Introduction to Westchester County’s Pricey Estates
Even city slickers can’t resist the autumn colors of widespread Westchester County, where ample acreage isn’t too much to ask. No wonder the inventory of prime estates is still at a pandemic-era nadir. “We’ve had low inventory really since the beginning of COVID,” says Westchester resident and broker David Turner of Compass. And where supply is down, prices must go up.
The Current Market Situation
The median sale price for a home in Westchester County rose 11% year-over-year in July to $1.5 million, its highest watermark yet, according to the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors. On the ultra-high end of the market, the pickings become even slimmer. “There just aren’t a huge amount of great properties to buy,” says Turner, who happens, happily, to be selling two of the region’s best abodes.
Notable Estates for Sale
In 2018, he represented the estate of famed financier David Rockefeller in the $33 million sale of his Westchester compound, Hudson Pines, and now he’s listed the family’s adjacent property, Winterburn Farm. Located at 48 Raafenberg Road in Sleepy Hollow, the 42-acre farm was home to the late Rodman Rockefeller — son of VIP VP Nelson Rockefeller — and his wife Sascha.
Mrs. Rockefeller is now asking $12 million for the mid-century modern masterpiece by architect Richard P. Donahue. “The house was commissioned by Rodman in the early 1970s. He wanted a modern house amid the park,” says Turner. That parkland, with 55 miles of riding trails, is now the Rockefeller State Park Preserve. “You can ride directly from the property on horseback onto what once were the Rockefellers’ private carriage trails,” he says.
Winterburn Farm’s Features
Existing equestrian facilities include a 14-stall stable, an indoor and an outdoor riding arena, six paddocks and two groom’s apartments. Elsewhere on the property are a manager’s house, a greenhouse, a carriage barn and an equipment garage. Inside, a funky five-bedroom, six-bathroom home with Asiatic accents awaits. Built around a 20-foot-high center atrium, oversized windows flood the living room with light. “Those great windows face north and west, so you see the Hudson,” Turner adds.
Other Estates in the Area
A few miles away, at 842 Sleepy Hollow Road in Briarcliff Manor, sits the type of Georgian-style estate one might more readily expect of a Rockefeller retreat. Rightly so. Known as Rabbit Hill, this red-brick mansion on 22 acres was designed by Mott B. Schmidt, the architect of Hudson Pines.
In Briarcliff Manor, the seven-bedroom Rabbit Hill is for sale for $15 million and was featured in Netflix’s “Zero Day.” Photos by Daniel Milstein Photography
With seven bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and 12,542 square feet, the home dates to 1929, but has since been carefully restored by hedge-funder Douglas Haynes and his wife, Laurice. If you recognize the spread, listed for $15 million, thank Robert De Niro, who played president poolside here in the recent Netflix series “Zero Day.”
Purchase Estate
Closer to Connecticut in aptly named Purchase, a 17.73-acre compound is tempting buyers with a sub-$10 million price tag ($9.8 million to be exact). Amid rolling lawns and magnificent gardens, the renovated six-bedroom house at 2007 A/B Purchase St. is one of the area’s largest to hit the market in years, per the listing brokerage, Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty. Dating to 1862, the estate has a three-bedroom stone guest cottage, a large pool and equestrian facilities. Giddy up.
This estate at 2007 A/B Purchase St. (complete with a guesthouse, pool and horse barn) is asking $9.8 million. Photos by Robert Socha
Conclusion
Westchester County’s pricey estates, including the Rockefeller farm, offer a glimpse into a world of luxury and exclusivity. With their rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, these properties are truly unique and highly sought after. Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or just looking to indulge in a little luxury, Westchester County’s high-end real estate market has something to offer.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of the Westchester County real estate market?
A: The market is experiencing low inventory, leading to higher prices.
Q: What is the median sale price for a home in Westchester County?
A: The median sale price rose 11% year-over-year in July to $1.5 million.
Q: What notable estates are currently for sale in Westchester County?
A: Winterburn Farm, Rabbit Hill, and the estate at 2007 A/B Purchase St. are some of the notable properties currently on the market.
Q: What amenities can be found on these estates?
A: Amenities include equestrian facilities, guest houses, pools, and magnificent gardens.
Q: What is the price range for these estates?
A: Prices range from $9.8 million to $15 million.
