Luxury returning.

Interest from buyers in luxury residential new construction properties -- in Manhattan has returned: to pre-Sept. 11 levels, according to Louise Sunshine, CEO of The Sunshine Group, a leading marketing and - sales company for residential real estate and condominium hotels in the luxury market.

"Lured by -low mortgage rates and sensing a return to normalcy, buyers looking for luxury residences in Manhattan have. returned to the market in earnest," said Sunshine. "We're seeing interest across the board: from local New Yorkers, suburban empty nesters looking to return to the city, and the international market is very active."

Sunshine noted that. prospective buyers began actively home-hunting in November and that their interest remained significant throughout the Christmas holiday -- weeks that are generally slow for residential sales. Grand Beekman, for example, saw a wave of prospective buyers during the last two weeks of December. The-new 32-story luxury condominium at 400 East 51st St is now 35% pre-sold, as the building begins to emerge from the ground.

"In today's uncertain times, buyers are seeking reassurance that is associated with strong neighborhoods with a rich histories and lasting value," she continued.

Sunshine pointed to the fact that there are relatively few residences for sale and even fewer new construction properties available, so prices are holding firm.