Square footage galore in Forest Hills' peaceful Van Court neighborhood

By Alanna Schubach | February 24, 2016 - 2:30PM

Forest Hills Gardens is a quaint corner of Queens, known for its historic homes, greenery, quiet—and prices, as it’s one of the most expensive areas in the borough. The adjacent Van Court section rivals the neighborhood in loveliness, and is at least a mite cheaper. This $2.4 million, five-bedroom townhouse, listed by Exit Realty Landmark, could be a lure for buyers looking for this much space—3000 square feet—but at Manhattan three-bedroom prices.

The home has undergone extensive renovations; on the first floor, which has an open layout, you’ll find oak hardwood floors, mahogany inlays, and crown moldings, as well as a (somewhat imposing) marble fireplace. Large windows help to brighten the adjacent dining room, which boasts plenty of space for entertaining. (A caveat: The decor may not be your style, so imagine the space with your own furniture and window treatment.)

The kitchen’s newness doesn’t detract from its warm and inviting feel, thanks to its cherry wood cabinetry; windows offer a view onto the home’s back garden. A breakfast bar allows for additional seating.

The second floor master bedroom isn’t pictured on the listing, but it includes French doors that open onto a private terrace, and the en-suite bath is suited up in marble tile (though it may be a bit ornate for your tastes.)

There are two other bedrooms on the second floor, plus a renovated bath, as well as an additional two more bedrooms and bathrooms on the third floor. The bedroom pictured here includes the new hardwood floors and generous closet space; all five bathrooms have been revamped with new fixtures and full tiling.

On the lower level, a basement that's a mostly raw space for now has the potential to be converted to a gym, screening room, or game room; a laundry room with washer and dryer is attached. Out back, you’ll find a patio for outdoor entertaining and a shed for additional storage.

The home also offers quick access to the Forest Hills Long Island Rail Road station as well as an express subway stop. And nearby is Austin Street, the neighborhood’s main drag, and home to plentiful restaurants and shops.

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Alanna Schubach

Contributing writer

Contributing editor Alanna Schubach has over a decade of experience as a New York City-based freelance journalist.

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