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record-breaking sale on Roosevelt Island has marked a turning point for the area, which was once known for its affordability rather than luxury. A three-bedroom penthouse with a sprawling 1,122-square-foot terrace sold for nearly $2.27 million, making it the most expensive residential sale in the island's history.

    The deal, brokered by Corcoran's Kaja Meade, is the third record-breaking transaction she has facilitated on Roosevelt Island in under two years. The penthouse offers stunning 270-degree skyline views and more than 1,400 square feet of interior space. Its private terrace dwarfs many city apartments, making it a highly sought-after feature.

    Meade attributes the sale's success to the buyer's desire for a Manhattan view without the density of city living. "When people are willing to spend in the higher price points, the main amenity they look for is obviously the view," she said. The penthouse's location on the southwest corner of 425 Main St. offers breathtaking views from the Upper East Side to Queens.

    The sale also marks a significant milestone in Roosevelt Island's development arc. The apartment was one of the last sponsor-held units released by developers Hudson Companies and Related Companies, which had previously rented out the apartments since construction. With no additional ground to build on, the remaining sponsor inventory is expected to sell out quickly.

    Roosevelt Island has undergone a transformation from a hub for public institutions to a planned residential community. The island's resale market has finally started to take shape as tax abatements on newer developments began to phase out and Mitchell-Lama buildings transitioned out of the program.

    Buyers are increasingly seeking more than just square footage – they want fresh air, flexibility, and some breathing room from Manhattan without leaving it. Riverwalk Landing offers full-service amenities, including a rooftop deck, concierge, and prime location near the F train, ferry, and tram.

    The record-breaking deal reflects shifting buyer preferences post-pandemic, with demand growing for space, outdoor access, and proximity to Manhattan without the density of city living. With sponsor inventory dwindling and resale momentum building, Roosevelt Island's once-overlooked condo market is rapidly redefining itself.