The New York Times Explores Beechhurst

The New York Times focused its latest Living In column in Beechhurst, a 70-block neighborhood in the northeast corner of Whitestone. It’s a close community with around 7,600 residents, a private beach, and a mix of colonial, Cape, Mediterranean, Victorian and Tudor homes and waterfront co-ops. The Cross Island Expressway also allows for an easy commute to the city, only about 20 minutes without traffic. Residents love the area because it is tucked away and receives very little traffic from those who don’t already live there — and although they distinguish their neighborhood from Whitestone, many New Yorkers don’t know Beechhurst even exists. As one resident and real estate agent told the Times, “This area is a beautiful community with well-kept, immaculate homes, and I always say I live in Beechhurst. However, I’ve noticed in my ads recently that some people don’t know it, so now I also put Whitestone.”

The neighborhood, built in the early 20th century as a waterfront real estate development, is mostly dominated by single-family homes. Prices range from around $500,000 up to $3,000,000. The most exclusive area of the neighborhood is known as Robinwood, a 23-block enclave with large homes and security guards. Co-ops in Beechhurst sell slower than single-family homes, at an average sales price of $207,963. Best of all, Beechhurst residents maintain their own local beach, known as Beachhurst Beach. Residents are also able to access Boosters Beach in Whitestone.

Beechhurst: Stepping Out of Whitestone’s Shadow [NY Times]

Photo via Wikipedia