Before addressing the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing real estate in East Rockaway, NY, it is important to keep in mind that owning property is a significant financial investment and should be approached with thorough research and analysis.

Advantages:
- East Rockaway has a suburban feel, and that may be an advantage to people looking for living in a calm and peaceful place.
- The city is located in Nassau County, which has excellent schools, parks, and overall a good quality of life.
- East Rockaway is about a 45-minute drive from New York City, which may be an advantage for people who work in NYC, but prefer a quieter and more peaceful lifestyle.
- The city has a vibrant community life with local events and clubs, which provides a good opportunity to socialize and make new connections.

Disadvantages:
- East Rockaway is located near the waterfront and is at risk of flooding, which might impact the value of the properties.
- The cost of living in East Rockaway is above the national average, which may be a disadvantage for people looking for affordable housing options.
- The property taxes can be high in East Rockaway, which may impact the affordability of owning a home.
- The availability of public transportation in East Rockaway is limited, which can be an inconvenience for people who rely on public transportation.

In conclusion, East Rockaway, NY, has some strong advantages like a peaceful suburban feel, good quality of life, excellent schools, and proximity to New York City. However, potential buyers need to thoroughly consider the potential drawbacks such as flooding, high cost of living, property taxes, and limited public transportation, before making a decision to purchase real estate in this area.