Brownstoner Upstate: Seclusion in Sullivan

Fridays at 11, Brownstoner Upstate brings you a selection of properties within three hours north, and a little east or west, of New York City.

“Secluded” doesn’t always mean “remote,” especially when you’re talking about Sullivan County up in the Catskill Mountains. Less than two hours away from Manhattan (if traffic is cooperative), Sullivan County has long been a getaway for those living amongst the urban hustle and bustle of the city, particularly during the booming Borscht Belt resort heyday. The resorts are mostly gone, but there are tons of reasonably priced properties dotting the area and situated within the mountains. Villages like Callicoon, Livingston Manor, Jeffersonville, and Narrowsburg are some of our favorite haunts, so we centered our search around those towns. Another bonus: Overall, Sullivan County tends to have lower taxes than many other places just north of New York City. Notice we said “overall.” Every municipality is different, so make sure to get that reality check with your real estate agent before making any life-changing decisions.

Located approximately 15 minutes from the center of the hamlet of Callicoon, this sweet renovated Victorian farmhouse is bright and cheery on the inside with a perfect front porch from which to sit and survey 2 acres of land. The price is decent for what’s offered here: Nearly 1,700 square feet, enclosed porch, big dining room, marble counters in a nice kitchen, and hardwood floors. Situated just a hair over two hours from NYC. Beds: 4. Baths: 2.5. Square Feet: 1,675. Lot Size: 2 acres. Est. Taxes: $5,209.

255 County Route 164, Callicoon (Catskill Castles) GMAP

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This clapboard house was built in 2010 by Catskill Farms, one of our favorite builders in the Catskills region. These people truly know how to put together a home that’s gorgeous to look at, well-appointed with a nice flow, and outfitted with sustainable materials, all for a reasonable price. This one’s got plank floors, walk-out basement, and a full sound system for the whole house. Love the rocking-chair porch and the understated landscaping. Located about two hours, 15 minutes from New York City. Beds: 2. Baths: 1.5. Square Feet: 2,336. Lot Size: 6.75 acres. Est. Taxes: $5,255.

21 Aspen Way, Narrowsburg (Catskill Castles) GMAP

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A 1,500-square-foot cottage on a two-acre lot with a screened-in porch and a babbling brook on the property for less than $200,000? Yes, please. The open floor plan, pellet stove, and high ceilings round out the attraction for us inside. Outside, we love the little footbridge and stone path leading up to the front door. Located about two hours from New York City. Beds: 3. Baths: 2. Square Feet: 1,530. Lot Size: 1.86 acres. Est. Taxes: $3,809.

142 Mongaup Road, Livingston Manor (Country House Realty) GMAP

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Built in 1900, this Cape less than a half-mile from the village of Jeffersonville has been lovingly renovated and includes the cutest bedrooms and a TON of land: over 50 acres, to be exact. That’s why it’s the most expensive property we’ve looked at today, in spite of the fact that the house is the smallest, square footage-wise. And, hey, did you notice? None of these properties are anywhere near the infamous creeks that are known for flooding. We aim to please. Located two hours from New York City. Beds: 3. Baths: 1.5. Square Feet: 1,372. Lot Size: 50.93 acres. Est. Taxes: $5,269.

145 County Route 164, Jeffersonville (Catskill Castles) GMAP