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Westchester County, NY Real Estate News

By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
"Why Vacant Land Is the Smartest Investment in 2025"Why Vacant Land Is the Smartest Investment in 2025By Thomas SantoreLet’s get one thing straight: vacant land isn’t sexy.It doesn’t have curb appeal, a Pinterest-worthy kitchen, or 5-star Airbnb reviews.But in 2025? Vacant land is the smartest play in real estate.And here’s why:1. We’re Running Out of It Scarcity drives value. And in Westchester, Putnam, and beyond, buildable land is getting harder to find. Zoning restrictions, wetlands, steep slopes — it’s not just about buying acreage, it’s about buying usable acreage. When you know how to find it, you’re ahead of 90% of the market.2. Low Carrying Costs, High Flexibility No buildings = no maintenance.No tenants, no toilets, no termites.Taxes are lower. Insurance is minimal. You can ho...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Are there real The Importance of Good Neighbor RelationsThe Importance of Good Neighbor RelationsBuilding and maintaining good relationships with neighbors is essential for fostering a sense of community, enhancing safety, and improving overall quality of life. Here are some key reasons why cultivating positive neighbor relations is important:1. Creates a Sense of Community A friendly neighborhood fosters a welcoming and supportive environment. Strong connections with neighbors can lead to lifelong friendships. Celebrating community events and gatherings strengthens bonds. 2. Enhances Safety & Security Neighbors who look out for one another help deter crime. A close-knit community is more likely to report suspicious activity. In case of emergencies, having a reliable neighbor can be inv...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
The Benefits of a Home WarrantyA home warranty can provide homeowners with valuable protection against unexpected repair costs and system failures. Here are some key benefits:1. Financial Protection Against Repairs Covers major systems and appliances (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heaters, kitchen appliances). Reduces out-of-pocket expenses for costly repairs or replacements. 2. Convenience & Peace of Mind Home warranty providers have a network of pre-screened contractors, eliminating the need to search for reliable repair professionals. Quick response times for covered issues help minimize disruptions. 3. Budget-Friendly Option Instead of facing unpredictable repair bills, homeowners pay a predictable annual or monthly premium. Service fees are typically lower than the cost o...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
The Hidden Costs of Buying a HomePurchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions a person can make. While most buyers focus on the listing price and mortgage payments, there are numerous hidden costs that can catch homeowners off guard. Understanding these expenses in advance can help you budget more effectively and avoid financial surprises.1. Closing Costs Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price and include: Loan origination fees Title insurance and title search fees Appraisal and home inspection fees Attorney fees (if applicable) Property taxes and prepaid homeowners insurance 2. Property Taxes Property taxes can vary significantly based on location. Many buyers underestimate how much they will owe annually, and in some cases, tax...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Energy-Efficient Home Improvements: A Comprehensive GuideAs energy costs continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, making energy-efficient improvements to your home is a smart investment. These upgrades not only reduce utility bills but also enhance comfort, increase property value, and contribute to a sustainable future. This guide covers key areas where you can make improvements to boost your home's energy efficiency.1. Insulation and Weatherization Proper insulation and weatherproofing prevent heat loss in winter and keep your home cool in summer. Consider the following upgrades: Install high-quality insulation in walls, attics, and floors. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and vents with caulk or weather stripping. Upgrade to energy-efficient windows with double or tripl...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
2115 Albany Post Road, Montrose, New York 10548, Westchester CountyLocated in the heart of Montrose, New York, 2115 Albany Post Road presents a prime commercial leasing opportunity tailored for businesses seeking versatile industrial space. This property encompasses approximately 1,600 square feet on a sprawling 4.48-acre lot, offering both indoor and expansive outdoor areas suitable for various operational needs.villagegreenrealty.comKey Features: Advanced Electrical Infrastructure: Equipped with 3-phase electric power, the facility is well-suited to support heavy machinery and equipment, catering to industries with substantial power requirements. howardhanna.com Integrated Office Space: The inclusion of dedicated office areas ensures seamless administrative operations, allowing busine...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Sell Your Vacant Land in Westchester County, NYAre you sitting on a valuable piece of vacant land in Westchester County, NY? If so, now may be the perfect time to list it for sale. The demand for land is at an all-time high, and with a limited supply of available properties, sellers are in a strong position to secure top dollar. Whether you own a large parcel, a small lot, or acreage with development potential, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.High Demand, Low InventoryWestchester County’s real estate market has been experiencing an inventory shortage, especially when it comes to vacant land. Developers, investors, and private buyers are actively searching for land to build custom homes, subdivisions, and commercial projects. With few availabl...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
