Sales have been particularly brisk in White Plains lately relative to other Westchester County  markets. In fact, it ranks within the top 5 locales of all the areas that Houlihan Lawrence serves.

What makes White Plains so popular?

It's no secret that the city has experienced a renaissance over the past few years and now boasts a vibrant downtown brimming with trendy restaurants, theaters, world-class shopping and sleek new high-rise condos that have enhanced the urban vibe.

Well-established neighborhoods, a diverse range of housing and a convenient location -  within close proximity to New York , as well as the many pleasures of the Long Island Sound and the Hudson River, both nearby - have always attracted people to the area.

But we attribute some of the increased interest in the area to the current economic realities.

White Plains has a wide choice of homes priced for today's market. Whether you are looking for an affordable co-op, a vintage Colonial house or a million-dollar luxury condo, there are plenty of homes to choose from. And if you are interested in purchasing a home for under $700,00, particularly in the active $400,000-$700,000 range, White Plains is a must-see.

A total of 233 sales were reported by WPMLS in White Plains between January-July 2009. Here's how the sales break-down.

• 106 homes sold for $400,000 and under.
• 94 homes sold between $400,000 - $699,000
• 33 homes sold above $700,000.
• Lowest Sale: $123,000 for a 1BR Co-op
• Highest Sale: $1,632,000 for a single-family residence

Geoffrey Berry is the Brokerage Manager for the Houlihan Lawrence office in White Plains.