House-hunting by style

Westchester County real estate is characterized by diverse housing options, ideal for meeting different needs and preferences. To help you out in the home-buying process, here are some of the quintessential architectural styles you can find in Westchester County’s real estate market.

1. Modern – Modern homes are often characterized by its simplicity in form and design. Windows might occupy large sections of the walls, and some modern homes come with flat roofs. Inside, you’re greeted with an open living plan. Some Modern-style residences also connect indoor and outdoor spaces for a seamless living experience.

2. Victorian – Victorian-style homes are ornate as Modern homes are minimalist in design. Distinctive features of a Victorian home include decorative trims, wraparound porches, and different parlors. You can find most of Westchester County’s Victorian-style residences in the Rivertowns.

3. Tudor / Tudor Revival–This architectural style first became in the late 19th century and still remained in fashion until the first half of the 20th century. An import from Europe, Tudors and Tudor Revivals are usually made from a mix of materials, including stucco, bring, and wood. Asymmetric in design, features include detailed woodwork and masonry, steep gabled roofs, casement windows, and dormers.

4. Ranch –A classic American style, a Ranch home is defined by long, low rooflines, big picture windows, a built-in garage, and sliding doors which will lead you to a patio. Ranch homes, also called California ranches, are great for single level living and designed for that lifestyle. There are design variations, however, such as raised ranch and split-level. Ranch homes also often come with simple and open floor plans and occupy a larger footprint. Due to the latter, there aren’t a lot of Ranch homes in Westchester, but you can still find this style with the right real estate agent by your side.

5. Cape Cod – Cape Cods are often found in Long Island, but you can find this popular style in Westchester County as well. Cape Cods are usually straightforward and come with one or one-and-a-half stories. Its roofline, one its most distinctive features, often slants down to the first floor. Most Cape Cods are finished in shingles, and offer less space than other styles.

6. Colonial–Highly regarded as one of the most traditional home styles in the country, Colonials are prevalent in Westchester County. You can easily spot such a home as they rectangular in shape and very symmetrical in design. Double-hung windows are another feature, and are often made of brick and solid stone.

Looking for more information about home-buying in Westchester County? Check out our blog.