For many Latinos in New York City, finding a place to live that doesn't eat up most of your paycheck can feel like a distant dream. But a new affordable housing lottery in Brooklyn's Little Caribbean neighborhood is offering a rare opportunity: apartments starting at $596 a month.
The building, Caton Flats, sits at 800 Flatbush Avenue, just a few blocks from Prospect Park. That means future tenants will have easy access to one of the city's most beloved green spaces, a major plus for families and anyone who needs a break from the urban grind. The neighborhood itself is a vibrant hub for Caribbean and Latino communities, with bodegas, restaurants, and cultural spots within walking distance.
What's Available and What It Costs
The lottery includes studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. Rent ranges from $596 for the smallest apartments up to higher amounts depending on the unit size and your household income. The building covers gas, but tenants pay for electricity. Compared to the average rent in Brooklyn—which often tops $3,000 for a one-bedroom—these prices are a genuine relief.
Caton Flats also comes with amenities that make daily life easier: a laundry room, a public terrace, a lounge, and a gym. The complex is designed for households of one to seven people, so it can accommodate a range of family sizes. Income limits apply, and they vary based on how many people live with you.
This kind of program is especially important for Latino New Yorkers, who make up a significant portion of the city's essential workers and often face the highest rent burdens. As we've reported before, changes to the city's affordable housing lottery system have aimed to make the process fairer, but demand still far outpaces supply.
How to Apply
Getting your name in the lottery is straightforward. You need to contact the building's management office directly. Call (646) 831-1384 or send an email to [email protected] to request an official application. The management will provide details on eligibility requirements and submission deadlines.
It's worth acting quickly—these lotteries tend to draw thousands of applicants. And if you don't get in this time, don't give up. Other opportunities are emerging across the city. For example, Jersey City has seen a rent drop that's offering some relief for those willing to cross the Hudson. And nationally, home prices are stabilizing, which could eventually make buying more accessible.
For now, Caton Flats represents a tangible chance to live in a well-located, modern building without breaking the bank. It's the kind of opportunity that can make a real difference for working families who keep this city running.
