By Saleem Mubarak
Iris Kalt, a veteran real estate professional with forty years of experience in the market, claims that the Westchester housing market is likely to stay strong in 2026, with low inventory and steady demand continuing to define the region.
Talking to NYC Empires, she said that the hottest neighborhoods today are those with top‑rated school districts. Areas like Scarsdale, Edgemont, Bronxville, Rye, Larchmont, Irvington and Ardsley are seeing multiple bids as soon as homes are listed.
She noted that inventory in these places is limited and interest rates around 6% to 7% have not changed much in recent months.
Because of this, many homeowners who are locked in mortgage rates at 2% to 3.5% are not willing to sell. “Prices have gone up as much as 20% in some top neighborhoods,” she said.
“It is still a seller’s market in Lower Westchester and I see the same pattern continuing in 2026.”
Little Change Expected Unless Rates Drop
According to her, interest rates are the biggest factor shaping the current market. Without a major drop, she expects buyer and seller behavior to stay the same.
“I think 2026 will look very similar to 2025,” she said. “That’s my belief.”
Why People Are Moving
She rejected the idea that people are leaving New York City “in large numbers” because of the mayor or politics. Instead, she said most of her buyers from the city are coming for personal reasons.
“They had a baby. They want more space. They need a backyard,” she said. “People move because of family changes, job relocations, upsizing or downsizing. These reasons stay the same every year.”
Advice for Investors in 2026
For investors, Iris Kalt recommended buying condos in strong school districts. She said condo buildings are easier to maintain because building staff handle repairs.
“If they buy in a place like the Regatta at 123 Main Street in Mamaroneck, the super will take care of the work,” she said. “It is easier than owning a multifamily home where the landlord gets calls at night for repairs.”
Multifamily homes can still offer strong returns, she added, but bargains are rare. “You can make good money if you get a good deal, but I’m not seeing big bargains right now.”
Social Media Not a Major Factor
When asked about the importance of social media, she said it does not bring her many clients. “Maybe one or two buyers contact me because of it. That’s not a lot,” she added. She also downplayed the role of LinkedIn and websites.
Instead, she believes verbal communication and personal networking remain the strongest tools. “I talk to people. I talk about real estate all the time. That’s how I get referrals,” she said.
Always Open for Questions
She welcomes anyone who wants advice about Westchester County real estate and says she is always reachable.
“I grew up before computers, so I answer the phone,” she added with a laugh.
Author Profile
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The writer is a real estate journalist specializing in all types of New York City properties, including luxury residences, commercial spaces, and homes.
He also writes humorous articles about real estate, investors, and realtors.
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