Summer Home Buyers and School Admission: Is There Still Time to Buy a House and Enroll the Kids? Plus This Week's Sales

Is there still time to purchase a home in Scarsdale to have your children enrolled in school in September?

According to a policy adopted by the Scarsdale School Board in October 2018, buyers with a signed contract who have not yet moved into their house are required to pay tuition for their children to attend Scarsdale Schools until they close on the house. This also pertains to those who own a house but are living outside Scarsdale while it is being renovated. In other words, if you are not living in the house, your children cannot attend school without paying tuition, even if you intend to move in soon.

Here is the official wording:

A child whose parents have contracted to buy or lease an apartment, house, or condominium in the District, but have not moved into the District, may attend the schools of the District for up to three months, upon the pre-payment of tuition. If the student and parents have not moved into the District within three months, the student will not be permitted to continue to attend the District’s schools, unless an extension is granted by the Superintendent, subject to the provisions of this policy.

So for buyers still searching the July, the question is – can you purchase a home in the summer and expect to enroll your children in school by September?

We asked a few local realtors to weigh in and here are their thoughts:

Susan GreenbergSusan Greenberg of Houlihan Lawrence said, “Mortgage rates are at historical lows and there are many nice homes on the market. I think there are some great deals out there, and new inventory continues to trickle on the market. Additionally, buyers can register their children for Scarsdale and Edgemont schools with a signed contract (depending on closing date the buyer may need to pay prorated tuition)”

Alisa Kaplan of Julia B.Fee Sotheby’s said: “There is still plenty of time to purchase a home this summer for admission to school in the fall. It is in fact a great time to purchase because there is a large inventory and there is less competition. Many buyers looking to start their children in the schools have already found their homes and are in Alisa Kaplancontract or have already closed. Other buyers have committed to renting for the year. There are over 150 single family homes currently on the market for sale in Scarsdale at all price points.

Lisa WeissmanLisa Weissman of Houlihan Lawrence replied, “And yes, there still is a market for to start school this year. The typical mortgage takes app 60-90 days from start to finish but some buyers come prepared with a commitment letter, only needing an appraisal to do the loan. Others pay cash and finance later!!! But since the write off has been reduced, this probably will not happen often.”

Elise FlaggElise Flagg, also of Houlihan Lawrence agreed, saying "Yes..buyers can still get into Scarsdale in time for the 2019 school year. If it is an all cash deal this can be done quickly and even with a mortgage contingency a mortgage advisor can request a rush on the commitment. Of course it helps if the sellers have someplace to live whether they are buying or renting...however when all work together deals can get done!"

New buyers who often struggle to come up with the down payment on their first home may not have sufficient funds to pay tuition as well. Given the loss of state and local tax deductions and the decline in the market, is this Board policy just another obstacle to prevent homebuyers from moving to Scarsdale? Perhaps the policy should be reconsidered given the decline in kindergarten enrollment resulting from the decrease in the number of new homebuyers coming to town. Has anyone considered a one-month or six-week grace period for school admission for those with signed contracts … or a refund to those who pay tuition but do move into their homes before November 1?

What do you think?

Enter your comments below or email us at scarsdalecomments@gmail.com.

Sales:
27 Oak Lane
This modern Fox Meadow home is set on a quiet desirable neighborhood. The stunning open floor plan features gallery-like walls and tall windows that showcase a spectacular 0.76 acre property enhanced with exquisite professional landscaping, an expansive stone patio, a brand new outdoor Lynx built in kitchen, fire-pit and ample room for a pool. A two story entrance hall, well proportioned living and dining rooms, a study, a beautiful white designer kitchen with center island and seating, breakfast area open to a large family room with a fireplace create the perfect layout for everyday family living. 6 expansive bedrooms include a luxurious master suite with tray ceilings, his and hers walk in closets, large master bath, and great lower level playroom with screening room.

