three or more — something we think reflects the positive, respectful house culture.

We currently have two housemates moving on: one relocating to be closer to a new job, and another who had been subletting while transitioning out of an apartment shared with a former partner.

Their two rooms will be available starting April 1:

• Top-floor bedroom (~300 sq ft, shared bathroom) — $1,875/month
• Ground-floor bedroom (~200 sq ft, private bathroom) — $1,825/month

We ideally prefer a one-year lease but are open to shorter terms for the right fit.

We’re looking for a friendly, communicative, tidy roommate who values shared living and community. The house has a naturally social but low-pressure dynamic (occasional communal dinners, movies, conversations, and mutual respect for quiet time). Because this is a real home (not a commercial rental property) and contains much of my mother’s furniture, we prioritize residents who are responsible and will treat the space with care.

Important note: the main kitchen is gluten-free. We do maintain a separate pantry area with a dedicated toaster and microwave where non-gluten-free items can be kept if needed. Please only inquire if this arrangement works for you.

Key Highlights:
• Located in the Strivers Row historic district near St. Nicholas Park
• Private garden next door with flowers, herbs, and vegetables
• Grill and patio deck behind the house
• Small gym with Peloton, weights, and yoga mats
• Shared kitchen, living room, dining room, terrace, and multiple workspaces suitable for studying or working from home
• Utilities (water, electricity, gas, high-speed WiFi) split evenly among residents; happy to share typical monthly costs
• Short walk to multiple subway lines: A/D express at 145th & St. Nicholas (~12 minutes to Columbus Circle), B/C at 135th & St. Nicholas, and 2/3 at 135th & Malcolm X
• Comprehensive alarm and security camera system; local precinct a few blocks away

About This Lister

About the Current House

Katharine (she/her, 30)
I was born and raised in New York and have lived in Harlem since I was 14. I split my time between New York and California. I just finished grad school for my MBA and currently work for Stanford University. I really love both this neighborhood and this home; it’s been in my family for years, so maintaining a warm, respectful atmosphere here is very important to me.

Jules (he/him, 30)
Jules is my fiancé. He grew up in Manhattan on the Upper West Side and is currently in graduate school training to become a therapist. He’s thoughtful, community-oriented, enjoys cooking, and plays a big role in keeping the house feeling welcoming and running smoothly.

Katy & Jeremy (27)
We also have two wonderful NYU PhD students in French Studies living on the top floor. They’re kind, easygoing, and very considerate housemates.