C
arol Volk and Jules Leichter, a diplomat and an economist respectively, had spent their careers traveling the world. After a stint in Rabat, Morocco, they decided to settle down in the Hudson Valley, drawn by its serene countryside and small-city amenities. They wanted a home with a view, plenty of land, and ample space for guests.

    Ms. Volk, an avid real estate enthusiast, began searching online from abroad, scouring Redfin listings and taking virtual tours. Upon returning to the US in March 2024, they spent two days viewing properties. Their budget was $600,000 to $800,000.

    Hillary Kolos, a licensed salesperson with Compass, advised that their budget could secure a wonderful property, but it might not meet all their criteria due to low inventory. "If you want to stay in the 600 range, you can find a great house, but it may need some work," she said. "In the 800 range, you can probably find something more turnkey and private."

    The couple considered several options within their budget:

    This four-bedroom home on a 1.5-acre lot near Woodstock had a living room with a brick fireplace, an eat-in kitchen, and a primary en suite bedroom. Built in 1971, it needed updates but was listed at $585,000.

    A modern three-bedroom home from 2015 sat on a 4.6-acre lot outside High Falls, surrounded by a nature preserve. It had a big island in the kitchen and huge windows in the dining room, but its remote location made it less appealing. The price was $1.075 million, over their budget.

    A three-bedroom home with a striking design in Accord featured custom parquet floors, high ceilings, and an open-plan living area. Its five-acre wooded grounds were a highlight, but busy Route 209 was nearby. It was listed for $749,000.