Sale Price: $2,850,000
Assessed Value: $3,025,000
Real Estate Taxes: $74,578

10 Stonewall Lane
The circular drive invites you into this impressive 6 bedroom colonial located on a park like acre with pool in the Scarsdale School district. This sun drenched home was constructed by Chris Demetriades, a premier builder, known for his attention to detail. The first floor (all 9 ft ceilings) features a grand reception hall (open to the second floor), library, powder room, sunken living room with fireplace, french doors to patio, dining room, big and bright kitchen with center island, large breakfast room, family room with fireplace, laundry, back staircase, mudroom, and a door to the 3 car garage. Up the dramatic staircase to the three room master suite (sitting room, home office and bedroom), with spa bath. There are 4 additional bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms plus a second floor bonus/family room. All the rooms on the 2nd floor have tray ceilings.

Sale Price: $2,815,000
Assessed Value: $3,320,700
Real Estate Taxes: $81,047

18 Kempster Road
Features a dramatic staircase, grand living room with a fireplace and beautiful details, doors to a very appealing porch and patio, very large dining room with built in buffet, special eat-in kitchen with two butlers' pantries. High ceilings, gorgeous windows that have been totally renovated and fitted with magnetic storm windows and roll down screens, new stone walls, fabulous gardens and privacy, three zones of central air. Great garage with new wooden doors off the kitchen. Interior square footage includes 1,800 square feet in finished basement.

Sale Price: $2,100,000
Assessed Value: $1,800,000
Real Estate Taxes: $60,020

161 Rock Creek Lane
Exquisitely set on a landscaped, lush .45 acre, this stunning residence is perfectly sited at the bend of the road, commanding attention with its classically beautiful whitewashed brick exterior. An entrance hall with broad views and a spiral staircase sets the tone for the house. The ideal floor plan features a family room adjacent to the new chef’s kitchen (Wolf range/double oven, Sub Zero refrigerator, Meile dishwasher, wine cooler, and Caesar stone countertops), as well as a strategically located mud room convenient to the oversized garage and a private bedroom and bath. A circular flow insures seamless interaction of spaces, and provides the undeniable appeal of a home as abundantly spacious as it is warm. A stand-out 4,490 SF home (including 1,090 in lower level) offering immense quality, an enviable aesthetic, a gorgeous yard and a coveted location.

Sale Price: $1,965,000
Assessed Value: $1,575,000
Real Estate Taxes: $38,654

59 Sycamore Road
The sweeping grand staircase, marble foyer, and soaring entry ceiling set the stage for this glamorous 6 bedroom Colonial in the Quaker Ridge section of Scarsdale. Cheery and bright, this special home has over-sized rooms perfectly placed for entertaining and comfortable living. The exquisite kitchen offers seating around the granite island and a roomy eat-in area with sliding glass doors to a large Trex deck. All high-end appliances include: Wolf double ovens, Wolf microwave, Bosch dishwasher and Sub-Zero refrigerator. Convenient first floor laundry room, bedroom and full bath. Enjoy the Pella windows and doors with built-in slats for privacy. Relax in the family room with a gas fireplace with a "Sultan Red" onyx hearth, flat screen TV with a 9 speaker surround sound system plus a special custom mahogany built-in.

Sale Price: $1,670,000
Assessed Value: $1,600,000
Real Estate Taxes: $38,026

35 Claremont Road
Expanded and immaculate 6 bedroom, 4.1 bath Greenacres Colonial situated on a level .34 acre professionally landscaped property. This inviting home combines classic pre-war charm with modern amenities for today's lifestyle. Generously apportioned rooms flow seamlessly throughout the first floor, with easy accessibility to the outdoors. Special features include palladium windows, cathedral ceilings, updated kitchen and baths, central air, lawn sprinkler system, alarm, 2 wood burning fireplaces, first floor bedroom and full bath, new hot water heater, 2 car attached garage. Fabulous kitchen with large breakfast area and French doors out to private deck. Dramatic family room is both sophisticated and comfortable with soaring ceilings, built in speakers, fireplace, and French doors out to the deck. Serene master bedroom offers a dressing room, high ceilings, lavish master bath with jetted tub, 2 sinks and separate glass enclosed shower.

