This week, Brick Underground readers checked out what life is like in New York City’s suburbs, with an article on a couple who bought an apartment in the waterfront community of Glen Cove, New York. Their condo is part of large new development with lots of amenities. Outside there’s a marina, beaches, and a nature preserve. The city probably feels very far away—even though it is just under an hour to Manhattan by Long Island Rail Road.

Also of interest: You don’t have to be an owner to live somewhere that reduces your carbon footprint. Renters can live in eco-friendly, energy efficient developments as well—check out our round up.

Here are this week's top five posts:

1) From Murray Hill to Long Island: Tired of renting, we bought a waterfront condo with a resort vibe

2) An insider's guide to finding a short-term, furnished apartment rental in NYC

3) NYC geothermal roundup: Where to find energy-efficient rental developments that ditch fossil fuels

4) The gas is off in my NYC building. Can I get a rent abatement and lower rent when I renew?

5) 9 jobs that come with free housing or cheaper rent in NYC