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historic Riverdale estate, located at 5040 Independence Ave., has hit the market for $6 million. The sprawling property spans over 17,000 square feet on a lush 1.2-acre parcel overlooking the Hudson River and boasts stunning views of Wave Hill Gardens and the Riverdale Yacht Club.
The estate's rich history is tied to President John F. Kennedy, who lived in the area during his middle school years at Riverdale Country School in the 1920s. His younger brother Robert F. Kennedy famously returned to the property during his Senate campaign in 1964. Although the original home where JFK resided has been demolished, remnants of its presence remain.
The current mansion, completed but not fully customized, offers approximately 17,620 interior square feet and 4,500 square feet of terraces. A dramatic triple-height atrium serves as the architectural heart of the home, inspired by the Guggenheim Museum. The estate features nine bedrooms, seven bathrooms, two powder rooms, a guest cottage with three additional bedrooms, and a sprawling sunken living room.
The property is being delivered with a temporary certificate of occupancy, requiring finishing touches such as flooring, railings, and tiles. According to co-listing agent Dustin Crouse, the sellers are downsizing due to a change in lifestyle.
Riverdale's presidential provenance remains a point of pride, with the estate situated adjacent to Wave Hill Gardens, a historic public garden and cultural center that has hosted notable figures like Mark Twain and Theodore Roosevelt. The property offers a unique blend of country living and proximity to Midtown Manhattan, just 30 minutes away.
The estate market in Riverdale is experiencing renewed interest, particularly among those seeking larger homes with a sense of history and luxury. Recent sales have seen significant numbers, including a $7 million sale for a nearby 1.5-acre property last year. This historic estate offers an unparalleled scale and potential for customization, making it a rare find in the market.
