The very specific style of the modernist or contemporary home calls for an equally specific buyer. Sharing her perspective is White Plains-based realtor Linda Lyons, of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Rand Realty, who, for more than 15 years, has been focused on all areas of Westchester and a range of homes, including new construction and contemporaries.
To whom do contemporary homes appeal? “From my experience, contemporaries tend to appeal to buyers who like open floor plans, high ceilings, more windowed areas, and lots of natural light. I also work with many buyers who come to Westchester from the West Coast where they’ve enjoyed a similar architecture and want to find a similar style here.”
Are there areas of Westchester where contemporary homes are more prevalent? “Yes. You ‘ll find more contemporaries in built-up areas from the late 1970s onwards. In the northeast, the ranch evolved to the split-level that evolved to the raised ranch then the contemporary with its open floor plan.
You’re probably more likely to find contemporaries in towns like Armonk (particularly around the lakes), Briarcliff, Purchase, Pound Ridge, and Rye Brook.”
What are common pros and cons connected to the contemporary design? “On one hand, some contemporary styles are so open and with such high ceilings that heating and cooling costs can be higher than other types of homes. On the other hand, many people love the open floor plan that allows them to have their children or guests within sight while cooking in the kitchen.”
Do you have any advice for buyers? “A popular time period for contemporaries was the 1980s, which means the mechanicals and roofs may be approaching their lifespans if they haven’t been updated. That’s something to keep in mind as you look. There has been an uptick in sales across the board, including the contemporary home market, in central and southern Westchester.
Linda Lyons, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Rand Realty; randrealty.com
