How much money do I need in the bank to pass a co-op board in Manhattan?

What boards actually look at

• Down payment. 20% is the usual floor. Many prime buildings want 25–50%, and a few want all cash.
• Post-closing liquidity. What's left after you close, in cash and liquid investments. One to two years of carrying costs is common; top buildings often want more.
• Debt-to-income. Your monthly housing costs plus other debt, divided by income. Boards like to see roughly 25–30%.
• The package. Tax returns, bank statements, reference letters, employment letters. Neat, complete and consistent wins.
• The interview. Short, polite, and not the place to negotiate. You've usually already been approved on paper.

Why buyers get turned down

Not because they can't afford it, but because the numbers aren't presented the way the board reads them. Bonuses, equity, irregular income and assets held abroad all need explaining before anyone asks.

How we handle it

Before you bid, we check the building's real requirements, not just what the listing says. Our team and our partners at Movtady Law build your board package with you, at no cost to you. And when you close, we cover 20–50% of your move.