When would be the best time to list your Vacant Land in Westchester and Putnam Counties?The best time to list vacant land in Westchester and Putnam Counties depends on multiple factors, but in general, the ideal times are:Spring & Early Summer (March – June) Buyer Demand: This is when most buyers, including developers and individuals, are actively searching. Weather Conditions: Land is more accessible, with less snow and mud, allowing for easier site visits. New Construction Planning: Builders are looking for land to start projects that can be approved and ready for breaking ground by late summer or fall. Early Fall (September – October) Builders Looking Ahead: Developers plan for the next year, and buyers who missed out in spring may still be looking. Leaves Still on Trees: It’s a good...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
If I buy vacant land today will it be worth more in 5 years making it a good investment   It depends on several factors, but in general, buying vacant land in a high-demand area with limited supply—like Westchester and Putnam counties—can be a solid long-term investment. Here are some key things to consider: Factors That Could Increase Land Value in 5 Years Supply & Demand: You're already seeing high demand for land with limited availability, which should drive prices up over time. Zoning & Development Potential: If zoning laws change or infrastructure improvements (sewer, water, roads) are made, land value can increase significantly. Economic Growth: If nearby towns experience growth, demand for land will rise. Scarcity: Land isn't being created, so well-located parcels become more va...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
12 minute listing presentation   A 12-minute listing presentation should be concise, compelling, and structured to showcase your expertise while addressing the seller’s key concerns. Here’s an effective outline: 1. Introduction (1 minute) Thank them for their time. Briefly introduce yourself and your experience. Build rapport by mentioning something personal about the neighborhood or market. 2. Understanding Their Goals (2 minutes) Ask key questions: Why are you selling? What’s your timeline? What’s most important to you—price, speed, ease? Show that you’re listening and tailor your approach accordingly. 3. Market Overview (2 minutes) Provide a quick snapshot of market conditions (days on market, inventory levels, demand). Share recent comparable sales and active listings. Explain how ...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Marketing: What unique ways do you market your properties?1. High-Impact Digital Marketing Drone Footage & 3D Mapping: High-resolution aerial drone videos and 3D topographical maps give buyers a better sense of the land's layout, elevations, and potential views. Interactive Lot Boundaries: Use GIS overlays and property line visuals in listing photos to show lot dimensions, zoning, and nearby utilities. Virtual Walkthroughs & Renderings: Since buyers can’t visualize land potential as easily as a home, offer conceptual home renderings or site plans. 2. Targeted Advertising Facebook & Instagram Ads with Geo-Targeting: Run hyper-localized ads to buyers looking for land in Westchester, Putnam, and surrounding areas. Google Ads & SEO for “Land for Sale” Keywords: Optimize listings for terms l...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
are the number of listings coming on make the market better for buyers?   Not really—at least not yet. While more listings are coming on, the demand for homes and land in your market is still strong, and inventory remains tight. The key factor is whether the increase in listings is enough to balance out buyer demand. In Yorktown, Cortlandt, and surrounding areas, there are still more buyers than available properties, keeping competition high. If inventory continues to rise significantly, it could start to shift the market in buyers’ favor, but for now, it's likely just providing a bit more selection without drastically changing the dynamics. Just joking I know it is very difficult for buyers agent
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
How is your real estate deal affected by an easement? An easement can impact a real estate deal in several ways, depending on its type and restrictions. Here’s how it might affect a deal: Property Value & Marketability – If the easement limits how the land can be used (e.g., a utility easement, access easement, or conservation easement), it could reduce the property’s value or make it less appealing to buyers. Subdivision & Development – Since you plan to subdivide your 47.5-acre property, an easement could restrict where you can place roads, utilities, or homes. For example, if there’s a conservation or wetland easement, it might limit your building potential. Access Issues – If your land relies on an easement for access (or someone else has access across your property), that could af...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Do you think the warmer weather will get the Real Estate market moving again?It definitely could, but it depends on a few factors. Warmer weather usually brings out more buyers and sellers, especially in the Northeast, where winter slows things down. But the real driver will be mortgage rates—if they stay high, some buyers might still hesitate. Inventory is also a big factor, and in your area (Yorktown, Cortlandt, and Putnam), there's already a shortage of land and homes. If more sellers decide to list in spring, things could pick up. Are you seeing any signs of more activity yet.
