While top-tier sales in First Half 2009 have slowed dramatically, a handful of recent sales hint at renewed interest in estate-caliber properties, the hardest hit segment of our local real estate downturn.

For example, our sale of a vintage brick Georgian Colonial on 2.5 acres in Milton Point, Rye ranks as one of the region's highest sales this year.

[caption id="attachment_95" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Rye Residence - SOLD"][/caption]

Brokers Donna McElwee and Diana Plunkett of the Houlihan Lawrence Rye Brokerage represented the seller and buyer respectively on this property, last offered at $6,995,000.

Another southern Westchester County property in Scarsdale, most recently offered at $6,750,000 also ranked among the highest sales regionwide.

Also a brick Georgian Colonial, a popular architectural style for estate properties, this home was accompanied by a pool, tennis court and guest cottage.

[caption id="attachment_96" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Scarsdale Residence - SOLD"][/caption]

The transaction was handled by Eileen Brennan and Deborah Glasser, both of Houlihan Lawrence's Scarsdale Brokerage.