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Today’s Real Estate in Westchester County, NY: High Stakes, Low Inventory, and Smart Moves

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Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT 30SA0872839 

Today’s Real Estate in Westchester County, NY:
High Stakes,
Low Inventory, and Smart Moves

The real estate landscape in Westchester County today is anything but average. Buyers are hungry, sellers are cautious, and inventory is tight — a perfect storm that continues to redefine what it takes to succeed in this market, whether you’re making your first purchase, upgrading your home, or trying to time your exit just right.

Inventory Is the New Gold

The defining story of today’s market is still inventory — or the lack of it. From Yonkers to Yorktown, buyers are combing through listings that barely scratch the surface of demand. Many would-be sellers are holding onto sub-4% mortgage rates and hesitating to list, while new construction has not caught up with population shifts and post-pandemic lifestyle preferences.

The result? Bidding wars, quick turnarounds, and frustrated buyers competing for fewer homes in every price bracket. Properties priced right and presented well are often going under contract in days — not weeks.

Prices Remain Resilient

Despite predictions of a market cooldown, home prices in Westchester continue to hold strong, especially in sought-after towns like Scarsdale, Rye, Bronxville, Pleasantville, and Chappaqua. Even northern towns like Somers, Yorktown, and Cortlandt are seeing strong activity, fueled by buyers willing to go farther north in exchange for more space, land, and value.

Price growth has slowed in some segments, particularly the ultra-luxury tier, but year-over-year appreciation remains positive across much of the county. The value of location, school district, and amenities still matters — but condition and presentation matter more than ever.

Buyers Are Educated and Eager

Today’s buyers are sharp. They're pre-approved, watching interest rate trends closely, and ready to move quickly. Many are willing to waive contingencies or increase down payments to win in competitive situations — but they’re also wary of overpaying or getting into bidding wars with no ceiling.

The return-to-office push in New York City has also brought more attention back to Metro-North-adjacent towns, reviving interest in places like Tarrytown, Hastings, and New Rochelle.

Sellers Need to Be Savvy

If you’re selling, the good news is you’re in a strong position — but that doesn’t mean you can coast. Buyers still expect homes to be move-in ready or appropriately priced for what they need to do. Smart staging, professional photography, and a well-planned marketing launch make a difference. In this market, it's not just if your home sells, but how well it sells.

And if you’re sitting on the fence, wondering whether to list now or wait? Consider this: the supply squeeze is your ally. Waiting might mean more competition and unknowns — listing today, with demand outpacing supply, puts you in the driver’s seat.

What’s Next?

As we head into the summer months, all eyes are on interest rates. If the Fed signals cuts or stabilization, we could see a new surge of buyers entering the market, further fueling demand. On the flip side, any economic shakeup or policy shift could dampen confidence, especially among first-time buyers or those relying on financing.

But Westchester has always been more than numbers. It's about proximity to the city, a deep variety of towns and lifestyles, excellent schools, and strong community roots. Those fundamentals are as strong as ever.


Final Take

Today’s Westchester real estate market is competitive, strategic, and fast-moving. Success now demands more than just luck — it takes preparation, clarity, and an expert guide who knows the land, the neighborhoods, and the nuances of this evolving landscape.

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Westchester, now is the time to get serious. The opportunities are out there — but so is the competition.

Contact me at 845-590-5488 or email me at tsan25@aol.com
I am a 27 year full time Associate Broker

Comments(1)

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Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

This is good information to share with prospective home sellers and home buyers.

Have a productive month.

May 14, 2025 05:58 AM
Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker

Thank you and you have a great day!

Tom S

May 14, 2025 06:04 AM