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
On the land side, are you seeing any new listings pop up, or is it still a grind to find anything suitable for your buyers? It’s still a grind. The few vacant land listings that do hit the market are either overpriced, have development challenges, or get snapped up quickly. There just isn’t enough inventory to meet demand, especially in Westchester, where buildable land with utilities is rare. Putnam has a little more opportunity, but even there, quality parcels are getting scarce.  
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
How does the early spring market look to you?The early spring market is looking tight, especially in our area. Inventory remains low, and buyer demand is still strong, particularly for vacant land, which you already know is in high demand.For residential properties, anything priced right is moving quickly, often with multiple offers. Mortgage rates have dipped slightly from their highs, which is giving buyers a bit more confidence, but affordability is still a challenge. Sellers seem hesitant to list, possibly because they don’t want to trade their low-interest mortgages for a higher rate.
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Give me you thoughts on Real Estate in the town of YorktownYorktown is one of the strongest real estate markets in northern Westchester. It has a great balance of suburban convenience and access to nature, which keeps demand high. The town attracts a mix of commuters, families, and downsizers, making it a dynamic market with consistent appreciation.Market Overview High Demand, Low Inventory: Yorktown has been a competitive market, especially in the past few years. There’s strong demand from buyers coming up from lower Westchester and NYC, but available homes are limited. Rising Home Prices: Prices have been trending upward, with bidding wars still common for move-in-ready properties. While not as expensive as southern Westchester, Yorktown has seen significant appreciation. Strong Schoo...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Is the real estate market to hot for most buyers?The current real estate market is extremely competitive, and for many buyers, it feels too hot to handle. Several factors contribute to this:1. Low Inventory Driving CompetitionIn areas like Yorktown and Cortlandt, there are far more buyers than available homes or land parcels. This imbalance creates bidding wars, causing properties to sell quickly, often above asking price. In some cases, buyers are waiving contingencies just to remain competitive, which can be risky.2. Mortgage Rates Adding PressureWhile mortgage rates have come down slightly from their peak, they’re still much higher than the ultra-low rates of a few years ago. Many buyers who would otherwise be in the market are hesitant due to affordability concerns, while homeowners...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Is the real estate community getting use to the higher interest rates of todays market?Yeah, for the most part, the real estate community is adjusting to higher interest rates, but it’s definitely still a factor in deal-making. Buyers, sellers, and agents have had to shift their expectations. Here’s what I’m seeing: Buyers Are More Rate-Sensitive – Many are hesitant, especially those who got used to 3% rates. They’re either looking for seller concessions, negotiating harder, or sitting on the sidelines hoping for a drop. Sellers Are Finally Accepting Reality – Some still have "golden handcuffs" with low-rate mortgages and don’t want to sell, but those who need to move are pricing more realistically. More Creative Financing – Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), seller financing, and rate b...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Football season is over with! Can we please get back to doing Real Estate?Absolutely, with the Super Bowl behind us, it's time to refocus on the real estate market. As of February 2025, the housing sector is experiencing notable trends: Home Prices: J.P. Morgan Research anticipates a 3% rise in house prices this year, indicating steady growth. JPMorgan Mortgage Rates: The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage began February at 6.89%, down from a peak of 7.79% in October 2023. Inventory Levels: An 11.7% year-over-year increase in home inventory is providing buyers with more options. Homes for Heroes® Market Balance: Experts predict a more balanced market, with opportunities and challenges for both buyers and sellers. AgentUp These developments suggest a dynamic real estate landscape in 202...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
If you would like to purchase vacant land in the lower Hudson Valley, you should call me!With inventory as tight as it is in the Lower Hudson Valley, buyers who want vacant land need a knowledgeable expert who can navigate the challenges—zoning laws, utilities, wetlands, and town approvals. That’s where I come in.If you're looking to purchase land for your dream home, an investment, or development, I have access to exclusive listings, off-market deals, and the insight to help you make the right decision.With demand high and supply low, working with an expert gives you an edge. If you’re serious about buying vacant land in Westchester, Putnam, or beyond, let’s talk!If you would like to purchase vacant land in the lower Hudson Valley, you should call me!"Are you sitting on vacant land?Now...
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