Looking at the Villa Charlotte Bronte, you might think it’s located in the Italian countryside or some picturesque European town you’ve never heard of. In reality? It’s in the Bronx.
This 17-unit co-op has been going viral on TikTok recently, and we can see why. Inspired by Greek architecture, the co-op, which was constructed in 1926 by designer Robert W. Gardner and developer John Jay McKelvey, has all the makings of a storybook home, from stucco walls to cobblestone paths and water views.
All the better? There’s a unit currently available in the co-op — which is rare, considering how long the owners typically hold onto them.
Check out this rare listing in the Village Charlotte Bronte!
Apartments in the Villa Are Hard to Come By
With only 17 units total, there aren’t often opportunities to score a spot in the Villa Charlotte Bronte. The co-op board is rumored to be tough, and once approved, the owners tend to hold on to their unit for a long time. Once you get a view of the Hudson River and the Palisades, it’s certainly hard to let it go.
The co-op is located in Spuyten Duvyil in the Bronx. Spuyten Duyvil is bordered by the Riverdale neighborhood, and both feature lots of park space and access to the Metro-North.
Eight buildings comprise the Villa Bronte, and a common courtyard separates them into two larger sections. With unique units, stucco walls, and multicolor tile roofs, the co-op certainly looks like it belongs on a European hillside.
Inside the Available Listing
The unit that’s currently for sale in the Villa Charlotte Bronte is a triplex with 3 beds, 2.5 baths, and a gorgeous balcony. The main living area has a working fireplace and plenty of space to relax and entertain. On the same floor, you’ll find the chef’s kitchen with a huge island and tons of cabinetry and counter space.
This floor also has two entrances to the bluestone balcony that features gorgeous ivy-covered walls and Hudson River views. It’s the perfect space to read a book, do yoga, take a work call, catch up with a neighbor… and anything else you can daydream of.
One flight up, you’ll find the three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, and a washer/dryer. There’s also a finished attic (the third level), which is currently completely open so you can use it however you like!
A minimum down payment of $269,800 and maintenance fees of $1,868 result in estimated monthly payments of $9,033.
Homes in Spuyten Duyvil Under $1.5 Million on StreetEasy Article continues below
What Else You Need to Know
There are a few more things you’ll need to know if you’re considering buying in the building, or even just visiting. First of all, trespassing on the property is illegal, so if you want to get a look for yourself, do so from the street. Secondly, the co-op itself isn’t super accessible. Most of the apartments, including the unit currently for sale, are only accessible via small cobblestone steps — which can also be dangerous in the winter.
While the Bronx is generally a more car-friendly borough than Manhattan, nearby parking is still hard to come by, especially because the co-op is set off the street a bit. Plus, because of the community’s location right on the water, it’s susceptible to damage from natural disasters. In 2011, Hurricane Irene destroyed a large part of the co-op, and many owners had to temporarily move out. However, the co-op has since built retaining walls around the buildings, which should help prevent future problems.
If you’re looking to purchase in the city and want something truly unique, don’t ignore this one!
Check out the listing at 2501 Palisade Ave. #H2, listed by Chanda Colon of Douglas Elliman.
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