ANTIQUE HOUSE HUNTING: WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN IN WESTCHESTER

Antique homes are making a new comeback on Westchester’s real estate scene, especially among houses built before 1900. Many homebuyers are looking to these homes because of their history, unique layouts, and to cultivate old-fashioned pursuits such as gardening, knitting, and even raising chickens. Currently, Douglas Elliman has more than a dozen historic listings on the market in Westchester.

In Chappaqua, a 1740 red colonial on King Street is listed for $1.39 Million. Nestled on just under 3.5 acres, the 5 bedroom, 4 bath home has been revamped to include an eat-in kitchen, central air conditioning, and updated electrical systems, while still maintaining its antique charm. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with extensive stonework, perennial, and vegetable gardens.  There is also a pool and a two-car detached garage.

“Antique homes are really in vogue right now because they appeal to people who want an authentic living experience. Some people like the new turnkey look, but we are seeing that people are also really adamant about living in a highly unique space with a sense of history that echoes the values of a bygone, simpler time,” said listing agent Nancy Strong. “Westchester is steeped in history, and we are lucky to be ahead of the trend when it comes to antique house hunting."

Ms. Strong also pointed out that many historic properties often have outbuildings that can be converted and used in a variety of ways for modern living, including arts and crafts studios and three-season entertaining.

In fact, it was recently discovered that a Pound Ridge home built in 1800 was where Alfred Hitchcock’s epic screenplay The Birds was written. The late owner, Evan Hunter, wrote the script in the barn with Hitchcock. It’s currently owned by script writer Jim Hart, who also looks to the historic home’s outbuildings and grounds for inspiration. The home is listed for $1.425 Million with Douglas Elliman.