This week, we turned to two brownstone experts to find out what makes these New York City staples so iconic and popular (and, yes, somewhat challenging to restore). Buying a brownstone means owning a piece of NYC architectural history and, given how many covet them, the envy of many. If you're in the market for one, these properties are just a handful of what's available—and open for viewing—this weekend.

579 Monroe Street, Stuyvesant Heights. A circa-1885 brownstone, this property has four (or five, depending on how you want to use it) bedrooms, as is currently configured as a two-family. Asking price: $1.675 million. Open house: Sunday, March 5, 3 pm to 4 pm.

294 Stuyvesant Avenue, Bedford-Stuyvesant. This circa-1901, five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath brownstone is gifted with original fireplace mantels, fretwork, moldings, and wainscoting—the better for bringing its prewar glory back. Asking price: $1.985 million. Open house: Sunday, March 5, 1 pm to 2:30 pm.

226 West 132nd Street, Harlem. This four-story has been renovated from top to bottom, and is also outfitted with a roof deck. Asking price: $2.875 million. Open house: Sunday, March, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.