Sale Price: $1,630,000
Assessed Value: $1,550,000
Real Estate Taxes: $37,879

29 Circle Road
Relax while entertaining on the large covered porch. A gracious entry hall has a fireplace. A living room and dining room each have fireplaces and coffered ceilings. The beautifully updated kitchen has granite countertops a Viking range and Sub-Zero refrigerator. The family room is situated off the kitchen with a wall of doors to the patio and level yard. The architecturally pleasing staircase sweeps its way to the second floor where you find a large master bedroom with en-suite bath. Three additional bedrooms, one with a fireplace, and hall bath. The third floor has two additional bedrooms and a hall bath. Extras include heating coils in the driveway, a formal front and casual back staircase.

Sale Price: $1,275,000
Assessed Value: $1,500,000
Real Estate Taxes: $36,980

26 Hadden Road
A special home of scale and quality, on almost an acre in the Cotswold section of Edgemont. Take advantage of an opportunity to put your imprint on large, bright rooms with extraordinary detailing. Set off the street with a cobblestone drive, this home offers privacy and space for everything. Special details include a large 2 story entry hall, upstairs hall with beautiful balcony, dramatic staircase, wide-plank oak floors, highest quality slate roof, beautifully designed stonework, impressive stone porch, expansive patios, lawns and gardens, large bedrooms, potential for a large kitchen/fam. room across the back of the house, walk-in cedar closet, great storage throughout, 3-zone CAC, and gas cooking. Lightning suppression system.

Sale Price: $1,150,000
Assessed Value: $1,729,000
Real Estate Taxes: $57,310

2A Berkeley Road
Corner split ranch home with a leveled back yard and beautiful landscaping. Features a new hot water heater, finished walk-out basement, whole house attic, wood burning fireplace, dining room, sun room, eat-in kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms.

Sale Price: $845,000
Assessed Value: $975,000
Real Estate Taxes: $21,480

17 Ardmore Road
Welcome to this sun-filled charming brick colonial in the heart of Heathcote. This bright three-bedroom/1.5 bath home has a renovated eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, living room with a fireplace, new windows and a bonus room that can be used for an office/playroom. Beautiful flat backyard with patio, perfect for entertaining.

Sale Price: $830,000
Assessed Value: $818,351
Real Estate Taxes: $19,063

38 Aspen Road
An opportunity to own a home in Quaker Ridge at an affordable price. The picturesque and private .34 acre lot provides ample space for entertaining and recreation. The first level offers a welcoming foyer which opens to the spacious living room with exposed beams and fireplace, a large eat in kitchen with access to deck, family room/office with storage and a formal dining room which opens to the screened porch. Upstairs, you'll find a lovely master bedroom with ample closet space and ensuite bathroom, two additional bedrooms and a hall bath. The third level offers an amazing unfinished space. The above ground, walk-out lower level offers a large recreational space, office, storage, utilities and laundry room.

Sale Price: $810,000
Assessed Value: $1,175,000
Real Estate Taxes: $29,226

Featured Listings:

33 Brookby Road, Scarsdale
Don't miss this fabulous Heathcote new construction on a level .65 acre lot with room for a pool on prestigious Brookby Road. Top-of-the-line build by Scarsdale’s premiere developer LuxHaus Design Group. The first level features 10’ ceilings and the perfect open plan layout for everyday living with a premium kitchen.
Learn more here.
Listing Price: $4,485,000


23 Circle Road, Scarsdale
Impeccably maintained Fox Meadow Colonial, ideally located just steps away from the shops, restaurants and train station (32 minutes to GCT). Free bus to the elementary and middle schools. Situated on .38 acres of lushly landscaped property, this charming five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom sun-filled home with delight.
Learn more here.
Listing Price: $1,350,000

Open Houses:

7 Putnam Road, Scarsdale
Open House 7/28 from 12pm-1:30pm
Light-filled entry draws you into this all new, stylishly redesigned Colonial merging tradition with an open floor plan & quality amenities. Originally built as a traditional center-hall Greenacres Colonial, it now offers 21st century style buyers long for. Your quest for all new with an open floor plan is over!
Learn more here.
Listing Price: $1,850,000