The Land Report: May 12, 2025

Your weekly review of the best listings in the Catskills and Hudson Valley

May 12, 2025

This week, we’re exploring four different lots through two development lenses: the Starter Home and the Second Home/Rental strategies. For each approach, we’re aiming for a build cost of $650K—below the current median listing price in the Hudson Valley. Both strategies offer strong upside: either the chance to grow into a long-term home while building equity, or the potential for a quicker return through rental income.

white flowers in shallow focus photography

Kingston, NY

269-291 Abeel St, Kingston, NY 12401

Price: $129,000 (recent $20k reduction)
Acres: 0.96
County: Ulster
Development Strategy: Starter Home
Estimated Cost for Land Improvement Projects: $35k
Required Land Improvement Projects: Driveway Install, Electrical Install, Clearing
Lot has access to municipal water and sewer
Project Level: Easy
Why This Place Is Cool: Located right in Kingston’s historic Rondout with a mix of open land, woods, a stream, and seasonal bridge views—just steps from the waterfront. Kind of a hidden gem.
Location: Kingston is the former state capital and has become a vibrant destination blending natural beauty, history, and urban chic. Nestled between the Catskill Mountains to the west and the Hudson River to the east, it offers a unique mix of culture, commerce, and tourism. The Downtown Rondout Waterfront has lively marinas, award-winning restaurants, eclectic shops, galleries, and a scenic promenade. Kingston Point Beach is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and boat-launching.

How HUTS Would Design This Lot: We would develop a modern, energy-efficient starter home with 2–3 bedrooms and an open layout, paired with a private 1-bed basement rental unit. Built into the landscape with natural stone and native plants, the design would include soundproofing, separate outdoor spaces, and smart water management for low-maintenance, sustainable living. The rental income provides an opportunity to immediately help offset the owner's living expenses.

Estimated Construction Costs: $650k

Andes, NY

L21.1 Alder Pond Road Andes, NY 13731

Price: $85,000
Acres: 5.36
County: Delaware
Development Strategy: Second Home / Rental
Estimated Cost for Land Improvement Projects: $50k
Required Land Improvement Projects: Septic Install, Well Install, Electrical Run, New driveway location
Project Level: Easy
Why This Place is Cool: Peaceful 5+ acres with gentle westward slope, stone walls, and access to Alder Pond for fishing and boating. The property is ready to build - or glamp immediately - featuring a cleared site, leveled driveway, 16' x 20' larch wood platform with a fire pit, and utilities available along the road. Belleayre and Plattekill Ski areas are just 30 minutes away. Ideal for attracting four season rentals.
Location: Andes is located just 3 hours from NYC and is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains. The adorable Main Street brings rolling hills and farmland together with eclectic shops, galleries, and craft breweries. There is an artsy, community vibe in this small mountain town that will keep you coming back.

How HUTS Would Design This Lot : We would take advantage of the existing cleared areas and position the home to maximize the unobstructed views. The driveway would be repositioned to accommodate this, ensuring maximum privacy and views. The design would feature a compact yet efficient 2.5-bedroom Medium Bar home that makes the most of its small footprint while offering big functionality.

Estimated Construction Cost: $650k

Old Chatham, NY

00 County Route 13 Old Chatham, NY 12024

Price: $40,000
Acres: 2.2
County: Columbia
Development Strategy: Starter Home
Estimated Cost for Land Improvement Projects: $60k
Required Land Improvement Projects: Perc Test, Septic Design, Septic Install, Well Install, Driveway Install, Electrical Run
Project Level: Easy
Why This Place Is Cool: Beautiful hilltop views and a big, open field—just under 5 miles to Old Chatham and only 10 minutes to New Lebanon, with restaurants, a farmers market, and more. Perfect for anyone looking for a mix of privacy and convenience in a stunning spot.
Location: Chatham is a charming and historic village in Columbia County. It embodies the essence of a thriving community with independently owned shops, restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene. Main Street features beautifully preserved architecture, including a landmark pendulum clock from 1872—the only one of its kind still in original condition

How HUTS Would Design This Lot: This location is perfect for putting down roots, with its peaceful setting and ample space to grow. The affordable land price makes it an ideal spot for building a 2 bedroom starter + loft home, offering the flexibility to expand as your family’s needs change over the years. Plus, with easy access to nearby towns and amenities, it’s a convenient yet private place to create a lasting home. We would orient this home away from the noise of the road to ensure a peaceful home.

Estimated Construction Costs : $650k

Hobart, NY

Lot 9.12 Narrow Notch Rd #9 Hobart, NY 13788

Price: $75,000
Acres: 7.29
County: Delaware
Development Strategy: Second Home / Rental
Estimated Cost for Land Improvement Projects: $60k
Required Land Improvement Projects: Perc Test, Septic Design, Septic Install, Well Install, Driveway Install, Electrical Run
Project Level: Easy
Why This Place Is Cool: Sweeping views of the western Catskills, rolling terrain, a year-round stream, and a pond, and easy access to a quiet, town-maintained road. The property is close to Relay State Forest and NYC DEP public land, offering outdoor activities year-round. It's also minutes from local towns and ski centers, making it a perfect spot for both a getaway or full-time rental.
Location: Hobart is a small town in the Western Catskills with a rich agricultural history and a deep love for books. Known as the Hobart Book Village, this charming town features seven bookstores on its Main Street, making it a perfect spot for book lovers. In addition to the bookstores, you'll find antique shops, an art gallery, a country store, a wine shop, and other unique places to explore. You can enjoy a walk in the great outdoors and participate in annual events that celebrate the unique charms of Hobart.

How HUTS Would Design This Lot: For this property, we’d take inspiration from our Endless Meadow project—also in Hobart—to fully capture the stunning views. The Small L home would be placed in "Meadow #1," preserving plenty of open space to soak in the expansive mountain landscape. The stream on the opposite side of the property adds to the charm of this stunning location and can be highlighted as a peaceful, nature-filled feature when marketing the home as a rental.